The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking area as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat only the copper coils that are beneath the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch, making them safer to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh kitchen test kitchen. We are in love with this sleek, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with the lowest energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones and adjust the power levels to suit your pots or saucepans. Additionally, the "Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor,' which helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is an induction cooktop that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified with an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. It also has a touch-control panel. It features an enormous "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is great if you often cook with different sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to the boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, in the case of American) still reigns supreme when it comes to kitchen cooking. They're the ideal choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately generate high temperatures, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or even switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts as they heat up faster and more evenly, which reduces energy costs. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for an hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant and modern design that will blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their effectiveness and ease of use. These are easier to set up and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can consider this alternative. In addition, these models require a gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly while the ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you will need to purchase cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who don't wish to invest in technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, since they don't require difficult scouring. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They do not offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they may not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Then, solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a simple and durable design that is perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, so ovens they're not the best option for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other options.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest selecting one that has been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the quality of the product and will aid you in locating the one that is suitable for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of sturdy stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and ease of control, they're also a popular choice because they can provide instant warmth. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
Find an electric hob that has a streamlined design with touch controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you may want to choose an electronic display that allows you to control your hob remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which allows you to set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready for use when needed which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This can save space and be useful if you cook with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or grills to give you additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in various prices, from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.