The Best Hobs

Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting elegant, stylish and easy to clean.

Our experts recommend gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. Look for features like a timer or power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to speed up cooking.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs provide a contemporary efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat only the copper coils underneath your pans. The cooktop stays cool to the touch, making it more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions and an easy-to-use minute reminder. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to operate using the touch control panels, however one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the heat distribution can be uneven; however, this is only really noticeable when stirring-frying.

The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest power consumption of 750w per cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you to move your pans between the four zones and adjust the power levels to suit the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which ensures that your pan is not overheated are also helpful features.

This is a great affordable induction cooker that can be easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified by a ring or cross to indicate where the centre of the coil is beneath it, and there's also a simple touch-control panel. It features a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly, and it's pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is ideal if you frequently cook with a variety of 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) are still the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs and meats, frying them, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high levels of heat quickly and precisely, making them perfect for searing and boiling.

The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was on.

best oven have a flat, smooth surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to keep on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.

Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction cousins because they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for the Hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker look that will fit in with any interior style.

As a result of their efficiency 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. They are more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.

A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option if you want to go green. However, you'll need to be able to find a suitable LPG boiler and stove before this option becomes a possibility for you. These models require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

If you're looking for an elegant and energy-efficient choice an induction cooker is definitely the way to go. These hobs cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.

For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean as there's no need for a difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this might not be the best option for you.

Then, solid plate hobs are a good budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, so they're not the best choice for dynamic chefs who like to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, so they're not as energy-efficient as the other options on this list.

If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we suggest selecting one that has been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with an honest view into the performance of the appliance and how it's used, but it can also help you to find the perfect model for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen with a sleek and contemporary look.

4. Electric Hobs

Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. Although gas hobs might be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and ease of control, they are also popular because they can provide instant heating. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.

When choosing an electric hob choose one that is sleek with touch controls and no buttons or dials sticking out. This makes them easier to clean, especially when you choose an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. For safety, choose models with child lock with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that will prevent accidents. If you're a smart home, go for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can control your hob effortlessly.

Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that lets you set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.

Lastly, for added convenience, you might want a model that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one larger zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is ideal if you often cook using large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.


Gas hobs are available in various prices, from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. But, keep in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.