Choose an induction hob if your main pans are compatible and your electrical installation can support the model you have in mind. Then decide how many cooking zones you need based on how many things you cook at once, and consider a flexible zone for larger pans. A mixed hob is only worth considering if you want to keep gas cooking and can have the installation checked.
A hob that suits the way you cook also needs to fit into your existing kitchen. The worktop cut-out, the pans you plan to keep and how many dishes you prepare at once will all influence your choice.
If you’re keeping your worktop, check the new model’s cut-out dimensions and have the electrical supply checked before comparing its features. Test the pans you plan to keep, too: UFC-Que Choisir notes that induction requires cookware with a ferromagnetic base.
If you regularly use three or four pans at the same time, the space they actually take up on the hob matters just as much as the advertised number of cooking zones. Compare their layout and dimensions, then check whether the controls suit your everyday needs.
If you often cook with an oval casserole, a griddle or a rectangular dish, check the dimensions of the area created when two cooking zones are joined. A flexible-zone feature alone doesn’t guarantee that your cookware will fit.
When replacing a hob, start with anything that could prevent installation or stop you using your existing cookware. Then choose between cooking capacity, space for larger pans and keeping a gas burner, depending on what matters most to you.
| Criteria | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation and cookware | Compare the existing cut-out with the model’s installation dimensions and have its power supply checked. Test the base of any pans you intend to use on induction. | If I’m keeping my worktop and cookware, I need to know whether the new hob can be installed and used with them. Around 40% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Cooking several things at once | Compare the number, size and layout of the cooking zones with the pans you use together. | Preparing several parts of a meal at the same time means having zones that my pans can actually fit on. For around 30% of consumers, this matters more than any other criterion. |
| Larger cookware | Check the dimensions of the flexible zone and how the cooking zones join together. | If I often use a griddle or oval casserole, I mainly need a cooking surface that suits its shape. This is the priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Keeping gas | Check the layout of the burners on the mixed hob and have the planned gas installation assessed. | If I want to keep cooking with gas, this determines which hob I can consider, even if I also cook on induction. Around 10% of consumers prioritise keeping gas. |
Two cooking zones may be enough if you usually cook with one or two pans. Three or four zones give you more scope to cook several things at once, but that doesn’t guarantee that all your large pans will fit together. Check how the zones are laid out on the hob. Bosch describes FlexInduction zones that can be joined to create a rectangular surface, while some Electrolux models have flexible zones. Check the dimensions and operation of the exact model before choosing this feature.
For induction hobs in France, Enedis says that a dedicated electrical circuit and protective device are required. If you’re considering a mixed hob, the gas side needs separate checks: Cegibat, an organisation run by GRDF, covers installation and ventilation requirements, among other things. Don’t assume that a new model can be connected without modifications just because you already have an old hob.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, cookware without a ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction hob. One compatible pan doesn’t tell you whether your other pans and larger dishes will work, too.
Check each item of cookware you use regularly, then compare its size and shape with the zones on the model you’re considering.
You’ll need to replace incompatible cookware or use it with another type of hob.
Two hobs with a similar width don’t necessarily have the same installation cut-out, cooking-zone layout or electrical requirements.
Measure the existing cut-out and the space available beneath the worktop, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model. Have the power supply planned for the hob checked, too.
An unsuitable cut-out could mean altering the worktop or being unable to fit your chosen model.
Keeping a gas burner doesn’t remove the need to check the electrical supply for the induction side. You’ll also need to consider your kitchen layout for the gas side. Cegibat, an organisation run by GRDF, explains installation and ventilation requirements, among other things.
Before choosing a mixed hob, ask a suitably qualified professional to check the type of gas available and the installation requirements for your home.
For goods sold by a business to a private individual in France, the French Ministry of the Economy distinguishes between the statutory guarantee of conformity, which is compulsory, and an optional commercial guarantee.
Compare the cover and exclusions of any extended guarantee with the statutory protection that already applies, particularly if installation is part of your purchase.
These ranges give you a starting point for comparing the number of cooking zones, flexible zones and overall width. Features vary by model, so check the manual for the one you’re considering rather than relying on the brand name alone.
Bosch’s range includes three-zone induction hobs and FlexInduction models worth considering if you use larger pans.
Some four-zone Electrolux models have flexible zones, which may suit kitchens where larger pans are used regularly.
Whirlpool offers three- and four-zone induction hobs, as well as models described as having connected or flexible zones.
Siemens’ range of widths is worth considering if the available worktop space limits your replacement options.
They need a ferromagnetic base: UFC-Que Choisir explains that cookware without one won’t work on an induction hob. Check each of your main pans, then make sure they’re the right size for the cooking zones on the model you’re considering.
Don’t assume so: Enedis says an induction hob needs a dedicated electrical circuit and protective device. Have your existing installation checked and review the requirements in the model’s manual before planning the connection.
A flexible zone is worth considering if you often use a griddle, an oval casserole or a large rectangular dish. Bosch describes zones that join to create a rectangular surface on some models, while Electrolux offers flexible zones. Compare the cooking surface and controls on the exact model with your cookware.
No. You’ll need checks for both the induction and gas sides. Before choosing one, have the electrical supply, gas type and kitchen layout assessed. Cegibat, an organisation run by GRDF, explains gas installation and ventilation requirements, among other things.
No. In France, the Ministry of the Economy says that the statutory guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a business to a private individual; a commercial guarantee is separate. Compare the cover offered by an extension with your statutory rights and check for any exclusions.