First, test the pans and pots you use most often with a magnet: according to UFC-Que Choisir, cookware without a ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction hob. If you want to keep a lot of incompatible cookware, consider a ceramic glass hob and check that its bases are suitable; a mixed hob lets you split your cooking between induction and gas, provided you have the right connections. Before replacing your hob, also compare the new model’s dimensions and power requirements, and check its installation instructions against your kitchen.
If you’re replacing your hob but don’t want to replace your pans, saucepans and stockpots, start by testing the items you use most. UFC-Que Choisir points out that cookware without a ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction hob.
If most of your cookware is already suitable for induction, you could replace just the incompatible items. Also check that your largest pans are the right size for the cooking zones.
A mixed hob lets you use the induction zones with compatible cookware and the gas burners for other tasks. Before buying, you’ll need to check the gas and electrical connections.
Consider it if: your essential cookware has a ferromagnetic base, or you’re happy to replace the few items that aren’t suitable.
The trade-off: incompatible cookware won’t activate the hob. Even compatible cookware needs to be the right size for the cooking zone.
Consider it if: keeping cookware without a ferromagnetic base matters more to you than choosing induction, provided the bases are suitable for the hob.
The trade-off: the zone heats the surface, which stays hot after use. Bosch describes this as less targeted than induction heating.
Consider it if: you genuinely want to keep both cooking methods and can meet the connection requirements for each.
The trade-off: induction zones still require cookware with a ferromagnetic base. Check how many zones of each type the model offers.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping your cookware | Test the bases with a magnet. For ceramic glass, check that they’re flat and suitable for this type of surface. | I want to keep using most of my cookware without replacing items that fail the magnet test. This could be a priority for around 36 % of consumers in this position. |
| Replacing a few items | Identify the incompatible items you use often, then compare the replacement sizes with those of the cooking zones. | My main pans are suitable for induction, but I’m happy to replace the few items that are holding me back. Around 29 % of consumers in this position could prioritise this targeted replacement. |
| Keeping two cooking methods | Check how the gas and induction zones are arranged, as well as the model’s connection requirements. | I use some pans on gas and want to use induction for others, without giving up either option. Keeping both cooking methods could be the priority for around 21 % of consumers in this position. |
| Making room for larger pans | Compare the usable size of the zones and, if needed, check for a larger zone or bridging function. | My larger pans are induction-compatible, but finding a suitable cooking zone for them matters most. This could be a priority for around 14 % of consumers in this position. |
Two hobs can have a glass surface but heat in different ways. According to UFC-Que Choisir, an induction zone won’t start with cookware that doesn’t have a ferromagnetic base.
Test each important item with a magnet before choosing a hob type.
Without checking first, you could end up replacing pans you had planned to keep.
One compatible item doesn’t tell you whether the rest will work. The shape and size of a large stockpot or oblong dish also matter when choosing cooking zones.
Check the cookware you use most, then compare its bases with the size and zone functions of the model you’re considering.
A mixed hob splits cooking between gas and induction; it doesn’t remove the requirement for a ferromagnetic base on its induction zones.
Choose the zone layout to suit the cookware you’ll use on each one, after checking both connections.
Power requirements and connection instructions vary by model. Having an old hob in place doesn’t prove that the installation will suit its replacement.
Check the model’s instructions and ask a qualified professional to inspect the circuit if you’re unsure. For a mixed hob, check the gas connection too.
An unsuitable installation may need work before you can use your new hob.
Bosch offers induction and ceramic glass models, so you can compare both technologies across its ranges.
Electrolux offers a mixed hob for people who want to keep using both gas and induction.
Beko offers induction and ceramic glass models to compare, depending on which cookware you want to keep.
These items are intended for replacing a few pieces if you choose an induction hob; they’re no substitute for choosing the hob itself or checking the cookware you already own. In particular, compare the size of each base with the cooking zones you plan to use.
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A replacement frying pan for an induction hob: the product title states that it’s suitable for induction and gas, and made from 316 stainless steel. Check the base diameter against the zone you plan to use.
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A replacement for a deep pan: the product title states that it’s suitable for induction and gas. Check that its base suits your cooking zone, and remove the silicone handle covers while heating, as instructed in the product guidance.
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A replacement small frying pan: the product title states that it’s suitable for induction and made from aluminium with a ceramic coating. Compare the base with your chosen zone; the product details recommend hand washing to protect the coating.
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A 16 cm item to replace cookware for an induction hob. Check its exact shape before buying: the title describes it as a frying pan, while the description calls it a saucepan. The compatible removable handle is sold separately.
Test the base with a magnet: according to UFC-Que Choisir, an induction hob won’t start with cookware that doesn’t have a ferromagnetic base. Start with the frying pans, saucepans and stockpots you use most, then compare their size with the cooking zones.
It may let you keep using this cookware without the magnetic compatibility required for induction. However, check that the bases are flat and suitable for your chosen ceramic glass hob, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
No: the induction zones on a mixed hob still require cookware with a ferromagnetic base. According to Electrolux, the KDI641723K has two induction zones and two gas burners. Check the layout of the model you’re considering before you choose.
Compare the new hob’s power requirements, dimensions and connection instructions with your installation. Legrand outlines dedicated circuit requirements for electric hobs; don’t assume the new model is compatible just because the old hob was installed, and ask a qualified professional to check if you’re unsure.
Not necessarily. First check the usable dimensions of the cooking zones and whether the model has larger zones or a zone-bridging function. A frying pan’s magnetic compatibility alone doesn’t guarantee that its base will fit the shape of the zones.