The 8 Best Cookware Brands in 2025 (After Testing Over 30)

If you’re shopping for cookware, step one is finding the right brand.

The best cookware brands are committed to craftsmanship. They use the highest-quality materials, have strict command over the manufacturing process, and are constantly innovating.

Many claim to be the best, but few have the customer loyalty, accolades, and longevity to prove it.

So, which cookware brands top the list? And what makes them better than the others?

In this guide, I provide an in-depth review of the best cookware brands. After testing over 30 cookware brands, I reveal the top options in each category.

You’ll learn:

• How the cookware looks, feels, and performs
• How much the cookware costs
• What other experts say about them
• What makes these brands the best in the world
• And much more

By the end, you’ll have all the important facts to decide which cookware brand is right for you.

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Use the links below to navigate this guide:

• Best Professional-Quality Cookware Brand: Made In
• Best Stainless Steel Cookware Brand: All-Clad
• Best Non-Stick Alternative: Misen Carbon Nonstick
• Best Non-Stick Cookware Brand: Tramontina
• Best Cast Iron Cookware Brand: Lodge
• Best Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Brand: Le Creuset
• Best High-End Cookware Brand: Demeyere
• Best Hybrid Cookware Brand: HexClad
• Honorable Mention Cookware Brands
• Bottom Line: Which Cookware Brand Is the Best?

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Best Professional-Quality Cookware Brand: Made In

If you’re looking for professional-quality pots and pans without the sky-high price tag, Made In is the best cookware brand for you.

Although a relatively new company, Made In has made serious gains in the cookware industry and has built a loyal following.

Made In is used in over 1,500 professional kitchens, including Michelin-star restaurants like Le Bernardin in New York City and Alinea in Chicago.

The Austin-based startup operates a direct-to-consumer model (you can only buy it on MadeInCookware.com), giving them the ability to offer lower prices than comparable high-end competitors like All-Clad.

Since launching in 2016, Made In has released multiple cookware collections and pieces, including:

• Fully clad (five-ply) stainless steel cookware (see my review)
• Fully clad (five-ply) non-stick cookware with a tri-layer PFOA-free coating (see my review)
• Blue carbon steel cookware (see my review)
• Kitchen knives (see my review)
• Copper cookware (see my review)

They work with family-owned, long-running businesses to manufacture their products. As such, they’ve established relationships in the U.S., Italy, and France to produce their coveted cookware.

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out if Made In cookware is the right brand for you.

Made In Quick Facts

Founded	2016
Where It’s Made	U.S./Italy (non-stick), U.S./Italy (stainless clad), France (copper, carbon steel)
Number of Cookware Options	4 (stainless clad, copper, non-stick, carbon steel)
Construction	Fully-clad stainless (five-ply), copper/stainless steel, or blue carbon steel
Exterior Material	Stainless steel, copper, or blue carbon steel
Interior Material	Stainless steel, blue carbon steel, or PFOA-free proprietary non-stick
Core Material(s)	Aluminum (stainless and non-stick), copper alloy, or blue carbon steel
Oven-Safe Temperature	500°F (non-stick), 800°F (stainless clad and copper), 1200°F (carbon steel)
Broiler-Safe	Yes
Compatible With Induction	Yes (except copper)
Warranty	Limited Lifetime and a 1-year warranty on non-stick coating
Price	$$$ (view on MadeInCookware.com)

Should You Buy Made In Cookware?

Price: Made In’s prices are tough to beat for the quality (view current prices on MadeInCookware.com). The direct-to-consumer model cuts out the middlemen and allows Made In to offer pro-level cookware at a discount.

Variety: They don’t offer different collections within each category (stainless clad, non-stick, carbon steel, enameled cast iron, copper), but what they offer covers most home chefs’ needs. If you want color choices, you won’t find them, but if you’re looking for innovative pieces (like the Universal Lid), you won’t be disappointed. Plus, Made In keeps releasing new pieces every few months, so you never know what’s on the horizon.

Performance: Quick, even heating is a common thread across all of Made In’s cookware offerings. Another is the fact that you can go from cooktop to oven to tabletop with ease. You get incredible searing ability with the stainless steel and carbon steel pans and a smooth, easy-to-clean surface with the non-stick.

I tested Made In vs. All-Clad, Calphalon, and Misen to see if there was a difference in performance, and you can see the results here.

