The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting and stylish, as well as easy to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of flames. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to only heat the copper coils underneath your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch and is therefore safer to use and easier for cleaning. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with their specific functions and an hour timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low power consumption of just 775 watts per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and adjust the power levels to match your pots or pans, while the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your cooking pan from overheating so you don't have to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified by the ring or cross to indicate the coil centre. It also has a touch-control panel. It features large 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans, which need to be brought to the boil, simmered and kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop in the case of American) remains the most popular choice when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The flame's visual indicator allows you to see the status of each burner in a glance, which is helpful for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's less likely to switch off an appliance or forget it was on.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction cousins because they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces energy costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for an Hood. This can help save space in your kitchen, as well as resulting in an elegant design that can blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models because of their efficiency and convenience. They are less difficult to set up and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you are looking to go green. However, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best option if you want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic-ceramic glass surface keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll need to purchase induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a hard scrubbing. Plus, ovens hobs get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, which means they are not an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They are easy to warm up, which makes them a good choice for those who don't require a large cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, so they're not as energy-efficient as other options on this list.
We suggest that you search for reviews on websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. Not only will this provide you with a clear view into how it works, but it will also help you to find a model that's right for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished with long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, creating a a modern and minimal look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks thanks to their instant heat and simple control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. And with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a an elegant design and has control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with buttons or dials that protrude. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're an intelligent home, opt for digital displays that give you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can manage your hob easily.
Look into a dual-fuel stove which has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which lets you set specific cooking times for meals so they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.
For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking pans of various sizes and shapes may be the best choice. This will save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available in different prices, from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass, there are many excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. But, keep in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.