First, test the pans you use: if several essential pieces aren’t suitable for induction, replacing them could affect your choice. Induction is a good option if your main cookware is compatible and the model’s electrical connection and installation requirements suit your kitchen. A ceramic hob lets you keep using non-ferromagnetic cookware. A mixed hob can retain the option of cooking with gas, provided you check the installation requirements for both types of hob separately.
If your cookware is still in good condition, check the pieces you use most before choosing induction. As Que Choisir explains, this technology requires compatible cookware: pans with a non-ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction hob.
The number of cooking zones isn’t the only thing to consider. Compare their layout and size with your saucepans, sauté pan and stockpot too. A bridge zone can be useful for a large pan, provided its dimensions match those specified for the hob.
Your choice depends both on which utensils you’d need to replace and on how you cook. The indicative consumption figures published by ADEME can help you compare induction and ceramic hobs, but won’t predict how much energy your household will use.
To choose a hob, first check that your cookware is suitable for the zones you’re considering, then make sure the hob you choose can be installed in your kitchen.
Consider it: if the base of your main pans is ferromagnetic and the model’s installation and electrical connection are suitable for your kitchen.
Bear in mind: any incompatible pieces you genuinely need will have to be replaced or used on a different type of hob.
Consider it: if keeping non-ferromagnetic cookware matters more to you than the indicative differences in energy use between technologies.
Bear in mind: the surface stays hot after cooking. Also check the cooking zones and the model’s installation requirements.
Consider it: if you want to keep some of the benefits of cooking with gas while also having induction zones.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to check the gas supply, electrical connection and installation requirements separately.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Test the base of the pans you use regularly with a magnet. Identify any you’d need to replace if you choose induction. | I want to carry on cooking with my usual pans without replacing the ones I use every week; around 36% of consumers rank this as their top priority. |
| Capacity and available space | Compare the pans you use at the same time with the number and layout of the cooking zones. Check the model’s cut-out dimensions. | When I’m preparing several dishes, I need enough room for my pans and larger cookware; around 29% of consumers put capacity ahead of other criteria. |
| Equipment and energy use | List the utensils you’d need to replace and compare indicative energy consumption under similar conditions. | I cook often and want to weigh the cost of replacing equipment against the electricity I’ll use over time; this is the priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Keeping gas | Check the layout of the zones on a mixed hob and have the relevant gas and electrical installations checked. | I want to keep cooking some dishes on gas without giving up induction zones; around 14% of consumers prioritise this flexibility. |
A pan with a non-ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction zone, as Que Choisir points out. The number of affected pieces could therefore influence your choice of hob.
Make a list of the utensils you use every week and test their bases with a magnet. If you choose induction, start by identifying any incompatible pieces you need.
The external dimensions don’t tell you how large the opening needs to be. For example, Electrolux states that its LR633CK measures 590 × 520 mm and requires a 560 × 490 mm cut-out.
Measure the opening and check the installation instructions for the exact model, including the required clearances.
If the existing cut-out isn’t suitable, your worktop may need to be adapted.
Legrand’s guidance on built-in electric hobs describes a specific type of connection. On its own, it can’t tell you whether your home’s installation is suitable for the model you’ve chosen.
Check the hob’s instructions and have the installation inspected by a qualified professional before making any wiring changes.
Linking two cooking zones is only useful if the shape and size of your pan meet the zone’s requirements. Whirlpool describes a linking function on certain models, not all of its hobs.
Measure the base of your largest pans, then compare it with the dimensions and instructions for the model you’re considering.
These models give you examples of configurations to compare with your cookware and kitchen. Their features aren’t necessarily available across every model from the same brand.
Bosch offers built-in induction hobs, including models with three cooking zones.
The range includes built-in ceramic hobs, worth considering if you want to keep using cookware that isn’t suitable for induction.
Whirlpool offers induction hobs, including some models with zones that can be linked.
Hold a magnet against the base of each saucepan or frying pan you use regularly: induction requires a ferromagnetic base. Make a note of any incompatible pieces before deciding whether to replace your cookware or choose a different hob.
Yes. A ceramic hob doesn’t require a ferromagnetic base to heat the pan. However, check the manufacturer’s guidance for your cookware, the size of the cooking zones and the cut-out dimensions of the hob you’re considering.
Compare the number and diameter of your pans with the actual layout of the cooking zones, rather than choosing based on the hob’s external width alone. If you use a large stockpot or a long pan, check the dimensions and usage requirements for any flexible zone.
Check the worktop cut-out and the connection requirements in the instructions for the exact model. To find out whether your home’s electrical installation is suitable, have it checked by a qualified professional. If you’re unsure, don’t alter the wiring yourself.
Not necessarily in every household. In an indicative table based on 409 cycles a year, ADEME gives figures of 115 kWh per year for induction and 200 kWh per year for ceramic hobs. Your energy use will depend in part on the appliance and your cooking habits.