Start with the space available while cooking: a portable induction hob can be put away afterwards, while a narrow built-in two-zone hob keeps a permanent cooking position without taking the width of a full-size model. Induction requires magnetic-base pans; if keeping incompatible cookware matters more, consider a narrow ceramic hob instead. Check the exact model’s dimensions, installation instructions and electrical requirements before buying.
If preparation and storage space are tight, a narrow fitted hob or a portable unit that can be put away may suit your kitchen better than a full-width hob. You still need enough clear, stable space for the appliance while cooking.
If your pans have magnetic bases, induction is an option for managing the change from frying to gentler pan cooking. Compare the exact hob’s heat settings and cooking zones with the pans you intend to use.
If the pans you rely on will not work with induction, a narrow ceramic hob lets you consider an electric option without choosing induction-compatible cookware solely for the new hob.
Choose a format that fits both the kitchen and the way you cook: one pan for the fricassee may leave a second zone for a side dish, while regularly using several pans changes the space decision.
Consider it when: you cannot alter the worktop or want to reclaim counter space after cooking.
Allow for: a stable surface during use, a safe cable route and magnetic-base pans.
Consider it when: you want two permanent cooking zones but have only a narrow stretch of worktop.
Allow for: the specified cut-out and installation requirements, as well as compatible pans.
Consider it when: a fitted two-zone hob suits the space but keeping non-magnetic cookware is important.
Allow for: the exact model’s cut-out and electrical requirements; a narrow ceramic hob should not be assumed to be plug-in.
Consider it when: you regularly cook several components at once and can accommodate a wider hob.
Allow for: more worktop width than a narrow model, plus the appliance’s installation requirements and magnetic-base pans.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and storage | Measure the full hob footprint and, for a fitted model, its specified cut-out. For a portable hob, plan where it will stand during use and be stored afterwards. | If counter space is scarce, I need room to prepare the meal as well as somewhere to cook it; around 36% of consumers put space fit and storage first. |
| Heat control and zones | Check the number of zones, adjustable heat settings and whether your main pan fits the intended zone. | When frying chicken before cooking it more gently in sauce, I want usable heat adjustments and, sometimes, room for a second pan; around 29% of consumers put cooking control first. |
| Connection and installation | Read the exact model’s power and connection instructions, including cable placement and any fitted-hob clearances. Seek a qualified electrician’s advice if the existing circuit is uncertain. | If I rent or am replacing a hob, I need to know whether the appliance can be placed and connected appropriately in my kitchen; around 21% of consumers make installation practicality their first concern. |
| Cookware compatibility | For induction, check that frequently used pans have suitable magnetic bases and compare their base sizes with the cooking zones. | If my dependable pans are non-magnetic, I would rather keep using them than replace them for a new hob; around 14% of consumers put cookware compatibility first. |
Induction needs cookware with a suitable magnetic base. Bosch lists cast iron, enamelled steel and suitable stainless steel as examples; pans made from materials such as glass or copper need a suitable magnetic base to work.
Check the bases of the pans you use most, including your fricassee pan, and compare their sizes with the intended zone. If keeping incompatible pans is essential, consider ceramic.
A plug supplied with a particular hob does not establish whether the intended socket or circuit is suitable. Electrical Safety First advises reviewing appliance power requirements to avoid overloading wiring.
Follow the exact model’s connection instructions. If you are unsure about the existing electrical installation, ask a qualified electrician; do not assume an extension lead is appropriate.
A narrow fitted hob also needs the specified depth, cut-out and clearances. A portable hob needs a level, stable place to stand while it is in use.
Measure against the exact appliance and its installation manual, including the cable route and, for a portable unit, where it will go after cooking.
Induction cookware and parts of the hob can remain hot after cooking. A residual-heat indicator is a warning, not a reason to touch the surface.
Keep metal utensils and lids off the hob, use its controls to switch zones off and follow the model’s supervision and child-lock instructions where relevant.
These models illustrate different hob formats; their features and installation arrangements should not be assumed to apply to every product from the same brand.
The eiQ30INDP is a narrow fitted induction example for a permanent two-zone cooking position. electriQ lists it as 288 mm wide with a 2,900 W total rating and a supplied plug.
The UBIND30FLC is a compact built-in induction model. CATA Appliances lists a 290 × 520 mm footprint and a fitted UK 13 A plug.
The two-zone TILLREDA is a portable induction option for a kitchen where the cooking surface needs to be moved or stored.
The SCC030FR is a narrow built-in ceramic alternative for cooks who want to keep pans that lack an induction-compatible base.
The HII164401QT is a four-zone induction example for a kitchen with room for a wider fitted hob. Beko lists it as 59 cm wide.
This portable induction option is worth considering if you need a cooking surface that can be moved after use. Check its cooking-zone layout and full dimensions against the pans and counter space you have in mind.
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Consider this portable hob if you want to free the counter after cooking and adjust the heat as the dish moves from frying to gentler cooking.
Two zones can suit a fricassee cooked mainly in one pan, with a second zone available for a side dish. If you regularly use several pans at once, compare that limitation with the worktop space a four-zone hob requires.
They will work only if they have suitable magnetic bases. Bosch identifies cast iron, enamelled steel and suitable stainless steel as compatible examples; check each important pan and the hob’s pan-size guidance before choosing induction.
Follow the instructions for the exact appliance rather than assuming an extension lead is suitable. IKEA’s TILLREDA instructions say not to connect that model with an extension cord or place its cable across working areas.
No. Specific plug-in models are listed by electriQ and CATA Appliances, but the appropriate connection depends on the appliance instructions and the kitchen’s electrical installation. Electrical Safety First advises checking power requirements to avoid overloading wiring; ask a qualified electrician if the existing circuit is uncertain.
Clean it according to the instructions for your model, after it is safe to do so. For its TILLREDA hob, IKEA advises a damp cloth with warm water and mild detergent, followed by a soft cloth for drying, and warns against abrasive or sharp cleaning tools.