We tested the best pans for induction hob cooking and these were our favourites

Invest in the best cookware for efficient and creative cooking.

best pans for induction hob

by Natalie Knowles |
Updated on

Cook faster and save energy with the best pans for induction hob cooking. If you're new to induction, it's quite an eye-opener; precision temperature control means you can take a saucepan of cool water to boiling point in a minute. Induction cooking has to be seen to be believed, and with the right cookware, you can pull off all kinds of culinary magic tricks, such as melting chocolate directly in a pan without a bain-marie. However, the technology is reliant on having the best saucepans that can conduct a magnetic charge, meaning it's important to choose pans that are made from the right type of metal.

There is an easy test to see if pans and stove-top kettles are compatible with an induction hob. If a magnet sticks to the base of the pan, it will work. However, lower-quality pans will not heat up as efficiently as a pan that has a heavy bottom and flat base made from cast iron or stainless steel. While cookware made with a lightweight aluminium body is fine, it's important to look for pots and pans that have a plate in the base that will conduct magnetism.

Best pans for an induction hob

As well as paying attention to the material the pan is made from, look for quality non-stick cookware. There have been scares over the years about 'Forever Chemicals' that were used in non-stick coatings, but now top-name brands use alternatives and will state that their cookware is PFAS-free.

So, if you're interested in creating a stove-top cauliflower cheese without fear of it sticking and burning on the pan, induction cooking could well be the trend to topple the air fryer craze. Using exact temperature control (or the melting function on certain hobs), a great pan and an induction hob can be used to make delicate sauces.

How we tested these pans for induction hob cooking

Homes & Garden writer Natalie Knowles, tried and tested several of the pan sets in her own kitchen. Natalie's spent the last couple of years kitting out her home with new appliances and writing about them on Yours and A Modern Kitchen. With an interest in energy-saving appliances, Natalie is an expert in white goods, ovens and countertop gadgets.

We sourced these pan sets and used them for an extended period of time. We then considered a number of factors, including value for money, build quality, usability and cooking performance. All our reviews are honest and genuine, and we’ve included both the positive and negative comments we received from our reviewers.

Best pans for an induction hob

Tested

Best for low calorie cooking

Yours/Stellar
Price: £63 (was £90)

stellar.co.uk

The Stellar Verve 28cm Wok is part of the Verve cookware range with the USP of a Geoform double non-stick layer, which means you need less oil to cook – plus it's effortless to clean. In addition, it has a honeycomb grid of channels to drain grease away from food, so you still get a wonderful Maillard effect without the added calories.

The pan is designed to be energy efficient and conduct heat on an induction hob. Therefore, it will cook perfectly at lower temperatures. Stellar advises that high temperatures and boost functions may end up damaging the pan and hob. Heat the pan gradually, and it will do the rest, as aluminium is the best conductor of heat.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "I was aware of the great reputation that this cookware has (my mum's pans are all Stellar). Using this wok made me understand why this premium brand is so good. First of all, the wok looks beautiful, with an elegant fluted handle. But it's practical, too; both the main handle and small side handle have a smooth stay-cool grip, and they're riveted onto the pan itself. It's heavy and as the guarantee states, I'm pretty sure it's built to last a lifetime.

"I cooked a stir fry in it and barely spritzed the pan with oil. In comparison to my usual pan, this heated up significantly faster. Also, I have found that lower-quality pans hum and vibrate on an induction hob. This was silent. Veggies cooked beautifully without sticking or burning. You can feel the difference in the performance of this cookware.

"My partner said to me, "Did you just wash it?" Normally, we have to soak our pans (there is no dishwasher, alas). I literally used warm, soapy water and a washing-up brush, and the wok came up like new. The non-stick coating on this pan is next-level. I can safely say this, having bought new pans in the past and been really disappointed to see the coating chip within days of use.

"If you can afford Stellar, I wholeheartedly recommend Verve cookware. The look, feel and usability are 5/5 from me."

