Electric hobs are the standard for a comfortable and functional kitchen. They do not take up too much space and fit perfectly into any interior. Modern panels have a number of interesting features that will appeal to every housewife. They can cook on their own, monitor the boiling of dishes, and also regulate the heating of the burners.
Question: Which electric hob should I choose? often asked on forums on the Internet. In the article you will find a rating of hobs for 2021 based on customer reviews, based on price/quality ratio
Selection rules
Today, on store shelves you can see many panels that differ from each other in various ways. With such a wide selection, it can be difficult for buyers to make a choice. To make things easier for yourself, there are a few key points to remember when purchasing:
- Type of control regulator. Switches can be rotary, touch or remote. All of them are quite convenient to use, but you need to choose a specific option based on your preferences.
- Panel shape. In this case, you should pay attention to the place where the panel will be installed. Many manufacturers produce round, square, oval or rectangular devices.
- Material. When choosing a product, the type of material used is especially important. The enamel surface is the most affordable and easy to clean. The steel version has an interesting design, but you will have to purchase special products to clean it. Glass ceramics is the most expensive material, which has a sophisticated appearance, increased strength and a touch panel.
At the same time, you need to know the main features of the panels by the number of burners:
- 2-burner options decorate the smallest kitchens and complement other panels well;
- 3-burner will be the best purchase for people who most often use large cookware;
- 5-burner panels are ideal for any cookware, are simple in terms of functionality and can blend into any interior.
How to choose and what to pay attention to?
Before purchasing, it is important to decide on the following parameters:
- Construction type . There are built-in and free-standing models. The latter act as independent equipment. The first type is divided into two more subtypes: dependent and independent panels. Dependents are included with the oven and do not have their own controls. Independent ones are built into the countertop and are considered full-fledged appliances. Which type to choose depends on the user’s personal preferences.
- Surface material . Tiles are made of stainless steel, enamel or glass ceramics. Steel and glass surfaces are considered durable. Enamel ones quickly deteriorate with constant cleaning.
- Control type . Today, touch control panels are in incredible demand. They are easy to use and can be configured with just one click.
- Dimensions . The more compact the tile, the more impressive it looks on the kitchen table. It will require a minimum of space, but will remain convenient to use.
- Additional functions . It’s good if the model is equipped with a timer, auto-shut-off, pause, dish recognition, auto-boiling, residual heat indication, and locks.
Which brand of hob should I choose?
Among the wide range of products, deciding on a specific model is not always easy. Therefore, buyers first of all pay attention to the manufacturers of hobs, which are known to almost the whole world. The following brands are in greatest demand:
Bosch
Hansa
Electrolux
Hotpoint-Ariston
All these companies sell really high-quality products. They constantly receive positive reviews, because their equipment is of high quality, functionality and beautiful appearance.
Top brands
On the domestic market you can find many electrical devices for cooking from manufacturers from different countries.
Keep in mind! According to experts and experienced users, the best of them are:
- Weissgauff is a German brand famous for its high-tech gadgets that combine excellent quality and attractive appearance.
- Gorenje is one of the leading European manufacturers developing innovative appliances for the home and kitchen.
- Electrolux is a Swedish brand specializing in the production of professional and household appliances for comfortable and long-term use.
- Hansa is a trusted brand that guarantees the high quality of its products and their absolute safety.
- Bosch is a well-known German company whose equipment occupies a leading position in the ratings of functional devices for the home.
- Korting is a manufacturer of large and small equipment with a long service life.
The best 2-burner hobs
Gorenje ECT 330 CSC
The first available model that combines stylish appearance and excellent functionality is the Gorenje ECT 330 CSC.
You can buy it for only 13 thousand rubles.
This product is made of durable and extremely smooth glass ceramics. It will fit perfectly into a small kitchen or even become one of the main links of the modeled surface with heating elements of different types and configurations.
The only drawback of the panel is the lack of a timer, which does not suit all buyers.
