Cooker and oven buying guide

Everything you need to choose an oven or cooker to suit your everyday life.

A cooker or oven is at the heart of every kitchen, so it’s important to find one that suits your lifestyle. Choosing a new one doesn’t have to be difficult. We’ve made it simple by breaking down the key things to consider for your next purchase.

Whether you’re choosing between a single oven or a range, undecided between electric and gas, or want to discover the latest features, we can help you find the right appliance for your needs and budget.

A cooker or oven is at the heart of every kitchen, so it’s important to find one that suits your lifestyle. Choosing a new one doesn’t have to be difficult. We’ve made it simple by breaking down the key things to consider for your next purchase.

Whether you’re choosing between a single oven or a range, undecided between electric and gas, or want to discover the latest features, we can help you find the right appliance for your needs and budget.

Cooker types Electric or gas? Oven types Freestanding or integrated? Measurements Grills Smart Ovens Hobs Features FAQs

What is the difference between a cooker and an oven?

You might have heard the terms cooker and oven used interchangeably, but there is a key difference between the two. An oven refers to the enclosed compartment used for baking and roasting food. This can form part of a cooking appliance or a standalone unit, often built into a wall. A cooker, on the other hand, is a complete combination appliance that includes both an oven and a hob.

What is the difference between a cooker and an oven?

You might have heard the terms cooker and oven used interchangeably, but there is a key difference between the two. An oven refers to the enclosed compartment used for baking and roasting food. This can form part of a cooking appliance or a standalone unit, often built into a wall. A cooker, on the other hand, is a complete combination appliance that includes both an oven and a hob.

Types of cookers

Cooker

Your all-in-one cooking unit. A cooker combines either a single or double oven compartment with a hob for boiling and frying food. With more capabilities for cooking, these appliances are powered by electricity, gas, or dual fuel. Cookers are typically freestanding appliances.

Shop all cookers

Single oven

With only one large cooking compartment, single ovens are great for cooking one or two dishes at a time at the same temperature. Typically built into a kitchen wall or placed under a counter, a single oven can perform all the basic functions of baking, roasting and grilling.

Shop all single ovens

Double oven

Need more space for cooking multiple dishes at a time? You will want to invest in a double oven. A double oven gives you twice the capabilities, with one larger oven for general cooking and a smaller secondary oven, allowing you to cook two dishes simultaneously. Ideal for family homes or households wanting to prepare multiple dishes.

Shop double ovens

Range cooker

For avid home cooks or big families, a range cooker is the go-to choice. These are much larger multi-oven appliances containing both ovens and stovetops. They also have multiple burners, often five or more, making it easier to cook many dishes at the same time.

Shop all range cookers

Cooker

Your all-in-one cooking unit. A cooker combines either a single or double oven compartment with a hob for boiling and frying food. With more capabilities for cooking, these appliances are powered by electricity, gas, or dual fuel. Cookers are typically freestanding appliances.

Shop all cookers

Single oven

With only one large cooking compartment, single ovens are great for cooking one or two dishes at a time at the same temperature. Typically built into a kitchen wall or placed under a counter, a single oven can perform all the basic functions of baking, roasting and grilling.

Shop all single ovens

Double oven

Need more space for cooking multiple dishes at a time? You will want to invest in a double oven. A double oven gives you twice the capabilities, with one larger oven for general cooking and a smaller secondary oven, allowing you to cook two dishes simultaneously. Ideal for family homes or households wanting to prepare multiple dishes.

Shop double ovens

Range cooker

For avid home cooks or big families, a range cooker is the go-to choice. These are much larger multi-oven appliances containing both ovens and stovetops. They also have multiple burners, often five or more, making it easier to cook many dishes at the same time.

Shop all range cookers

Cooker fuel types

When it comes to fuelling your cooker, there are three main ways to go about it: electric, gas and dual fuel.

Cooker fuel types

When it comes to fuelling your cooker, there are three main ways to go about it: electric, gas and dual fuel.