Durability: Since the brand is still pretty new, the jury is out on long-term durability. Based on the design and construction, it has the potential for going the distance. So far, so good (especially when Michelin-star restaurants think so).

Design: This brand was designed to make cooking fun. From the packaging to the straightforward design features, I think the mission was accomplished. It’s classy and functional. The riveted, stay-cool handles are super comfortable, and the thick walls give it some good heft — you can feel the durability. I wish that the stainless and non-stick frying pans’ sidewalls were less shallow to reduce splatter while cooking.

Ease of Use: Made In’s cookware is easy to use and clean. With its fully-clad cookware (stainless and non-stick pans), keep the heat low to medium. Since they heat pretty quickly and stay hot, it’s easy to burn your food. The carbon steel is a favorite for stove-to-oven meals, but it needs the proper seasoning to deliver that non-stick performance. Thankfully, instructions are included to help you figure it out.

Bottom Line: Made In cookware is still new on the scene, but it’s building an impressive following among home cooks and professional chefs. The selling point is simple: premium cookware at not-so-premium prices. In my opinion, it’s the best professional-quality cookware brand for the money.

Check out Made In’s website for current prices and offerings. You can learn more by reading my reviews of Made In stainless steel and carbon steel cookware.

Best Stainless Steel Cookware Brand: All-Clad

At the top of the best cookware brands list reigns All-Clad. It’s hands-down the best stainless steel cookware brand you can buy.

This Pennsylvania-based company has been around since 1967 and is the pioneer of fully-clad stainless steel cookware, thanks to innovative metallurgist and founder John Ulam.

All-Clad offers two high-quality non-stick collections as well, but they’re best known for their three high-performing and ultra-durable stainless steel collections: D3, D5, and Copper Core.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes All-Clad the best stainless steel cookware brand.

All-Clad Quick Facts

Founded	1967
Where It’s Made	Canonsburg, PA
Number of Stainless Collections	3
Construction	Fully-clad
Exterior Material	18/0 Stainless steel (polished or brushed)
Interior Material	18/10 Stainless steel
Core Material(s)	Heavy-gauge aluminum or copper
Oven-Safe Temperature	600°F
Broiler-Safe	Yes
Compatible With Induction	Yes
Warranty	Limited Lifetime
Price	$$$$ (view on Amazon or All-Clad.com)

Should You Buy All-Clad Cookware?

All-Clad stainless steel cookware is a winner based on its track record of performance in homes and restaurants worldwide.

But, before you make your decision on purchasing a set for yourself, consider these facts:

Price: All-Clad is one of the most expensive stainless steel cookware brands you can buy (view current prices on Amazon or All-Clad.com). It’s American-made and utilizes quality raw materials, both of which contribute to the high cost. It’s an investment (but worth it), so if you have the budget for it and are ready to splurge on high-end cookware, All-Clad is an excellent choice.

Performance: All-Clad is known for its even heating and exceptional heat retention, thanks to the layered metals (also known as fully-clad or bonded) that include highly conductive core materials (aluminum or copper, depending on the collection). All-Clad’s founder is the inventor of the cladding process, giving it an edge over brands who simply follow in All-Clad’s footsteps. These pans can go from cooktop to oven to table and are suitable for all cooktops (even induction).

Durability: With its fully-clad construction, thick walls, steel-riveted handles, and overall heft, All-Clad earns high marks in longevity. It’s designed to be a workhorse in the kitchen, and with proper care, can last for generations.

Design: All-Clad cookware has a simple yet elegant design. The stainless cookware has a sleek profile that can accentuate any kitchen décor from rustic to modern chic.

The D3 and Copper Core collections feature a polished (shiny) exterior for a classic look, while the D5 exterior is brushed for a more modern look.

The Copper Core collection has an elegant copper ring cutout around the body, a nod to its copper interior layer. The tight-fitting stainless steel lids and riveted handles complete the look.

Ease of Use: All-Clad pans are easy to use if you know what you’re doing. As long as you keep them clean and use them properly, they’ll become your favorite pans to use. That being said, if you’re not used to cooking with stainless, there is a learning curve when it comes to heat control, temperature changes, and proper oiling techniques. Food will stick if you don’t follow a few simple rules.

