Why No One Cares About Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features such as a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat only the copper coils underneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They boil water faster than kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its specific functions and the minute minder. hobs oven is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low energy consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows you to move your pans around within the four zones and alter the power levels to fit your pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which ensures that your pan is not overheated are also helpful features.
This is a great low-cost induction hob that can be easily hardwired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly marked with an arrow or cross to show you where the centre of the coil is beneath and there's an easy-to-use control panel. It comes with a large 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that have to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the best option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high temperatures making 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 very useful for safety. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally switch on an appliance or forget it was turned on.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction cousins because they are able to heat faster and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for an grill. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker appearance that will blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are simpler to install, and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can think about this option. In addition, these models require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the ideal option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to buy kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a difficult scouring. Plus, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They don't have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not the best choice if are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, the budget option with their simple and sturdy design, are great for cooking at home. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who love 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 rated by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with a clear view into the performance of the appliance however, it will aid you in finding a model that's right for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished with durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks thanks to their quick heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. And with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob choose one that is sleek with touch controls and without buttons or dials sticking out. They are more easy to clean with a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select a model with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs to help prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you may want to choose a digital display which allows you to control your stove remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has gas and induction burners. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function, which allows you to set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready for use when needed and reduces the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may need an appliance that allows you to combine two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This will save space and is beneficial if you often cook using large rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to give you additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in different prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should still cost you no more than PS200. If you'd prefer glass models there are a variety of excellent options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the right cables and breakers to function, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.