Electric cookers

Electric cookers use electricity to heat the oven cavity and the hot plates or rings on the hob, removing any worries about naked flames. While heat is spread evenly, this type of cooker is slower to heat up and you don’t have instant control over the cooking temperature, as the hot plates or rings gradually increase or decrease in heat.

Shop electric cookers

Electric cookers

Electric cookers use electricity to heat the oven cavity and the hot plates or rings on the stove, removing any worries about naked flames. While heat is spread evenly, this type of cooker is slower to heat up and you don’t have instant control over the cooking temperature, as the hot plates or rings gradually increase or decrease in heat.

Shop electric cookers

+ Pros

No naked flames, making them safer to use
Heat is distributed evenly throughout the oven cavity
Eliminates concerns about gas leaks or ventilation issues

− Cons

Slower to heat up compared to gas alternatives
Lack of instant temperature control when adjusting heat
Hot plates/rings gradually change temperature rather than responding immediately

Gas cookers

Gas cookers run on natural gas and use a naked flame on the hob and in the oven to heat your food. Gas hobs are quick to reach higher temperatures and, as you can instantly increase or decrease the heat by turning the knob, they give you more control when cooking. On the downside, there is the potential for gas leaks if used unsafely or incorrectly.

Shop gas cookers

Gas cookers

Gas cookers run on natural gas and use a naked flame on the hob and in the oven to heat your food. Gas hobs are quick to reach higher temperatures and, as you can instantly increase or decrease the heat by turning the knob, they give you more control when cooking. On the downside, there is the potential for gas leaks if used unsafely or incorrectly.

Shop gas cookers

+ Pros

Quick to reach higher temperatures for faster cooking
Instant temperature control by simply turning the knob
Immediate heat adjustment allows for precise cooking control

− Cons

Uses naked flames which pose safety risks
Potential for dangerous gas leaks if used incorrectly
Needs an active gas supply and proper installation by a certified gas engineer

Dual fuel cookers

As the name suggests, dual fuel cookers combine both gas and electricity, giving you an electric-powered oven alongside a gas-powered hob. This combination offers precise control on the hob with consistent, even heat inside the oven.

Shop dual fuel cookers

Dual fuel cookers

As the name suggests, dual fuel cookers combine both gas and electricity, giving you an electric-powered oven alongside a gas-powered hob. This combination offers precise control on the hob with consistent, even heat inside the oven.

Shop dual fuel cookers

+ Pros

Combines the best of both cooking methods (electric oven + gas hob)
Offers precise heat control on the hob with consistent oven performance
Provides flexibility and versatility in cooking options

− Cons

More complex installation requiring both gas and electrical connections
Higher initial cost compared to single-fuel alternatives
May require LPG bottles for rural locations, adding ongoing maintenance

What types of oven can I buy?

When it comes to fuelling your cooker, there are three main ways to go about it: electric, gas and dual fuel.

What types of oven can I buy?

When it comes to fuelling your cooker, there are three main ways to go about it: electric, gas and dual fuel.

Fan ovens

Even heat, multiple dishes

Fan ovens use a built-in fan to circulate hot air throughout the oven, creating consistent temperatures on every shelf.

You can cook multiple dishes at once without flavours transferring, and they typically cook faster than conventional ovens. Perfect for batch cooking and when you want reliable, even results every time.

Shop all fan ovens

Conventional heating ovens

Natural heat zones, precise control

These traditional ovens use heating elements at the top and bottom to create natural heat zones, with the hottest area at the top.

They give you more control over how your food cooks and are preferred by many bakers for bread and delicate pastries. Ideal when you want direct top heat for dishes like gratins or crispy-bottomed pizzas.

Shop all conventional heating ovens

Multifunction ovens

Flexible cooking, reliable results

Multifunction ovens give you the flexibility to choose the right setting for whatever you’re cooking. They combine fan oven technology with conventional heating, so you can switch between functions to suit each dish.

Fan-assisted cooking uses gentle air circulation alongside traditional heat, helping food cook more evenly with great browning. It’s a versatile option that works just as well for everyday baking as it does for a perfectly cooked roast.

