Whether you’re fitting a new hob or replacing an existing one, first check the worktop cut-out, installation requirements and the cookware you want to keep. Induction requires compatible pans; a ceramic hob with radiant heating offers a different kind of electric cooking, while a mixed hob is only worth considering if you also want gas burners. A flexible zone is especially worth considering if its dimensions suit your larger pans.
The visible width alone isn’t enough to help you choose a new hob. Measure the existing cut-out, then compare it with the installation diagram and ventilation requirements for the model you’re considering. UFC-Que Choisir states that the cut-out for many induction hobs measures 56 × 49 cm, but this size won’t fit every model.
Check their bases before choosing induction, including the induction zones on a mixed hob. UFC-Que Choisir explains that this technology requires suitable cookware with a ferromagnetic base.
For a griddle or oval casserole dish, compare your cookware’s dimensions with those of the cooking zone. Functions such as Bridge or FlexiCook can combine zones, but their layout needs to suit the pan you use.
Start with what needs to fit your kitchen and cookware, then compare the heating method and zones that suit the way you cook.
| Priority | What to check | Consider your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware | For induction, check that the base is flat and ferromagnetic, look for the induction symbol or see whether a magnet sticks to it. Also compare the base size with the size of the cooking zones. | I want to keep my current pans: checking they’re compatible comes before choosing an induction or mixed hob. |
| Fit and power supply | Compare the actual cut-out with the model’s diagram, then check its ventilation requirements. Have the proposed connection and your home’s installation checked before buying. | If I’m replacing a hob, I want to know whether it will fit my worktop and whether it’s suitable for my kitchen’s installation. |
| Heating method | Understand the difference between induction, which heats compatible cookware using a magnetic field, and ceramic hobs with radiant or halogen heating. For a mixed hob, check the installation requirements for the induction and gas sections separately. | I’m looking for an electric hob without induction, or I have a specific reason for combining induction and gas on the same hob. |
| Cooking zones | Compare the dimensions of the zones and, for a flexible zone, its surface area and possible configurations. Check the controls and timers for each zone if you cook several dishes at once. | My griddle or larger pans need to fit on a suitable zone; the number of zones alone doesn’t tell me enough. |
| Energy consumption | Compare technologies using the same usage assumptions. For 409 cycles per year, ADEME gives indicative figures of 115 kWh/year for induction and 200 kWh/year for ceramic; these aren’t predictions for a specific model or household. | I want to take energy consumption into account without assuming my cooking habits will match ADEME’s usage scenario. |
A hob may look like the right size but still not fit the worktop opening. UFC-Que Choisir notes that cut-out dimensions vary, particularly depending on the hob’s format.
Measure the width and depth of the cut-out, then check the installation plan and clearances required for the exact model.
An unsuitable cut-out may mean you need to modify or replace the worktop.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, cookware without a ferromagnetic base isn’t suitable for induction cooking.
Check for the induction symbol and inspect the bases of any pans you want to keep before choosing an induction or mixed hob.
You’ll need to replace incompatible saucepans and frying pans if you want to use them on the induction zones.
The number of zones alone won’t tell you whether the proposed connection is suitable for your existing installation.
Before buying, ask a professional to check your installation using the model’s instructions, power rating and connection diagram.
A function that combines cooking zones won’t necessarily suit the dimensions of your griddle or casserole dish.
Compare the base of your cookware with the stated dimensions of the zone and its possible configurations.
The LIV6343 and EIV653 induction models show two different approaches to flexible cooking zones.
The PXE831HC1E is worth considering if you’re looking for an induction hob with a flexible zone.
The WLS3160BF offers another configuration of cooking zones that can be combined.
These options are all induction hobs: three built-in models with separate zones, followed by two models with Bridge or FlexiBridge functions. Compare their size and installation requirements with your kitchen; this selection doesn’t replace the initial choice between induction, ceramic and a mixed hob.
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If you’re replacing a built-in hob, compare its 59 cm format with the cut-out in your worktop. This model is described as semi-flush-mounted and two-phase Perilex; have the proposed connection and the model’s installation requirements checked.
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The four zones, timer and Boost function are worth considering if you cook several dishes at once. If you’re replacing a hob, check the cut-out, ventilation and connection details in the instructions rather than relying on the 60 cm width.
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This built-in model has nine power levels. If you’re replacing a hob, compare its installation diagram with the existing cut-out, and have the connection and ventilation requirements checked.
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Consider this model if your kitchen layout allows for both an 80 cm hob and an integrated extractor. The Bridge function is designed to combine zones for larger cookware; check the cut-out dimensions, ventilation and connection requirements before choosing this model.
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The Bridge function may appeal if you use larger pans. Before replacing a hob, check the model diagram for its external dimensions and cut-out: the dimensions given for this product don’t clearly match the stated width of 60 cm. Also have the connection checked.
Check that their bases are flat and ferromagnetic: the induction symbol or a magnet sticking to the base can help. UFC-Que Choisir lists cast iron, enamelled steel and some stainless steel among compatible materials; check each piece of cookware you want to keep.
Yes, provided the existing cut-out, clearances and other installation requirements suit the new model; don’t rely on its visible width alone. UFC-Que Choisir says many induction hobs use a 56 × 49 cm cut-out, but some formats require different dimensions. Measure your opening and check the installation diagram before ordering.
Ask a professional to check your existing circuit, the power rating and the type of connection required in the model’s instructions. This is especially important when replacing a hob: a compatible cut-out doesn’t mean your electrical installation is suitable.
It can be useful if you use a griddle, oval casserole dish or large pan whose base fits the combined zone. Electrolux and Whirlpool describe models that can combine two zones, but the resulting surface area varies by model: compare its dimensions with those of your cookware.