The Best Hobs

Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.

Our experts favour gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to accelerate cooking.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs offer a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath your pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch which makes it more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen and we appreciate this sleek, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones with individually controlled functions and a handy minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However the distribution of heat is patchy. This is a frequent complaint for all induction hobs.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750W 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 fit the pans or pots you use, while the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burning food items.

This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified with an arrow or cross to show which side of the coil is beneath it, and there's also an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It features an enormous "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that have to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm at the same time.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the best hob (http://www.jsgml.top/bbs/home.php?mod=space&uid=820256) choice for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high heat levels quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.

The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance. This is extremely useful for safety. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on an appliance or forget it was on.

Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.

Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This will save space in your kitchen and give it an elegant look that can blend into any interior style.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and convenience. They are more straightforward to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.

A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option for those who you are looking to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can look into this alternative. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

Induction hobs are the best hob uk option for those who want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. Hobs that induction cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) and more efficient as they use less power than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.

For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need lengthy scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the right choice for you.

Then, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a straightforward and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't need a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the best hob uk option for dynamic chefs who like to multitask. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other alternatives.

We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you a true insight into the performance of the model 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 highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it sleek and modern appearance.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking features like power increase settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.

Find an electric hob that has sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid those with dials or buttons that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially when you choose flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're an intelligent home, opt for an electronic display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease.

Think about a dual-fuel hob that has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that support traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which allows you to set cooking times for dishes so they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.

For added convenience, you may want a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This can save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to give you additional cooking options.

Gas hobs can be found in various costs, from as little as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should still cost you less than PS200. If you prefer glass, there are many excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a qualified electrician.