The Best Hobs

Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.

Our experts favour gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more energy efficient and easier to clean. Look for features like a timer or power boost that let you boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.

1. Hobs induction

Induction hobs offer a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as do gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to only warm up the copper coils below the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch, making them safer to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with their own functions and an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However the distribution of heat is patchy. This is a frequent complaint with all induction stoves.

The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and a low power usage of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust the power levels to fit your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function, as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burnt food items.

This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are marked with an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It features a large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is a great option for cooking with a variety pans, all different sizes and shapes that need to be heated up and simmered at the exact time, and then kept warm.

2. Gas Hobs

A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) still reigns supreme in kitchen cooking. They're the ideal choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately create high temperatures which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.

The flame's visual indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance, which is beneficial for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to turn off a burner on, or even switch it off by accident when compared to an electric hob.

The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.

Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented hobs that combine two appliances ovens and hobs remove the need for the hood. This can save on the space in your kitchen as well as creating an elegant and modern design that will 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. These can be simpler to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.

A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option if you want to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you consider this option. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.

3. Sealed Plate Hobs

If you're looking for a sleek and energy-efficient option an induction cooker is the Best hob choice. They heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and 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 their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you will need to buy induction-compatible cookware.

Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who do not wish to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs are made of a smooth glass top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need difficult scouring. Additionally, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They don't have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they may not be the best choice if are worried about your energy consumption.

Then, solid plate hobs are a good budget option, with a straightforward and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best oven uk option for dynamic chefs who like to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, so they're not as energy-efficient as the other choices on this list.

We recommend looking for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. Not only will this give you an honest insight into the performance of the appliance, but it will aid you in finding a model that's right for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it is finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it sleek and modern appearance.

4. Electric Hobs

Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and easy control, they are also popular because they can provide instant warmth. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking functions like power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.

Look for an electric hob that has a streamlined design with touchscreen controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that protrude. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you select flat surfaces that don't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select one with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to help prevent accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can control your hob and oven effortlessly.

Think about a dual-fuel hob that has gas ovens and hobs induction burners for maximum flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set cooking times for dishes so they are ready when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.

For added convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to combine two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This will save space and is ideal when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or grills to provide additional cooking options.

You'll find cheap own-brand best hob gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not 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. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the right cables and breakers to function, which means you'll need it installed by an electrician.