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Which Hob Should I Buy?

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Which Hob Should I Buy?

Choosing the right hob can transform how you cook, clean and even style your kitchen. With so many options available—induction, ceramic, gas, vented, and domino hobs—it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve created this simple guide to help you find the perfect hob for your kitchen and lifestyle.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Hob

  • Kitchen size and layout:
    Do you have space for a wide hob or need a compact model?
  • Power supply:
    Are you wired for electric, gas or both?
  • Cooking style:
    Are you a quick weekday cook or a weekend foodie?
  • Energy efficiency:
    Are you looking for the most cost-effective and eco-friendly option?
  • Cleaning preference:
    Prefer a wipe-clean glass surface or don’t mind pan supports?
  • Budget:
    Consider both the upfront cost and long-term running costs.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Hob​

Types of Hobs: Which One Is Right for You?

Induction Hobs

  • Fast heat-up times:
    Induction delivers rapid heating with excellent precision.
  • Safety-first design:
    Heat activates only when a magnetic pan is detected.
  • Easy to clean:
    Smooth glass surface wipes clean effortlessly.
  • Best for:
    Busy families, modern kitchens and energy-conscious households.

Ceramic Hobs

  • Radiant heating:
    Heating elements sit beneath a sleek glass surface.
  • User-friendly controls:
    Simple settings with a modern appearance.
  • More affordable option:
    Slower than induction but budget-friendly.
  • Best for:
    Casual cooks and budget-conscious households.

Gas Hobs

  • Classic flame cooking:
    Visible heat for instant, intuitive control.
  • Great temperature control:
    Perfect for simmering, searing and everything in between.
  • Requires regular cleaning:
    Pan supports and burners need more upkeep.
  • Best for:
    Experienced cooks and fans of traditional cooking.

Vented Induction Hobs

  • Induction with built-in extraction:
    Cooks and removes steam directly at surface level.
  • Saves space:
    Eliminates the need for a separate cooker hood.
  • Modern and minimalist:
    Ideal for clean, open-plan kitchen layouts.
  • Best for:
    Open-plan living, stylish renovations and ductless ventilation setups.

Domino Hobs

  • Compact and modular:
    One or two-zone units that fit small or tailored spaces.
  • Mix and match:
    Combine induction, gas, ceramic or speciality modules.
  • Ideal for small layouts:
    Great for apartments or bespoke cooking configurations.
  • Best for:
    Small kitchens, studios and personalised cooking setups.

Hob Sizes & Configurations

  • 2-zone hobs:
    Ideal for compact kitchens or minimal cooking needs.
  • 4-zone hobs:
    The most popular and versatile choice for everyday cooking.
  • 5-zone hobs:
    Provides extra space for large pans and family meals.

Other layout options include:

  • Front or side controls:
    Choose depending on your cooking style and ergonomic preference.
  • Frameless or bevelled edges:
    Ideal for a sleek, flush or designer-style finish.

Types of Hobs Explained​

Top Hob Features to Look For

  • Touch controls:
    Sleek, modern interfaces that are simple to use and easy to wipe clean.
  • Pan detection (induction):
    Automatically activates heat only when a suitable pan is detected, improving safety and efficiency.
  • Booster zones:
    Provide rapid heat for quick boiling and fast cooking.
  • Child locks:
    Prevent accidental temperature changes for added peace of mind.
  • Residual heat indicators:
    Warn you when a zone is still hot, helping to avoid burns.
  • Integrated extraction:
    Found in vented hobs to remove steam and odours right at the source.

Recommended Hobs for Different Needs

Lifestyle Recommended Hob
Busy households Induction or vented induction for speed and safety
Small kitchens Eco induction hobs or domino hobs
Tech lovers Touch-controlled induction models
Design-led spaces Frameless black glass or vented hobs
Experienced cooks Gas or 5-zone induction hobs for multitasking
Woman wearing apron preparing food in a frying pan on a hob

Final Tips

Choosing the right hob isn’t just about style — it’s about finding the option that truly fits your daily cooking habits, your kitchen layout and your long-term plans. Think about how you cook, the space you have available, your energy preferences and whether you may upgrade your kitchen in the future.

Need help choosing? Contact our team or explore the full CATA hob collection for inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, eco washes use lower temperatures and less water, which reduces energy use. Though they take longer, the cost per wash is usually lower.
If you’re on a time-of-use tariff like Economy 7, running your machine during off-peak hours at night can cost less per kWh.
It varies by model and cycle, but most standard machines use between 0.5 and 1 kWh per load, depending on temperature and settings.
30°C is ideal for energy savings and is suitable for most everyday loads, especially when using cold wash detergents.
Yes, cold wash detergents are designed to work in standard washing machines and are safe to use in most models.
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