You can switch to induction and keep your existing saucepans and frying pans if their bases are ferromagnetic and the right size for the hob zones on your chosen model. Start by testing the cookware you use most often, then choose the number and size of zones to suit the dishes you prepare. If several essential pans aren’t compatible, compare ceramic hobs too, or consider replacing only the items you need to.
Before replacing your hob, you want to know which saucepans and frying pans you can still use. Testing the underside of each base with a magnet is a good first check. You’ll also need to compare the diameter of each base with the limits specified for the zones you’re considering.
You regularly use several pans at the same time. The number of zones isn’t the only thing to consider: compare their dimensions and how the chosen model manages power too.
A fish kettle, oval casserole dish or griddle may make a hob with a bridging zone a better fit. Measure the base of your cookware and compare it with the dimensions of the zone on the specific model.
To replace your hob without ruling out too much of your existing cookware, start by checking the bases and how you cook. Then compare the technologies and installation dimensions of each model.
Worth considering if: the bases of the pans you use most often are ferromagnetic and suit the zones you’ve chosen.
Bear in mind: incompatible cookware can’t be used on these zones and will need to be replaced if you want to keep using it.
Worth considering if: several essential pans fail the magnet test and you prefer electric radiant heat.
Bear in mind: this heating method differs from induction. Check the guidance on cookware bases for the model you choose.
Worth considering if: you want to keep both cooking methods long term and the gas connection is already in place.
Bear in mind: the induction zones still require suitable cookware bases, while the gas section brings its own installation requirements.
| Criterion | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Existing cookware | Test the bases of the pans you use most often with a magnet, then compare their diameter with the limits for each zone given in the manual. | I want to keep using my everyday frying pans and saucepans without finding out after buying a hob that they don’t work with induction. Around 33% of consumers would make this compatibility their priority. |
| Cooking several dishes at once | Compare the number and size of the zones with the pans you use together. Check the total power and how it is managed too. | When I’m cooking several things at once, I need to be able to position my pans on suitable zones. This would be the main requirement for around 27% of consumers. |
| Large cookware | Measure the base of your griddle or long dish and compare it with the dimensions of the Bridge or flexible zone on the model. | I often use a griddle or oval dish and want to know whether it will fit on a bridging zone. This would be the top priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Ease of replacement | Compare the worktop cut-out and available space with the model’s dimensions, then confirm its connection requirements. For a combination hob, check the gas connection too. | I’d rather avoid a new hob leading to changes to my cookware or a more complicated installation than expected. Around 20% of consumers would put ease of replacement first. |
The words “stainless steel” don’t guarantee a ferromagnetic base. According to UFC-Que Choisir, placing a magnet against the underside of a pan is a simple way to check.
Test the cookware you actually use and identify anything you may need to replace.
Without checking first, replacing frying pans, saucepans or stockpots could add to the cost of a new hob.
Two hobs of a similar width may need different cut-outs and have zones in different sizes.
Measure the cut-out and the space beneath the worktop, then compare these with the exact model’s external dimensions, zones and electrical requirements.
A bridging zone is mainly useful for long or wide cookware. It won’t replace a zone suited to the small saucepans you use every day.
Measure the large pans you use regularly before choosing this feature.
A combination hob brings together cooking methods with different operating and connection requirements.
Choose this option only if you need both cooking methods. Before selecting a model, make sure you separately confirm the gas connection requirements.
Electrolux France’s range includes induction hobs with several zones, as well as an induction and gas combination hob.
Bosch Home Appliances France offers induction and ceramic hobs, as well as models with FlexInduction zones.
Whirlpool offers induction hobs, including models with a FlexiCook function.
These models let you compare two induction hobs and a ceramic hob when replacing your cooktop. Before choosing one, check your cookware, worktop cut-out and connection requirements against the manual for the exact model.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for an induction hob with an integrated extractor. It has a stated width of 80 cm. Check the cut-out dimensions and extraction space needed in your kitchen, then confirm which pans are suitable for its zones.
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Worth comparing if three zones suit the number of pans you use at once. Its stated power is 7200 W. Check the zone sizes, cut-out and connection requirements for this model before choosing it.
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Worth comparing with induction if several of your essential pans don’t have ferromagnetic bases. This ceramic hob is listed as a 60 cm model. Check the cut-out requirements and guidance on the bases of your cookware.
Place a magnet against the underside of each pan. If it sticks, the base is ferromagnetic, which is essential for induction. Then check that the base is flat enough and that its diameter falls within the limits given in the manual for your chosen hob.
No. The words “stainless steel” aren’t enough to confirm compatibility. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between stainless steels that are suitable and those that don’t respond to a magnetic field. Test the base with a magnet and check the cookware manufacturer’s guidance.
Measure the cut-out in the worktop and the available space underneath, then compare these with the new model’s external and cut-out dimensions. Also check the size of its zones against your cookware and confirm the connection requirements for that model.
If you buy an item from a professional seller in France, the statutory guarantee of conformity may apply if the item is not as described or does not conform to the contract. The French Ministry of the Economy says you have two years to seek a remedy under this guarantee. Any additional commercial warranty is on top of it and does not replace it.