If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Pakistan, especially in cities like Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad—you’ve probably heard people talking about cooking hobs, built-in hobs, and modern kitchen hobs. But what exactly is a hob? Is it better than a traditional stove? And which type is best for Pakistani cooking habits like frying, simmering gravies, and making rotis?
This complete guide answers every question. By the end, you’ll understand the meaning of a hob, how it works, the different types available in Pakistan, and how to choose the perfect hob for your kitchen. And because many Pakistani homes struggle with heat, heavy pots, gas pressure issues, and long-term durability, we’ll also explain why Xpert Appliances cooking hobs are designed especially for our local needs.
Let’s begin.
What Is a Cooking Hob?
A cooking hob is a flat cooking surface installed directly into your kitchen countertop. Unlike a traditional stove that stands as a separate appliance, a hob becomes part of the kitchen—giving a modern, sleek, and premium finish.
In simple words:
A hob = A built-in cooking surface used for preparing food.
In Pakistan, people often call it:
- “built-in hob”
- “kitchen hob”
- “glass hob”
- “gas hob”
- “electric hob”
But the basic meaning stays the same:
A hob is a modern alternative to a traditional cooking range, designed for smoother cooking, better heat control, easier cleaning, and a stylish kitchen look.
Purpose of a Cooking Hob
The main purpose is to provide:
- A safer,
- Steadier, and
- More efficient
cooking experience compared to traditional stoves.
It gives you a clean, clutter-free countertop and fits beautifully into the design of modern Pakistani kitchens.
How Does a Cooking Hob Work?
The working mechanism of a hob depends on whether it is a gas hob, electric hob, or ceramic hob. All three types are used in Pakistan, but gas hobs are the most popular due to SSGC and SNGPL connections in most homes.
Gas Hob Working Mechanism
A gas hob uses natural gas to produce a direct flame. Here’s how it works:
- You turn the knob.
- Gas flows through the burner.
- The ignition system creates a spark.
- The flame lights up and you control its size.
Pakistani households prefer gas hobs because:
- Flames are visible
- Cooking is faster
- “Tarka,” frying, and chapati making feel easier
- Works well with steel and heavy cookware
Xpert Appliances’ gas hobs are designed to handle:
- Low gas pressure
- Heavy pots
- High heat for desi cooking
Electric & Ceramic Hob Working Mechanism
Some modern kitchens prefer electric or ceramic hobs for their stylish look and smooth surfaces.
They work differently:
- Electricity heats hidden coils
- Heat reaches the cookware
- Temperature stays stable and controlled
Ceramic hobs have a flat glass surface that becomes warm but remains safer than old electric plates.
They’re great for:
- Apartment kitchens
- Small families
- Homes with frequent gas load shedding
- People who prefer cleaner aesthetics
Types of Cooking Hobs Used in Pakistan
Pakistani homeowners usually choose a hob based on design, durability, and ease of cleaning. Here are the most common types seen in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and other cities:
-
Glass Hobs
Glass hobs are a popular choice in Pakistani kitchens due to their sleek, modern design and ease of cleaning. The tempered glass used in these hobs is durable and resistant to high heat.
Features:
- Tempered glass top
- Stylish premium look
- Easy to wipe clean
- Available in black, mirror, and tinted variants
Perfect for contemporary modular kitchens.
-
Steel Hobs
Steel hobs are known for their robustness and durability. These stainless steel hobs can withstand high temperatures and are easy to clean. They are a preferred choice for Pakistani kitchens that demand a long-lasting appliance. Steel hobs are perfect for heavy-duty cooking, as they come with heavy-duty burners capable of handling large pots and pans
Why Pakistanis love them:
- Extremely durable
- Scratch-resistant
- Best for heavy cooking
- Long lifespan
Ideal for families who cook 2–3 times daily.
-
Ceramic Hobs
Ceramic hobs are smooth, sleek, and come with a glass surface that is resistant to scratches. These hobs provide even heat distribution, making them an excellent choice for homeowners who want a modern and clean kitchen. While the ceramic hob might not offer instant heat like gas hobs, it still provides a consistent cooking experience.
- Uniform heating
- A modern look
- Easy cleaning
Great for apartments and minimal-style kitchens.
-
SS Matte Black Hobs
For homeowners looking for a bold, sophisticated kitchen style, SS Matte Black hobs are an excellent choice. The SS matte black hob combines the durability of stainless steel with a chic, matte finish that enhances the kitchen’s design.
These hobs combine:
- Stainless steel strength
- Matte black premium finish
They match beautifully with dark kitchen designs.
Benefits of Using a Modern Cooking Hob
A hob isn’t just about looks—it actually improves your cooking experience. Pakistani households switching from traditional stoves usually notice better heat control, faster cooking, and less mess.
