If you’re planning a kitchen upgrade, or replacing a tired hob, you’ve probably noticed how much attention induction hobs get compared to gas and ceramic options. For many households across Cornwall and Devon, the choice can feel confusing, especially if you’ve always cooked on gas or an older ceramic hob.
The truth is, there’s no single “best” hob for everyone. Each type has its strengths and the right choice depends on how you cook, the layout of your kitchen and what you value most day to day.
In this guide, we explain how induction hobs work, how they compare to gas and ceramic and whether induction really is the better option for modern homes.
Jump straight to the sections most relevant to how you cook at home.
In this guide
- The three main hob types explained
- The three main hob types explained
- Induction vs gas: which suits everyday cooking better?
- Induction vs ceramic: what’s the real difference?
- Are induction hobs more energy efficient?
- Common myths about induction hobs
- What to consider before switching to induction
- So, are induction hobs better?
- Local advice makes all the difference
The three main hob types explained
Before comparing them properly, it helps to understand the basics.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs use an open flame to heat your cookware. They offer immediate visual feedback and are still popular with people who enjoy a more traditional cooking experience.
Ceramic hobs
Ceramic hobs are electric and use heated elements beneath a smooth glass surface. They’re common in older fitted kitchens and are easy to wipe clean, but they can be slower to respond.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs use magnetic technology to heat the pan itself rather than the surface. This means faster cooking, better control and improved energy efficiency.
How induction hobs actually work
Induction hobs can sound more complicated than they really are. Instead of heating the glass surface, induction creates a magnetic field that heats compatible cookware directly. The hob surface stays relatively cool, with heat generated only where the pan sits.
This is why induction hobs are:
- Faster to heat up
- More responsive to changes in temperature
- Safer, as the surface cools quickly once the pan is removed
You do need induction-compatible pans, but many modern cookware sets already are.
Induction vs gas: which suits everyday cooking better?
This is one of the most common comparisons we’re asked about in-store.
Why people choose induction
- Very fast boiling times
- Precise control for simmering and frying
- Easy to clean, with no burners or grates
- Improved safety, especially for family kitchens
Why some still prefer gas
- Familiar feel and visible flame
- Works with any cookware
- Favoured by people who have cooked on gas for years
For many modern homes across Cornwall and Devon, especially new builds or renovated kitchens, induction is increasingly chosen for its convenience, cleanliness and efficiency. That said, some cooks still prefer the hands-on feel of gas.
Induction vs ceramic: what’s the real difference?
Ceramic and induction hobs can look similar at first glance, but the way they cook is very different.
With ceramic hobs:
- The surface heats up slowly
- Temperature changes take longer to respond
- The glass stays hot for some time after cooking
With induction:
- Heat is instant
- Temperature changes are immediate
- The surface cools quickly once cooking stops
For most households, induction feels like a clear step up from ceramic, both in performance and ease of use.
Are induction hobs more energy efficient?
Yes – and this is one of the biggest reasons people switch.
Because induction heats the pan directly, far less energy is wasted. Cooking times are shorter and less heat escapes into the kitchen. Compared to ceramic hobs, induction is noticeably more efficient and it can also be more economical than gas depending on usage.
If energy efficiency is a priority, induction fits well alongside other modern kitchen appliances designed to reduce running costs.
Common myths about induction hobs
We often hear the same concerns, so it’s worth clearing a few up.
- “You can’t control the heat properly”
Induction offers very precise control, often more so than gas. - “They’re dangerous”
In reality, induction is one of the safest hob types available, as the surface cools quickly. - “They’re noisy”
Some pans can make a slight hum, but this is usually minimal with good-quality cookware. - “You need all new pans”
Many modern pans are already induction compatible. A simple magnet test will tell you.
What to consider before switching to induction
Before choosing an induction hob, there are a few practical things to think about.
- Electrical supply:
Induction hobs require a suitable power supply, which is worth checking in older properties. - Cookware compatibility:
Most induction-ready pans are widely available and affordable. - Hob size and layout:
Induction hobs come in various widths and zone configurations to suit different kitchens. - Extraction:
Good ventilation is still important, especially in open-plan spaces. You can even get hobs with built-in extractor fans, which are perfect for these type of kitchens.
Getting advice before you buy can save time and avoid unnecessary surprises.
So, are induction hobs better?
For many modern kitchens, the answer is yes. Induction hobs offer faster cooking, better control, improved safety and greater efficiency compared to ceramic and they are increasingly preferred over gas.
That said, the best hob is the one that suits how you cook and how your home is set up. Gas and ceramic hobs still have their place and there’s no wrong choice when it’s made for the right reasons.
Local advice makes all the difference
Choosing the right hob is easier when you can talk it through with people who understand both the technology and real kitchens.
At HBH Woolacotts, we help customers across Cornwall and Devon choose appliances that suit their homes, cooking habits and budgets. Whether you’re upgrading one appliance or planning a full kitchen refresh, our team is always happy to offer practical, straightforward advice.
If you’re considering an induction hob and want to know if it’s right for your kitchen, visiting your local HBH Woolacotts store or speaking to our team can help you make a confident decision.