Reputation: All-Clad has a long-earned reputation for producing quality cookware, and they stand behind it with a limited lifetime warranty.

Bottom Line: All-Clad is the best stainless cookware brand money can buy. I use it in my kitchen and highly recommend it if you want to elevate your cooking. It’s high-performing, elegant, and built to last.

Check out All-Clad stainless steel cookware on Amazon or All-Clad.com for current prices and offerings. You can also learn more in my in-depth All-Clad review.

Best Nonstick Alternative: Misen Carbon Nonstick

If you want a pan that cooks like nonstick but lasts for years, Misen Carbon Nonstick is the best option.

Misen launched this pan in 2025 after raising more than $2 million in preorders. The company claimed it could match the convenience of nonstick while offering the durability of carbon steel.

Instead of using a Teflon or ceramic coating, Misen hardens its carbon steel in a nitrogen-rich oven—a process called nitriding—that makes the surface naturally slick, tough, and rust-resistant. You don’t need to season it, and it can handle metal utensils, high heat, and acidic foods without damage.

The pan’s aluminum core helps it heat quickly and evenly. In my tests, it reached 535°F in just two minutes, making it the fastest-heating carbon steel pan I’ve ever tested. It also cooled down quickly after being removed from the burner, which made it easier to control temperature and prevent overcooking.

Food release was impressive across all tests. Eggs, pancakes, and burgers released easily with a small amount of oil or butter. It’s not as slippery as a brand-new Teflon pan, but it’s noticeably more nonstick than stainless steel, cast iron, or seasoned carbon steel. Even after months of use, the surface performed the same as it did on day one.

Durability is another strength. I scraped the surface with a five-pound weighted ladle, a metal spatula, and even a stand mixer whisk for two minutes. None of these tests left scratches or coating damage. Coated nonstick and hybrid stainless pans all showed visible wear under the same conditions.

It also resists rust and acid better than any carbon steel pan I’ve tested. After soaking it overnight and simmering tomato sauce for 15 minutes, the surface showed no signs of rust or discoloration. Competing carbon steel pans rusted or lost seasoning under the same conditions.

That said, the Misen Carbon Nonstick isn’t perfect. The rounded handle, while comfortable, can rotate in your hand when wet or when you’re wearing an oven mitt. The 1.75-inch sidewalls are also shallower than most pans this size, which limits capacity and allows more splatter when cooking sauces or frying.

Despite these drawbacks, the Misen Carbon Nonstick pan stands out as the most practical long-term replacement for traditional nonstick pans. It combines real durability with easy maintenance and consistent performance. If you’re tired of coatings that scratch or wear out, this pan offers the same convenience without the compromises.

Check the current price at Misen.com or read my in-depth review to learn more.

Best Non-Stick Cookware Brand: Tramontina

Dozens of brands offer non-stick cookware, but the one I recommend is Tramontina’s Professional Series.

This line is made with heavy-gauge aluminum and features a commercial design that’s become a favorite in both home and professional kitchens. It has the right mix of quality, performance, and affordability, which is exactly what you want in a non-stick pan.

I only recommend owning one or two non-stick pans for quick meals or delicate foods like eggs and fish. Since all non-stick coatings eventually wear out and need replacing, it doesn’t make sense to overspend. That’s where Tramontina stands out—the pans perform well and cost around $40 for a 12-inch, making them one of the best values you can find.

Tramontina Quick Facts

Founded	1911
Where It’s Made	Brazil, Italy, and China (depending on collection)
Number of Non-Stick Collections	Multiple, including Professional, Everyday, Select, and Style
Construction	Heavy-gauge aluminum (PRO Series)
Exterior Material	Brushed aluminum
Interior Material	PTFE (PPG Eclipse) or ceramic non-stick coating, both PFOA-, lead-, and cadmium-free
Core Material(s)	Aluminum
Oven-Safe Temperature	400°F (PTFE coating), 500°F (ceramic coating)
Broiler-Safe	No
Compatible With Induction	No (aluminum base only)
Warranty	Limited lifetime
Price	$ (view on Amazon)

Should You Buy Tramontina Non-Stick Cookware?

Tramontina’s Professional Series pans are straightforward, practical, and well-built. If you’re looking for the right balance of quality and cost in a pan you’ll likely replace every few years, it’s an easy choice.