Pros

  • Stylish matte black finish to complement a modern kitchen
  • Top-notch build quality and a lifetime guarantee
  • Excellent heat conduction and responsive to induction hob temperature control

Cons

  • It's expensive but if you love cooking it is a worthy investment
Size:28cm diameter and base diameter 17cm (H13.5 x W28 x L51.5cm)
Material:Aluminium
Compatibility:All hob types, oven (up to 180°C) and dishwasher safe
Guarantee:Lifetime and 10-year warranty on non-stick coating
  • Smooth anti-slip and stay-cool grip handles
  • Stellar Verve range includes an induction-safe sauté pan, wok, grill pan

Tested

Best for healthy non-stick coating

Yours/GreenPan

Use less oil or butter and make frying healthier with the GreenPan Barcelona Pro range. It has a ceramic non-stick coating, that's metal utensil safe, and made from natural materials. Thanks to ScratchGuard™ technology the surface is extremely tough. Plus, the body is hard anodised aluminium that's twice as hard as stainless steel. The 28cm frying pan serves up to five people and it has an oven-safe handle, so it's perfect for a one-pot dinner.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "On first impressions, it's as heavy as the Stellar Wok and has a premium look and feel. The non-stick coating is flawless and shiny; to quote the packaging, it's: 'solid as a rock and slippery smooth!'

"I made an omelette and it really didn't require much oil. The pan heated up fast, perfect for induction cooking, conducting an even heat that gently cooks. I felt I didn't need to keep checking on the omelette, leaving me free to prep a salad. The omelette effortlessly came away from the pan with a subtly browned finish. Perfect result!

"Similarly, it was a doddle to wash clean – plus, Greenpan's Barcelona range is dishwasher-safe. My only concern is that it's a heavy pan, which might be too heavy for some. However, the whole point of induction cooking is that you keep the pan connected to the cooking ring... I'd use a spatula to flip my pancakes!"

Pros

  • Ceramic non-stick coating is excellent – for healthier cooking – durable and a breeze to clean
  • Elegant look with the mirror finish stainless steel handle that's riveted onto the pan
  • Pan interior is seamless so it prevents food getting trapped and it's easy to clean

Cons

  • Bear in mind it's a heavy pan
Size:28cm diameter
Material:Aluminium, stainless steel handles
Compatibility:All hob types, oven safe (up to 220°C), dishwasher safe
Guarantee:Limited lifetime guarantee (non-stick 5 years)
  • PFAS-free Thermolon™ Infinity Professional ceramic non-stick coating
  • 5mm ultra-durable aluminium body for quick, even heating and excellent cooking results
  • Balance Pro technology means the base stays completely flat when heated, giving optimum connection with an induction hob

Tested

Best retro style pans for induction cooking

Yours/Swan
Price: £63.99 (was £89.99)

shop.swan-brand.co.uk

The Swan Retro saucepan and frying pan set features a ribbed body and a chromed handle. The set is available in a range of colours to complement your kitchen décor, and Swan also offers an extensive range of matching kitchenware.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "This is a gorgeous set of pans with a touch of 1980s kitchen retro. But, apart from the solid conductive plate in the base of each pan, it doesn't feel as robust as other cookware I've tested. I had to tighten the screw in one of the lids, but at least that's easily done, and it's a common issue with sauce pan lids. This range needs some care to maintain its non-stick coating and painted exterior. High temperatures and detergents used in dishwashers can adversely affect the coatings on these pans, so hand wash only. Also, this cookware cannot go in the oven.

"I'm not phased by that, this is a perfectly lovely pan set for heating up baked beans, frying an egg or boiling some potatoes. The 3mm pressed aluminium pans are lightweight and feel just fine to use. While the non-stick coating means you can get away with using less oil, in the accompanying instruction booklet, Swan recommends that some foods, such as eggs, require a little oil during cooking. As such, I fried some eggs in a liquid vegetable oil rather than a spray oil. The frying pan heated up fast and evenly on the induction hob.

"I was wondering if the pale interior of the pan might discolour, but with care, the non-stick coating is robust. I melted chocolate directly in a pan it washed up like new. Just be sure not to use metal utensils or harsh scouring pads.

