The Best Hobs

Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs will be robust, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precision flame control. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features like power boosts and a timer.

1. Hobs induction

Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as gas hobs do they utilize magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath the pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than a kettle and use less power. They're now a standard appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen and we are in love with this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions as well as an easy-to-use minute reminder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a common complaint with all induction stoves.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust the power levels to fit your pots or pans as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating so you don't need to worry about burning food items.

This is an induction stove with a low price tag that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a wide 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly and is pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front and back zones. This is great if you often cook with different sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boil, simmered and kept warm while cooking.

2. Gas Hobs

A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) remains the most popular choice in kitchen cooking. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to generate high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them perfect for searing and boiling.

The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for security reasons. It's much harder to forget to leave a burner on, or to switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.

The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.

Gas hobs can also be more energy-efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This will save the space in your kitchen as well as creating an elegant and modern design that will blend in with any style of interior.

Because of their effectiveness and convenience, many homeowners opt for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. They are more straightforward to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.

Another benefit of opting for freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can think about this option. go here require gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.

3. Hobs for Sealed Plates


Induction hobs are the ideal option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they consume less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to purchase induction-compatible cookware.

If you don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs are made of a smooth glass top and hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need lengthy scouring. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when it comes to energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this may not be the best option for you.

Solid plate hobs, which are a affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot and ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who love to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other options.

We suggest that you search for reviews on retailer websites in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a clear view into how it performs and how it's used, but it can also help you to find a model that's right for your home. For example, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished with durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and modern look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking features like power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.

Find an electric hob with a an elegant design and has control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface, and won't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart home, you may prefer a digital display which allows you to control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.

Consider a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set cooking times to ensure that your food is ready when you require it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.

For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking pans of different sizes and shapes may be the best option. This can help save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.

Gas hobs can be found in various prices, from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should cost not more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune either as there are some fantastic options that are made by own brand. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the right breakers and cables to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.