The best oven Hobs

Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.

Our experts recommend gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric models can be more efficient in energy use and are more easy to clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost which allow you to increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.

1. Hobs Induction

Induction hobs provide a contemporary efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils that are below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than a kettle and use less energy. They are now a staple appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen and we appreciate this sleek, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions as well as a handy minute minder. It has a smooth, smooth surface that is easy to clean and is simple to operate using the touch control panels, however one minor issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.

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 you move your pans within the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit your pots or saucepans. Meanwhile, the 'Power boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50% to speed up boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burnt food.

This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly marked with an arrow or cross to show where the centre of the coil is beneath, while there's a simple touch-control panel. It features a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and back zones. This is great if you often cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm at the same time.

2. Gas Hobs

A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) still reigns supreme in kitchen cooking. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.

The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check each burner's status at a glance. This is extremely useful for safety. It's much more difficult to forget to leave a burner on, or even switch it on by accident when compared to an electric hob.

Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to remain careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.

Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts since they are able to heat faster and more evenly, which reduces electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for a Hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant and modern design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.

Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models because of their effectiveness and ease of use. These are easier to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.

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 want to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can look into this alternative. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.

3. Sealed Plate Hobs

Induction hobs are a great choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface remains cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than their counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to invest in kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.

Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who don't wish to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a difficult scouring. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when it is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy usage this may not be the best option for you.

Solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a straightforward and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best hobs choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other alternatives.

If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. Not only will this provide you with an honest view into the performance of the appliance and how it's used, but it can aid you in finding the right model for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is finished with durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, creating a sleek and modern appearance.

4. Electric Hobs

Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and easy control, they're also a popular choice because they are quick to heating. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.

When you're choosing an electric stove make sure you choose one that's streamlined with touch controls, and no buttons or dials sticking out. This makes them easy to clean, particularly if you opt for flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. For safety, choose models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might opt for an electronic display that allows you to control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.

For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob that includes induction and gas burners. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set cooking times so that your food is cooked when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.

Lastly, for added convenience, you might want a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This can help save space and is beneficial if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to provide additional cooking options.

Gas hobs are available at various prices, from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should cost no more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that both induction and ceramic hobs require a particular supply with the appropriate breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.