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The Best Hobs Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean. Our experts favour gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to increase the speed of cooking. 1. Induction Hobs Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat only the copper coils that are beneath the pans. The cooktop is cool to touch and is therefore safer to use and easier for cleaning. 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 are in love with this sleek, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions and a handy minute timer. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels. However, one minor gripe (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but it is only noticeable when stirring-frying. The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with a low power usage of 750W for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows the pans to be moved between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels in accordance with the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster” function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor,' which ensures that your pan is not overheated are other useful features. This is an induction hob that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified with the ring or cross to indicate the coil centre. There is also a touch-control panel. It comes with large 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you regularly cook with different sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought up to boil, simmered and kept warm simultaneously. 2. Gas Hobs Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) are the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to create high levels of heat quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing. The flame's visual indicator allows you to see the status of every burner in one glance, which is useful for security reasons. It's much harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or switch it off by accident when compared to an electric hob. The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can stop spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time. Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts as they heat up faster and more evenly, thus reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This will save space in your kitchen, and create an elegant look that can blend into any interior style. Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. These can be more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist design for your kitchen. Another advantage of choosing a freestanding model is the possibility of connecting it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source if you're looking for a greener alternative. But, you'll need be able to locate the right LPG stove and boiler before this option becomes a possibility 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 If you're seeking an elegant and energy-efficient choice an induction hob is the best option to choose. Hobs that induction heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. Induction hobs are more secure (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 can be costly and you'll have to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction. Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who do not want to invest in the technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements hidden underneath that make them more attractive than solid plate hobs and easier to clean since there's no need to do tricky cleaning. Additionally, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they might not be an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy usage. Solid plate hobs are a good budget option, with a straightforward and durable design that is perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, so they're not the best option for chefs who are able to multitask. Solid plate hobs are 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 the websites of retailers. This will not only provide an honest assessment of the performance of the model, but will also help you find one that is right for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of robust stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it a an elegant and minimalist look. 4. Electric Hobs Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they're also a popular choice because they can provide instant warmth. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with sophisticated cooking functions, such as power boost settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households. Find an electric hob that has sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might want to choose a digital display that lets you manage your hob from afar and receive notifications via your smartphone. Consider a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set certain cooking times so that your food is cooked at the time you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty. For added convenience, you may need an appliance that allows you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This will save space and is ideal if you often cook with large rectangular cooking dishes like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to give you additional cooking options. There are cheap gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should still cost you no more than PS200. If Read More On this page prefer a glass model there are plenty of great options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply with the appropriate cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a qualified electrician.