Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The most effective hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features like a timer and power boost that allow you to boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs provide a contemporary efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking area as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat only the copper coils that are beneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They're now a common kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We love this sleek, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions and an easy-to-use minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive environmental credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with the lowest power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust the power levels to match your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for speedy boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your cooking pan from overheating which means you do not need to worry about burning food.
This is an induction hob with a low price tag that can be hardwired to a worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by the use of a cross or oven ring to show you where the center of the coil is and there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has an enormous "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with multiple different sized 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) is still the best in kitchen cooking. They are the best choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, ovens and hobs frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately generate high temperatures making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to determine the status of each burner at glance. This is very helpful to ensure security. With an electric hob, it's much harder to switch off a burner or forget that it was on.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can free up space in your kitchen and create a sleeker look that will blend into any style of interior.
As a result of their effectiveness and ease of use, many homeowners opt for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. They are simpler to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
Another advantage of choosing freestanding models is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. But, you'll need be able to find an appropriate LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best ovens and hobs uk option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs can be costly and you will need to buy kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good option for those who do not wish to invest in Induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs are made of a smooth glass top that conceals heating elements. They are more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need hard scrubbing. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they may not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, the budget option with their simple and reliable design, are perfect for cooking at home. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also emit lots of heat, which means they're not as efficient as other options on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on the websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an honest assessment of the performance of the product and will assist you in finding the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it is finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and easy control, electric models offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
Look for an electric hob that has a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially when you choose flat surfaces that don't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may opt for a digital display which lets you manage your hob from afar and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Look into a dual-fuel stove which has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set cooking times for dishes so they are ready when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
For added convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This can save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as extra cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in various prices, from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob uk from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't cost much either as there are some fantastic options that are made by own brand. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply with the correct cables and breakers to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.