The Best Hobs

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

Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precision control of the flame. However, electric hobs can be more efficient in energy use and are more easy to keep clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features like power boosts and a timer.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as gas hobs do, they use magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to touch and is therefore safer to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and require less energy. They're now a common kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh kitchen test kitchen. We love this elegant, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones with individually controlled functions and a handy minute timer. It has a smooth, smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate with the touch control panels, but one minor issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the heat distribution can be patchy; however this is only really evident when you are trying to stir fry.

The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low power consumption of 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and adjust the power levels to match your pots or pans and the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.

This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified by an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the coil centre. There is also a touch-control panel. It comes with an enormous "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is a great choice if you cook using a variety of pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up, simmered at the same time, and then kept warm.

2. Gas Hobs

A gas hob (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) is still the best when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are the best choice for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately create high temperatures which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.

Their visual flame indication also allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is useful for security reasons. It's much more difficult to forget to turn off a burner on, or even switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.

Most models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to remain careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.

Gas hobs are also more energy-efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for a grill. This will save space in your kitchen, and also create an elegant and modern design that will blend into any style of interior.

Because of their efficiency and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. These can be more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.

Another benefit of opting for an independent model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable option. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this option. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates


Induction hobs are the best choice if you're looking for an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the glass-ceramic surface of the hob stays cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they consume less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. In oven with hob , 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 technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, since they don't require lengthy scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they might not be the best choice if are concerned about your energy consumption.

Solid plate hobs, which are a affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are great for cooking at home. They are easy to heat up, making them a good choice for those who don't need a powerful cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, so they're not as energy-efficient as the other choices on this list.

If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we suggest looking for one that has been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only give you an honest assessment of the quality of the product and will aid you in locating one that is right for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and modern look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent choice for busy households.

When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that's streamlined with touch controls, and no dials or buttons that stick out. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart home, you may prefer an electronic display that lets you control your hob remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.

For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel stove that has gas burners and induction. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times to ensure that your food is cooked when you require it. This minimizes the chance of overcooking, and makes your food less tasty.

Lastly, for added convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can save on space and is ideal for those who cook frequently using large rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to give you additional cooking options.

Gas hobs are available in a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. If you'd prefer glass models there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in oven with hob that both ceramic and induction hobs need 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.