Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric models can provide superior Best Oven energy efficiency and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost that let you boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath the pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch and is therefore safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They boil water faster than kettles and require less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute reminder. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one minor issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however it is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. It has 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 around within the four zones and adjust the power levels to match your pots or pans and the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating which means you do not need to worry about burning food.
This is an induction stove with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by a ring or cross to show where the centre of the coil is and there's an easy-to-use control panel. It features an enormous "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with different sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) is still the Best place to buy oven and hob in kitchen cooking. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately generate high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check the status of each burner at an instant. This is very helpful for safety. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could keep out spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction cousins because they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing the cost of electricity. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for the Hood. This can save on space in your kitchen, as well as resulting in an elegant and modern design that will blend in with any style of interior.
Because of their efficiency and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. They are less difficult to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you want to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you consider this option. In addition, these models require a gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't need to invest in Induction technology. 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, because they don't need lengthy scouring. Additionally, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the best ovens and hobs choice for you.
Solid plate ovens hobs, the budget option with their simple and sturdy design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the best ovens choice for chefs who love to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, which means they're not as efficient as the other options on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with an accurate view of the quality of the product and will help you find one that is right for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and ease of control, they're also a popular choice because they can provide instant heat. And with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid models with dials or buttons that protrude. This makes them easier to clean, particularly if you opt for flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may prefer an electronic display that lets you manage your hob from afar and receive notifications on your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob which has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you might want a model that allows you to combine two cooking zones into one zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This can help save space and be useful if you cook with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at a range of costs, from as little as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a qualified electrician.