This is perhaps the best 2-burner hob
Hansa BHCS31116
The second inexpensive model can be called Hansa BHCS31116. Its cost reaches 12 thousand rubles, which is explained by the presence of high-quality glass ceramics from a German manufacturer, fairly fast heating, as well as reliable and simple controls. There is a digital indicator that indicates the degree of heating of all burners, and for safety, there is the possibility of a protective shutdown, which is triggered as a result of prolonged inactivity on the part of the owner. Among the disadvantages is the lack of expansion and child protection zones.
Bosch PKC345E
The third model in this category is Bosch PKC345E. This panel costs about 14 thousand rubles and has many positive qualities. It is distinguished by the presence of a glass-ceramic surface, modern design and ease of operation. The main and only disadvantage is considered to be standard features without any additional functionality.
Which panel is better, induction or electric (Hi-Light)?
The built-in electrical panel must be connected to a regular household two-phase or three-phase network with a mandatory connection to a protective grounding circuit.
Glass-ceramic and induction panels use electrical current to produce thermal energy, but they use different physical principles. Electric ones heat a special metal spiral or cast iron burner, while an induction cooker heats not the burner, but the cookware that sits on it. This occurs due to the passage of electric current through magnetic coils installed instead of a spiral under the glass-ceramic surface. As a result, a magnetic field is created that induces an eddy induction current in the bottom of the cookware. If, when you turn on the induction cooker, there is no suitable cookware on the burner, then heating will not occur at all and the automation will turn off the power. And in an electric one, the burner will begin to heat up almost immediately.
In practical terms, electric devices, compared to induction devices, seriously lose in terms of efficiency, energy saving and safety. The disadvantages are the cost (induction is 30-35% more expensive) , the need to select suitable cookware (although we do not consider this a big disadvantage).
In terms of energy efficiency. Cast iron pancakes and spiral heating elements are the most inefficient in this regard; they spend a lot of energy on heating the burner itself. Hi-Light elements and halogen burners are more economical than spiral burners, by about 20-25%, but they also first heat the working surface of the panel, and then it heats the bottom of the cookware. Induction cookers do not waste energy on heating glass ceramics; they heat the bottom of the cookware directly, which makes them economical, efficient and fast. Induction burners heat the contents of the cookware approximately 2 times faster than Hi-Light, while heat loss is also reduced.
Thus, with the same power of an electric stove and an induction stove of 1.8 kW, it will take from 15-20 seconds to 3 minutes to fully warm up the former. An induction burner will produce full power in 2-2.5 seconds, which indicates the high energy efficiency of this type of stove.
Selection of dishes. Not all panels require the purchase of new special cookware. Electrical panels can use glass, aluminum, enameled metal, cast iron and even ceramic. But for induction devices you will have to use special dishes - this is a mandatory requirement. The fact is that the induction field obtained when copper coils are turned on can only interact with the metal bottom of a pot or frying pan. And even then, this cookware must be made of either steel or cast iron. Steel that is not magnetic will not work.
Safety. The high temperature of the work surface and utensils poses a great danger. Electric panels heat up the work surface, which remains dangerously hot even after being turned off for about 10-15 minutes. Induction cookers heat the cookware, while the glass ceramics remain cold for a long time. This is the first point to remember, especially in families with small children and pets. The second point is that induction panels are equipped with a special system that turns off the stove if there is no cookware on the burner for a certain time.
The best 3 burner appliances
Electrolux EHF 6232 IOK
One of the leading panels with 3 burners can be called Electrolux EHF 6232 IOK, the cost of which does not exceed 18 thousand rubles. It does not have a timer, but this disadvantage covers a number of advantages. The main ones are: comfortable burners, simple and quick installation, excellent design.
2. Hotpoint-Ariston KRO 632 TDZ
Electric hob Hotpoint-Ariston KRO 632 TDZ
Hotpoint-Ariston KRO 632 TDZ, costing 17 thousand rubles, is no less popular. The panel has a stylish design, as well as expansion zones and, of course, a high-quality surface. At the same time, one cannot fail to mention the touch control, which shows itself only from its best side.