Price: The Professional Series pans cost much less than high-end non-stick brands. A 12-inch fry pan is about $40, which is remarkable value compared to brands charging over $100 for similar pans.

Performance: Tramontina heats evenly and has a large flat cooking surface (10 inches on the 12-inch pan), compared to 9 inches for most competitors. The handle is longer than average at 9.75 inches, which keeps your hand farther from the heat and provides better leverage when tossing or tilting the pan. The silicone grip is removable, soft, and heat-resistant, making it both comfortable and safe.

Durability: I stress-tested Tramontina alongside HexClad and GreenPan to see how each coating holds up under abuse from weighted utensils, whisks, and even a stand mixer.

HexClad’s hybrid surface resisted some marks but showed scratches under the whisk. GreenPan’s ceramic coating scratched deeply under a metal ladle and lost much of its non-stick performance. Tramontina surprised me by outperforming both showing only minor rub marks in most tests and maintaining its non-stick release almost like new even after heavy abuse.

It’s not metal-utensil safe and will eventually wear down like all non-stick, but in my durability tests, it held up better than advertised.

Non-Stick Options: You can buy the Professional Series with either a PTFE or a ceramic non-stick surface. The PTFE version is oven-safe up to 400°F, while the ceramic version can withstand up to 500°F. PTFE is generally more durable and slicker, while ceramic appeals to those looking for a PTFE-free option.

Design: The Professional Series pans look like they belong in a restaurant kitchen: no-frills brushed aluminum with a practical, extra-long handle. The triple rivets provide stability but can trap food and require extra cleaning.

Bottom Line: Tramontina’s Professional Series offers exactly what I believe non-stick cookware should be: affordable, functional, and easy to replace when the coating eventually wears out. My durability tests showed it held up better than HexClad and GreenPan, which cost significantly more. For around $40, Tramontina gives you everything you need in a non-stick pan and nothing you don’t.

Check out Tramontina cookware on Amazon. You can also learn more in my in-depth review of Tramontina cookware.

Best Cast Iron Cookware Brand: Lodge

There’s nothing like a good cast iron skillet, and the brand that makes the best ones around is Lodge.

Since 1896, the US-based, family-owned brand has created a variety of cast iron pots and pans and holds the honor of being the longest-standing cast iron cookware manufacturer in the United States.

From its foundry in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, Lodge produces skillets, woks, Dutch ovens, griddles, grill pans, bakeware, and outdoor cookware in different sizes. With Lodge, variety isn’t in short supply.

Keep reading to learn if Lodge is right for you.

Lodge Quick Facts

Founded	1896
Where It’s Made	South Pittsburg, Tennessee
Number of Cast Iron Collections	5
Construction	Cast iron (see how it’s made)
Oven-Safe Temperature	+600°F
Broiler-Safe	Yes
Compatible With Induction	Yes
Warranty	Lodge Promise
Price	$$ (view on Amazon)

Should You Buy Lodge Cookware?

If you’re going to have one or two skillets in your kitchen, I think a Lodge cast iron skillet should be one of them.

Consider these pros and cons:

Price: Lodge cast iron is one of the most affordable cookware options on the market (view current prices on Amazon). You get a lot for the money. For a fraction of the cost of high-end cookware brands, you can get durable, versatile cookware that can be passed down through your family.

Performance: You can use Lodge cast iron on all cooktops (even glass with care). It’s oven-safe, broiler-safe, and even safe for outdoor cooking on grills and campfires.

It’s slower to heat than other types of cookware such as stainless steel, but once it’s hot, it holds heat like no other cookware can. It’s a master at searing and browning and can be used for a variety of recipes (just be careful with acidic foods that can diminish seasoning). It’s heavy, so it’s not the best choice for flipping and manipulating food in a pan.

Durability: Lodge cast iron is incredibly durable but still requires care. Improper handling, such as extreme temperature shifts or banging it on the corner of a countertop, can cause cracking. With proper use, Lodge cast iron is built to last because of how it’s made. Lodge uses the sand molding process to create a seamless pan from a proprietary mix of pig iron, steel, and other components.

Ease of Use: Lodge cast iron is easy to use, but it will require some elbow grease to keep it clean and properly seasoned. While it comes pre-seasoned and ready to use, you will have to season it periodically. Over time, you can enjoy a natural non-stick surface as the seasoning intensifies. If you don’t mind the extra work, you’ll love the results.

