First, test the base of the cookware you use, then check the worktop cut-out and the available power supply. Induction is a good choice if your essential cookware is compatible, or if you’re happy to replace just a few pieces. Consider a ceramic hob if you want to keep using non-ferromagnetic cookware, while a mixed hob also means checking the gas connection. Then choose the cooking zones to suit your largest pans and the number of dishes you cook at the same time.
If you want to keep your saucepans and frying pans, start by testing their bases with a magnet. UFC-Que Choisir recommends this check to identify ferromagnetic cookware that can be used on induction hobs; a stainless-steel appearance alone isn’t enough to tell.
If you often use a casserole, a large sauté pan or a rectangular dish, check the size of the cooking zones and whether there’s a flexible zone. Electrolux and Whirlpool product specifications show that these configurations vary by model.
If you want to keep your existing worktop, compare its cut-out with the new model’s installation dimensions. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes these measurements from the hob’s external width; you should also check the power supply and the requirements in the instruction manual.
First decide which pieces of cookware you want to keep and which technology will let you use them. Then check that the hob you’re considering can be installed in your kitchen before comparing models by their cooking zones and everyday use.
Consider it: if your essential cookware has a ferromagnetic base, or if you’re happy to replace any incompatible pieces.
Bear in mind: cookware without a compatible base won’t work on the induction zones; the installation dimensions and power supply still need to be checked.
Consider it: if keeping non-ferromagnetic cookware is a priority.
Bear in mind: according to UFC-Que Choisir, its radiant or halogen zones don’t heat using the magnetic principle behind induction.
Consider it: if you want to use induction while keeping a gas burner for other cookware or cooking habits.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to check that both the electrical and gas connections are feasible, as well as the layout of the cooking zones on your chosen model.
| Criterion | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping your cookware | Test the base of the pieces you use regularly with a magnet; make a note of what you’d need to replace if you switch to induction. | I want to keep cooking with my usual saucepans and frying pans, rather than replace pieces that are still fit for purpose. Around 36% of consumers concerned would make keeping their cookware their priority. |
| Suitability for your kitchen | Compare the cut-out and the space beneath the worktop with the model’s requirements; have the power supply checked if you’re unsure. | My new hob needs to fit where the old one was without major work. For around 29% of consumers concerned, fitting their kitchen would be the main priority. |
| Cooking zones and large dishes | Compare the diameter of your largest cookware with the cooking zones, and check how many dishes you can cook at once. | I often prepare several dishes at once or use a large casserole: the cooking zones need to suit the way I cook. This would come first for around 21% of consumers concerned. |
| Cleaning and everyday use | Check the controls and cleaning instructions; to compare energy use, look at tests carried out under comparable conditions. | For everyday use, I mainly want a hob that’s easy to clean and works in a way that suits me. Around 14% of consumers concerned would prioritise these aspects. |
Compatibility depends on the base being ferromagnetic, not just on the material’s name. A saucepan you planned to keep might not work on induction zones.
Follow UFC-Que Choisir’s advice: hold a magnet against the base of every piece you actually use before deciding what to keep or replace.
Two hobs with a similar external width may need different cut-outs. UFC-Que Choisir explains that the installation dimensions describe the opening in the worktop.
Measure the width, depth and available space beneath the worktop, then compare them with the instructions for the specific model.
An unsuitable cut-out could mean altering the worktop or being unable to fit your chosen model.
Four small, separate zones won’t necessarily suit a large sauté pan or rectangular dish. The flexible zones offered by Electrolux and Whirlpool are specific to certain models.
Compare your largest cookware with the stated zone diameters, and check whether a double or flexible zone would suit the way you cook.
The width of the hob or the type of socket you can see won’t tell you on their own whether your installation is suitable. For relevant installations in France, Promotelec states that an electric hob or cooker requires a dedicated circuit.
Check the instructions for your model and, if in doubt, ask a qualified professional to confirm that your circuit is compatible.
The installation may need to be adapted before the hob can be fitted.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a 60 cm induction hob and want to compare installation dimensions or check for a flexible zone.
Worth considering if a large cooking zone or one that combines two zones would suit the cookware you use regularly.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a three-zone layout or a flexible zone, depending on the model.
If you choose induction and some of your saucepans aren’t compatible, these pieces offer an option for replacing cookware one item at a time. Check the base and choose a size to suit what you cook; these are not hobs.
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Worth considering if you need to replace a large saucepan for induction cooking: the product information states that the base is compatible, but check it with a magnet before use.
30 cm diameter, 6.5 L capacity and a glass lid. The product information recommends hand washing; check the exact steel grade and what’s included if these details matter to you.
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Worth considering if you need to replace a small piece of cookware for individual portions: the title states that it’s induction-compatible, but check the base with a magnet.
14 cm diameter and 1.3 L capacity. Check the care instructions before buying.
Hold a magnet against its base: if it’s attracted, the base contains a ferromagnetic material, as UFC-Que Choisir explains. Also check that the cookware is suitable for the dimensions and instructions of the hob you’re considering.
For induction, keep only pieces with a compatible base: cookware without a ferromagnetic base won’t work directly. Test each piece rather than judging its base by the material it appears to be made from, particularly if it has several layers.
Measure the cut-out in the worktop and the available space beneath the hob, then compare them with the instructions for your chosen model. UFC-Que Choisir points out that installation dimensions are not the same as the visible external dimensions.
Check the requirements in the instructions and make sure your installation is compatible before buying. For relevant installations in France, Promotelec specifies a dedicated circuit with a connection box, a 32 A socket for single-phase or a 20 A socket for three-phase; if in doubt, ask a qualified professional to assess your setup.
It’s mainly worth considering if you regularly use large cookware or long dishes. If your saucepans fit the separate zones and you only use a few at a time, compare their diameters and layout first rather than choosing a hob based on this feature alone.