"My partner pointed out that there is a tiny gap where the handle fixes to the pan and he was concerned that might be a place where debris or bacteria could build up. I was also wondering how the chromed effect might show limescale build-up over time as we live in a hard water area. But these points are minimal, giving the range's aesthetic appeal and is perfectly fitting for everyday use. If you take care of the pans, they will last a good while."

Pros

  • Attractive design and available in a range of colours
  • Lightweight and just fine for every day cooking
  • Conducts heat very well for fast and even cooking

Cons

  • Must not be used in an oven and hand wash only
Size:16, 18 and 20cm saucepans and 20cm and 28cm frying pans
Material:Aluminium, glass lid, Bakelite handles
Compatibility:All hob types
Guarantee:5 years
  • A matching range of Swan Retro kitchenware is available
  • Ceramic non-stick interior is free from PFAO and PTFE

Tested

Best space-saving pan set

Yours/Tower
Price: £89.99 (was £149.99)

www.towerhousewares.co.uk

Ingeniously designed to be stackable and space-saving, the Tower Freedom set comprises of two saucepans, two frying pans, a wok and a multi-pan, plus lids and detachable handles. In addition, the Cerastone non-stick coating claims to be five times stronger than other non-stick coatings. The pans are oven-safe too, so you could create one-pot Lancashire hotpot – from searing the meat to browning the top and storing leftovers in the fridge – all in the same pan.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "This pan set is so lightweight. The 28cm multi-purpose pan is comparable in thickness and weight to a metal bowl that I take camping. All of the pressed aluminium pans are just 2.5mm thick. The metal plate in the base makes them work on an induction hob. I did a magnet test, and it stuck with force.

"I cooked Bibimbap and noticed that it would not be possible to fit all of the larger pans in this set on a standard-size induction hob. So, while I had a pan of sticky rice and a stir fry on the go, I didn't fry some eggs. The pan interior is curved, so you need a spatula rather than a fish slice to get food out of the corners.

"The pans heat up relatively fast. For example, I used cold water for my rice and the water was boiling within two minutes. For context, my usual sauce pan takes as long as five minutes to heat water from cold. The non-stick coating is very good for using less oil and easy washing up. I love the versatility of the pans: they go in the oven and can be used to refrigerate leftovers – they even come with a couple of reusable silicone lids. I doubt they're going to last a lifetime, but the key benefits are the weight, versatility and size. I'd use them in the oven as well as on the hob if I were cooking a big meal. Alternatively, I'd make a generous one-pot dinner in one of the larger pans.

"The lids are flat, with a rubber trim and a groove to accommodate a detachable handle. This design makes them space-saving and stackable. I just had reservations about the rubber, as the dust was clinging to it, and it showed marks when I rubbed it.

"The soft-touch handles clip on and off, and a locking system keeps the handle securely attached. But it takes a little force, which is fine if you've got full dexterity, but not if you have arthritis. Also, if I were cooking a big meal, I would need more than two handles. Happily, a Freedom Bakelite Detachable Handle can be purchased for less than £10.

"The key USP is the space-saving design and if you have a small kitchen or are looking for a pan set for a campervan or holiday home, this is a top drawer pan set."

Pros

  • Stackable and space-saving for less cluttered cupboards and easier to load in a small dishwasher
  • Incredibly lightweight pressed aluminium pan set; ideal for travelling
  • Versatile, use as oven dishes and pop leftovers in the fridge covered with the silicone lids

Cons

  • The lever on the detachable handle is a little fiddly to lock into place
Size:18cm and 20cm saucepans; 24cm and 28cm frying pans; 28cm wok; 28cm multi-pan
Material:Aluminium pans, Bakelite handles, rubber and glass lids
Compatibility:All hob types, dishwasher-safe, oven-safe up to 230°C (excluding lids and handles)
Guarantee:1-year standard warranty with the option to extend to 10 years
  • 5x Cerastone ultra-durable non-stick coating
  • Soft-to-grip Bakelite handles clip onto any of the pans

