An induction hob is a good choice if your cookware has a compatible base and the connection, cut-out and ventilation suit the model you choose. If you want to keep using non-ferromagnetic cookware, consider a ceramic hob instead. A mixed induction-and-gas hob lets you keep gas burners, provided you also check the gas supply. In each case, compare the cooking zones with the pans you use at the same time.
Measure the worktop cut-out and check the clearance needed beneath the hob. Also have the electrical connection and the power requirements of the model you’re considering checked. A similar overall width doesn’t guarantee that the new hob will fit in the existing cut-out.
Compare the number and diameter of the cooking zones, and the space between them. If you use a large griddle or stockpot, also check whether a flexible zone will suit its shape and size.
If some of your pans don’t work on induction, a ceramic hob could save you from replacing them for that reason alone. A mixed hob lets you keep gas burners while adding induction zones, provided the installation is suitable for both energy sources.
Start with your cookware and existing installation, then compare the layout of the cooking zones with the way you cook. These checks will help you decide between an induction hob, a ceramic hob and a mixed hob.
| Priority | What to check | Depending on your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware | Check the base of every saucepan, frying pan and other pan you use. According to UFC-Que Choisir, induction won’t work with a non-ferromagnetic base. Also check which items you would need to replace. | I want to keep my current pans: if some aren’t compatible, I can consider a ceramic hob or plan to replace them before choosing an induction-only model. |
| Installation | Compare the cut-out dimensions and ventilation clearances in the instructions with your kitchen. Ask a professional to confirm the circuit, connection and power requirements for the model. UFC-Que Choisir also highlights the importance of ventilation beneath or behind an induction hob. | My new hob needs to fit the existing cut-out. A “60 cm” label alone isn’t enough to confirm compatibility. |
| Cooking zones | Check the number, diameter and layout of the zones, then see whether a flexible zone can accommodate the larger pans you plan to use. | When I’m cooking several dishes at once, I want to be able to position my frying pans and stockpots without them getting in each other’s way. |
| Technology | Gifam describes induction as using a magnetic field to heat the base of the pan, and mixed hobs as combining gas and electricity. For a mixed hob, check the available cooking zones and the requirements of each energy supply separately. | If I want to keep gas burners, a mixed hob meets that need. If my priority is to keep using non-ferromagnetic cookware, I should also compare ceramic hobs. |
A hob’s overall width doesn’t necessarily match the size of the cut-out. UFC-Que Choisir also notes that some worktops are difficult to cut to size.
Measure the existing cut-out, the worktop thickness and the space beneath it, then compare these measurements with the instructions for your chosen model.
If the cut-out isn’t suitable, you may need to modify the worktop.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, induction won’t heat a pan without a ferromagnetic base. A frying pan you use every day could therefore be a problem, even if your other cookware is compatible.
Check the saucepans, frying pans, stockpots and other items you actually use before deciding what to keep or replace.
Switching to induction may mean replacing some incompatible cookware.
A mixed hob divides its surface between different technologies. The Electrolux KDI640713K, for example, combines induction and gas. Its total number of zones doesn’t tell you on its own what each cooking mode can do.
Compare the type, diameter and position of each zone with the pans you use at the same time.
UFC-Que Choisir reminds buyers that an induction hob needs ventilation beneath or behind the appliance. Promotelec also describes the dedicated power supply required for a hob in the home.
Before buying, ask a professional to check the power supply, connection, required power and clearances specified in the instructions. Don’t alter the installation without first checking its compatibility and safety.
If your existing installation isn’t suitable, adapting it may require additional work.
These models show some of the configurations available to compare. Their features don’t apply to every hob from the same brand.
Bosch offers induction hobs in different sizes and with different numbers of cooking zones.
In France, Electrolux offers both induction-only hobs and models that combine induction and gas.
Whirlpool offers induction hobs with several cooking zones, including some with a zone that combines two cooking areas.
These Joybuy options are cookware to use if you switch to induction, not hobs themselves. Start by choosing the items you need, then check their compatibility and specifications before replacing your current cookware.
Image unavailable
This item is listed as induction-compatible and could replace a piece of cookware you use often. The title describes it as a 16 cm frying pan, while the description calls it a saucepan, so check its shape before ordering. The detachable handle is sold separately.
Image unavailable
If you need to replace an incompatible frying pan, this 20 cm model is listed as suitable for induction. Check that it’s compatible with your hob, particularly the information about the base of the pan.
Image unavailable
This wok is listed as induction-compatible, so it may suit you if you want to keep using this type of cookware after changing hobs. Check the construction of its base and the exact finish of its surface, as the information about its coating is contradictory.
Image unavailable
If you need to replace several items of cookware, this set is listed as induction-compatible. Check which pieces are included, their sizes and materials, and the construction of their bases to see if it meets your needs.
Check each item for an induction-compatibility label and a ferromagnetic base. UFC-Que Choisir says that a pan without this type of base won’t trigger the hob to heat up. The material name alone, such as “stainless steel”, isn’t always enough to tell.
No. The stated width doesn’t guarantee that the cut-out, depth and ventilation space will be suitable. Measure your installation and compare it with the model’s instructions. For example, Electrolux France gives the MIT60336C’s built-in dimensions as 44 × 560 × 490 mm.
Yes. Ask a professional to confirm that the circuit, connection and power supply are suitable for the hob you’re considering. Promotelec describes a dedicated power supply for a hob in the home, while UFC-Que Choisir recommends having a professional carry out the connection.
A mixed hob is a good choice if you want to keep gas burners while also using induction with compatible pans. Check the number and position of each type of cooking zone, as well as the requirements of the gas supply and electrical connection.
Count the pans you use at the same time, then compare their diameters with those of the cooking zones and the space between them. If you regularly cook with a large pan or rectangular griddle, check the dimensions of any flexible zone rather than looking only at the total number of zones.