Bottom Line: Lodge cast iron cookware is affordable, durable, and versatile. It holds heat better than any cookware I’ve tested, making it ideal for searing and browning meats. It requires seasoning and extra care to avoid rust, but that’s the case with all cast iron cookware. Read my in-depth review of Lodge cast iron skillets to get all the details and see many more pictures.

Check out Lodge cast iron cookware on Amazon now for current prices and offerings.

Best Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Brand: Le Creuset

Le Creuset is the best enameled cast iron cookware brand in the world. Yes, there are other high-quality options, but Le Creuset sets the standard.

Since 1925, Le Creuset has produced some of the most colorful, beautiful, and long-lasting enameled cast iron cookware you’ll ever see — and every piece is made in its foundry in France.

To this day, it’s original offering, an ombre red and orange Dutch oven, and some 20+ other hues of enameled cast iron cookware continue to impress home and professional chefs globally.

Yet, does Le Creuset enameled cast iron cookware belong in your kitchen? Let’s take a closer look.

Le Creuset Quick Facts

Founded	1925
Where It’s Made	Fresnoy-le-Grand, France
Number of Color Options	20+
Construction	Enameled cast iron
Core Material(s)	Cast iron
Oven-Safe Temperature	500°F
Broiler-Safe	Yes (up to 500°F)
Compatible With Induction	Yes
Warranty	Limited Lifetime
Price	$$$$ (view on Amazon)

Should You Buy Le Creuset?

Before you invest in Le Creuset, you need to consider price, performance, durability, and design.

Price: Le Creuset is the most expensive brand I tested. You can get enameled cast iron for a fraction of the price, but you’re paying for flawless fit and finish, color options, and a track record of consistency. If you want the benchmark Dutch oven and plan to keep it for decades, it’s worth it. If not, there are quality alternatives.

Performance: I tested nine enameled cast iron Dutch ovens side by side, including Le Creuset, Staub, Made In, Lodge (Essential and USA), Tramontina, Misen, Caraway, and Great Jones. I used the same methods for each to measure how they cook and hold up.

• Heat retention: I preheated each Dutch oven to 400°F, turned off the burner, and measured how hot the cooking surface stayed after five minutes. This shows how well each pot holds onto heat once you stop adding energy. Le Creuset measured 142°F after five minutes. That’s warmer than Tramontina (131°F) and Caraway (139°F) but significantly cooler than Staub (182°F) and Made In (177°F). The thinner walls that make Le Creuset lighter also make it lose heat faster.

• Moisture retention: I boiled 32 ounces of water for 10 minutes with the lid on, let the pot rest for 30 minutes, and measured how much water was left. Le Creuset retained 24.6 ounces, which was among the best results. It was almost identical to Made In (24.9 oz) and just behind Misen (25.6 oz). By contrast, Caraway (21.2 oz) and Staub (21.8 oz) lost more liquid.

• Moisture distribution: I checked how evenly condensation dripped back over the pot lid. Le Creuset, like most brands, sent liquid toward the sides. Only Staub’s flat lid with large self-basting dimples redistributed moisture evenly across the entire cooking surface.

Durability: I dropped a metal spatula from 12 inches onto the interior and exterior of each pot to see how the enamel held up. Le Creuset’s enamel did not chip; only cosmetic marks were left. That matched Staub and Made In. Lodge Essential Enamel was the only brand to chip in this test.

Design and ease of use: At 11.4 pounds for the 5.5-quart, Le Creuset is the lightest Dutch oven I tested. It’s easier to lift and clean compared to Made In (13.6 pounds) or Misen (16.9 pounds with grill lid). The handles are among the largest I measured, with 1.2-inch openings that are roomier than Staub’s and many others, making it the easiest pot to grab securely with oven mitts. The lid knob is wide and stable, with ridges on top of the lid to keep a spoon from sliding off.

Knob heat and options: You can choose a metal knob (safe to 500°F) or a phenolic knob (safe to 480°F). In my tests, the metal knob reached 143°F after 10 minutes of boiling water, while the phenolic knob stayed around 80°F, noticeably cooler than every other brand I tested.

Stovetop and oven use: It works on all cooktops, including induction. It heats steadily and evenly, and the lighter enamel interior makes it easy to monitor browning.

