Switching to induction could be right for you if the pans you want to keep are compatible and your kitchen can accommodate your chosen hob. Then decide how many cooking zones you need based on how many pans you use at once. A flexible zone is most useful if you regularly cook with large dishes. If keeping non-compatible cookware or cooking with gas is still a priority, consider a mixed hob or another cooking solution.
Before choosing an induction hob, check your pans, the worktop cut-out and the planned electrical connection. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of using compatible cookware. For a built-in hob connection, follow the instructions and have the installation checked if necessary.
If you regularly use several pans on the hob at the same time, compare the number and layout of the cooking zones, not just the advertised total power. UFC-Que Choisir looks in particular at configurations with two, three and four zones.
A griddle, fish kettle or rectangular dish may make a Bridge or flexible zone worth considering. Measure your cookware: the shape and usable dimensions vary between the models featured by Bosch and Electrolux.
Start with your cookware and installation, then choose the cooking zones to suit the dishes you actually prepare at the same time. The following criteria are for households fitting or replacing a hob and considering induction.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware and installation | Test the base of your pans with a magnet. For a built-in hob, check that the instructions match your existing cut-out and electrical circuit. | If I’m replacing my hob, I want to know whether I can keep my pans and fit the new hob in my kitchen. Around 27% of consumers put compatibility and installation first. |
| Cooking several dishes at once | Count the pans you use together, then compare the layout, size and number of cooking zones. | When I’m preparing several parts of a meal, I need zones I can use at the same time without the pans getting in each other’s way. This is the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Large cookware | Compare your largest dishes with the stated shape and dimensions of a circular or flexible zone. | If I regularly use a griddle or an elongated dish, I look for a zone that suits its shape. Around 20% of consumers prioritise larger cookware. |
| Everyday use | Check the model’s controls, timers and safety features. To compare cooking performance or energy use, consult tests that cover these criteria. | For everyday cooking, I want to adjust settings easily and find the safety features I need. These aspects come first for around 20% of consumers. |
Cookware without a ferromagnetic base is not suitable for induction cooking. UFC-Que Choisir recommends testing the underside with a magnet.
Before choosing a hob, check the pans you want to keep and look for an induction symbol, if present.
You may need to replace some cookware if you want to keep using it for the same dishes.
The cut-out and electrical connection must be suitable for the model you choose. Legrand describes a dedicated connection for a built-in induction hob; a portable hob with a plug should be installed according to its own instructions.
Measure the opening, check the installation diagram and have the circuit inspected if you’re unsure it’s suitable.
Your project may require changes to the electrical circuit or worktop cut-out.
The Bridge and flexible zones featured by Bosch and Electrolux suit specific types of cookware. Their presence doesn’t guarantee they’ll work with your griddle or usual pans.
Measure the dishes you want to use, then compare their shape with the zone layout specified for the model.
In France, a statutory guarantee of conformity is compulsory when you buy a new product from a professional seller, the Ministry of the Economy explains. A commercial guarantee is separate.
Before taking out an extended warranty, compare what it actually adds, including exclusions and service conditions. Don’t confuse it with the statutory protection that applies.
Worth considering for selected FlexInduction models designed for large cookware.
Compare its three-zone hobs with a flexible zone, or consider a mixed induction-and-gas configuration.
Worth a look if you’re after three cooking zones, including a large circular one.
Consider it for a compact or modular kitchen project built around a two-zone domino hob.
These two models suit different needs: a two-zone hob for cooking with a few pans at once, and a built-in three-zone hob for preparing more dishes. Before ordering, check your cookware and the connection requirements for each model.
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Worth considering if two pans at once are enough for your cooking needs. Before buying, check that your pans are compatible, and confirm the plug type, whether a cord is included and the connection requirements.
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Consider the three zones if you cook several dishes at once. For this built-in hob, have the electrical connection and worktop cut-out checked. Also compare the zone dimensions with your cookware.
Place a magnet against the base of each pan you want to keep. If it sticks, the base should be suitable for induction, according to UFC-Que Choisir. Also check for an induction symbol on the cookware, if there is one.
No. Don’t assume they use the same type of connection. Legrand describes a dedicated connection for a built-in induction hob; a portable hob with a plug should be connected according to its own instructions. If in doubt, have the planned circuit checked.
Not necessarily: a large circular zone may suit a round frying pan, while a Bridge zone is better suited to some elongated or rectangular cookware. Compare your pan’s dimensions with the zones on the model you’re considering.
No. A statutory guarantee of conformity is compulsory for a new product bought from a professional seller in France, according to the Ministry of the Economy. Check the cover and exclusions of any commercial guarantee separately.