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The Best Hobs Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean. Gas hobs are favored by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of the flame. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly to accelerate cooking. 1. Induction Hobs Induction hobs offer a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier for cleaning. They boil water faster than a kettle and require less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen and we appreciate this elegant, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions and an efficient minute reminder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common issue with all induction stoves. The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with the lowest power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The “Flux zone” feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and alter their power levels to suit the pans or pots you use as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure speedy boiling. The auto-shutoff function as well as the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features. This is a low-cost induction hob that can be easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified by a ring or cross to show where the center of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It features a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots easily, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is great if you regularly cook with different sizes or shaped pans that need to be brought up to boil, simmered and kept warm at the same time. 2. Gas Hobs A gas hob (or gas cooktop in the case of American) still reigns supreme when it comes to kitchen cooking. 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 rapidly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling. Their visual flame indication also allows you to see the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's harder 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 easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so 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 their induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves, which incorporate the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the need for a vent hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can fit in with any style of interior. Due to their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of homeowners opt for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. They are less difficult to install, and offer more flexibility in the event that you want to create a 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 if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you look into this alternative. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks. 3. Sealed Plate Hobs If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option, an induction hob is the best way to go. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic-ceramic glass surface keeps it 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 counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware. Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who don't wish to invest in technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a hard scrubbing. Plus, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, so they are not an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption. Solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They are easy to get hot, making them a great choice for those who don't require a large cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other options. If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we suggest choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide a true insight into the performance of the product, but will also aid you in locating the one that is suitable for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of robust stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance. 4. Electric Hobs Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they're also popular because they are quick to heating. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking functions like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households. When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without buttons or dials that stick out. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you choose an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. To ensure safety, select models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you remote control and notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease. For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob that includes gas burners and induction. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set specific cooking times to ensure that food is ready when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less flavorful. For added convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. Best ovens will save space and can be beneficial when cooking with large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options. Gas hobs can be found in various costs, from as little as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a big brand should still cost you no more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it shouldn't break the bank too, since there are excellent own-brand options. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require special supplies with the right cables and breakers in order to work, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.