Another good hob Candy CH630C for 16 thousand rubles has a beautiful appearance and reliable protective functions. It serves its owners for a long time without causing any inconvenience.
The electric 4-burner built-in hob is functional and safe, while the models feature touch control. The products have a basic set of options, including a timer (controls shutdown), safety shutdown (for safety reasons, the design can turn itself off), and locking the entire panel (will prevent accidental reset of settings).
Below is an overview of the best reviewed models.
Rating of the best glass-ceramic panels
| Nomination | Place | Name | Price |
| The best inexpensive glass-ceramic panels | 4 | Weissgauff HV 640 B | 10 990 ₽ |
| 3 | DARINA 4P E323 B | 11 092 ₽ | |
| 2 | Midea MCH64160 | 12 099 ₽ | |
| 1 | Hansa BHCI66306 | 14 211 ₽ | |
| The best glass-ceramic panels in the middle and premium segment | 3 | Zanussi CPZ6466KX | 15 900 ₽ |
| 2 | Bosch PKN645B17 | 19 490 ₽ | |
| 1 | Electrolux EHF 96547 FK | 21 890 ₽ | |
| The best induction glass-ceramic panels | 3 | Electrolux IPE 6440 KFV | 44 990 ₽ |
| 2 | Whirlpool WF S9365 BF/IXL | 49 900 ₽ | |
| 1 | Bosch PXX695FC5E | 41 053 ₽ |
Electric 4-burner built-in hob. Rating. Reviews. 2018/2019
Hansa BHCI63306
Advantages:
there is protection against surface chipping;
budget option (suitable for small spaces and small kitchens);
convenient location of the heating elements (containers and pans will not collide during the cooking process);
average heating rate;
simple digital display (easy to understand even for a beginner);
ease of use, universal design;
The presence of a function for maintaining heat, automatic boiling and shutdown, and child protection.
Flaws:
plug not included;
easily responds to power surges; if the electricity supply is interrupted, breakdowns may occur.
Hansa BHC63506
Advantages:
necessary functionality at an affordable price, all the necessary options are available;
the surface is easy to clean from dirt;
ergonomic arrangement of heating elements.
Flaws:
strong heating of the panel;
complex installation, requires the help of specialists.
Zanussi ZEV56240FA
Advantages:
low price;
ease of operation and maintenance. Ideal model for novice users;
simple design will fit into any interior.
Flaws:
the assembly is not of sufficient quality (temperature sensors suffer);
Power outages and constant power surges can lead to breakdowns.
Bosch PKE645B17
Advantages:
high power (instantly bringing to a boil);
availability of protection options, automatic shutdown;
low price;
high-quality control unit;
Convenient operation of the panel (working with the device does not cause difficulties).
Flaws:
panel becomes very hot. It is not recommended to cook for 5 hours, otherwise the furniture profile will deteriorate;
installation only by a professional (it is better not to install it yourself). When installing, it is necessary to leave a gap of 10 cm so that the structure can function correctly.
Bosch PKN645B17R
Advantages:
functionality includes all the necessary options for daily cooking;
presence of automatic boiling;
possibility of using any utensils.
Flaws:
severe overheating of the hob. You cannot repair the thermostat yourself; only replacing it will help;
light surface. Any traces of dirt, dust, or oil will be immediately noticeable; only constant cleaning will help.
Gorenje ECT 680-ORA-W
Advantages:
design (made of light glass ceramics, you can also choose a black version);
conveniently located burners;
presence of a timer.
Flaws:
high price
Electrolux EHF96547FK
Advantages:
affordable price;
easy installation into the countertop (beveled edges facilitate easy installation);
the presence of Stop&Go functions (for a break in work), EcoTimer (turns off the burner ahead of time, which helps bring the dish to readiness already on the cooling surface);
sound alerts.
