If you’re replacing your hob, induction is a good choice if your cookware is compatible, or you’re happy to replace any items that aren’t, and the model can be installed in your kitchen. Ceramic hobs don’t require magnetic-based cookware, while a mixed hob lets you keep gas cooking but also means checking the gas connection and ventilation. Whatever you choose, make sure the number and layout of cooking zones suit the dishes you cook at the same time, then check the installation instructions for the exact model.
The best place to start depends as much on your existing kitchen as on how many pans you use at once.
If you want to keep your saucepans and frying pans, check they’re compatible before choosing induction. Measure the space too, and have the connection checked: the width of a new hob alone isn’t enough to confirm that it will replace your old one.
Count how many pans you actually use at the same time, then compare their size with the layout of the cooking zones. If you use a large pan, check how a flexible zone works rather than relying on its presence in the product specifications alone.
A mixed hob lets you combine induction and gas burners in the same kitchen. You’ll need to check both types of connection and the property’s ventilation. According to GRDF, a single-flow mechanical ventilation system (MVHR) meets air renewal requirements only under certain conditions.
First, choose a technology that suits your cookware and kitchen installation, then compare models based on their cooking zones and useful features.
Consider it: if your cookware has a compatible base, or you plan to replace any items that aren’t.
The trade-off: choosing an induction hob means checking your cookware and electrical installation.
Consider it: if you want to keep cookware with a base that isn’t suitable for induction.
The trade-off: bear in mind that the surface may stay hot after cooking, and check the installation and electrical supply too.
Consider it: if you’ll genuinely use both cooking methods and can have your property’s requirements assessed.
The trade-off: induction zones need compatible cookware, while gas means extra checks for the connection and ventilation.
| Factor | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware | For induction, check the base of every item you plan to use on the hob. Tefal recommends the magnet test. Check that the diameter is also suitable for the zones on your chosen model. | I’d like to keep my current pans. If some aren’t suitable for induction, I can compare replacing them with choosing a different type of hob. |
| Cooking zones | Compare the number, size and layout of the zones with the pans you usually use. For a flexible zone, check the usage instructions for the specific model. | Are three pans enough at once, or do I regularly use four? A large pan can also affect the layout I need. |
| Cooking performance | If you often cook on a low heat, look for tests that assess this. Que Choisir’s test protocol, for example, measures the time and electricity needed to heat a pan of water to 90 °C. This measurement alone doesn’t tell you how a hob performs for every type of cooking. | I want to compare models based on the dishes I make often, without assuming that a boost function tells me how all their settings perform. |
| Installation | Compare the installation instructions with the cut-out dimensions and available clearances. Have the electrical circuit checked; for a mixed hob, also check the gas supply and ventilation. | The new hob needs to fit in my kitchen and be connected in line with the requirements for that model. |
| Overall project | Depending on your choice, allow for replacing incompatible cookware, accessories sold separately, and any installation or connection work that may be needed. | I want to compare what I’ll need to buy or change, not just look at two hobs in isolation. |
The external dimensions don’t confirm that the hob will fit the worktop cut-out or available clearances, or that your existing circuit is suitable.
Measure the space and compare it with the installation instructions for the exact model. Have the power supply checked before ordering.
These examples show different configurations. The features mentioned apply to the specific models named, not to every hob from each brand.
According to Bosch France’s product information, the PUJ611BB5E is a three-zone induction hob, while the PIX63SHC1F has four zones, including a flexible zone.
Electrolux France describes the KDI641723K as a mixed induction and gas hob.
Whirlpool France lists the AKT 8090/NE as a four-zone ceramic hob with touch controls and a timer for each zone.
Cookware is part of the decision if you’re switching to induction. Tefal says its 26 cm Ingenio Préférence frying pan is compatible.
These models let you explore two options for a new kitchen: three- or four-zone induction hobs and four-zone ceramic hobs. Before choosing, check your cookware, the layout of the zones and the installation requirements for each model.
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Worth considering if three zones suit the dishes you cook at the same time. Cookware used on induction needs a compatible base. Have the space and electrical circuit checked for this specific model.
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A four-zone option if you prefer ceramic and want to keep cookware that isn’t compatible with induction. Check the cut-out dimensions and connection requirements for the AKT 801-NE; don’t assume they’re the same as for another Whirlpool model.
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Worth comparing if you regularly use up to four induction-compatible pans. The product name mentions Boost, a timer and a child lock. Check the layout of the zones, cut-out dimensions and power supply in the model’s instructions.
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Another four-zone option if you’d rather not need cookware with a magnetic base. Check the total power before planning the connection: the product gives two conflicting figures, 6600 W and 6000 W. Follow the instructions on residual heat.
No. Check the base of the specific saucepan: Tefal recommends making sure it attracts a magnet. Then check that its size is suitable for the zone you’ll use.
Not without checking the existing installation and the instructions for the new model. Legrand describes a dedicated circuit for hobs with 6 mm² conductors and 32 A protection; this doesn’t prove that your existing circuit is suitable. Bosch recommends having its induction hobs installed by a professional.
Not automatically. According to GRDF, a single-flow mechanical ventilation system can meet air renewal requirements for an unflued gas cooking appliance if the relevant conditions are met. Have your property’s ventilation and installation checked. GRDF states that work on a gas installation requires a certificate of conformity.
Keep the exact model number and the documents supplied with the hob so you can follow its care instructions and identify the appliance if you need support. Bosch specifically recommends keeping a copy of the rating plate, which may no longer be visible after its induction hobs have been installed.