Shop all multifunction ovens

Fit type

Cooking appliances will either be freestanding units or built into your kitchen. If you’re unsure what type you need, consider what you currently have in your kitchen. If you previously had an integrated or built-in oven and hob, it would require a lot of work to alter your kitchen to fit in a freestanding cooker.

Fit type

Cooking appliances will either be freestanding units or built into your kitchen. If you’re unsure what type you need, consider what you currently have in your kitchen. If you previously had an integrated or built-in oven and hob, it would require a lot of work to alter your kitchen to fit in a freestanding cooker.

Freestanding

Typically, all-in-one cookers will be freestanding appliances. It contains an oven, a grill and a hob all in one unit. You’re unlikely to find a dedicated oven or hob for permanent use that is freestanding.

Shop freestanding cookers

Freestanding

Typically, all-in-one cookers will be freestanding appliances. It contains an oven, a grill and a hob all in one unit. You’re unlikely to find a dedicated oven or hob for permanent use that is freestanding.

Shop freestanding cookers

Integrated

Dedicated ovens and hobs that aren’t part of the same unit are usually built-in appliances. This means they fit neatly into your kitchen cupboards and worktops, creating a clean, integrated look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen design.

Shop integrated hobs

Shop integrated ovens

Integrated

Dedicated ovens and hobs that aren’t part of the same unit are usually built-in appliances. This means they fit neatly into your kitchen cupboards and worktops, creating a clean, integrated look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen design.

Shop integrated hobs

Shop integrated ovens

Measurement and dimensions

It’s best practice to measure your space first to give you an idea of the cooker size you’ll be able to buy.

Avoid installation woes by following this short step-by-step guide on how to measure your kitchen layout for a new cooker to ensure proper appliance fit.

Measure the depth of the space where you’ll be installing the cooker. This will help you work out how far back it will sit. On average, cookers have a depth of 60cm, so you’ll want at least 63cm of space, plus a bit extra to fit in any piping or wiring.
Check the height of the space by measuring from the floor to the top of the cooker. A typical cooker will be up to 92cm in height, but you’ll need to double check the specifications of your model.
Next, measure to ensure there is a sufficient gap between the cooker and the cooker hood. This should be at least 75cm.
Lastly, you’ll want to measure the width of the space available for your cooker. Depending on your kitchen, there are different widths of cookers on offer, so try to match this to your home.

It’s best practice to measure your space first to give you an idea of the cooker size you’ll be able to buy. Take away installation woes by following this short step-by-step guide on how to measure your kitchen layout for a new cooker to ensure proper appliance fit.

Measure the depth of the space where you’ll be installing the cooker. This will help you work out how far back it will sit. On average, cookers have a depth of 60cm, so you’ll want at least 63cm of space, plus a bit extra to fit in any piping or wiring.
Check the height of the space by measuring from the floor to the top of the cooker. A typical cooker will be up to 92cm in height, but you’ll need to double check the specifications of your model.
Next, measure to ensure there is a sufficient gap between the cooker and the cooker hood. This should be at least 75cm.
Lastly, you’ll want to measure the width of the space available for your cooker. Depending on your kitchen, there are different widths of cookers on offer, so try to match this to your home.

Power sockets

Check that you have the right electrical connections for your chosen cooker type. Electric cookers typically require a dedicated 32-amp circuit with a control switch. If you don't have the correct power supply you'll need a qualified electrician to install one.

Gas pipes

For gas cookers, ensure you have an existing gas supply line in the correct location. All gas installations must be carried out by a Gas Safe engineer, never attempt it yourself. You may also need to check your meter can handle the load of a larger cooker.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation removes odours, steam, and potentially harmful gases. Gas cookers especially require good air circulation. Check whether your current extractor is powerful enough for your new cooker.

Cooker hoods

If your kitchen was built after April 2006, to comply with Building Regulations, you must have a cooker hood installed.

A cooker hood contains a mechanical fan or suction device that is usually suspended above the oven in the kitchen. It removes airborne grease, odours, smoke, heat, and steam from the air by extracting and dispersing it via filtration. It’ll help keep your kitchen cleaner and fresher, too, so unless your oven is an ornament, a cooker hood is vital.

