If you weren’t already aware, induction hobs are becoming the go-to for both home cooking and professional chefs.
This magnetic method of cooking is not only safer and more energy efficient than a traditional hob, but also super quick.
However, they do require specific cookware as standard pots and pans aren’t always compatible.
With so many to choose from, where do you begin?
We've identified some of the best induction hob pans that money can buy. From great-value deals on Amazon to the high-end, luxury options from Le Creuset.
Why do induction hobs need special pans?
Induction hobs do not require 'special pans' in the way you might be thinking.
Induction heating itself works by heating the pan using electromagnetic induction - a fancy way of saying it uses magnets and electricity to generate heat.
Any pan made of a material than contains iron can, in theory, be used on an induction hob, including cast iron and some stainless steel pans.
Why? Well, iron as a metal is perfect for induction heating because of its magnetic properties.
Pans made of aluminium or copper won't work on an induction hob because, you guessed it - they're not magnetic materials.
How do you know if a pan is suitable for an induction hob?
First of all, the pan itself must have a completely flat base - no dimples or ridges that you might see on some pans.
Only pans with a completely flat base will be able to conduct the magnetic field produced by induction heating.
Secondly, it should be made of a magnetic material such as iron and some stainless steels. Copper and aluminium pans won't work on an induction hob.
Want to know if your pan is suitable? Test it yourself at home by placing a magnet on the base of the pan.
If it sticks, your pan is magnetic and should work on an induction hob. If not, you'll need to invest in some induction hob pans.
What happens if I use the wrong pan on an induction hob?
If you use the wrong pan on an induction hob, the pan will fail to heat up as it will be unable to convert the electromagnetic energy into heat.
It's also worth mentioning here that size really does matter.
If you use a pan that is too small for the induction burner, the hob may not activate as the base of the pan needs to be roughly equal in size to the burner.
Similarly, if the pan is too large then heat will only be generated above the magnetic elements, which will result in slower heating times and an uneven temperature across the pan while cooking.
For this reason, it's important to invest in pans that are the right size and made of the correct material.
What are the best pans to use on induction hobs?
1. Amazonbasics 5 Piece Non Stick Induction Cookware Set
As well as being suitable for all hob sources, Amazonbasics five-piece cookware set is also oven safe up to 175°C.
The non-stick set includes a small open frypan, a large open frypan, a saucepan, a covered saucepan, and a covered casserole pan.
Bakelite handles ensure they stay nice and cool during cooking, carrying or lifting.
2. Tefal 5 Piece Comfort Max Induction Set
Boasting a sleek and clean design, the five-piece set from Tefal's Comfort Max set is a good choice (and price) for every kitchen.
The cookware is oven safe for up to an hour at 180 degrees, the base is also compatible on all hobs including induction. One thing we love is the internal measuring marks on the inside of the saucepans for easy measuring.
The frying pans in this 5 piece set are equipped with Tefal's renowned Thermospot technology. The unique heat indicator lets you know when your pan is ready to start cooking by turning to a solid red dot.
3. ANYDAY by John Lewis Stainless Steel Pan Set 4 Pieces
A classic design that's contemporary and perfect for any kitchen space.
The set includes a frying pan, two differently sized saucepans and matching stainless steel lids, as well as a milk pan.
4. Prestige Thermo Smart Pots and Pans Set
This diamond infused collection of non-stick pans are perfect for all heat sources, especially induction heat. If you're living a healthier lifestyle, you can use less or no oil to cook your favourites.
Thanks to a useful heat indicator, which can be found in the heat resistant handle; it'll light up green when it's at the optimal cooking temperature.
The set is oven and dishwasher safe, it compromises of a small, medium and large saucepan, as well as a small and large frying pan.
5. BergHOFF Leo 5 Piece Non Stick Pan Set
BergHOFF's induction suitable set has three different sized saucepans and two frying pans.
The durable pans heat up quickly on any type of hob and the contrasting soft-touch handles offer a safer grip when carrying and lifting.
The saucepans feature tempered glass lids with a silicone rim and steam vent, as well as integrated and very handy straining functions.
6. Le Creuset Signature 3-Ply Stainless Steel Non-Stick Chef's Pan & Lid
It's a pricey one, but it's one of the most coveted cookware brands with five star reviews for days, and the features to back it up for years to come.
Achieve professional results every time with this 3-ply Stainless Steel chef's pan.
Ideal for sautéing, searing, simmering and so much more. It comes with a lid to lock in flavours, it also has an ergonomic handle perfect to getting the pan from hob to kitchen side.
Buy now from Le Creuset ( £159 )
7. Tower Cerastone Non Stick Frying Pan and Saucepan Set
Not only can you cook healthier, the clean up afterwards is nice and easy thanks to the cerastone non-stick coating on this five piece set from Tower.
Made from forged aluminium, the durable pans feature and induction base for efficient and speedy cooking. There's also soft touch, silicone handles for ease of use and to ensure they stay cool.
8. Salter Timeless Collection 5 Piece Pan Set
Compromising of three saucepans, two frying pans and a milk pan; Salter's five piece pan set is timeless with a satin finish, stylish and boasts all of the features for the modern kitchen.
The pans are lightweight and easy to move around, the three saucepans also come with flat glass lids with steam vents for efficient and hassle free meal times.
9. Morphy Richards Frying Pan and Saucepan Set With Lids
This deal is super affordable and comes with five pieces to add to your cooking arsenal.
The set is made from aluminium, with thermocore encapsulated bases for even heat distribution, even on induction hobs. Included in the set are three saucepans, a frying pan and a milk pan; glass lids with steam vents are also provided for the differing in size saucepans.
10. Lakeland Hard Anodised Bell Shaped 5-Piece Pan Set
If the stacking design isn't enough to entice you, the attractive, bell shaped pan set from Lakeland has all of the features you'll need and is one to keep on your radar.
The set contains three lidded saucepans, a milk pan and a frying pan. All boasts a triple layer of non-stick and scratch resistant coating - allowing you to use less oil in your meal preparations and keeping it in tact.
The hard anodised pans will be a hit in your kitchen for years to come.
Features to look for when buying Induction pans
As we mentioned above, even top chefs have changed to an induction hob for various benefits, and the ceramic or glass pans they once had have become void.
There are many things to look out for when it comes to buying the best pans for your induction hob, and we’ve listed some key features below - to make your shopping experience a little easier.
Materials
When it comes to what your new pan set is made of, glass and ceramic is pointless - as you need something with a magnetic base in order for it to work with your induction hob. The best material to consider is steel (enamelled), magnetised stainless steel or something made from cast iron.
Size
Some hob tops can sense the size of the pan on top, and will have a maximum and minimum sized surface - in order to trigger cooking. These dimensions will be marked on the surface - so clearly visible when it comes to which size is best. Most induction hobs and pans come with in ‘standard size’ - making it easier when it comes to shopping online - tt’s still important to retain your receipt for if there are any issues.
Ease of cleaning
Let’s face it, no one wants to spend hours after cooking a lavish meal, washing up, right? So non-stick is a really key feature you want to keep an eye on. Some pans are even listed as easy-to-clean too - result.
The best news? So many sets on the market right now are even dishwasher safe - making your life that bit easer, as you can throw them in with the rest of your places and cutlery.
For every type of hob, we've got you covered. Check out the best frying pans to buy for your kitchen in 2021.
