Option A
Induction hob
An electric hob that heats magnetic pans directly using an electromagnetic field.
Induction hob vs gas hob: which is better for your kitchen?
Updated June 2026 8 min read
Quick verdict
Induction is faster, safer, cleaner and more efficient. Gas is cheaper to buy, works with any pan and gives visible flame control. For new kitchens, induction is usually the stronger long-term choice; gas still suits cooks who prefer flame and wok cooking.
Option B
Gas hob
A hob that burns natural gas to create an open flame under the pan.
Side-by-side comparison
Induction wins on efficiency, cleaning and safety. Gas wins on upfront cost, pan compatibility and traditional flame control.
Efficiency
Induction hob
Around 84%Better
Gas hob
Around 40%
Boiling speed
Induction hob
Very fastBetter
Gas hob
Slower
Pan compatibility
Induction hob
Magnetic pans only
Gas hob
Most pansBetter
Safety
Induction hob
No flameBetter
Gas hob
Open flame
Cleaning
Induction hob
Flat wipe-clean glassBetter
Gas hob
Burners and grates
Wok cooking
Induction hob
Less suitable
Gas hob
ExcellentBetter
| Compare | Induction hob | Gas hob |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | Around 84%Better | Around 40% |
| Boiling speed | Very fastBetter | Slower |
| Pan compatibility | Magnetic pans only | Most pansBetter |
| Safety | No flameBetter | Open flame |
| Cleaning | Flat wipe-clean glassBetter | Burners and grates |
| Wok cooking | Less suitable | ExcellentBetter |
Pros and cons
Induction hob pros and cons
Pros
- ✓Fast heating
- ✓Efficient
- ✓Easy to clean
- ✓No open flame
- ✓Precise control
Cons
- -Needs magnetic pans
- -Higher upfront cost
- -May need electrical work
- -Not ideal for round-bottom woks
Gas hob pros and cons
Pros
- ✓Lower purchase cost
- ✓Works with most pans
- ✓Visible flame control
- ✓Excellent for wok cooking
- ✓Familiar to many cooks
Cons
- -Less efficient
- -Harder to clean
- -Open flame risk
- -Adds moisture and combustion products indoors
Cost examples
New kitchen
Induction is usually the cleaner, safer, more future-facing option.
- Likely fit
- Induction
Existing gas setup
Gas can be cheaper if pipework is already present and you like flame cooking.
- Likely fit
- Gas
Fast boiling
Induction usually heats pans and water faster than gas.
- Winner
- Induction
When to choose Induction hob
- ›You are fitting a new kitchen
- ›You want easy cleaning
- ›Safety matters
- ›You have compatible pans
- ›You want fast boiling
When to choose Gas hob
- ›You cook with woks
- ›You already have gas
- ›You want lower upfront cost
- ›You prefer flame control
- ›Your pans are not induction-compatible
FAQs
Do I need special pans for induction?
You need pans with a magnetic base. If a magnet sticks firmly, the pan should work.
Is induction cheaper to run than gas?
Running costs are often similar because electricity costs more per kWh but induction is much more efficient.
Can I install induction without rewiring?
Some low-power models plug in, but many hobs need a dedicated electrical circuit.
Which is better for wok cooking?
Gas is usually better for traditional wok cooking because of the flame and pan shape.
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