Most kitchens will already have a cooker hood in place, so it makes sense to place your new cooker underneath it. However, if you’re thinking of moving your cooker, make sure you also consider relocating the cooker hood.

Shop cooker hoods

Cooker hoods

If your kitchen was built after April 2006, to comply with Building Regulations, you must have a cooker hood installed.

A cooker hood contains a mechanical fan or suction device that is usually suspended above the oven in the kitchen. It removes airborne grease, odours, smoke, heat, and steam from the air by extracting and dispersing it via filtration. It’ll help keep your kitchen cleaner and fresher, too, so unless your oven is an ornament, a cooker hood is vital.

Most kitchens will already have a cooker hood in place, so it makes sense to place your new cooker underneath it. However, if you’re thinking of moving your cooker, make sure you also consider relocating the cooker hood.

Shop cooker hoods

What size oven do I need?

With a range of capacities on the market, there are ovens to suit every size of household.

Single ovens are generally 60L, reaching up to 80L for some family-sized ovens.

Secondary ovens (sometimes called a secondary cavity) is around 35L.

For a smaller household, a single oven may be all you need, while families of four or more may want to look at a cooker or oven with two cavities to provide adequate capacity.

What size oven do I need?

With a range of capacities on the market, there are ovens to suit every size of household.

Single ovens are generally 60L, reaching up to 80L for some family-sized ovens.

Secondary ovens (sometimes called a secondary cavity) is around 35L.

For a smaller household, a single oven may be all you need, while families of four or more may want to look at a cooker or oven with two cavities to provide adequate capacity.

Energy efficiency

Your cooker or oven is likely to be used most days, so it’s worth checking the energy label before you buy to understand how efficient it is to run. Energy labels help you compare products at a glance and make a more informed choice for your home.

For ovens and cookers, energy efficiency is rated on an A+++ to D scale, with A+++ being the most efficient. These ratings are based on factors such as energy consumption during cooking and oven capacity, rather than features like reliability. Each label also includes a QR code, which you can scan to access more detailed product information.

Look out for the energy saving badges when browsing our cookers and ovens to see which have the best energy efficiency.

Shop our most energy efficient ovens and cookers

Energy efficiency

Your cooker or oven is likely to be used most days, so it’s worth checking the energy label before you buy to understand how efficient it is to run. Energy labels help you compare products at a glance and make a more informed choice for your home.

For ovens and cookers, energy efficiency is rated on an A+++ to D scale, with A+++ being the most efficient. These ratings are based on factors such as energy consumption during cooking and oven capacity, rather than features like reliability. Each label also includes a QR code, which you can scan to access more detailed product information.

Look out for the energy saving badges when browsing our cookers and ovens to see which have the best energy efficiency.

Shop our most energy efficient ovens and cookers

Grills

Grills are a handy feature on most cookers and ovens, giving you fast, direct heat for everything from grilling meat to toasting bread.

A grill works by heating up metal rods or elements, which then radiate intense heat down onto your food, cooking it quickly and giving it a crisp, golden finish. Some models have a separate grill compartment, so you can grill and bake at the same time, while others combine the grill inside the oven to save space.

Separate grills are great if you grill often and want more room, while combined grills suit smaller kitchens and compact cookers.

Whichever you choose, you’ll find that most of our cookers and ovens come with a grill as standard.

Grills

Grills are a handy feature on most cookers and ovens, giving you fast, direct heat for everything from grilling meat to toasting bread.

A grill works by heating up metal rods or elements, which then radiate intense heat down onto your food, cooking it quickly and giving it a crisp, golden finish. Some models have a separate grill compartment, so you can grill and bake at the same time, while others combine the grill inside the oven to save space.

Separate grills are great if you grill often and want more room, while combined grills suit smaller kitchens and compact cookers.

Whichever you choose, you’ll find that most of our cookers and ovens come with a grill as standard.

Smart Ovens

Smart ovens take the stress out of cooking by connecting to your home Wi-Fi and giving you control straight from your phone. You can preheat the oven, adjust the temperature or check how your meal is coming along without leaving the sofa.

