Hotpoint vs Smeg Hobs

Hotpoint and Smeg both offer gas and induction hobs, but Smeg's range is more design-focused and costs more. Hotpoint's entries include the PPH60PFIXUK gas hob at £142, the PPH60GDFIX at £170, the TQ1460SNE induction hob at £239 and the built-in FTGHG641DHBK gas hob at £385. Smeg's range starts at the PX364L 60cm stainless gas hob at £349, then the SI2641DUK four-zone induction hob at £389, the 75cm SI2741DUK at £479 and the SI2741D at £579 with nine power levels plus boost.

Smeg's hobs include Digi touch controls, automatic switch-off and residual heat indicators on the SI2741D, with a SmegConnect app for remote monitoring. Its zone sizes range from 14cm to 30cm, and its induction models run at power levels from about 0.5kW to 7.4kW. Hotpoint's hobs feature Flexi Zone technology, touch control with child lock, and automatic shut-off, along with pan detection on induction models. Hotpoint offers a 10-year parts warranty.

Hotpoint suits buyers who want the lowest entry price and a dependable hob for everyday cooking, particularly the 60cm gas models for a budget refit. Smeg suits homeowners who want the hob to match other Smeg appliances, and who will pay more for slimline styling and a larger 75cm induction surface. Smeg's induction hobs typically need a 32-amp circuit, while its gas hobs need only a standard socket for ignition, so installation cost can differ between the two. Smeg's stylish finish is a deliberate choice for kitchens where the cooker is a feature of the room, rather than a utility appliance.

Bottom line: choose Hotpoint if you want a gas hob from £142 or an induction hob for £239, with a 10-year parts warranty. Choose Smeg if you want the slimline SI2641DUK at £389 or the 75cm SI2741DUK at £479 with SmegConnect.