The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat only the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch which makes it more secure to use and easier for cleaning. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less power. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their own functions and a minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is uneven. This is a frequent complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and alter their power levels to suit your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function and a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating so you never have to worry about burning food items.
This is a great budget-friendly induction hob that is easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified with a ring or cross to show which side of the coil is it, and there's also an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It comes with an enormous "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They are the best choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high temperatures which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
best hobs uk allows you to see the status of each burner at an instant. This is extremely useful for security. It's a lot harder to forget to leave the burner on, or even switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll have 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 since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for a Hood. This will save space in your kitchen and give it an elegant look that can be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are easier to install and provide greater flexibility if you're trying to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
Another benefit of opting for a freestanding model is the possibility of connecting it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG), which provides an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. But, you'll need be able to find the right LPG stove and boiler before this option becomes a possibility for you. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are a great option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface stays cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you will need to purchase induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements that are hidden beneath that make them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean since there's no need to do difficult scouring. Additionally, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, the low-cost option with their basic and sturdy design, are great for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to heat up, making them an ideal option for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, making them not as energy-efficient like the other options on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. Not only will this provide you with an honest view into how it performs, but it will aid you in finding the right model for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of robust stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, creating a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and easy control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob choose one that's streamlined with touch controls, and no dials or buttons hanging out. This makes them easier to clean, especially if you opt for flat surfaces that don't scratch or chip. For safety, choose one with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that will help prevent accidents. And, if you have a smart home, go for an electronic display that gives you a remote control and alerts through your smartphone, so you can manage your stove with ease.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel stove that has gas burners and induction. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which lets you set specific cooking times for meals so they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need a model that permits you to combine two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This can save on space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills for extra cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a reputable brand should cost no more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune either as there are some fantastic options that are made by own brand. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the right breakers and cables to work, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.