A Guide to Hobs in the UK

A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits into a cutout on the worktop. It can be gas or electric and may have up to six cooking rings or zones. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.

Smart hobs that offer customization and are compatible with home automation systems are appealing to consumers. They also are looking to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.

Hobs with induction

Streamlined and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular choices for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs utilize electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. On top of the glass ceramic, coils are used to create an alternating current. When a compatible pan is placed on the cooking area, the coils automatically create magnetic fields that interact with the metal in the pan, generating electrical currents and creating heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.

Induction hobs are also user-friendly. The top of the appliance has an entire TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently in use, and what power setting you have chosen. The control panel can be locked to avoid accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs come with a boost function that maximises the power of a cooking zone for a brief period of time to bring a pot of boiling water to prepare a pan for searing.

Many induction hobs have a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are available in other colours to match the decor of your kitchen. These units also have minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators to show power levels or other functions.

To make the most of an induction hob it is necessary to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. If you're interested in knowing whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, run a magnet across its base. If the magnet sticks to it, then it's compatible. To prevent over-use of energy Induction hobs often have a pan detection system that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is in place.

Induction hobs are an excellent option for shared homes and student housing because they do not feature an open flame. They are also more secure than gas versions. They do produce a humming sound or ticking sound when being used, which may be annoying to some people.

Gas hobs

Gas hobs make use of natural gas or liquefied petrol gas to heat your cookware. They are perfect for a variety of cooking methods. Ovens And Hobs Links to an external site. are precise in temperature control, and are more efficient in heating than other electric alternatives, like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands must be removed frequently to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.

Modern gas hobs typically use electronic ignition systems, with an electric spark or continuous electric flame to light the burners and begin the combustion process. They then use electrical components, such as sensors and switches to regulate the flow of gas through the system and to make sure that the burners work properly. They could also have several control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame as well as the output of heat.

Depending on the model that you choose, gas hobs can have anywhere from one to six burners. Be aware of the dimensions of your pans when deciding the number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners for all cookware you intend to use. If you frequently stir-fry then choose a model that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models come with griddle elements included, which means you can make a delicious and quick breakfast or lunch.

A major consideration when choosing a gas hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However the operating costs can be different depending on the local gas rates and the usage. Gas hobs require natural gas supply and ventilation. This could result in higher installation costs than an electric or induction hob.

Vented hobs are an excellent option to combine two appliances into one unit, saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. They extract smoke and steam through a duct on the surface of the stove, allowing for a more efficient operation than traditional hoods.

Portable hobs

If you require more hob space in your kitchen, or you want to take your cooking outside, a portable hob can be a good option. They're designed to sit on your kitchen worktop and plug in, so they're easy to use and carry with you when you have to cook in another location. They also come in handy when you're remodeling your kitchen or just need an extra space on your hob for busy times.


Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both kitchens that are used for professional or home use due to their speed safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil with an electrical current flowing through it, which heats the pan that you place on top. This means there's no 'wasted heat' as with an electric or gas hob which helps reduce your costs.

This Belling hob has two cooking zones, as well as a double ring design and can be used with many different saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution, and the ability to alter the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among testers. The only downside was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which could be a problem for those who are time-pressed.

If you're looking for a compact model the Smeg model could be worth taking a look. It's lightweight and thin - less than half the size of some of the other models on this list, making it easy to store away when not in use. The brushed silver finish appears premium and is a little easier to wipe clean than the more shiny finishes on other hobs.

It's important to remember that although these hobs can be an excellent alternative to larger ones however, they're still hot and can cause burns. We suggest handling the hob with care and keep it in a secure location away from children's reach, and away from areas where someone could fall over it. Many models have a child-lock which is useful for parents with children.