The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The most effective hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost which allow you to boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs offer a modern 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 up the copper coils below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen, and we appreciate this sleek, premium model by AEG that comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions and a handy minute timer. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to operate with the touch control panels, but one minor gripe (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven; however, this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest energy consumption of just 775 watts per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets the pans to be moved around in the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pots or pans as well as the 'PowerBoost' function increases the output by 50% for rapid boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a low-cost induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified by an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the coil centre. There is also a touch-control panel. It has a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels that are set in the front and back zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that need to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop for those who are American) remains the most popular choice in cooking in the kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately produce high temperatures, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at an instant. This is very helpful for safety. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving a burner on, or switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for the hood. This can save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker appearance that will fit in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another benefit of opting for an independent model is the possibility of connecting it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener option. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can consider 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 a great 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-ceramic glass surface keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they use less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a great option for those who do not need to invest in Induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean as there's no need to do complicated cleaning. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they are behind induction hobs when it is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are great for everyday cooking. They're quick to heat up, making them a great choice for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
We recommend that you look for reviews on the websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an accurate view of the performance of the model however, it will also assist you in finding one that is right for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs can be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they're also popular because they provide instant heating. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
Look for an electric hob that has a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with buttons or dials that protrude. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface that doesn't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select one with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that can help prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you may want to choose a digital display which allows you to manage your hob from afar and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set specific cooking ovensandhobs times to ensure that your food is ready at the time you require it. This helps reduce the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.
For additional convenience For added convenience, a model that has two separate cooking pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This will save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to offer additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs that start at PS100 and higher-end models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should cost no more than PS200. If you prefer glass there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct breakers and cables to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.