Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of flames. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are also easier to keep clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by utilizing features like an energy boost or a timer.1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop is cool to touch, making it safer to use and simpler to clean. They are able to boil water faster than a kettle and use less energy. They are now a staple appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen and we are in love with this sleek, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions as well as an easy-to-use minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with the lowest power consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' that prevents overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is an induction cooktop that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified by a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is great if you regularly cook with different sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boil, simmered and kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop for those who are American) is still the best when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are the best 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 produce high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally turn on the burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll have to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves, which incorporate the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This can save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker appearance that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
As a result of their effectiveness and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. They are simpler to install, and offer more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is an excellent option if you want to go green. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can look into this alternative. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is definitely the option to choose. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat glass-ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll require a set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, since they don't require hard scrubbing. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they are not an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, which are a budget option with their simple and durable design, are ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to get hot and ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the best choice for chefs who love to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient as other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on retailer websites if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a true insight into the performance of the model, but will also aid you in locating the one that is suitable for your home. The 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 blend with other appliances in the kitchen with a sleek and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they're also popular because they can provide instant warmth. With modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a sleek design and control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that protrude. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you choose flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have an intelligent home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications through your smartphone, so you can control your hob with ease.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob with induction and gas burners. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set cooking times to ensure that food is ready when you need it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
For added convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into a single zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This will save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you prefer a glass model there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct breakers and cables to function, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.
