The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts for their versatility and precise control of the flame. However, electric hobs can be more efficient in energy use and are easier to keep clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do, they use magnetic technology to only warm the copper coils that are below your pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch which makes it safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its own functions and an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are easy to use. However the distribution of heat is patchy. This is a common complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with a low power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you to move your pans between the four zones and adjust the power levels according to your pots or saucepans. Meanwhile, the 'Power boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your cooking pan from overheating which means you do not need to worry about burning food.
This is an induction stove with a low price tag that can be wired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified by an arrow or cross to indicate the center of the coil. There is also a touch-control panel. It features a large 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes 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 that need to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high temperatures which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame indicator's visual display allows you to see each burner's status at a glance. This is very useful for security. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was turned on.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts as they are able to heat faster and more evenly, thus reducing energy costs. This is especially true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and remove the need for the Hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and give it an elegant look that can be a perfect fit with any interior style.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. These are easier to install and provide more flexibility in the event that you want to create a an elegant kitchen design.
Another advantage of choosing a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable option. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you look into this option. These models require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best choice if you're looking for an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. Hobs that induction are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they use less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase and 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 have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need hard scrubbing. Additionally, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They do not have the same efficiency as induction hobs, which means they may not be an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who love to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.
We recommend looking for reviews on the websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a clear view into the performance of the appliance, but it will aid you in finding the right model for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been hob uk praised by customers and is made of long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and easy control, they're also a popular choice because they provide instant heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls and no dials or buttons hanging out. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, which won't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. And, if you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports to support traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function, which allows you to set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready for use when needed which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
To make cooking more convenient For added convenience, a model that has two separate cooking zones for pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best option. This will save space and is ideal for those who cook frequently with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
Gas hobs are available in various costs, from as little as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models, there are many excellent options from own-brand manufacturers. But, keep in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the appropriate cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a qualified electrician.