Before choosing an induction hob, check that the base of any saucepans and frying pans you want to keep is ferromagnetic. UFC-Que Choisir advises that cookware without this type of base will not work on an induction zone. If some of your cookware is incompatible, also compare a ceramic hob with radiant zones or a mixed induction and gas hob. For each option, check the cut-out dimensions and the connection requirements for the model. If necessary, have a professional check the installation.
You’re replacing your hob but don’t want to automatically replace your frying pans and saucepans too. UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux support advise that the base of your cookware determines whether it’s compatible with induction.
You’re comparing different technologies while taking the worktop cut-out and available connections into account. Legrand France and Promotelec provide details about electrical connections; what’s possible will depend on your installation.
You use saucepans of different sizes and shapes and want to check how they’ll fit on the cooking zones. Bosch and Electrolux product information shows that zone layouts vary by model.
Worth considering: if the cookware you’re keeping has a ferromagnetic base and is suitable for the model’s cooking zones.
Check: UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux specify that a compatible base is essential. Also check its dimensions against the instructions.
Worth considering: if keeping non-ferromagnetic cookware is a priority and you’re happy with radiant heating.
Know the difference: Bosch points out that “ceramic” can refer to the surface of an induction hob. Check the type of heating used by the zones.
Worth considering: if you want to use induction with compatible cookware while also keeping gas cooking.
Check: induction zones still require compatible cookware. The ministry responsible for the environment states that gas installations are subject to technical and safety regulations.
Worth considering: if you’d prefer induction and only some of the cookware you use is incompatible.
Plan ahead: identify which items you’ll need to replace and check their dimensions before choosing a hob.
| Consideration | What to check | Who places the most importance on it |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Test the base with a magnet; compare its flatness and diameter with the guidance in the instructions. | If I want to keep my saucepans and frying pans, I’ll check their bases before deciding whether induction is right for me. Around 29% of consumers prioritise keeping their existing cookware. |
| Fitting and connections | Compare the existing cut-out with the model’s dimensions; have the connections checked if necessary. | When redesigning my kitchen, I need to make sure the hob suits the space and the available connections. Around 23% of consumers prioritise whether the hob can be fitted and connected. |
| Number and layout of zones | Compare the bases of your cookware with the size of the zones and the combination options listed. | If I use a range of pan sizes or cook several dishes at once, I’ll look at how much space is actually available on the zones. Around 18% of consumers prioritise the zone layout. |
| Total cost of the change | Consider the model, any cookware you’ll need to replace and any work or adaptations required. | To keep my budget on track, I’ll consider the cookware and any necessary changes, not just the hob. Around 18% of consumers weigh up the total cost of the project first. |
| Keeping gas cooking | Check the layout of the zones and whether the gas installation is suitable for the exact model. | If I want to keep gas cooking for certain uses, I’ll check the layout and installation requirements of the mixed hob. Around 12% of consumers make keeping gas their priority. |
The words “stainless steel” or “aluminium” aren’t enough to tell you whether cookware will work on an induction hob. UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux state that the base must be ferromagnetic; its shape and dimensions matter too.
Test the base with a magnet, then compare its diameter with the dimensions permitted in the instructions for the hob you’re considering.
An induction hob can have a ceramic glass surface without working like a radiant hob.
Check the heating technology listed for each zone rather than relying on the surface material alone.
The advertised width alone doesn’t tell you whether the cut-out and connections in your kitchen are suitable for the model. A mixed hob also means checking the gas installation.
Compare the fitting dimensions and instructions with your kitchen, and have the connections checked if your project requires it.
The Electrolux product information for reference KDI641723K contains conflicting details about the number of gas and induction zones.
Before choosing this model based on its layout, check the diagram and instructions for the exact reference.
The French models PIX63SHC1F and PKM61RAA8F are examples of an induction hob and a ceramic hob respectively.
The iQ700 EX651HEC1F is an example of a four-zone induction hob with a flexible zone.
The French models LIB60320CK and KDI641723K are examples of an induction hob and a mixed induction and gas hob.
The AKT 8090/NE is an example of a four-zone electric ceramic hob.
The models below include induction hobs and hobs with a ceramic or ceramic glass surface. Check the heating technology, cookware compatibility and installation requirements on the product page for the model you’re considering.
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Worth considering if the cookware you’re keeping has a ferromagnetic base.
Four zones; Bridge function; 60 cm size.
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Worth considering if you’re comparing a ceramic hob with induction models. Check the exact heating technology of the zones and whether your cookware is compatible.
Two zones; 3,200 W; nine power levels; pause function and child lock.
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If you’re comparing different layouts, check the heating type of the zones and which cookware is compatible with the model.
Four zones; touch controls with dual-circuit zones; nine levels; 99-minute timer.
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Worth considering if the cookware you’re keeping has a ferromagnetic base and the cut-out dimensions suit your kitchen.
Four zones; 6,800 W; nine power levels; timer from 1 to 99 minutes.
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Worth considering if two zones meet your needs and the cookware you use has a ferromagnetic base.
3,400 W; nine settings; timer and Booster function; the product information lists built-in or freestanding installation and a voltage of 220–240 V.
Test whether a magnet sticks to the base, then check that it’s flat and that its diameter is suitable for the zone specified in the instructions. Electrolux support points out that the material name alone isn’t always enough to assess a multi-layer base.
Don’t assume a standard socket is suitable for a built-in hob: Legrand France describes a dedicated circuit for this type of hob. For a single-phase installation, Legrand specifies, among other things, a 6 mm² conductor, a 32 A circuit breaker and 30 mA Type A residual-current protection. Have a professional check your actual installation and follow the model’s instructions.
Not on its induction zones: only cookware with a ferromagnetic base will work on them. The gas zones may suit other uses, provided the installation complies with the relevant regulations. Also check the exact layout of the model.
Let the surface cool and follow the care instructions in the manual. Bosch’s guide explains that an induction hob doesn’t heat its surface directly like a radiant zone, which can make it easier to clean; however, the cookware can still transfer heat to it.
The ministry responsible for the environment states that gas appliances and indoor installations, including hobs, are subject to technical and safety regulations. The requirements depend on the work and installation involved, so check what applies before choosing this option.