Whether you're cooking in a compact kitchen, need an extra cooking surface for family get togethers, or want a portable alternative to a traditional cooker, an electric hob offers a convenient way to prepare everyday meals.
At Cooks Professional, our collection consists of a 2000W Single Ceramic Hob, a 2800W Double Ceramic Hob and three Mini Oven models with Integrated Dual Hobs. This electric hob buying guide compares their features, cooking capabilities and practical benefits to help you find the right appliance for your kitchen.
Which electric hob is best for you?
The best electric hob depends on how many dishes you want to cook at once, your available worktop space and whether you are in need of extra oven space.
| Hob type | Power | Cooking zones | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Ceramic Hob | 2000W | One 17.5cm zone | Small kitchens, occasional cooking and extra hob space |
| Double Ceramic Hob | 2800W total | Two independently controlled zones | Cooking multiple dishes, family meals and regular hosting |
| Mini Oven with Dual Hob | L-1000W R-700W |
Two integrated hotplates, 20cm and 16cm on the specified model | Compact kitchens, holiday homes and combined oven and hob cooking |
A single electric hob is a practical choice for simple meals and smaller spaces, while a double ceramic hob offers more flexibility for cooking two dishes simultaneously. For those who also need an oven, a mini oven with integrated hobs combines multiple cooking functions in one compact appliance.
Single ceramic hob: Compact kitchens
A portable single electric hob is ideal when worktop space is limited or you need an additional cooking zone alongside your existing cooker. Our Cooks Professional 2000W Single Ceramic Hob features a 17.5cm cooking zone, providing enough power for boiling, frying and simmering. A great way of using this is outside if you have a plug on your patio, taking your BBQ to the next level.
Its simple dial control allows you to adjust the heat without complicated settings, while the smooth ceramic glass surface makes cleaning straightforward once cooled. At just 7.5cm high, the compact design is easy to tuck away when not in use, making it a practical option for smaller kitchens, temporary cooking arrangements or additional hob space.
Best for: Small kitchens, outdoors, space for occasional hosting and preparing one-pot meals.
Double ceramic hob: Cooking multiple dishes
A double electric hob provides greater cooking flexibility, allowing you to prepare two dishes at the same time without needing a full-sized cooker. Working alongside your home kitchen stovetops, these ceramic hobs make hosting that much easier without requiring a permanently installed appliance.
Our Cooks Professional 2800W Double Ceramic Hob features two independently controlled cooking zones, so you can boil water on one ring while gently simmering a sauce on the other. Each zone has its own dial control, making it easy to adjust the heat separately. The smooth ceramic glass surface wipes clean after use, while its low-profile 6.5cm design makes it convenient to store. For households that regularly prepare multiple dishes, a portable double hob offers additional cooking space, vital for home chefs.
Best for: Everyday cooking, preparing multiple dishes, households with minimal hob space and additional cooking space when entertaining.
Mini oven with dual hob: Best for all-in-one cooking
A mini oven with hobs combines the functions of a countertop oven and electric hotplates in one space-saving appliance. Our Cooks Professional Mini Oven with Dual Hobs offers three models, providing a practical alternative to a full-sized cooker where space is limited.
Designed for versatile everyday cooking, these compact appliances allow you to prepare oven-cooked dishes alongside food on the integrated hotplates. The specified model features two fixed-heat hotplates measuring 20cm and 16cm in diameter, variable oven temperature control, a wire rack and a roasting dish.
A mini oven with hobs can be particularly useful for Christmas hosting, smaller kitchens, holiday homes and other settings where a separate oven and hob would take up too much space.
Best for: Compact kitchens, holiday homes, small households and anyone looking for a combined countertop oven and hob.
Ceramic hob vs induction hob: What's the difference?
Although ceramic and induction hobs can look similar, they heat cookware differently. A ceramic electric hob uses an electric heating element beneath the glass surface to transfer heat to the cookware. An induction hob uses electromagnetic energy to heat compatible cookware directly.
| Feature | Ceramic Electric Hob | Induction Hob |
|---|---|---|
| Heating method | Electric element beneath ceramic glass | Electromagnetic induction |
| Pan compatibility | All flat-bottomed, heat-safe cookware | Requires magnetic induction-compatible cookware |
| Temperature response | Fast | Generally faster |
| Cleaning | Smooth, wipe-clean surface | Smooth, wipe-clean surface |
| Residual heat | Surface remains hot after use | Surface can still become hot from cookware |
| Typical cost | Often more affordable | Often more expensive |
Our Cooks Professional Single and Double Ceramic Hobs are suitable for a wide range of flat-bottomed cookware, making them a versatile choice for everyday cooking without needing specialist induction pans.
What should you look for when buying a portable electric hob?
When choosing a tabletop electric hob, there are several features worth considering.
- Number of hobs: A single hob is suitable for simple meals, while a double hob allows you to prepare multiple dishes.
- Power and heat control: Higher wattage can support faster heating, while adjustable controls help you manage cooking temperatures.
- Size and portability: Compact electric hobs are useful for smaller kitchens and occasional additional cooking space, whereas mini ovens with hobs tend to be more stationary.
- Pan compatibility: Check the cooking zone diameter and use suitable flat-bottomed cookware.
- Cleaning and maintenance: Smooth ceramic glass surfaces are easier to wipe clean than traditional exposed heating elements.
If you're looking for an all-in-one cooking solution rather than an additional hob, a mini oven with integrated hotplates may be a more practical choice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best electric hob for a small kitchen?
A single portable ceramic hob is a practical choice for small kitchens because it takes up less worktop space and is easy to store. For more cooking flexibility, a double electric hob or mini oven with integrated hobs may be better suited to your needs.
Are ceramic hobs better than induction hobs?
Ceramic hobs are compatible with a wider range of cookware and are often more affordable, while induction hobs generally heat faster and respond more quickly to temperature changes. The best choice depends on your budget, existing pans and cooking preferences.
Can you use normal saucepans on a ceramic electric hob?
Yes, most suitable flat-bottomed saucepans can be used on a ceramic electric hob, including stainless steel, aluminium and compatible non-stick cookware. Always check the cookware manufacturer's guidance and use pans with bases appropriate for the cooking zone.
How much electricity does a portable electric hob use?
Electricity consumption depends on the hob's wattage, heat setting and cooking time. A 2000W hob running continuously at its full rated power for one hour would use approximately 2kWh of electricity. Actual consumption varies depending on how the appliance is used.
Can you use a mini oven and its hobs at the same time?
Some mini ovens with integrated hobs support simultaneous cooking, while others have restrictions on which functions can operate together. Always check the instructions for your specific model before using the oven and hotplates at the same time.
Find the right electric hob with Cooks Professional
Whether you need a compact single ceramic hob, a versatile double ceramic hob or a mini oven with integrated hotplates, Cooks Professional offers practical cooking solutions for kitchens of different sizes.
Explore our electric hob and mini oven collection to find an appliance that suits your available space, cooking habits and everyday needs.