Your cooker is the centrepiece of your kitchen and your home. Go for an oven model and design that will complement your house, but don’t forget that you’ll also want one that’s easy to use. You don’t want an annoying oven door or poorly fitted hobs to get in the way of you cooking and having fun in the kitchen. Whether you decide to go for a gas cooker, an expensive range cooker, or a budget electric one– read our expert reviews for all the top features and oven brands you should be looking out for.
| Product | Image | Brand | Dimensions | Oven Capacity | Fuel | Price | Best Features | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newworld NW601EDOMTi Electric Cooker with Induction Hob |  | New World | 93.0 x 60 x 60 cm (H x W x D) | 65 L + 37 L | Electric | ££ | - Induction hobs - Pan detection and automatic shut off technology | |
| John Lewis JLFSGC616 Gas Cooker |  | John Lewis | 90 x 59.9 x 60 cm (H x W x D) | 69L + 37L | Gas | £££ | - Quality design built to last - Generous warranty | |
| Hotpoint HUG61X Ultima Gas Cooker |  | Hotpoint | 90.7 x 59.5 x 62.2cm (H x W x D) | 77 L + 32 L | Gas | ££ | - Different temperature zones - Slow cooker settings - Heavy glass lid | |
| Zanussi ZCV66000WA Electric Cooker |  | Zanussi | 90 x 60 x 60 cm (H x W x D) | 74 L + 37 L | Electric | ££ | - Ceramic hobs - Low price | |
| Indesit I6G52X 60cm Single Oven Dual Fuel Cooker |  | Indesit | 90 x 60 x 60 cm (H x W x D) | 59 L | Dual | ££ | - Large storage space - Flexible dual fuel cooking | |
| Hotpoint Ultima EG900XS Dual Fuel Cooker |  | Hotpoint | 85 x 90 x 60 cm (H x W x D) | 78 L | Dual | £££ | - 5 Cast iron gas burner hobs - Easy clean interior - Double glazed |
Best Induction Hob
Newworld NW601EDOMTi Electric Model with Induction Hob
Latest induction hob technology for your kitchen
This is a great kitchen appliance deal for those looking for a kitchen steal – with this model, you get the latest ceramic induction hob as well as two ovens for a decent price. Induction hobs are great because they only heat up the surface of the pan, wasting zero energy and ensuring an even cooking experience. We love the induction hob touch controls, and this model also comes in some attractive shades if you wanted to mix things up a bit…
- Manufactured in the UK
- Pan detection and automatic shut-off technology
- Great price
- Design is a bit clunky
Our Verdict: This is a great kitchen appliance buy for those looking for induction hob technology – try it out for yourself and see what you think of this latest kitchen trend!
Newworld NW601EDOMTi Rating: 10/10
Specifications:
- 4 induction zones for safe and responsive cooking
- Fan oven that heats up fast, top oven can be used as oven or grill
- Enamel lining for easy cleaning
- Oven dimensions: 93.0 x 60 x 60 cm (H x W x D)
- 65 L + 37 L oven capacities
- A rated for energy efficiency
Newworld NW601EDOMTi Electric Model with Induction Hob product manual
Download the Newworld NW601EDOMTi Electric Model with Induction Hob product manual.
Best Quality Cooker
John Lewis JLFSGC616 Gas
John Lewis double gas oven that’s easy to use (& easy on the eye)
John Lewis appliances are famed for their quality and this appliance is no different. This oven has really been designed with usability and functionality in mind, and it’s a great gas model that will last and last. Bonus points for the simple and sleek design and the generous oven windows so you can keep an eye on that souffle…
- Generous warranty & guarantee period – built to last
- Quality oven design, functions & features
- No flame failure safety
- No child lock
Our Verdict: Another great quality appliance from John Lewis, it’s a shame that no child lock is included.
John Lewis JLFSGC616 Rating: 9.8/10
Specifications:
- Oven capacities: 69L + 37L (more compact than other ovens featured)
- Dimensions: 90 x 59.9 x 60 cm (H x W x D)
- Automatic ignition
- Triple-glazed doors for safety & efficiency
- Internal lighting & generous viewing windows
- Removable catalytic liners for easy cleaning
- Minute minder
- Cast iron hob supports
Download the John Lewis JLFSGC616 Gas manual
Best Gas Cooker
Hotpoint HUG61X Ultima Gas
Attractive silver gas model from Hotpoint
Cooking with gas is extremely rewarding thanks to the easy temperature control. This stainless steel Hotpoint all-in-one offers a compact alternative to a more expensive gas range cooker. We love its even bake and gas oven temperature zones. (Gas is also the cheapest fuel out there so using a quality gas appliance like this can help you save on fuel costs).
- We love the slow cook setting for juicy stews and roasts
- Heats up evenly
- Great value for money
- Flames too strong on lower settings
Our Verdict: A good solid appliance that will fit in with any kitchen design.
