Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide In Best Hobs

The Best Hobs

Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are durable, stylish and simple to clean.

Our experts recommend gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost which allow you to 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 area like gas hobs do magnet technology to only heat the copper coils underneath the pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch, making it more secure to use and easier to clean. They boil water faster than kettles and use less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we love this sleek, premium model by AEG which boasts four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions as well as a handy minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a common issue for all induction hobs.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with a low power usage of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels in accordance with your pots or saucepans. In addition, the "Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function as well as the 'fryingSensor,' which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.

This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified with an arrow or cross to show you where the centre of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It comes with a large "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front and middle 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, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) are still the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high temperatures making them ideal for searing and boiling.

The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at an instant. This is extremely useful to ensure safety. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was on.

Most models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.

Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a grill. This can save on the space in your kitchen and also create a sleeker design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and convenience. These can be more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.

Another benefit of going for freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a more sustainable option. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can think about this alternative. Additionally, 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 a great option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic surface of the hob stays cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction ovens hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to purchase kitchen appliances that are compatible oven with hob induction.

Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who do not wish to invest in Induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean as there's no need to do complicated cleaning. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the best ovens choice for you.

Solid plate hobs are the Best place to buy oven and hob budget option, with a straightforward and reliable design that's perfect for everyday cooking. They're quick to heat up, making them a great choice for those who don't require a large cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also emit lots of heat, which means they're not as efficient in energy use like the other choices on this list.

If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we suggest choosing one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the quality of the product and will help you find the one that is suitable for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's made of sturdy stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it a a modern and minimal look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are a favourite option for cooks due to their quick heat and easy control, electric models offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent choice for busy households.

Find an electric hob that has a streamlined design with touchscreen controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, go for an electronic display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can control your hob easily.

For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has induction and gas burners. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which allows you to set cooking times for dishes so they're ready when you need them which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less tasty.

Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want a model that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This will save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to offer additional cooking options.

You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass there are plenty of great options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.