Tested

Best premium pan set for an induction hob

Yours/Blackmoor

Blackmoor's Blue Pro 3-Piece Mixed Pan Set is a premium range, with a with high-performance non-stick coating. The range features stainless steel, riveted handles and lids that are oven safe. The pans are specially designed to conduct heat faster and also retain heat for longer. This set includes a casserole pot, frying pan and a saucepan.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "Immediately, the quality of this pan set is evident. The metallic blue non-stick coating looks gorgeous, and the tapered stainless steel handles and glass lids look and feel premium. I seared sausages in the casserole pot on the hob, added other ingredients, and put the casserole and lid in the oven. I fried the remaining sausages in the frying pan and simmered some vegetables to serve alongside. First of all, these pans heat up fast and get extremely hot. Cook at lower temperatures because the pans conduct heat so well. This set is the closest I've found to the heat conduction of a cast iron pan. The saucepan lid handle gets very hot too, so use a mitt. But the longer handles stay relatively cool to the touch.

"The beautiful metallic blue non-stick coating is not dishwasher-safe, so these pans need to be hand-washed. But that's a breeze. I found them effortless to wash.

"In summary, I'd would make these my go-to pan set. They are extremely good quality. But, I did burn my fingers on an unexpectedly hot lid, so please be sure to use a mitt. Superb quality and aesthetically top-notch."

Pros

  • Premium look and feel, with a modern and stylish high-shine blue exterior
  • Stainless steel handles stay cool during cooking
  • Robust and hardwearing, yet attractive, cookware
  • Extremely good heat conduction and retention; cook at lower temperatures

Cons

  • The pans are slightly too big to use all three pans at once on a standard size hob
Size:24cm casserole pot; 28cm frying pan; 18cm saucepan
Material:Aluminium, Stainless steel handle
Compatibility:Electric, gas, solid hotplate and induction, oven safe to 220°C
Guarantee:Not specified
  • Forged aluminium pans and 5-layer blue high shine non-stick coating
  • Stainless steel handle
  • Tempered glass lid

Tested

Best cast iron grill pan

This attractive cast iron grill pan can be used on any induction hob that has a flexible space feature. This means two or more cooking areas combine to form one large ring. This rectangular grill pan can be used to sear burgers, fish and kebabs for a delicious chargrilled flavour. It's oven-safe, too, so it's perfect cookware for presenting a showstopper rack of lamb or roast salmon. Plus, fat drains away in the oil channels.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "The Habitat Large Cast Iron Grill Pan is an eye-catching piece of cookware and a lot of fun to use. Because it's solid iron, it conducts heat extremely well—a little too well—as unlike usual induction cooking, which focuses heat on the pan's contents, this large griddle transfers heat to the hob itself.

"I have the windows open and the extractor fan on full as this form of cooking creates smoke. But I love it. My Hotpoint CleanProtect Hob has a FlexiSpace feature which is divided into low, medium and high heat sections, so the grill pan can be used for searing as well as keeping cooked food warm at the same time."

Pros

  • Looks more expensive than it is
  • Heavy and strong cast iron that can go in the oven too
  • Ridges give a char-grilled effect on meat, fish, veggies and bread

Cons

  • Gets incredibly hot and conducts heats across the hob
Size:L26.25 x W40.3 x D2.45cm
Material:Cast iron enamel-coated
Compatibility:Electric, gas, ceramic, halogen, induction and solid hotplates, oven safe up to 260°C
Guarantee:1 year
  • Non-stick coating
  • Not dishwasher safe

Induction hob pans we're currently testing

We're currently testing the pans listed below and will update this page with our findings. We still wanted to include them in this round-up as they have received some great reviews online.

Best value induction pan set

Salter Marblestone 3 Piece Saucepan SetSalter
Price: £146.89

The Salter Marblestone 3 Piece Saucepan Set is a great value option if you're looking for comparatively lightweight induction pans that have easy-to-grip handles. The corrosion-resistant aluminium pans heat up fast, so you can cooking efficiently. Plus, the non-stick coating means you barely need any oil.

