Start by checking that your cookware is compatible, how many dishes you prepare at once and the installation dimensions of the specific model. Induction requires compatible pans, while ceramic hobs don’t need cookware with a magnetic base. A flexible cooking zone is most useful for large pans, while a mixed-fuel hob is suitable if your electrical and gas connections, as well as ventilation, meet the requirements.
Check the appliance dimensions and the installation measurements in the manual, then make sure the model’s power supply requirements can be met. Whirlpool France notes that the space available on your worktop is an important factor when choosing the dimensions.
Check which pans you want to keep before choosing a hob technology. Electrolux says that a magnet should stick to the base of any pan intended for induction cooking. You should also check the pan diameter and the model’s manual.
Compare the size and layout of the cooking zones rather than looking only at the number of zones. Que Choisir Ensemble notes that some induction hobs have a flexible cooking zone.
First check your cookware and installation requirements, then choose the number and layout of cooking zones to suit the dishes you usually prepare.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and installation | Compare the cut-out measurements and manual requirements with your kitchen, and have the suitability of the power supply confirmed. For a mixed-fuel hob, check the gas installation requirements too. | If I’m replacing a built-in hob, I want to know whether the model and its power supplies are suitable before I order. Around 33% of consumers prioritise how well the hob fits their kitchen. |
| Cookware compatibility | For induction, test your pans with a magnet and check their base and the diameters supported by the model, as stated in its manual. | If I want to keep my pans, I’ll check they’re compatible before choosing induction or another technology. Around 25% of consumers prioritise keeping their existing cookware. |
| Number and layout of cooking zones | Compare the number, diameter and layout of the zones with the pans you use at the same time. | When I prepare several dishes every day, I look for a layout that gives each pan enough space. Around 25% of consumers prioritise being able to cook several dishes at once. |
| Space for large pans | If you often use a long or bulky pan, compare its base with the dimensions and layout of the advertised flexible zone. | If my large pans don’t sit well on individual cooking zones, a flexible zone could influence my choice. Around 17% of consumers prioritise this feature. |
A ceramic glass surface alone doesn’t tell you how the hob heats. If you choose without checking the technology, you could end up with a hob that isn’t suitable for the pans you want to use.
Check the technology listed for the exact model. If you’re considering induction, test your pans with a magnet and check the manual for compatible diameters.
Choosing an incompatible hob could mean replacing some of the cookware you wanted to keep.
The appliance’s visible width doesn’t tell you the cut-out dimensions or the clearances needed for installation.
Before you buy, compare the measurements in the manual for the exact model with the space available.
Gas burners come with specific installation and ventilation requirements. Having a gas connection doesn’t automatically mean the model is suitable for your home.
Ask a qualified professional to assess your plans and the requirements in the manual before choosing a mixed-fuel hob.
The value of this feature depends on the shape of your pans and how often you use large ones.
Compare your cookware dimensions with those of the advertised zone, and check whether individual cooking zones already meet your needs.
The range mentioned here includes induction hobs with individual cooking zones and a model with a flexible zone. Compare them based on your cookware and the space available.
The AKT8090NE-NEW is an example of a ceramic hob with individual cooking zones. It may suit you if you don’t want to rely on cookware with a magnetic base.
The KDI640713K is an example of a mixed induction and gas hob for households that want to keep both cooking methods.
This selection includes induction hobs, including a model with zones that can be combined, and ceramic hobs. Compare the options to find one that suits your cookware and cooking habits.
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The Bridge function lets you combine zones to accommodate large pans, according to the product description.
A 60 cm built-in model with induction and four zones. It requires compatible cookware. The description specifies professional installation and a suitable power supply.
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This model has three zones, making it an option for cooking several dishes at once on an induction hob.
Power stated in the product name: 7200 W. Cookware must be ferromagnetic. The description specifies a dedicated circuit and installation by a qualified electrician.
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This model is described as having four radiant cooking zones, making it an option to compare with induction hobs.
The description specifies a fixed connection by a qualified electrician. Before you buy, check the cut-out dimensions required for your kitchen.
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This built-in model has four zones and is an option for a kitchen fitted with a ceramic hob.
Power stated in the product name: 6600 W. The description specifies a hardwired connection by a qualified electrician. Check the cut-out dimensions for your installation.
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This model has four zones for preparing several dishes at once using induction. Your cookware must be compatible with this technology.
The description specifies a hardwired connection; no mains plug is supplied. Check the cut-out dimensions and the model’s electrical requirements before installation.
Start by testing the pans you use most often: according to Electrolux, a magnet should stick to their base. Also check the zone’s instructions in the model manual for the pan diameters it accepts.
Not necessarily. The advertised width alone doesn’t confirm that the hob will fit your worktop. Compare the cut-out measurements and clearances specified in the model’s manual with your installation.
Ask a qualified person to compare the power rating and manual for the hob you’re considering with your existing circuit. Legrand describes induction as requiring a dedicated circuit and suitable protection. This is a general guide, not a substitute for the model’s manual or an assessment of your installation.
No. That alone doesn’t confirm that the model is suitable. You need to check the requirements for the gas installation, electrical supply and ventilation. GRDF says that ventilation solutions are subject to certain conditions. If the gas installation is modified, Article 21 of the Order of 23 February 2018 requires a certificate of conformity, subject to the exceptions it lists.
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, you can claim under the statutory guarantee of conformity from the professional seller for two years for a new product, subject to the applicable conditions. This is separate from any optional commercial guarantee.