Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide On Best Hobs

The Best Hobs

Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hob hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are favored by our experts for their versatility and precision control of flames. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost that let you increase the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.

1. Hobs induction

Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than kettles and require less energy. They're now a common appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen and we love this sleek, premium model by AEG which boasts four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an easy-to-use minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.

The AEG induction hob comes with a good 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 you to move your pans around within the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shut off function, as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your cooking pan from overheating so you don't have to worry about burning food.

This is an induction hob that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified with a ring or cross to indicate the coil centre. There is also a touch-control panel. It features a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pots and pans easily, and it's pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you often cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm simultaneously.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately produce high heat levels, making them perfect for searing and boiling.

Their visual flame indication also allows users to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is helpful for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's harder to accidentally switch on a burner or forget that it was on.

The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll have to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time.

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

As a result of their effectiveness and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. They are simpler to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.

A freestanding model is connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you are looking to go green. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you look into this option. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

Induction hobs are the ideal option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they consume less power than their electric or gas counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll have to purchase an induction-compatible set of cookware.

Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't need to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath that make them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean as there's no need for tricky scrubbing. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, so they may not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.

Solid plate hobs, the low-cost option with their basic and durable design, are great for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot and ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who love to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also emit lots of heat, so they're not as efficient in energy use like the other choices on this list.

If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that has been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with a clear view into the performance of the appliance and how it's used, but it can aid you in finding the right model for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs oven are a favourite option for cooks due to their rapid heat and easy control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.

When choosing an electric hob, look for one that is sleek with touch controls, and no dials or buttons hanging out. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you're a smart home, go for digital displays that give you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your hob effortlessly.

For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas burners and induction. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which allows you to set cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less tasty.

For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking zones for pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best oven option. This can save space and can be beneficial when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills as extra cooking options.

Gas hobs can be found in different costs, from as little as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank too, since there are fantastic options that are made by own brand. Be aware that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a qualified electrician.