This Amazon's Choice recommended pan set is from Salter. This kitchenware brand has over 4,580 reviews, rating their products at 4.5 out of 5. Customers praise the versatility of these saucepans. Also, they find them easy to use and clean. They can go in the dishwasher too. However, it's best to use moderate temperatures with these pans, to prevent the base warping. Their overall build quality is not as robust as some of our premium picks.

Pros

  • Ergonomic and stay-cool handles are safe and easy to grip
  • Easy to clean non-stick coating that also means you barely need any oil
  • Perfect for everyday healthy cooking

Cons

  • In terms of overall durability these won't last as long as premium cookware
Size:16, 18 and 20cm
Material:Aluminium, tempered glass, bakelite
Compatibility:Gas, electric, induction or ceramic
Guarantee:Not specified
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Dishwasher safe
  • PFOA-free

Best all-round induction pan for cooking and cleaning

Ninja ZEROSTICK 26cm Sauté PanNinja
Price: £38.26

Ninja's ZEROSTICK cookware is scratch-resistant. This sauté pan with a glass lid boasts fast heat-up, preventing hot spots and uneven cooking. It's made from hard anodised aluminium, an excellent heat conductor. The key USP is the Zerostick coating, which is designed to last. The pan is guaranteed for ten years.

Customer reviews indicate that they are highly impressed with the non-stick capabilities of this pan, so much so that it's convinced them to buy other cookware in the Zerostick range. Also, they say that the handles stay cool to the touch, albeit it's quite a long handle, so factor that in if you intend on cooking with multiple pans at once.

Pros

  • Use less oil thanks to the Zerostick coating
  • Quality aluminium with stainless steel handles and rim
  • Highly praised in reviews for great cooking performance and easy cleaning

Cons

  • The handle is quite long, bear this in mind if you intend on using multiple pans at once
Size:26cm and 30cm
Material:Hard anodised aluminium
Compatibility:All hob types and oven safe to 260°C
Guarantee:10 years
  • Ninja ZEROSTICK is up to 20 times tougher than traditional non-stick
  • Metal utensil safe and dishwasher safe

Best pot for professional quality cooking

ZWILLING TWIN Classic Stock PotZWILLING
Price: £156.44

Zwilling is known for its range of professional kitchen knives; the same superior forging techniques are used in its cookware. Professional chefs favour quality stainless steel pans for their supreme durability. Also, uncoated stainless steel is hygienic and doesn't taint food taste. It does require oiling to ensure food doesn't stick.

The SIGMA Classic sandwich base is multi-layered, with an aluminium core, for high energy efficiency and heat retention.

If you love cooking and want professional-quality pots and pans, Zwilling is a top choice. Customer reviews consistently praise the durability, elegance and quality. Just bear in mind that the range is heavier than other options.

Pros

  • Professional-quality cookware that's a must for foodies
  • Stainless steel build that will withstand higher temperatures and the test of time
  • Specially forged base that's designed for excellent heat conduction

Cons

  • Heavier than other cookware
Size:24cm diameter
Material:Stainless steel
Compatibility:Compatible with all hob types and ovens
Guarantee:Not specified
  • Integrated measuring scale
  • High-quality 18/1 stainless steel

Best stainless steel set for induction cooking

ProCook Professional Stainless Steel Cookware SetProCook

The difference between uncoated stainless steel cookware and the coated alternatives is that it can reach higher temperatures. As such, a more comprehensive range of cooking techniques is achievable. So, if you love experimenting in the kitchen, this ProCook Professional Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a top choice.

Guaranteed for 25 years, Procook's range is heavy-duty and offers superb heat conduction.

Customer reviews comment that they purchased these pans as wedding gifts after being impressed with their set. They are at the premium end of the price range, but these are a must for budding chefs or domestic gourmands.