Hotpoint HUG61X Rating: 9.4/10
Specifications:
- Oven dimensions: 90.7 x 59.5 x 62.2cm (H x W x D)
- 77 L + 32 L oven capacities
- Two gas ovens and gas hob – gas ovens with unique temperature zones for flexible and fast cooking
- Minute minder
- Attractive stainless steel design
- Gas hob comes with enamel pan supports, automatic ignition and flame failure safety device
- Heavy glass lid for cleanliness and safety
- Stay clean oven liners in both ovens & you can also remove the inner glass door
Hotpoint HUG61X Ultima Gas product manual
Download the Hotpoint HUG61X Ultima Gas product manual here.
Best Electric Cooker
Zanussi ZCV66000WA Electric
Simple and streamlined double oven appliance from trusted brand
This Zanussi double oven offers flexible cooking options and we love the hardy ceramic top. Ceramic hobs are all the rage right now and we can see why – easy to clean and control, they keep you kitchen looking smart for years (as long as you keep them clean). This model also has lovely and spacious ovens – good for /buy/zanussi-zcv66000wafamily cooks.
- Good value for money, quality appliance buy that will go the distance
- Fast to heat up
- No digital temperature controls
- No extra features, a basic model
Our Verdict: A great oven that offers all the core basics you would want from a kitchen appliance in this price range. You can’t go too far wrong with a Zanussi oven!
Zanussi ZCV66000WA Rating: 9.4/10
Specifications:
- Simple design fits in anywhere, will suit most kitchen styles (especially modern and contemporary)
- 74 L + 37 L oven capacities (generous capacity for families)
- Standard double oven dimensions: 90 x 60 x 60 cm (H x W x D) (easy to fit)
- Both ovens A rated for efficiency
- Ceramic glass hob with four burner zones in two sizes
- Enamel lining
Zanussi ZCV66000WA Electric product manual
Download the Zanussi ZCV66000WA Electric product manual here.
Best Dual Fuel
Indesit I6G52X 60cm Single Oven with Gas Hob
Dual fuel model that offers you the best of both worlds
This single oven gives you the speed and accuracy of a gas hob, combined with the ease and control of an electric fan oven. A great appliance buy from a brand loved by Britons, this single oven option is great for smaller families and couples who don’t need the double oven for that Sunday roast! Shame about the B energy efficiency rating.
- Easy to clean & looks smart – great budget dual fuel option
- Large storage drawer
- B rated for efficiency
- Small oven capacity
Our Verdict: Less energy-efficient than other models we’ve featured, this is a great dual fuel from Indesit for those who don’t need a lot of cooking space on a daily basis.
Indesit I6G52X Rating: 9/10
Specifications:
- Gas hob with four burners and enamel pan supports
- Flame supervision device for peace of mind
- Dimensions: 90 x 60 x 60 cm (H x W x D)
- 59 L electric oven (includes variable electric grill function)
- Double glazed oven windows
- Enamel interior for easy cleaning
- Automatic ignition
- Minute minder
Download the Indesit I6G52X product manual
Hotpoint Ultima EG900XS Dual Fuel
If you are looking for a durable and sturdy stainless steel stove, then this is the oven for you. With a strong, easy-to-use design the Hotpoint Ultima EG900XS Dual Fuel is a great addition to any home. It offers a spacious 78 litre main oven cavity with a large double glazed window to keep tabs on your food whilst it cooks. This stove comes with an integrated grill which is great for cooking a range of different meals. It boasts five cast iron gas burner hobs on the top with a wok burner in the centre.
The Hotpoint Ultima EG900XS Dual Fuel oven and grill is fan and electric ensuring even cooking for every meal. When baking or cooking, the fan means you don’t need to switch the trays around and food is cooked to perfection every time.
This oven comes equipped with a programmable timer and flame failure safety device for a safe cooking experience. There are a number of stainless steel and easy-to-use dials across the front panel of the oven along with a small digital display, keeping you in full control of your cooking. Though this oven is energy class B, it is a sturdy and durable stove fit for any busy kitchen.
- 5 cast iron gas burner hobs
- Easy clean interior
- Double glazed
- Interior light
- Dial control
- Spacious oven
- B energy class
- Grill pan slots underneath one of the shelves which is a bit fiddly when you want to remove it
Our Verdict: This stainless steel stove is a durable and reliable appliance and suits well into any bustling kitchen.
Hotpoint Ultima EG900XS Rating: 9.3/10
Specifications:
- Dual fuel single cooker
- Fan assisted
- B energy class
- Dimensions: 850 x 900 x 600 (H x W x D)
- Weight: 76.0kg
Hotpoint Ultima EG900XS user manual
Kitchen Cooker Buying Guide
Your stove is the heart of your home. Whether you want an expensive Aga, or are happy with a budget electric option, choosing your oven and hobs is going to be one of your most important home appliance buys.
