The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs will be robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more energy efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features such as a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs offer a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the touch and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones, each with its specific functions and a minute minder. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to use with the touch control panels. However, one minor issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however this is only really noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with the lowest power consumption of 775 watts per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter their power levels to suit your pots or pans and the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating so you never need to worry about burning food.
This is an induction hob with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with the ring or cross to indicate the coil centre. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed to have power levels set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is a great choice when cooking with a variety pans of various dimensions and shapes that require to be heated, simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high temperatures making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at glance. This is very useful to ensure safety. It's much more difficult to forget to leave the burner on, or even switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This will save space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can blend into any interior style.
Because of their efficiency and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. These are easier to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
Another benefit of going for freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG), which provides an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener option. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can look into this option. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is definitely the choice. They heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll need to purchase cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a great option for those who don't want to invest in the induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. Best place to buy oven and hob are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need difficult scouring. Plus, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hob s, so they are not an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the budget alternative, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need a high-powered cooktop, but they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the best option for dynamic chefs who like to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other options.
We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the quality of the product, but will also assist you in finding one that is right 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 are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their quick heating and control, they're also a popular choice due to the fact that they can provide instant heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob make sure you choose one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without buttons or dials sticking out. This makes them easy to clean, particularly when you select an even surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may prefer a digital display that allows you to control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Consider a dual-fuel hob that has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. Best place to buy oven and hob -IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports to support traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature that allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready when you need them which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate zones for cooking pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This can save on space and is ideal for those who cook frequently using large rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. But, keep in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply configured with the right breakers and cables so you'll need to get it installed by a qualified electrician.