The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The best hobs will be sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost which allow you to boost the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs provide a contemporary efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as do gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen and we appreciate this sleek, premium model by AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions and 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 for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and a low power usage of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and adjust the power levels in accordance with the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds the boiling process. Other handy features include an auto-shut off function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your pan from overheating, so you never need to worry about burning food.
This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. There's also a touch-control panel. It comes with large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with different sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also allows you to see the status of each burner in a glance, which is beneficial for security reasons. It's much harder to forget to turn off a burner on, or even switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented stoves, which incorporate the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This will save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will be a perfect fit with any interior style.
Due to their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own instead of built-in models. These are easier to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve an elegant kitchen design.
Another advantage of choosing a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source if you're looking for a greener alternative. However, you'll need to be able to find an appropriate LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal choice if you're looking for a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll require a set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs can be a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a lengthy scouring. Ovens & Hobs Additionally, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they may not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, a budget option with their simple and reliable design, are perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for dynamic chefs who like to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, making them not as energy-efficient as the other options on this list.
We suggest that you search for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you a true insight into the performance of the model and will assist you in finding one that is 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 with a sleek and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their instant heat and easy control, electric models are more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking functions like power boost settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove choose one that is sleek with touch controls, and no dials or buttons that stick out. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, which won't scratch or chip. For security, opt for one with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you may want to choose a digital display that allows you to control your stove remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas and induction burners. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function, which allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less delicious.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may want a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various dimensions and shapes. This will save space and is beneficial if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills as extra cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank either as there are some top options from own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right breakers and cables to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.