The Best Hobs

Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. However, electric models can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to accelerate cooking.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact, making them more secure to use and [Redirect Only] easier to clean. They also heat water faster than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen and we love this sleek, premium model by AEG that comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions as well as a handy minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff function as well as the 'fryingSensor,' which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.

This is an induction stove that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly marked with an arrow or cross to indicate which side of the coil is beneath it, and there's also an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots easily, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and back zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with different sizes or best ovens shaped pans that need to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.

2. Gas Hobs

A gas hob (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) is still the Best place to buy oven and hob when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups, frying eggs oven and hob pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high heat levels which makes them ideal for searing ovens and hobs boiling.

Their visual flame indication also allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on an appliance or forget it was turned on.

The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.

Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts since they heat up faster and more evenly, thus reducing energy costs. This is especially true with vented stoves that combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as creating an elegant design that can blend into any style of interior.

Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. These can be more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.

Another benefit of opting for freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener alternative. But, you'll need be able to find an appropriate LPG boiler and stove before this becomes an option for you. These models require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

If you're looking for an energy-efficient and sleek option, an induction hob is the best choice. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you will need to invest in kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.

If you don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They're more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a hard scrubbing. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they are behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the right choice for you.

Solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and durable design that is perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for dynamic chefs who like to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other options.

If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only provide you with an honest view into the performance of the appliance however, it will assist you in locating a model that's right for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a favourite option for cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. And with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.

When you're choosing an electric stove make sure you choose one that's streamlined with touch controls and no buttons or dials sticking out. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select a model with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. And, if you have an intelligent home, opt for a digital display that gives you control of your hob remotely and [Redirect-302] also notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your stove effortlessly.

For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel stove that has induction and gas burners. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set cooking times to ensure that your food is ready when you need it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less tasty.

To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking zones for pans in different sizes and shapes may be the best choice. This can save on space and is ideal 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 up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. If you'd prefer a glass model there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the correct breakers and cables to function, which means you'll need it installed by an electrician.