Cooker buying guide: capacity, zones, energy consumption

Choosing a cooker rests on three measurable criteria: oven capacity determines the volumes you can cook, the number of cooking zones affects your flexibility in the kitchen, and energy consumption impacts your bills over time. Product pages on the site rate each appliance on these points, using standardised measurements.

What to check

Oven volume The usable oven capacity, expressed in litres, dictates the size of dishes and the number of simultaneous preparations. Across thirty recent listings, volumes range from fifty-five litres for the most compact models to eighty-seven litres for the most generous, with a median of seventy-two litres. The site’s rating places each appliance within this distribution: a long bar signals a spacious oven, a short bar a limited volume. A large-capacity oven accommodates a whole bird or several dishes side by side, while a reduced volume suits small kitchens or modest needs. Market median: 72 L

Number of hobs The number of cooking zones on the hob determines how many pans or pots you can use at once. Survey data shows that most cookers offer four hobs, while the best-equipped models provide five. The site’s rating reflects this reality: a long bar indicates more simultaneous zones, a short bar less flexibility. An extra hob facilitates elaborate meals or large gatherings, but the overall footprint of the appliance increases accordingly. Check that the total width matches the space available in your kitchen. Market median: 4 zone(s)

Forced convection consumption The oven’s energy consumption in forced convection mode, measured in kilowatt-hours per cycle, varies with insulation and system efficiency. Recent models consume between zero point seventy-five and zero point eighty-seven kilowatt-hours per cycle, with a median of zero point eighty-one. The site’s rating inverts the value: a long bar denotes an economical appliance, a short bar a more demanding model. With several cooking sessions per week, the difference shows on the annual bill. Favour high ratings if you frequently use the oven in convection mode. Market median: 0.8 kWh

Installation and connection A cooker requires an electrical or dual-fuel connection depending on the model, and clear space around the appliance for ventilation. Verify that the socket or gas supply meets current standards, and that the cooker’s width fits between units without forcing. Leave sufficient space at the rear to avoid overheating, and ensure the floor supports the weight of the assembly. Proper installation guarantees safety and the appliance’s lifespan.

Routine maintenance Regular cleaning of the hob and oven extends the cooker’s lifespan and preserves performance. Remove residue after each use, clean grids and burners according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and check door seal integrity. Some ovens feature coatings that ease maintenance, but no system eliminates manual cleaning. A well-maintained appliance retains its energy efficiency and limits lingering odours.

Benchmarks based on 30 recent market listings, collected on 4 October 2026.

What you get for each budget

Under €400

Cookers in this range generally offer four cooking zones and a medium-capacity oven, with consumption close to the market median.

€400 to €700

This level provides access to more spacious ovens, sometimes beyond seventy litres, and better-insulated models with reduced consumption.

Over €700

Appliances in this bracket offer the most generous volumes, up to eighty-seven litres, five cooking zones on some models, and the best energy performance observed.

Frequent mistakes

Overlooking oven capacity if you regularly prepare large dishes or entertain often.

Underestimating the impact of energy consumption on your annual bill.

Choosing a model wider than the available space without checking installation dimensions.

Ignoring the number of cooking zones if you cook multiple preparations simultaneously.

Forgetting to verify that the electrical or gas connection matches your installation.