Pros

  • Sear, caramelised and more with stainless steel cookware that can reach higher temperatures
  • Clean in the dishwasher
  • Superb quality that home chefs will appreciate

Cons

  • Premium price
Size:14, 16, 18cm saucepans and 24cm frying pan
Material:Stainless steel
Compatibility:All hob types, dishwasher safe
Guarantee:25 year
  • Available in four, six or eight-piece sets

Our Verdict

Natalie says: "The best quality set, in my opinion, is Blackmoor's Blue Pro 5 3-Piece Pan Set. The cookware conducts heat supremely well, so you can cook more efficiently at lower temperatures.

"I also recommend Stellar's Verve 28cm Wok and the rest of the Verve range. You can feel the quality, and it cooks thoroughly and evenly. Once again, you don't need to use the higher temperatures on the hob.

"Finally, GreenPan's Barcelona Pro 28cm Frying Pan was on par with Blackmoor and Stellar. It only needs a spritz of spray oil, if that, for healthier cooking. In conclusion, any one of these pan ranges is top quality. My only caveat is that they're quite heavy, so opt for Swan or Tower if you want a lighter option."

GreenPan Barcelona Pro 28cm Frying Pan tried and tested
©Yours/GreenPan

FAQs

How does induction cooking work?

Induction cooking works by generating an electromagnetic field through a high-frequency coil beneath the hob's surface. Induction relies on cookware with a magnetised base. The cookware must contain iron to conduct electricity and heat. When a magnetic saucepan is placed on the induction hob, the field conducts electric currents in the pan itself, producing heat directly in the cookware while the hob remains cool.

It's one of the most energy-efficient cooking methods. Only the area directly in contact with the pan gets hot, and the rest of the hob stays cool; less energy is wasted than traditional electric and gas stovetops. The magnetic connection is broken when the pan is removed from the element, and no more heat is generated. Please note that induction cooking may not be safe for individuals with pacemakers or implanted cardiac devices, as the electromagnetic current can cause interference.

How do I melt chocolate on an induction hob?

Fancy making some homemade chocolate truffles or your very own box of moulded chocolates? Some induction hobs have a pre-set function that allows you to melt chocolate directly in a sauce pan without the need for a double boiler or bain-marie. With a good-quality pan, you can even achieve advanced techniques such as tempering. When Natalie got her induction hob, she received a demonstration on how to temper chocolate. The key is the precise temperature control achievable on a modern induction hob. Additionally, the even heat conduction of a good quality pan allows for maintaining a consistent temperature between 31–33°C to melt chocolate. If the temperature exceeds 46°C, it destroys the structure of the chocolate, causing it to bloom. Similarly, tempering below 31°C results in a less satisfactory structure. Ideally, when the chocolate is cooling, fats will form a uniform structure, giving a satisfactory snap rather than crumbling chocolate.

Tower Freedom 13 Piece Cookware Set with Cerastone Coating tried and tested
©Yours

Ask the expert

Why is it important to use the right size pan on an induction hob?

Yours put this question to pan supplier John Girvan, who answers:

“This is because the hob relies on a magnetic field interacting with the pan base to generate heat; for this to work effectively, pan size must closely match the burner's cooking zone.

“If the pan is too small, it may not activate the burners at all, and if they do activate, they’ll be less efficient. Food will be unevenly cooked, and water will take much longer to boil. I’d recommend that your pan be no less than ½ inches smaller than the hob’s cooking area.

“Likewise, using a pan that is too large can cause issues. Heat is only generated above the burner’s cooking circle, so the outer portions of the pan won’t receive direct heat, leaving them undercooked. Also, while induction hobs are known for their energy efficiency, a too large pan will actually waste energy to heat up the entire pan.

“The ideal scenario is a pan base very close in size to the burner. To achieve this, measure your cookware's magnetic base and the cooking zone.”

Melting chocolate on an induction hob directly in a saucepan without using a bain marie
©Yours

John Girvan has worked for Alliance Online for six years, a company offering a range of pans to their B2B and B2C customers.

Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Yours, specialising in home appliances. When she's not testing sparkling water makers, she flexes her creative flair as an artist.

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