Cookers generally comprise of an oven (or two), with hobs on top for fast cooking. They can be powered by gas or electric, but they can also be dual fuel (a combination of gas hobs with an electric, fan or multifunction oven). Cookers come with a range of hob technologies, from high-tech induction to traditional gas.
When you are buying an appliance, make sure you invest in a quality appliance that won’t guzzle energy. It’s a good idea to read reviews and see what other people really thought, as there may be hidden usability issues caused by an awkward design (hot oven doors, awkward hob controls etc). Security features like automatic pan recognition and child locks are also well worth investing in.
These days you can also get stylish built-in ovens that sit within kitchen units, fuelling the need for people to buy separate hobs. Dividing the traditional appliance in two gives people a more flexible kitchen design, but all-in-one options are still probably more cost-effective and remain popular.
What is the difference between a cooker and an oven?
An oven refers to a part of the appliance – a cooker is made up of of both an oven and the hobs on top. It is a larger unit than an oven – the term oven refers to the cooking cavity only.
Which are the best: different types of cookers
There are loads of different designs, models and makes. Shop around and go for one that suits your kitchen and cooking style.
Gas
Gas appliances are loved by some, hated by others. Gas ovens can sometimes heat up unevenly, but gas hobs hold a certain allure. Gas is seen as a more authentic way of cooking because you can actually see the naked flame, and it’s also still the cheapest fuel.
Range
Freestanding ranges are the ultimate kitchen accessory. You can get freestanding models in a variety of shapes and sizes, and quality brands like Rangemaster and Smeg dominate. Range cookers are often dual fuel and combine gas hobs with electric ovens, but there are loads of other options too. Big ranges can have up to five oven cavities and are well suited for large kitchens.
Electric
Electric models tend to be some of the cheapest appliances around and they offer a simple and streamlined cooking experience. Easy to use and safe to run, electric models compromise of a range of different oven and hob technologies and designs.
Ceramic/induction
Some, whether their ovens are gas, electric, or dual fuel; have ceramic or induction hobs. Ceramic hobs are popular because they are easy to clean and control and they look nice. By heating up the ceramic glass surface efficiently, ceramic hobs tend not to waste energy. Taking ceramic hob technology to the next level are induction hobs that only heat up the pan’s surface thanks to their magnetic technology. Pricier than other hobs, induction hobs are taking the kitchen appliance world by storm thanks to their precision.
Multifunction cooker
Most appliances these days have an element of multifunction. A multifunction oven is an oven that combines both fan and conventional cooking as and when they’re needed; and it also usually includes an electric grill function. This is increasingly the norm with all ovens and cookers on the market.
Freestanding or built-in?
Appliances can be fitted into kitchen worktops, or be freestanding. Some people prefer to buy a built-in oven and hobs separately to have a more dynamic kitchen design that takes advantage of kitchen islands and different unit heights.
What makes for a good cooker: top features
When you are buying a new model, look for the following features:
- Not only looks good, but has a quality finish and design to it that will stand the test of time
- Favour energy efficient models (A rated) with good insulation (triple glazing is good)
- Security features like child locks and flame shut off devices are often needed in a modern hectic kitchen– make sure your model has them
- Get a model that is easy to clean: catalytic liners or a pyrolytic cleaning function are top features to look out for
- Easy to use – read reviews to see how other people have got on with this model and design
- Timers and programmable features can be really helpful in the long run
- Keep your eyes peeled for an oven that offers you premium functions like rotisseries and slow cooking and that holds an even temperature
- A good usable volume (measured in litres) – remember that double ovens are great but may also chop your cooking space into two too-small ovens
How to buy a good cooker
- Make sure that you always measure your cavity correctly. Most single cookers are 60 cm high, whereas double model tend to come up to 90 cm.
- Decide on which fuel you want and stick to your guns – don’t get sucked in by sales copy if the appliance isn’t right for you. Think about how you and your family are going to use the kitchen.
- A good design is great, but make sure this is a model you will be proud to look at for a long time – it is a long-term investment, not an impulse-buy.
- Look out for top brands like Hotpoint, Indesit, Beko, Rangemaster, Smeg, Zanussi and Bosch. Make sure you get a good guarantee period and a good installation deal.
Extras for your cooker
Some extras you might need to complete your kitchen design:
- Hoods and fans
- Cleaning materials
- Cast lids to protect your hobs
- Ferrous pots and pans for induction hobs
- Roasting dishes and grill pans
Installation, care & maintenance
Make sure that you have your new appliance installed by a proper qualified engineer. Undertake regular in-depth cleaning of oven cavities with suitable oven cleaning materials to combat against ingrained dirt. You have to carry out routine hob cleaning & maintenance to keep your hobs looking good.
Did you like any of these cookers? What about going for a built-in oven and hob solutions for your kitchen? Read our built-in oven reviews and hob reviews to find out more.