Short answer: induction hobs only heat cookware with a magnetic base. If a fridge magnet sticks firmly to the bottom of your pan, it will work. Stainless steel with a capsule base, cast iron and aluminium pans with an induction plate all work; plain aluminium, copper, glass and ceramic without a magnetic base do not. Every pan, pot and set BergHOFF sells is suitable for all hob types, including induction.
How induction works – in one paragraph
Under the glass is a coil that creates a magnetic field. When a magnetic pan sits on top, the field generates heat directly in the base of the pan. The glass itself only gets warm from the hot pan. That is why induction is fast and responsive – and why the base of the pan decides everything.
How to check if your cookware is induction-compatible
- Look for the induction symbol (a coil) on the base or the packaging.
- Try a magnet. If it sticks firmly to the base, the pan works. If it barely holds, the pan may heat slowly or not be detected.
- Check that the base is flat. Put the pan on a flat surface – it should not rock.
Which materials work on induction?
| Material | Works on induction? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel with capsule base | Yes | The aluminium layer in the base spreads heat evenly. |
| Cast iron (incl. enamelled) | Yes | Heats slowly, holds heat very well. |
| Aluminium with induction plate | Yes | Light and fast; check for the induction symbol. |
| Plain aluminium, copper, glass, ceramic | No | Unless a magnetic plate is built into the base. |
What to look for in induction cookware
A thick, flat base
Induction heats quickly, so a thin base can create hot spots. A capsule base – stainless steel with a core of aluminium – or a full-disc base spreads the heat across the whole bottom. A flat base also keeps full contact with the glass, which is more efficient and quieter.
The right size for the zone
Induction only heats the part of the base above the coil. Use a pot or pan whose base matches the zone as closely as possible. Very small pans may not be detected on large zones. Our frying pan size guide helps you choose.
Handles and lids
Because induction is fast, food can go from simmer to boil-over quickly. Glass lids with a steam vent let you watch without lifting – common on BergHOFF pots, for example the Helix stainless steel stockpot 24 cm.
Why does my pan buzz or click on induction?
A light humming or buzzing is normal, especially on high power and with multi-layer bases – it comes from the magnetic field making the layers vibrate. It usually gets quieter at lower power or when the pan has food in it. Loud rattling can mean a warped base. Clicking is often the hob switching power on and off at low settings.
Cooking on induction: five tips
- Use less power than you think. Medium on induction is often as hot as high on a ceramic hob.
- Never heat an empty non-stick pan on boost – the surface overheats within seconds.
- Preheat stainless steel gently before adding fat and food.
- Lift and stir rather than slide heavy cast iron, to avoid scratching the glass.
- Keep the base clean and dry for full contact.
What to buy for an induction kitchen
A practical starting point is a pot set with three sizes plus one or two frying pans. All BergHOFF pots, frying pans and sets work on induction, so you can choose by material: stainless steel pots for durability and the dishwasher, or non-stick pots for low-fat cooking and porridge. For a complete starter set, see for example the Helix 7-piece stainless steel cookware set.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my old pans on induction?
Only if a magnet sticks to the base. An induction adapter plate exists, but it is slower and less efficient than a compatible pan.
Is stainless steel always induction-compatible?
Not always – some grades are not magnetic. Pans with a capsule base designed for induction are. Check the symbol or use a magnet.
Do induction pans work on gas and ceramic hobs too?
Yes. Induction-compatible cookware works on all common hob types.
Does cast iron scratch an induction hob?
It can if you slide it. Lift heavy pans instead of dragging them.
Choosing a frying pan? Read how to choose a frying pan.