The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost which allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to accelerate cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface and is safer to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than kettles and require less power. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with its distinct functions, as well as a minute minder. It has a smooth, smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate using the touch control panels. However, one minor gripe (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but it is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest power consumption of 750w per cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows the pans to be moved between the four zones and adjust the power levels to suit the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which prevents overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is an induction hob that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by the use of a cross or ring to show you where the center of the coil is and there's an easy-to-use control panel. It has a large "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is a great choice when cooking with a variety of pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up, simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, for those who are American) remains the most popular choice when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are ideal for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high heat levels which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for safety reasons. It's much harder to forget about leaving a burner on, or switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy-efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, which saves the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as creating an elegant design that can be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They are less difficult to install, and offer more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is an excellent option if you want to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can think about this option. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal option if you want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll have to purchase cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good option for those who do not need to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, get more info which are a affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are great for cooking at home. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't need a high-powered cooktop, but they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, making them not as energy-efficient as the other choices on this list.
We recommend looking 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 honest assessment of the performance of the model, but will also aid you in locating one that is right for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they are also popular because they are quick to heating. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with sophisticated cooking functions, such as power boost 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 has a sleek design with touch controls, and no buttons or dials hanging out. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface, which won't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have an intelligent home, opt for an electronic display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can manage your stove effortlessly.
Think about a dual-fuel hob which has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready when you need them - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you might want a model that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one larger zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This will save space and can be beneficial when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it shouldn't break the bank also, as there are excellent own-brand options. But, keep in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a licensed electrician.