Colors and options: No other brand offers as many choices. Le Creuset has 26 color options with its trademark two-tone gradient finish.

Bottom line: Le Creuset is expensive and doesn’t hold heat as long as Staub or Made In, but in my tests it was easier to lift, safer to grip, sealed in moisture as well as the top performers, and survived durability testing without a chip. If you want the lightest and most user-friendly premium Dutch oven (and enameled cast iron cookware in general) that will last for decades, Le Creuset is the top choice. If you want maximum heat-holding, pick Staub. For premium performance at a lower price, Made In is excellent. For pure value, Lodge Essential Enamel is the best bet.

Le Creuset is available on Amazon where you can view the current prices. Read my full Le Creuset review to learn more.

Best High-End Cookware Brand: Demeyere

Let’s discuss an exceptional high-end cookware brand worth splurging on: Demeyere.

Demeyere, a family-owned business, has been at the forefront of stainless steel cookware since its launch in 1908. Four generations later, this Belgium-based brand continues to impress with its unique combination of innovation, sustainability, and unrivaled quality. 

Demeyere cookware stands out because of its unparalleled thickness, with some pans reaching a thickness of 5 mm, resulting in superior heat retention.

The brand utilizes a distinctive multi-ply construction to boost efficiency on induction cooktops, which are prevalent in Europe and gaining popularity in the US.

Demeyere Quick Facts

Founded	1908
Where It’s Made	Belgium
Construction	Multi-clad stainless steel (one aluminum collection)
Exterior Material	Stainless steel or aluminum
Interior Material	Silvinox stainless steel or PTFE non-stick for aluminum collection)
Core Material(s)	Aluminum or Copper
Oven-Safe Temperature	500-660°F
Broiler-Safe	Yes
Compatible With Induction	Yes
Warranty	30 years
Price	$$$$$ (view on Amazon or Zwilling.com)

Should You Buy Demeyere Cookware?

If you’re contemplating whether to splurge on Demeyere, consider these benefits:

Heat Retention: Regarding performance, Demeyere shines brighter than most brands I’ve evaluated. It heats evenly and retains heat well, thanks to its unique construction. I performed a simple test where I boiled 2 cups of water, took the pan off the heat, and then checked the water temperature after 5 and 10 minutes. The Demeyere Atlantis pan had one of the highest water temperatures across over two dozen brands. The reason is its thickness – 5 mm with 7-ply construction. It holds onto heat like a cast iron skillet, with the convenience and versatility of stainless steel.

Forgiving Nature: The thick construction makes Demeyere cookware more forgiving. It heats slowly and steadily, ensuring your food won’t burn even if you accidentally turn the heat too high. This makes Demeyere an easy-to-use, beginner-friendly cookware brand.

Induction Efficiency: Demeyere cookware works well on all cooktops, but it particularly excels on induction. Its Atlantis collection features a TriplInduct, 3-layer steel bottom, which delivers remarkable efficiency on induction cooktops and prevents the cookware from warping.

Silvinox Surface Treatment: To keep the cookware looking new, Demeyere uses a special electrochemical treatment known as Silvinox. This technique eliminates iron and other impurities, maintaining a brilliant, smudge-resistant shine that doesn’t discolor or show fingerprints.

Rivetless Handles: Another major plus is the rivetless design in the Atlantis and Industry collections. The handles are welded to the sides, offering an uninterrupted, easy-to-clean cooking surface. Rivets can be tricky to clean over time as they can accumulate grease, which is a significant advantage.

Bottom Line: Demeyere cookware, with its impressive heat retention, forgiving nature, and exceptional design, is well worth the splurge. It may require a bit more investment up front, but its benefits in cooking performance and durability make it a worthwhile choice for any home cook who values high-quality kitchenware.

Dive deeper into my thorough review of Demeyere cookware to learn more about this luxurious brand.

Or check out Demeyere cookware on Amazon and Zwilling.com now to see their latest prices and offerings.

Best Hybrid Cookware Brand: HexClad

If you’re looking for the convenience of non-stick but the durability of stainless steel, HexClad is the best hybrid cookware. 

HexClad is the brainchild of co-founders Daniel Winer and Cole Mecray, who launched it in 2016.

