The Best Hobs

Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best ovens and hobs uk hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.

Gas hobs are preferred by our experts for their versatility and precise control of flames. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features such as a power boost and a timer.

1. Hobs Induction

Induction hobs oven offer a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath the pans. The cooktop stays cool to the touch which makes it more secure to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its specific functions and a minute timer. It has a smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate with the touch control panels, however one minor gripe (which is common to all induction ovens hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.

The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive green ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency and a low power consumption of 775 watts per cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you move your pans within the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. In addition, the "Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your pan from overheating, which means you do not have to worry about burnt food items.

This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified by an arrow or cross to show which side of the coil is and there's an easy-to-use control panel. It comes with a large "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that have to be brought to the boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately produce high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling.

The flame's visual indicator allows you to see the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on a burner or forget that it was on.

A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to remain vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.

Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction cousins because they heat up more quickly and more evenly, reducing electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for the Hood. This can save space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can fit in with any style of interior.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. These can be easier to install and provide greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.

A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option for those who you want to go green. But, you'll need find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this option becomes a possibility for you. These models require a gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.

3. Hobs with Sealed Plates

Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they consume less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll have to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.

If you don't wish to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean as there's no need for difficult scouring. They also get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They do not have the same efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they might not be an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.

Solid plate hobs, which are a budget option with their simple and reliable design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for dynamic chefs who like to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other options.

We suggest that you search for reviews on retailer websites in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an honest assessment of the performance of the product and will assist you in finding one that is right for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it is finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it an elegant and minimalist look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their quick heat and simple control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great option for busy households.

When choosing an electric hob make sure you choose one that's streamlined with touch controls and no buttons or dials that stick out. They are easier to clean with a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for digital displays that give you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can control your hob with ease.

To maximize flexibility, think about a dual fuel stove that has gas and induction burners. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that lets you set specific cooking times for meals so they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.

For added convenience, a model with two separate zones for cooking pans of various shapes and sizes is the best option. This can help save space and is ideal when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to give you additional cooking options.

You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a big brand should cost less than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct cables and breakers to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.