The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precise control of the flame. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features such as a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the surface and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their own functions and a minute minder. It is smooth and wipes clean with ease and is simple to operate with the touch control panels, but one minor issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with a low power usage of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans 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 useful features include an auto-shut off function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a great budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified with the use of a cross or ring to indicate which side of the coil lies beneath, while there's a simple touch-control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots easily and is pre-programmed so that you have set power levels in the front and back zones. This is a great choice if you cook with a variety of pans, all different sizes and shapes that need to be heated up, simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) still reigns supreme in cooking in the kitchen. They are the best for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is beneficial for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to switch off a burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy-efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, saving on the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a hood. This can save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will fit in with any interior style.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are less difficult to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. However, you'll need to be able to locate an appropriate LPG boiler and stove before this becomes an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best option for those who want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains 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 gas or electrical counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll require a set of induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need difficult scouring. They also are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they may not be a good choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, which are a low-cost option with their basic and reliable design, are ideal for cooking at home. They are easy to get hot, making them a great choice for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also give off lots of heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient as other choices on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on retailer websites when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you a true insight into the performance of the product and will assist you in finding the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of durable stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and control, they're also popular because they can provide instant heating. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
Look for an electric hob with a an elegant design and has touchscreen controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that protrude. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface that doesn't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select a model with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If
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Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners for ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking pans in different shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This will save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes such as roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to offer additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models, there are many excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct breakers and cables to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.