20 Trailblazers Leading The Way In Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. But, electric models offer superior energy efficiency and are easier to keep clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost which allow you to increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to heat up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch which makes it safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They 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 their distinct functions, as well as an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However the heat distribution is uneven. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive green certifications. Recommended Website has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with the lowest energy consumption of just 775 watts per cooking zone. Best place to buy oven and hob allows you to move your pans between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels according to your pots or saucepans. Additionally, the "Power Boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. Other useful features include an auto-shut off function and a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that is easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified by the ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has an enormous "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought to a boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high levels of heat quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check each burner's status at glance. This is extremely useful to ensure safety. It's much more difficult to forget to turn off the burner on, or to switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for a Hood. This will save space in your kitchen, and also create an elegant design that can blend into any style of interior.
Due to their efficiency and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. These are easier to set up and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a an elegant kitchen design.
Another benefit of opting for an independent model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this alternative. Moreover, these models will require 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 best option for those who want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they consume less power than their electric or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase and you'll have to purchase an induction-compatible set of cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who don't wish to invest in Induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need lengthy scouring. Plus, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They do not have the same efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not the best choice if are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They are quick to heat up, making them a good option for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we recommend choosing one that has been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide an accurate view of the performance of the model and will aid you in locating one that is right for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen and give it a minimalist and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their instant heating and easy to control, electric models are more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob with a a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with dials or buttons that protrude. They are easier to clean with a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may want to choose a digital display that allows you to manage your hob from afar and receive notifications via your smartphone.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob that includes induction and gas burners. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature that lets you set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready when you need them which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less tasty.
For added convenience, you may need a model that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This can save on space and is ideal when cooking using large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and higher-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should cost no more than PS200. If you'd prefer glass, there are many excellent 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'll need it installed by an electrician.