Choose induction if your cookware is compatible and the cut-out, ventilation and electrical connection are suitable for the model you select. A ceramic hob is worth considering if keeping non-magnetic cookware matters more to you than switching to induction. A mixed induction and gas hob may suit you if you want to keep cooking with gas, provided you check the installation requirements. In every case, the cut-out dimensions matter more than the visible width of the hob alone.
If you want to keep your saucepans and frying pans, start by checking their bases. UFC-Que Choisir describes the magnet test for identifying cookware suitable for induction. Also compare its diameter with that of the cooking zones you’re considering.
If you often use several saucepans, a large stockpot or an elongated pan on the hob, check the size of the cooking zones and whether they can be combined. The number of zones alone won’t tell you how well your pans will fit together.
If your worktop or units would be difficult to modify, measure the cut-out and consult the installation diagram for the model. Before ordering, also ask a professional to confirm the electrical supply and ventilation clearances.
Consider it if: you want the hob to heat the base of your cookware directly, and the pans you plan to keep are suitable.
Bear in mind: incompatible cookware will need to be replaced or won’t work on the induction zones.
Consider it if: keeping non-magnetic cookware is your priority.
Bear in mind: its radiant or halogen zones work differently from induction.
Consider it if: you want to keep cooking with gas while also using one or more induction zones.
Bear in mind: you’ll also need to check the gas connection and ventilation requirements for your home.
Once you’ve chosen a technology, compare the features of the exact model with your cookware, cooking habits and unit requirements.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Test the bases of the pans you want to keep with a magnet, and compare their diameter with that of the cooking zones. | I want to keep my saucepans without finding out after buying that the ones I use most often don’t work on induction. Around 31% of consumers prioritise keeping their cookware or replacing it in a planned way. |
| Cooking zones and large pans | Check the diameter of the cooking zones and, for an elongated pan, whether the exact model has a zone that can be combined. | When I’m cooking several dishes at once, I need enough space for my large pans, not just a certain number of zones on the product listing. Around 25% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Cut-out and power supply | Compare the cut-out with the installation diagram, and have the electrical circuit and ventilation clearances checked. | I need to be able to replace my hob in the existing unit without assuming the old cut-out or connection will be suitable. For around 25% of consumers, compatibility with their existing installation comes before other criteria. |
| Everyday use | Compare the heating method and the cleaning or control features actually available on each model. | If I cook often, how the hob heats and cleans matters more to me than extra features. Around 19% of consumers prioritise speed, cleaning or running costs. |
Two hobs with a similar visible width may need different-sized openings. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between the dimensions of the cut-out and those of the appliance, and points out that some worktop materials are difficult to cut again.
Measure the existing opening from side to side and front to back, then compare those measurements with the cut-out diagram for your chosen model.
Cookware with a non-ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction zone. UFC-Que Choisir suggests placing a magnet underneath the pan as a first check.
Test the cookware you actually use, then check its diameter before deciding what to keep or replace.
You may need to replace incompatible saucepans or frying pans if you want to keep using them on your new hob.
Air inlets and outlets must remain unobstructed. The required clearances depend on the hob and the unit, particularly if there’s another appliance or a drawer underneath.
Read the instructions and installation diagram, then ask a professional to check the clearances if you’re unsure about your unit’s layout.
These range and model examples can help you identify features to compare. Don’t assume that every hob from a particular brand has them.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a three- or four-zone induction hob with a combined zone for some larger pans.
Worth considering if a multi-zone layout and combined zones would suit your cookware.
Worth considering if you’re comparing different hob widths or looking for a zone that can accommodate different sizes of cookware.
These built-in hobs offer two options to consider when replacing yours: induction and ceramic. First, choose a technology that suits your cookware, then check the cut-out, ventilation and connection requirements for the model you’re considering.
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Worth considering if you’re looking to replace your hob with a 60 cm induction model. Test the cookware you want to keep and compare the cut-out diagram, ventilation and connection requirements with your installation.
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Worth considering if you use several cooking zones and want to switch to induction. The product name lists four zones, a Boost function, a timer and a child lock. Check the installation dimensions, ventilation and connection requirements in the instructions too.
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Worth comparing if keeping cookware that isn’t suitable for induction is your priority. The product name lists four zones. Check the model documentation to confirm its total power, cut-out dimensions and connection requirements.
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Worth considering if you use several pans or are looking for a Bridge function. Before choosing this model, confirm its external dimensions and cut-out in the official documentation: the dimensions listed for this reference don’t match. Also ask a professional to check the connection and ventilation requirements.
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Worth considering if you’d prefer a ceramic hob so you can keep your cookware. Check the instructions to find out which pans are suitable and the size of the cooking zones, then compare the cut-out and electrical requirements with your installation.
No. Measure the actual cut-out in your worktop. UFC-Que Choisir explains that built-in dimensions refer to this opening, not the external dimensions of the hob. Compare your measurements with the diagram for the model you’re considering.
No. Legrand says that a built-in hob cannot be plugged into a standard household socket and needs a suitable dedicated circuit. Before replacing your hob, ask a qualified electrician to check the existing installation and the model’s connection instructions.
Consult the installation diagram for the model and check that its air inlets and outlets will remain unobstructed. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the need for sufficient ventilation underneath or behind the hob. The instructions will specify the clearances required for the appliance.
Their bases need to be suitable for induction. UFC-Que Choisir suggests placing a magnet underneath to check whether the base contains iron. Also check the cookware’s markings and make sure its diameter matches the cooking zone.
Ask for advice specific to your implant before using an induction hob. Kenwood recommends consulting a doctor if you have a pacemaker or another implant that may be affected. Follow the implant manufacturer’s instructions too, rather than assuming the same guidance applies to every device.