The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts for their versatility and precision control of flames. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by using features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the touch which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and use less energy. They're now a standard appliance in the HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We love this sleek, premium model by AEG which comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute minder. It has a smooth, smooth surface that is easy to clean and is simple to operate using the touch control panels. However, one minor issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low power consumption of 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you move your pans within the four zones and adjust the power levels in accordance with your pots or saucepans. Additionally, the "Power booster" function boosts the output of the hob by 50% to speed up boiling. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is a great affordable induction cooker that is easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified by an arrow or cross to indicate the coil's centre. It also has a touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that have to be brought to the boiling point, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) remains the most popular choice in cooking in the kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water simmering sauces and soups, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately generate high heat levels, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance. This is very useful to ensure security. It's much harder to forget about leaving a burner on, or even switch it off by accident when compared to an electric hob.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, which is why you'll need to keep on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for an Hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant design that can be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models because of their effectiveness and ease of use. They are more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
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 want to go green. But, you'll need be able to locate an appropriate LPG boiler and stove before this is an option for you. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option an induction cooker is definitely the choice. Hobs that induction heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs are a great alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need lengthy scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when it is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the right choice for you.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a straightforward and reliable design that's perfect for everyday cooking. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient as the other options on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest selecting one that's been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only give you an honest insight into how it works however, it will aid you in finding the right model for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and control, they're also a popular choice because they provide instant heating. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power increase settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls, and no dials or buttons sticking out. This makes them easier to clean, especially when you select a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. Make sure click for more info choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might opt for a digital display which allows you to manage your hob from afar and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob which has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set specific cooking times to ensure that your food is cooked when you require it. This minimizes the chance of cooking too long and makes your food less flavorful.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may want a model that allows you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is beneficial if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels like 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 at a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply configured with the right breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a licensed electrician.