Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
The best ovens and hobs 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 because of their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. Look for features like a timer and power boost that let you boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to only heat the copper coils that are beneath the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen and we love 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 easy to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low energy consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones and adjust the power levels in accordance with the size of your saucepans or pots. Meanwhile, the 'Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is a fantastic low-cost induction hob that can be easily hardwired ovens and hobs uk fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly marked with a ring or cross to show which side of the coil is and there's a simple touch-control panel. It comes with a large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you regularly cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought to the boiling point, simmered and then kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the best hob choice to cook in your kitchen. 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 generate high heat levels quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check each burner's status at a glance. This is very helpful for safety. It's a lot harder to forget to leave a burner on, or even switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll have to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is especially true oven with hob vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for the grill. This will save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will blend into any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and ease of use, many homeowners opt for freestanding gas hobs instead of built-in models. They're easier to install and provide more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. However, you'll need find an appropriate LPG boiler and stove before this becomes an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll need to invest in induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good middle ground. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy 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. However, they fall behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this might not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, the low-cost option with their basic and sturdy design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need a high-powered cooktop, but they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best option for dynamic chefs who like to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend selecting one that has been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. Not only will this provide you with an honest view into the performance of the appliance however, it will assist you in locating the perfect model for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished in long-lasting 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 heating and easy to control, electric models are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking functions like power up settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has an elegant design and has touchscreen controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that protrude. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, and 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 avoid accidents. And, if you have a smart-connected home, opt for digital displays that give you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your hob effortlessly.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer, which lets you set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
For added convenience, you may want a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This can help save space and be useful if you cook with large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to offer additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in a range of costs, from as little as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should cost not more than PS200. If you'd prefer glass there are plenty of great alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right cables and breakers in order to function, which means you will need to have it installed by an electrician.