The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are also easier to keep clean. Look for features like a timer and power boost which allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as do gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath 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 can boil more quickly than kettles and use less power. They're now a common appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions and a handy minute reminder. 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 stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency with the lowest power consumption of 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. In addition, the "Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, which means you do not need to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified with a ring or cross to show you which side of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It comes with a large 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is a great choice when cooking using a variety of pans, all different shapes and sizes that need to be heated, simmered at the same time, and then kept warm.
2. best ovens and hobs uk (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) remains the most popular choice in kitchen cooking. 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 quickly and accurately produce high temperatures which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check each burner's status at an instant. This is extremely useful for safety. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving the burner on, or switch it off accidentally, than it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to remain vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are more energy-efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up faster and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a Hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant design that can blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models because of their efficiency and convenience. They are simpler to install, and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can consider this alternative. 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
If you're looking for an energy-efficient and sleek option, an induction hob is definitely the choice. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they consume less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs offer a good alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a hard scrubbing. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy usage this might not be the right choice for you.
Then, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up, which makes them an ideal option for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they can take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.
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 you with an accurate view of the performance of the product however, it will also help you find 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 blend with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and easy control, electric hobs are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking functions like power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove make sure you choose one that is sleek with touch controls and no buttons or dials hanging out. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly if you opt for an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. To ensure safety, select models with child lock with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that can help prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you may opt for a digital display that lets you control your hob remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas burners and induction. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set certain cooking times to ensure that food is ready at the time you require it. This minimizes the chance of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate zones for cooking pans in different shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This can help save space and is beneficial for those who cook frequently with large rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in different prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model it shouldn't cost much also, as there are top options from own brands. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply with the appropriate breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.