Non-stick fry pans are a preferred choice when cooking on low heat as the external coating suffers damage when exposed to excessive heat. You could use non-stick pans for more delicate meals like crepes, eggs, pancakes and more. However, non-stick cookware cannot produce the searing effect, which means it excludes many of the more popular recipes.

Stainless steel cookware, being the workhorse of your kitchen, can be used for making pretty much anything, including steaks, pork, chicken, and braises.

A multi-ply frying pan with an aluminium core is recommended for the best results when cooking at high temperatures.

By following these tips, you can effectively repair chipped enamel cookware, extending its lifespan and maintaining its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Remember that proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and utility of enamel cookware.

Whereas kitchen enthusiasts and cooking professionals who chose the skillet will enjoy the versatility, near indestructible durability, and in turn the longevity offered by the skillet. Ultimately, one is only better than the other depending on the lifestyle you lead.

“There are a few things to consider when you’re buying cookware, including how you cook, durability, and price,” says Lance Nitahara, an assistant professor at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, N.Y. “On the low end of the price scale are nonstick and cast iron; copper is on the high end. But each does a different thing.”

Below, you’ll find advice on how to choose the right frying pan for how you cook, plus highlights of top-performing pans from CR’s tests, listed alphabetically and not by rank. You can see how all the pans we test perform in our frying pan ratings and learn more about the different types of pans in our cookware buying guide.

 All in all, cast iron cookware is a versatile and durable addition to any kitchen.  Understanding the types of cast iron cookware available, their prices, and where to buy them can help you make an informed decision when adding these essentials to your cooking arsenal.  Whether you're frying, grilling, or baking, cast iron cookware is a timeless investment that will enhance your cooking experience for years to come.

Frying Pan and Skillets: Are They the Same?

Small Enamel Pots With Lids

If you’ve ever scrubbed tirelessly at a skillet after cooking to get rid of grease, a nonstick pan will make you breathe a sigh of relief as food residue washes right off its surface. Suitable for cooking on low and medium heat, nonstick pans also require less oil than other varieties, which is a big selling point for the health-conscious consumer. Nylon and wooden utensils are better suited for use with non-stick pans, as their surface can be delicate and prone to scratching.

    Commercial cast iron griddles， on the other hand, are larger, more durable, and designed to meet the needs of busy commercial kitchens.   Commercial cast iron griddles are great for cooking large amounts of food at once, making them a popular choice among restaurants, diners, and other food service establishments.   Commercial cast iron griddles durable construction and even heat distribution makes them a reliable and efficient cooking tool for professional chefs.

Hard anodised aluminium

    The features of a cast iron Dutch oven are also worth noting.  Its durability and heat-retaining properties make it ideal for slow cooking and long stewing.  Dutch Oven Material distributes heat evenly, ensuring food cooks evenly and without hot spots.  Additionally, a Dutch oven can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or even over an open flame, making it a versatile tool in any kitchen.