Many models also let you send recipes directly from your phone to the oven, automatically setting the right temperature and cooking function for you.

When your busy chopping vegetables, you can use voice control with your Alexa or other smart home devices to turn the oven on, change settings or check progress using simple voice commands.

It’s all designed to save time, cut down on guesswork and make every day cooking that little bit easier.

Shop smart ovens

Miele H2465BPCLST ACTIVE Smart Built-In Oven.

Smart ovens

Smart ovens take the stress out of cooking by connecting to your home Wi-Fi and giving you control straight from your phone. You can preheat the oven, adjust the temperature or check how your meal is coming along without leaving the sofa.

Many models also let you send recipes directly from your phone to the oven, automatically setting the right temperature and cooking function for you.

When your busy chopping vegetables, you can use voice control with your Alexa or other smart home devices to turn the oven on, change settings or check progress using simple voice commands.

It’s all designed to save time, cut down on guesswork and make every day cooking that little bit easier.

Shop smart ovens

Hobs

Hobs are located on the top of the cooker, where all of your pan cooking is done. Choose the best style of hob for your kitchen below:

Hobs

Hobs are located on the top of the cooker, where all of your pan cooking is done. Choose the best style of hob for your kitchen below:

Ceramic hobs

Powered by electricity, ceramic hobs have a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. Simple to operate, they heat up quickly. However, the heat distribution around the bottom of pans isn’t as precise as when cooking on gas.

Shop ceramic hobs
Shop cookers with ceramic hobs

Solid plate hobs

Solid plates are traditional flat hobs used to heat pots and pans. This design is great as an entry-level or cost-effective option.

Shop solid plate hobs
Shop cookers with solid plate hobs

Induction hobs

Induction hobs use a magnetic field between the induction element and the pan to only heat its contents and not the surface underneath or around it. Safer and quicker to heat up than other types, induction hobs are also cheaper to operate, as energy is only used to heat the pan and not lost elsewhere.

Shop induction hobs
Shop cookers with induction hobs

Gas hobs

With easy control giving you instant heat and distributing it well across the base of a pan, gas hobs are still the main choice for professional kitchens and chefs.

Shop gas hobs
Shop cookers with gas hobs

Some important advice...

Induction hobs can interfere with pacemakers so please consider this before you purchase.

Key features

If you've started to look for a new cooker, you've probably noticed a host of features that different models offer. From child safety features, to steam cooking, we're here to help.

The key is thinking about what really matters to you, so you can focus on the features that will make a real difference in your cooking routine. You can find a breakdown of some important things to consider below:

Key features

If you've started to look for a new cooker, you've probably noticed a host of features that different models offer. From child safety features, to steam cooking, we're here to help.

The key is thinking about what really matters to you, so you can focus on the features that will make a real difference in your cooking routine. You can find a breakdown of some important things to consider below:

Specialist cooking programmes

Take the guesswork out of meal preparation with an oven equipped with specialist settings. These intelligent programmes automatically adjust time and temperature for amazing results such as Hisense’s Pizza mode for perfect slices every time. Find this on their HDCEC620B cooker.

Steam cooking

Use hot steam to surround your food and lock in nutrients without added fats, preserving vibrant flavours and textures. Steam cooking ensures consistent, foolproof results every time. You can find the steam function on Bosch’s HSG7364B1B built-in oven.

Flexible space

Revolutionise the way you cook with flexible oven spaces. Samsung’s Dual Cook Flex lets you use the upper and lower zones separately or together. Cook a quick portion in the top section, set different temperatures for separate meals, or open the whole oven for a big family roast.

Defrost mode

Forgot to take something out of the freezer this morning? Defrost mode has you covered. Thaw your frozen ingredients without the hot spots or texture damage that microwaving can cause. No more soggy vegetables or unevenly thawed meat, just perfectly defrosted ingredients ready for cooking.

Auto cooking

Let your oven do the thinking as well as the cooking with auto cooking ovens. These simplify dinner time and make it easy to achieve perfect meals with the touch of a button. Bosch’s AutoPilot 10 and 30, offer pre-set automatic cooking programmes, making this easy.