Flaws:
there is no combined heating area.
Hansa BHCI65123030
Advantages:
the surface is made of German glass ceramics, framed with protective tape around the edges;
standard heating zones (2 x 18 cm, 2 x 14.5 cm);
control of rotary controls;
presence of a 4-segment residual heat indicator.
Flaws:
There is no timer or expansion zones.
Whirlpool AKT 801 NE
Advantages:
high build quality;
unusual unique design;
easy to clean, there is a durable cast iron grill and rubber feet;
Suitable for small rooms and small spaces.
Flaws:
may become very hot during operation.
LEX EVI 320 BL
Advantages:
affordable price and reliable quality;
presence of a timer, touch switches, lock button, safety shutdown function;
compact design.
Flaws:
complexity of installation.
Siemens EH875SC11E
Advantages:
oval-shaped burners;
high power, self-shutdown timer, temperature sensor, control unit lock;
the presence of a zone to maintain the desired temperature of the dish.
Flaws:
high price.
Buying an electric 4-burner hob promises both advantages and disadvantages, but in general, such models are equipped with useful functions and an interesting design. There is no need to be intimidated by touch panels - they are easy to operate, but you need to carefully monitor their quality and performance. In order for the product to serve for a long time and safely, you must follow the manufacturer's instructions. It is important to know that some elements can become very hot, which can affect the condition of the furniture profile.
Control type
Mechanical
The mechanical type of control for turning the burners on and off, as well as temperature control, is based on turning the knob. It is simple and reliable.
Sensory
Touch control is carried out by touching the touch buttons. The advantage of this type is ease of maintenance due to the perfectly smooth surface.
Mechanical control
Touch control
Panels with 5 burners
NEFF T18TS28N0
The leader in its class is the high-quality NEFF T18TS28N0 panel. It will cost buyers approximately 63 thousand rubles. People like this option for its excellent workmanship, convenient operation and improved functionality.
Bosch PKM875DP1D
The second high-end model Bosch PKM875DP1D costs 50 thousand rubles. For this amount you can purchase not just a hob, but a high-quality appliance with a wide range of capabilities. There is a child lock, several power levels, a protective automatic shutdown, a timer and a power-on indication.
Conclusions:
When choosing an electric hob, you should remember that:
- the main selection criteria are the dimensions for installation, the number of electric burners and the rated power consumption ;
- special attention should be paid to the security system - it should include an automatic shutdown function and a child safety lock on the control panel;
- for comfortable cooking, you should give preference to a device with a small display, touch switches and a countdown timer ;
- the most successful solution for a small kitchen would be a compact two-burner device;
- high-power units with 3-5 electric burners are ideal for installation in a kitchen with a large area.
Shape and dimensions
The shape of the hob and its dimensions affect the overall appearance of the kitchen and the level of comfort when cooking.
Currently, manufacturers, in addition to standard square ones, offer various variations in the shape of hob surfaces, including:
- Rectangular;
- Round;
- Honeycombs are hexagons that look like a honeycomb;
- Triangular.
Calculation of the maximum permissible width of the hob
To determine the optimal surface size corresponding to the kitchen parameters, it is necessary to plan the room in advance and take measurements.
Recommendations:
- A free gap of at least 30 cm should be left from the side wall to the hob. Then, dishes with ready-made dishes can be placed in this place.
- You need to set aside 60-100 cm for the cutting table. This will be enough to prepare the products. A smaller size can lead to burns when cooking, and a larger size will require you to make a lot of unnecessary movements and waste extra time on it.
- The sink should be located 40-60 cm from the side wall so that splashes do not fall on it. You also need to write down the width of the kitchen sink, then this figure will be needed for calculations.
At the end, you will need to add up all the recommended gaps and the width of individual zones and subtract this amount from the total length of the wall where you plan to place the table, sink and panel. The resulting figure will be the maximum allowable width of the hob.
