The Best Hobs

Hobs are available in different sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are favored by our experts for their versatility and precise control of the flame. Electric models are more energy efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features like an energy boost or a timer.

1. Hobs induction

Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to heat up the copper coils below your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the surface and is safer to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with their distinct functions, as well as a minute timer. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels. However, one minor issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around within the four zones and adjust the power levels to fit the pans or pots you use as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure quick boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shut off function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents the pan from overheating, which means you do not need to worry about burning food items.

This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are marked with the ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pans and pots easily, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is a great choice when cooking with a variety of pans of different sizes and shapes that need to be heated and simmered at the exact while being kept warm.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.

The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check the status of each burner at an instant. This is very useful for security. With an electric hob, it's less likely to switch off an appliance or forget it was turned on.

The majority of models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.

Gas hobs can also be more energy-efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can free up space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker appearance that will fit in with any interior style.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. These can be simpler to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist design here for your kitchen.

Another benefit of going for freestanding models is the ability to connect it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source if you're looking for a greener alternative. But, you'll need be able to locate a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. These models require a gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.

3. Sealed Plate Hobs

Induction hobs are the ideal option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.

Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who do not wish to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath which makes them more attractive than solid plate hobs and easier to clean since there's no need for complicated scrubbing. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when it comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this might not be the best choice for you.

Solid plate hobs, which are a low-cost option with their basic and sturdy design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot and ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other options.

We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an accurate view of the quality of the product however, it will also aid you in locating the right one for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished with long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen and give it a minimalist and contemporary look.

4. Electric Hobs

Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and ease of control, they're also popular because they can provide instant heating. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.

When selecting an electric hob make sure you choose one that's streamlined with touch controls and no dials or buttons that stick out. They are more easy to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, go for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your stove effortlessly.

For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob that includes gas burners and induction. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set specific cooking times to ensure that your food is ready when you need it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.

For additional convenience For added convenience, a model that has two separate zones for cooking pans of different sizes and shapes may be the best option. This will save space and is ideal when cooking using large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.

You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you prefer glass there are a variety of excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.