Choose an induction hob if your cookware has a compatible ferromagnetic base and the cut-out and installation requirements match the model. A ceramic hob lets you keep non-magnetic cookware, while a combination hob is mainly suitable when you genuinely need to retain both gas and induction.
Before replacing your saucepans and frying pans, check the ferromagnetic base, its flatness and the diameters accepted by the hob. Que Choisir points out that induction requires suitable cookware; Electrolux recommends a base that is as flat and thick as possible.
For several dishes, a griddle, casserole or large dish, compare the number of zones, their usable diameters and whether a flexible zone is available, rather than looking at total power alone.
The choice depends on the cookware you want to keep, your cooking habits and your existing equipment. Induction, ceramic and combination hobs each involve different compromises.
Best considered: if your cookware is compatible and you want direct heating of the pan, with zones suited to the way you cook.
Bear in mind: non-ferromagnetic cookware will not work, and the manual must confirm the cut-out and connection requirements.
Worth considering: if keeping saucepans and frying pans that are not induction-compatible is a priority.
Good to know: radiant or halogen heating and residual heat differ from the way induction works.
Key takeaway: choose this only if you need to keep a gas zone and induction zones available every day.
Check: each technology has its own cookware and installation requirements.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Test whether a magnet sticks; check that the base is flat and confirm the diameters accepted by each zone in the manual. | I want to keep my useful saucepans and frying pans without having to replace my entire cookware collection. |
| Number and shape of zones | Compare 2, 3 or 4 zones, their usable diameters and any linking or flexible-zone functions. | I cook several dishes at once or use a griddle, casserole or rectangular dish. |
| Heating type | Compare direct induction heating with the radiant or halogen heating of a ceramic hob; also look at timers and power settings. | Cooking responsiveness matters to me, but I may prefer to keep non-magnetic cookware. |
| Installation and electrics | Check the cut-out, voltage, connected load and the requirements in the manual for your chosen model. | I need to make sure the hob fits my worktop and is suitable for my existing installation. |
An induction zone will not start with cookware that has no ferromagnetic base; even magnetic cookware must match the diameters accepted by the hob.
Make an inventory of your everyday cookware, test it with a magnet and compare its diameters with those listed in the manual.
A combination hob retains the requirements of both induction zones and gas-powered zones; it does not remove the need to check the relevant cookware and installations.
Choose this solution if you have a clear use for both technologies; otherwise, compare induction and ceramic based on your cookware and cooking habits.
The French range includes models with zones of various sizes and FlexInduction models, which are worth comparing for large dishes or non-circular cookware.
The range includes standard hobs and models with flexible zones, making it useful for comparing cookware detection and zone-linking functions.
The French range covers induction, ceramic, gas and combination hobs, making it easier to compare technologies within one brand.
The French range includes induction, ceramic and gas hobs, flexible zones and selected models with an integrated extractor for kitchens with specific requirements.
Joybuy options covering induction and ceramic hobs as replacements for an existing hob, with configurations suited to several dishes or existing cookware.
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Worth considering for an open-plan kitchen that needs integrated extraction and flexible zones for large cookware.
Four zones, including two Flex zones, Booster function and a stated 560 × 490 mm cut-out.
CBEHKIT installation accessories are sold separately; check whether they are required, along with the 220–240 V supply, 32 A circuit and compatibility of your magnetic cookware.
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This option may suit you if you want to keep non-ferromagnetic cookware while cooking several dishes at once.
Four zones, individual timer, nine power levels and a stated 560 × 490 mm cut-out.
Take the residual heat indicator “H” into account; check the installation cut-out and electrical specifications before professional installation.
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It meets the needs of simultaneous cooking with saucepans and frying pans that are already induction-compatible.
Four independent zones, Boost function, nine power levels, timer and a stated 565 × 495 mm cut-out.
No zone-linking function is specified for large rectangular dishes; the wired connection and magnetic cookware must be checked.
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Worth considering for several round saucepans with known diameters.
Four zones, nine power levels, individual timer, cookware detection and a stated 560 × 490 mm cut-out.
Check the stated diameter ranges of 120–200 mm or 140–260 mm, depending on the zone, as well as the rated 32 A protection.
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This hob may suit large dishes, a griddle or several preparations, thanks to its combinable FlexiBridge zones.
Four zones, AutoChef, PerfectFry, Stop&Go and a timer for each zone are specified.
The detailed dimensions do not clearly match the 60 cm description: confirm the width, cut-out, detection diameters, ventilation and installation requirements before buying.
Test whether a magnet sticks to the base of the cookware. Electrolux also recommends a base that is as flat and thick as possible; then check the minimum and maximum diameters specified in the hob manual, as these vary by model.
Yes. The requirement for a ferromagnetic base applies specifically to induction. Ceramic hobs heat through radiant or halogen technology, so they are an option if you do not want to replace your non-magnetic cookware.
Choose according to the number of dishes you cook at the same time and the size of your cookware. Beko presents two zones as a format for smaller spaces or limited use, three zones as a guide for more than one person, and four or more zones for a family or cooking larger quantities; for a griddle, focus especially on whether there is a compatible flexible zone.
Yes, if the installation needs to be modified or renovated, or if the specifications of the new hob have not already been confirmed. Promotelec states that a dedicated 32 A circuit is provided for an electric hob as part of the minimum kitchen equipment; also consult the model manual and a qualified professional about any necessary work.
Yes. The ADEME/EDF study conducted among households in mainland France found that hobs, across all energy types, were among the five most widely owned appliances in 2023. This figure alone does not determine whether induction, ceramic or gas is the right choice.