Safety Features
Modern hobs come with advanced safety technologies:
- Flame failure protection (gas shuts off if flame goes out)
- Heat-resistant glass or steel
- Stable pot support
- Better ventilation around burners
This makes hobs safer for homes with children and elderly family members.
Energy Efficiency
Gas hobs with high-quality burners consume less gas because:
- Flame is focused
- Heat spreads more evenly
- Burners are designed for efficient combustion
Electric hobs maintain precise heat, reducing waste.
Many customers ask:
“Do built-in hobs use more gas?”
Actually, no, good burners use less gas than old stoves.
How to Choose the Right Hob for Your Kitchen
Selecting the right hob depends on various factors, such as the size of your kitchen, your cooking habits, and the overall design of your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects to consider:
Size & Burners
One of the first things to consider is the size of the hob. The number of burners and the size of the surface will depend on how much cooking you do and the size of your family. For a small kitchen or a smaller family, a two-burner hob might be ideal. Larger families or those who entertain guests may prefer a four-burner hob or even six-burner hobs for more cooking capacity.
- 2 burners → small apartments, couples
- 4 burners → standard family cooking
- 6 burners → joint families, heavy cooking
Kitchen Design Compatibility
Your hob should complement your kitchen design. For a modern, sleek look, a built-in hob is the best choice. These hobs are flush with your countertop, creating a clean, seamless appearance. If your kitchen is undergoing a renovation, consider a built-in hob to elevate the overall look and feel.
The hob should match:
- Countertop color
- Cabinet design
- Kitchen theme
- Available space
Built-in Installation Requirements
Before installation:
- Ensure proper gas line height
- Keep ventilation space under the counter
- Use heat-resistant granite or marble
- Install by trained technicians
Xpert Appliances offers professional installation support across major cities.
Why Xpert Appliances Hobs Are Better for Pakistani Homes
Now that you understand what a hob is and how it works, let’s talk about why Xpert Appliances stands out from other brands in Pakistan—especially for families who cook multiple meals daily.
Unlike imported models not designed for desi cooking, Xpert hobs are built specifically for:
- High heat frying
- Steam-heavy cooking
- Heavy pots
- Karachi heat and humidity
- Low gas pressure
Here’s what makes them special:
Heavy-Duty Burners
Xpert Appliances hobs come with heavy-duty burners designed for efficient cooking. Whether you’re cooking a large pot of food or making a quick meal, these hobs ensure consistent heat and reliable performance.
Perfect for everyday Pakistani dishes—from biryani to qeema.
Durable Glass & Steel Options
Xpert Appliances offers both glass hobs and steel hobs, allowing you to choose a model that best fits your kitchen design. The durable materials used ensure that the hobs withstand daily cooking needs without wear and tear.
Whether you prefer:
- Tempered glass
- Stainless steel
- Matte black finish
Xpert Appliances offers long-lasting models that don’t crack, bend, or discolor easily.
Easy Cleaning & Long Lifespan
The Xpert Appliances hobs are easy to clean, making them the perfect choice for homeowners who value hygiene and convenience. The smooth surfaces of glass hobs and steel hobs are resistant to stains and grime, making post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
1-Year Warranty & After-Sales Support
With every Xpert hob, you get peace of mind knowing that the product is backed by a 1-year warranty and comprehensive after-sales support. This ensures that you can always count on the brand for any help or maintenance needs.
Conclusion
A cooking hob is more than a modern appliance—it’s a complete upgrade for Pakistani kitchens. It gives you better heat control, a cleaner cooking space, enhanced safety, and a premium look. Whether you choose a gas hob, electric hob, glass, steel, ceramic, or matte black finish, a hob can transform your kitchen experience.
And when you’re ready to choose one, Xpert Appliances provides the ideal options designed specifically for Pakistan’s cooking style, gas systems, and durability needs. You don’t just get a hob—you get a reliable cooking partner for years.
FAQ
- What is the purpose of a cooking hob?
A cooking hob is a modern cooking appliance designed to provide a flat, efficient surface for cooking. It allows you to control the heat levels precisely, whether using gas or electric burners, ensuring even cooking results and convenience.
- Is a hob better than a stove?
Both hobs and stoves have their advantages. However, hobs are more space-efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and provide precise heat control. They are also more commonly integrated into the countertop, making them ideal for modern kitchens, especially in urban settings like Karachi.
- What are the different types of cooking hobs?
There are several types of cooking hobs, including gas hobs, electric hobs, ceramic hobs, and steel hobs. The best choice depends on your cooking style and kitchen layout.
- How does a built-in hob work?
A built-in hob is installed into the countertop, creating a seamless and modern look. It works similarly to traditional hobs but offers a more integrated design. Depending on the model, it can be either gas or electric.
- What is the difference between gas and electric hobs?
Gas hobs provide instant heat and precise flame control, while electric hobs use radiant heat from electrical elements. Gas hobs are generally preferred for their instant response, while electric hobs are known for consistent heat distribution and energy efficiency.
