I’ll admit, when I first got an induction hob several years ago, I had no idea it could only be used with certain pans. Several of the ones I owned didn’t work at all, so I had to do a deep-dive into the best induction pans available when replacing them.
Induction hobs use magnetic fields to conduct heat, so only pans with a flat, magnetic base, such as cast iron or stainless steel, will work. Fortunately, manufacturers label pans to show they are suitable for induction cooking. High-quality induction pans are essential because the base itself is heated, rather than the surface of the hob, which can cause thin pans to warp, causing poor heating, uneven cooking and, eventually, the hob to stop detecting the pan at all. I speak from hard-won experience.
When choosing an induction pan, it’s worth thinking about what sort of food you like to cook, so you know whether to invest in a wok or stockpot, whether you need a non-stick pan for whizzing up pancakes or even if you like to serve food at the table straight from the pan. Whatever suits your kitchen, these are the best induction pans to choose, all tested on my home hob.
Read more: Best cast iron skillets for sizzling up a storm, tested by a food writer
The best induction pans for 2026 are:
- Best overall – Our Place titanium always pan pro: £170,
- Best budget option – Salter megastone 20cm frying pan: £14.99, Amazon.co.uk
- Best frying pan – Circulon scratchdefense stainless steel frying pan: from £60, Johnlewis.com
- Best induction saucepans – Ninja ceramic pro three-piece saucepan set: £174.99, Argos.co.uk
Read more: 10 best stainless steel pans, tested by an expert
