The Best Hobs Awards: The Best, Worst And The Most Bizarre Things We've Seen

The Best Hobs

Hobs are available in different sizes and materials.  best hob  are durable, stylish and simple to clean.

Our experts recommend gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost that let you increase the heat quickly in order to speed up cooking.

1. Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch, making it more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their distinct functions, as well as an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive 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 lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit the pots or pans you use. Additionally, the "Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function as well as the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.

This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that is easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified with the use of a cross or ring to show where the center of the coil is beneath, while there's a simple touch-control panel. It features large 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It also comes pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is an excellent option if you cook with a variety pans of different shapes and sizes that need to be heated up and simmered at the exact while being kept warm.

2. Gas Hobs

Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) are the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water as well as 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 generate high heat levels, making them perfect for searing and boiling.

The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for safety reasons. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving a burner on, or even switch it on by accident when compared to an electric hob.

The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, which is why you'll need to keep on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.

Gas hobs can also be more energy-efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will fit in with any style of interior.

As a result of their efficiency and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. These can be simpler to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.

Another benefit of going for freestanding models is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener option. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you look into this alternative. These models require gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.

3. Hobs for Sealed Plates

Induction hobs are the best option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you will need to purchase induction-compatible cookware.

If you don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs offer a good alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements that are hidden beneath that make them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean as there's no need for tricky scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not offer 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, a budget option with their simple and durable design, are ideal for cooking at home. They are easy to warm up, which makes them a good choice for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.

We suggest that you search for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an accurate view of the performance of the product and will aid you in locating 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 blend with other appliances in the kitchen and give it a minimalist and contemporary look.

4. Electric Hobs

While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their instant heating and easy to control, electric models are 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 great choice for busy households.

Choose an electric hob with a a streamlined design with touchscreen controls. Avoid models with dials or buttons that are protruding. This makes them easier to clean, especially if you opt for a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you might prefer an electronic display that allows you to manage your hob from afar and receive notifications on your smartphone.

Consider a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that lets you set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.

For added convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This will save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills as extra cooking options.

Gas hobs are available at a range of prices, from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you prefer glass 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, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.