This burgeoning startup has captured attention and popularity for its unique look, outstanding performance, and hybrid design, combining the best non-stick and stainless steel. 

Michelin-star chef and TV personality Gordon Ramsay recently became the lead spokesperson for HexClad, stating, “their hybrid technology cooks to absolute, utter perfection.”

HexClad Quick Facts

Founded	2016
Where It’s Made	China
Number of Cookware Collections	1
Construction	3-ply stainless steel
Exterior Material	Stainless steel
Interior Material	Hybrid of stainless steel and non-stick
Core Material(s)	Aluminum
Oven-Safe Temperature	500°F
Broiler-Safe	No
Compatible With Induction	Yes
Warranty	Limited Lifetime
Price	$$$$ (view on HexClad.com or Amazon)

Should You Buy HexClad Cookware?

If you are wondering whether to invest in HexClad cookware, consider these key benefits:

Durability: With a typical non-stick pan lasting 2-5 years, HexClad’s hybrid design addresses the common issue of a shortened lifespan due to scratches from metal utensils. Its unique surface features raised stainless steel peaks and non-stick valleys, which prevent utensils from coming into contact with the non-stick coating. This innovative design ensures a longer-lasting non-stick surface.

Versatility: HexClad cooks like non-stick cookware and sears meat as effectively as stainless steel pans. Whether you’re frying bacon, roasting chicken, or searing salmon, HexClad consistently delivers outstanding results. It heats up quickly, maintains a steady temperature, and turns out crispy bacon and evenly seared meat.

Heat Conduction and Retention: HexClad also scores well in heat conduction and retention. In my testing, it quickly heated the water evenly and retained heat better than brands like Calphalon, Hestan, and All-Clad.

Downsides: HexClad does have a few potential downsides worth noting. Delicate foods such as eggs may stick if the pan isn’t preheated properly or lacks enough oil or butter. Also, its 8-inch handle, which is slightly shorter than some competitors, means your hand is closer to the heat. The round, polished handles can be slippery and attract smudges and fingerprints. Finally, HexClad comes at a higher price point than many non-stick options.

Bottom Line: Despite a few minor downsides, HexClad stands out as a durable and versatile option that outperforms many non-stick pans and releases food better than stainless steel. It offers a longer lifespan and is especially suitable for those who want a all-purpose pan, whether for limited kitchen space, traveling or simply the convenience of having a single, multi-purpose pan.

Discover more about HexClad cookware and its unique features by reading my comprehensive review or visiting HexClad.com or the HexClad store on Amazon.

Honorable Mention Cookware Brands

In this guide, I laid out the best cookware brands across stainless steel, non-stick, cast iron, enameled cast iron, and copper. I even shared my recommended value brand of choice.

While I believe these are the best cookware brands based on my research and personal experience, I can’t complete this guide without mentioning a few other brands that are worthy of consideration.

Here is my shortlist of honorable mentions:

Fissler: I tested Original-Profi (disc-bottom) and M5 (fully clad) against All-Clad and Demeyere. Original-Profi spread heat more evenly than any pan I’ve measured—food browned the same at the edge as it did in the center—and it stayed warmer longer after I took it off the burner. It heats more slowly, the textured interior takes extra scrubbing, and it can buzz on induction at high power. If you value perfectly even searing and steady temperatures, it’s a strong option. View current prices on Amazon and read my full Fissler review to see all test data.

de Buyer: Across the lineup, each collection has a clear personality. Mineral B Pro (thicker carbon steel with a stainless handle) holds heat very well and is great for steaks and chops; Mineral B has the same body but an epoxy-coated handle that limits oven use. Blue Carbon Steel is lighter and quicker to heat but doesn’t hold heat as long. On stainless, Alchimy was the fastest heater in my tests, while Affinity heated more gradually and held heat more like a heavy, premium pan. Choose based on what you cook most: quick, responsive heating (Alchimy/Blue) or steadier searing and oven work (Affinity/Mineral B Pro). View current prices on Amazon and read my full de Buyer review for the full comparison across collections.

Hestan: Hestan’s calling cards are build quality and thoughtful details: sealed rims (no exposed layers), interior rivets that sit flush, and roomy cooking surfaces. In my scratch checks, NanoBond resisted scuffs better than typical stainless, though sharp metal can still mark it. On the stove, Hestan pans cook evenly and predictably, but they generally heat a bit slower and don’t hold heat as long as the thickest competitors. Expect premium fit and finish—and a bit more upkeep to keep the exteriors spotless. View current prices on Amazon and read my full Hestan review for performance charts and photos.

