The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The most effective hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils that are beneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact, making them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with their own functions and a minute timer. It has a smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate using the touch control panels, however one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but it is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive green ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency and a low power consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pots or pans and the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function, as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your pan from overheating, so you don't need to worry about burning food.
This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified by a ring or cross to indicate the center of the coil. There's also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It comes with a large 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pots or pans. oven and hob 's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought up to boil, simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high temperatures which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check each burner's status at glance. This is very useful to ensure safety. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally turn on an appliance or forget it was on.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for the hood. This can save space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker look that will blend into any interior style.
As a result of their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding rather than built-in versions. They are more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this alternative. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they use less electricity than their gas or electric counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll have to purchase a set of induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't want to invest in the technology of induction. These stylish and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean, as there's no need for tricky cleaning. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy use this might not be the right choice for you.
Then, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a straightforward and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who love to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest selecting one that has been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. Not only will this give you an honest insight into the performance of the appliance and how it's used, but it can assist you in locating a model that's right for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished in long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances and give it a minimalist and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs can be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their rapid heating and easy control, they're also popular because they provide instant warmth. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a an elegant design and has control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with dials or buttons that protrude. They are more easy to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can manage your stove easily.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that comes with gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature that allows you to set cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.
For additional convenience For added convenience, a model that has two separate cooking pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This will save space and is useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should cost not more than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune too, since there are excellent own-brand options. But, keep in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs need a specific supply configured with the right breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a certified electrician.