Wok burners

A dedicated wok burner delivers intense, concentrated heat. It’s perfect for crispy vegetables, perfectly seared meat, and restaurant-quality noodle dishes. With a powerful flame and specially designed ring support, it can reach high temperatures, allowing you to sear ingredients quickly.

Easy clean

No one wants to spend their evening cleaning the oven. That’s why many models include built-in options like Pyrolytic cleaning, which burns food to ash, Hydrolytic cleaning, which uses steam to loosen residue, and Catalytic liners, which absorb grease as you cook.

Enamel liner

These smooth, durable liners cover the oven walls and make cleaning easy. Just wipe them with a damp cloth after cooking and you’re done. There’s no need for harsh chemicals or heavy scrubbing, as the non-stick enamel helps resist grease and food build-up.

Safety features

Keep little ones safe in the kitchen with clever built-in safety features. The Bosch Series 4 NBS533BB0B includes a child lock to stop curious hands opening the door, the AEG 6000 range has doors which stay cool to the touch, and Fisher & Paykel induction hobs show clear hot surface warnings.

Specialist cooking programmes

Take the guesswork out of meal preparation with an oven equipped with specialist settings. These intelligent programmes automatically adjust time and temperature for amazing results such as with Hisense’s Pizza mode for perfect slices every time. Find this on their HDCEC620B cooker.

Steam cooking

Use hot steam to surround your food and lock in nutrients without added fats, preserving vibrant flavours and textures. Steam cooking ensures consistent, foolproof results every time. You can find the steam function on Bosch’s HSG7364B1B built-in oven.

Flexible space

Revolutionise the way you cook with flexible oven spaces. Samsung’s Dual Cook Flex lets you use the upper and lower zones separately or together. Cook a quick portion in the top section, set different temperatures for separate meals, or open the whole oven for a big family roast.

Defrost mode

Forgot to take something out of the freezer this morning? Defrost mode has you covered. Thaw your frozen ingredients without the hot spots or texture damage that microwaving can cause. No more soggy vegetables or unevenly thawed meat, just perfectly defrosted ingredients ready for cooking.

Auto cooking

Let your oven do the thinking as well as the cooking with auto cooking ovens. These simplify dinner time and make it easy to achieve perfect meals with the touch of a button. Bosch’s AutoPilot 30 which offers 30 pre-set automatic cooking programmes, makes this easy.

Wok burners

A dedicated wok burner delivers the intense, concentrated heat, perfect for crispy vegetables, perfectly seared meats, and restaurant-quality noodle dishes. With a powerful flame and specially designed ring support, it will reach high temperatures allowing you to sear ingredients quickly.

Easy clean

No one wants to spend their evening cleaning the oven. That’s why many models include built-in options like Pyrolytic cleaning, which burns food to ash, Hydrolytic cleaning, which uses steam to loosen residue, and Catalytic liners, which absorb grease as you cook.

Enamel liner

These smooth, durable liners cover the oven walls and make cleaning easy. Just wipe them with a damp cloth after cooking and you’re done. There’s no need for harsh chemicals or heavy scrubbing, as the non-stick enamel helps resist grease and food build-up.

Safety features

Keep little ones safe in the kitchen with clever built-in safety features. The Bosch Series 4 NBS533BB0B includes a child lock to stop curious hands opening the door, the AEG 6000 range has doors which stay cool to the touch, and Fisher & Paykel induction hobs show clear hot surface warnings.

Delivery

Your new cooker is important to your home, and we don’t want you to have to wait for it to arrive. Get delivery when you need it, including next day or Saturday delivery, when you buy with Hughes.

Delivery

Your new cooker is important to your home, and we don’t want you to have to wait for it to arrive. Get delivery when you need it, including next day or Saturday delivery, when you buy with Hughes.

FAQs

What’s the difference between gas and electric ovens?