Heritage Steel: Made in Tennessee, fully clad, with a 316Ti stainless interior that’s more resistant to pitting than standard steel. In the kitchen, it feels sturdy without being heavy, warms at a moderate pace, and keeps a steady temperature once you start cooking. The round main handle can rotate in your hand when it’s wet or greasy, and these pans show “rainbow” heat tint more readily (vinegar removes it). If you want American-made stainless with simple, reliable performance, it’s a safe choice. View current prices on HeritageSteel.us and read my full Heritage Steel review for test results and pros/cons.

Misen: Misen’s stainless line is solid, but the new Carbon Nonstick pan is the standout from my recent testing. It doesn’t use a coating; instead, it’s nitrided carbon steel with an aluminum core, so it heats quickly, releases food more easily than bare steel, and shrugs off rust and acidic sauces without babying. It also cools down quickly, which gives you precise control but makes batch searing a little tougher, and the shallow walls limit capacity. If you’re trying to get away from disposable nonstick without committing to traditional carbon steel maintenance, this is worth a look. View current prices on Misen.com and read my full Misen Carbon Nonstick review for the claim-by-claim breakdown.

Goldilocks: A straightforward 3-ply stainless line with comfortable, flat handles and thicker-than-expected walls for the price. It heats evenly, holds heat well for searing, and is easy to control. The handles are on the short/thin side, the pans can show heat tint, and the product range is limited. But for simple, dependable stainless at a lower cost, it performed better than I expected in everyday cooking. View current prices on CookGoldilocks.com and read my full Goldilocks review for head-to-head comparisons.

Bottom Line: Which Cookware Brand Is the Best?

There are many excellent cookware brands on the market, but the best are Made In, All-Clad, Misen, Tramontina, Lodge, and Le Creuset.

Made In is the new brand on the block, but it offers impressive, professional-quality stainless steel, carbon steel, and copper cookware. It’s priced for beginners but sophisticated and durable enough for Michelin-star chefs.

If you’re looking for the gold standard in fully-clad stainless steel, look no further than All-Clad. It invented bonded stainless steel cookware over 50 years ago and continues to stand tall as the brand others imitate. It’s expensive but proven to last.

The Misen Carbon Nonstick pan delivers nonstick performance without the coatings or upkeep. Its hardened carbon steel surface never needs seasoning, resists rust, and stands up to metal utensils. If you want a durable, low-maintenance pan that lasts for years, Misen is the best option.

For simple, reliable nonstick performance, go with Tramontina Pro Series (PTFE): consistent heating, easy release, and a finish that stands up better than most at this price.

If you’re on a budget but still want an exceptional sear on your steak, Lodge is the name you can trust. It’s the oldest and longest-running manufacturer of cast iron cookware in America and has a long track record of success (over 120 years). Lodge has a good variety of pan sizes and shapes. It’s a must for robust cooking and baking.

Le Creuset is the best enameled cast iron cookware available, and its Dutch ovens have been one of the most sought after kitchen items for decades. Yes, there are cheaper alternatives, but there is something special about this brand. It’s like a KitchenAid stand mixer or a Vitamix blender. It’s just a magnificent showpiece that functions at a high level. Expect to pay more. But you won’t be disappointed.

Demeyere seamlessly integrates ultra-thick construction, rivetless handles, and proprietary surface treatments, offering unparalleled function and design in cookware. However, this exceptional quality comes with a correspondingly high price tag.

Merging the convenience of non-stick with the robustness of stainless steel, HexClad is setting a new standard in the cookware industry. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, versatile pan that you can use to cook any meal, HexClad is one of the best options.

No matter which choice you make, I am confident that you’ll be pleased with the offerings of these cookware leaders.

You can read more reviews, check current prices, and learn more about each brand at the links below:

• Made In on MadeInCookware.com
• All-Clad on Amazon (and All-Clad.com)
• Misen on Misen.com
• Tramontina on Amazon
• Lodge on Amazon
• Le Creuset on Amazon
• Demeyere on Amazon (and Zwilling.com)
• HexClad on HexClad.com (and Amazon)