A Guide to Hobs in the UK

A hob is a kitchen appliance that is a cutout in the worktop. It can be electric or gas and may have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has modern appearance.

The market is flooded with smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems, and also offer the possibility of customization. They also want to reduce the amount of energy used and improve hygiene.

Induction hobs

Induction hobs are sleek and efficient. hobs are among the most popular choices for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to gas and electric models, which rely on heating plates to warm cookware make use of electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a pot that is compatible is placed on the cooking surface the coils generate a magnetic force that interacts with the metal inside the pot, creating electrical currents as well as heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and are easier to clean.

Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. A TFT-enabled display at the top of the appliance can be used to control the oven, with an easy-to-read display of what cookware is being used and what power setting is being selected. The control panel can be locked to avoid accidental button pushing and many induction hobs have a boost function that maximises the potential of the cooking zone for a brief period of time to bring a pot of boiling water to a boil or prepare a pan for searing.

Many induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into your countertop. They are usually black, however some come with different colors that match your kitchen decor. They also come with minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators to indicate power levels or other functions.

To get the most from your induction hob you will require cookware that is compatible with induction. If you want to know whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, simply run a magnet across the base of the pan. If the magnet sticks to it, then it's compatible. Many induction hobs have pan detection systems to ensure that they don't use too much energy. The coils are only activated when the pan or pans are present.

oven with hob can be an excellent choice for shared housing or student apartments, as they don't have an open flame, and are more secure than gas versions. However, they can produce a humming or ticking noise when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to some people.

Gas hobs

Gas hobs utilize natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are suitable for cooking with a variety of techniques. They are quicker to heat up and offer more precise temperature control than electric options such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands must be removed frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.


Most modern gas hobs utilise electronic ignition systems, with an electric spark or continuous electric flame to ignite the burners and begin the combustion process. Then, they employ electrical components like switches and sensors to control the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners function correctly. They could also include several control knobs for adjusting the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.

Gas hobs come in a variety of models, ranging from one to six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, consider the size of the pans that you will be using. You'll have to ensure that there are enough for the cookware you'll be using. If you frequently stir-fry, choose a model that has a dedicated wok burn. Some models have griddles integrated, so you can make a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch.

A major consideration when choosing gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs, but operating costs can vary widely according to your local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require natural gas supply, and ventilation. This could result in higher installation costs than an induction or electric hob.

Vented hobs are an excellent option to combine two appliances into a single unit, reducing space in your kitchen while giving a more sleek appearance. They remove steam and smoke through a duct located on the surface of the stove which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.

Portable hobs

A portable hob is an excellent option if you need more space in your kitchen or want to cook outside. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them simple to use. You can also take them with you if you need to cook elsewhere. They're also great if you need to renovate your kitchen, or if you just want to have more space on your hob during busy times.

Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both kitchens that are used for professional or home use because they are fast safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current that runs through a magnetic coil, which heats up the pan you place on top. There isn't any wasted heat as there is with a gas hob or electric hob. This can save you money.

This Belling hob has two cooking zones, a double ring design and can be used with many different pans and pots. Its user-friendly interface, excellent heat distribution and the ability to change the temperature between the two zones made it a favored among test subjects. The only issue was that it took over 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which could be a problem for those with a tight schedule.

If you're looking to find a more compact model, this Smeg model might be worth taking a look. It's light and thin - less than half the size of some of the other models on this list - which makes it easy to store when not in use. Its brushed finish looks more expensive and is easier to clean than other hobs with a shiny finish.

These hobs may be a great, smaller alternative to the larger ones however they are hot and could cause serious burns. It is recommended that you handle the hob with care and put it in a secure location far from children's reach, and away from areas where someone could fall over it. Many models also have an option for children's locks that is a great feature to think about if you have kids.