+

Gas ovens use a flame at the base of the cavity to generate heat, offering quick temperature changes and typically lower running costs due to cheaper gas prices. Electric ovens use heating elements to produce heat and provide more precise temperature control with more even heat distribution, making them ideal for baking. Gas ovens usually heat up in around 10–15 minutes, while electric ovens can take up to 25 minutes. Although gas ovens are often cheaper to run, electric ovens are easier to install in most homes and deliver more consistent cooking results.

Should I choose a single or double oven?

+

Single ovens feature one main cavity with an integrated grill, typically offering 60–75 litres of cooking space. They’re the most affordable option and suit smaller households or straightforward cooking needs. Double ovens provide two separate cavities, allowing you to cook multiple dishes at different temperatures at the same time. The main oven usually offers 40–65 litres, with a smaller secondary oven or grill cavity of around 35–45 litres. Double ovens are ideal for larger families and frequent entertainers but require more space and a higher budget.

What size oven or cooker do I need?

+

Standard freestanding cookers are usually 60cm wide, 60cm deep, and 90cm tall, fitting neatly between kitchen units. Slimline models at 50–55cm wide suit smaller kitchens, while range cookers start at 90cm wide for greater capacity. Built-in single ovens generally require a 60cm-wide housing. In terms of capacity, single households typically need 40–50 litres, couples benefit from 50–65 litres, and families of four or more should consider 65+ litres or a double oven configuration. Always measure your available space carefully, including door clearance.

What is a dual fuel cooker and is it worth it?

+

Dual fuel cookers combine a gas hob with an electric oven, offering flexibility and performance. The gas hob provides instant heat and precise flame control, ideal for simmering and stir-frying, while the electric oven delivers even heat distribution for baking and roasting. They’re popular with keen home cooks who want professional-style control. Dual fuel cookers tend to cost more than single-fuel models and require both gas and electrical connections. Installation must be carried out by qualified Gas Safe and electrical professionals.

How much should I budget for an oven or cooker?

+

Budget freestanding cookers typically start at £300–£500 for basic single oven models. Mid-range options between £500–£900 offer improved build quality and additional features. Premium cookers and range cookers can exceed £1,500–£3,000. Built-in single ovens generally range from £250–£600, while high-end built-in models can cost £1,000 or more. Consider long-term value, features you’ll actually use, and installation costs when setting your budget.

What are self-cleaning ovens and do I need one?

+

Self-cleaning ovens reduce the need for manual cleaning using different technologies. Pyrolytic cleaning heats the oven to around 500°C, burning food residue into ash that can be wiped away easily. Catalytic liners absorb grease and break it down during normal cooking at high temperatures. Steam cleaning uses heat and water to loosen dirt for easier removal. Pyrolytic systems are the most effective but typically add £100–£300 to the price and use extra energy. If you cook often or dislike cleaning, self-cleaning features can be well worth it.

Do I need a fan oven or conventional oven?

+

Fan ovens circulate hot air around the cavity using a fan, resulting in even heat distribution, faster cooking times, and the ability to cook on multiple shelves at once. They often operate at lower temperatures than conventional ovens. Conventional ovens heat from the top and bottom without air circulation, creating natural heat zones that some cooks prefer for traditional recipes. Most modern electric ovens are fan-assisted, while gas ovens typically use conventional heating. Multifunction ovens often offer both options for maximum flexibility.

What cooking functions and features should I look for?

+

Core functions to look for include conventional heating, fan cooking, and grilling. Useful additional features include programmable timers, rapid preheat, defrost settings, and keep-warm modes. Higher-end models may offer steam cooking, pizza modes, bread proving, or smart connectivity. Practical design features such as telescopic shelves, triple-glazed doors, and interior lighting improve safety and usability. Focus on choosing a small number of well-designed functions that suit your cooking habits rather than paying for features you won’t use.

Reasons to shop with us

Buy now, pay later. We have finance options, including rental, to suit every budget.

We're rated exceptional on Feefo with 98% of customers recommending us.

Delivery when you need it. Choose a delivery day that works best for you.

Our customers love us! We’re rated excellent on Trustpilot, with over 50,000 reviews.

We’ll price match competitors so you’ll always get the best deal.