An Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
The Best HobsHobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precision flame control. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. Look for features like power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do magnet technology to only heat the copper coils beneath the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch, making them safer to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its own functions and a minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are easy to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low energy consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and adjust the power levels to match your pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost function boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function and a 'fryingSensor' that prevents the pan from overheating, so you don't need to worry about burning food.
This is a great budget-friendly induction hob that is easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. There's also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels that are set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you regularly cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that need to be brought to the boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
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're the ideal choice for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately produce high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator allows users to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is helpful for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's harder to switch off an appliance or forget it was on.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to be on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction cousins because they heat up faster and more evenly, which reduces electricity costs. This is especially true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for the Hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker look that will fit in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their efficiency and convenience. They are simpler to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another advantage of choosing freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable option. But, you'll need be able to locate the right LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. These models require gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to invest in kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
If you don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements concealed beneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean since there's no need for a difficult cleaning. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not the best choice if are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a straightforward and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to warm up, which makes them a great choice for those who don't require a powerful cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient in energy use as other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on 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 product and will assist you in finding the one that is suitable for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is made of long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular option hobs for cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has a streamlined design with touch controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, so you can control your hob with ease.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has gas and induction burners. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.
For additional convenience for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate zones for cooking pans of various sizes and shapes may be the best choice. This will save space and is useful if you often cook with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at various costs, from as little as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a reputable brand should still cost you less than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it shouldn't cost much either as there are some excellent own-brand options. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the correct cables and breakers to work, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.