Are you shopping for a new set of cookware but not sure whether to buy Calphalon’s Contemporary or Signature collection?
Calphalon Contemporary cookware is elegant, yet rugged enough to endure the demands of everyday, high-performance cooking.
Calphalon Signature cookware is more expensive than Calphalon Contemporary, but it comes with special features and unique construction that make it stand out.
Is it worth spending extra for Calphalon Signature? Or, is Calphalon Contemporary cookware more than enough?
In this in-depth comparison of Calphalon Contemporary vs. Signature cookware, I’ll show you how each collection measures up in terms of:
- Design
- Construction
- Cooking Performance
- Product Offerings
- Price
- And much more.
By the end, you’ll understand the differences and similarities between the two collections and be able to decide for yourself whether it’s worth spending more for Calphalon Signature.
Note: Calphalon discontinued the Contemporary collection in 2021. However, you can still buy it on Amazon while inventory lasts.
Use these links to navigate this comparison:
- Calphalon Contemporary vs. Signature: Quick Summary
- Side-by-Side Comparison Chart
- Calphalon Company Background
- Design
- Construction
- Cooking Performance
- Product Offerings
- Price
- Bottom Line: Which Cookware Should You Buy?
Calphalon Contemporary vs. Signature: Quick Summary
In a hurry? If you’re looking for a quick comparison of Calphalon Contemporary vs. Signature, these are the key points you need to know.
Note: I dive much deeper into each of the points later in this article.
What Are Their Differences?
Construction
The Calphalon Contemporary included 3-ply stainless steel pots and pans in the past, but now this collection only features hard-anodized aluminum non-stick cookware.
Signature boasts a five-ply construction with a three-layer core of heavy-gauge aluminum fused between two layers of stainless steel for even heat conduction and longer heat retention.
Cooking Performance
Signature non-stick cookware differs from Contemporary non-stick cookware in that it features a proprietary, textured non-stick surface that mimics the results of stainless steel when it comes to searing and sealing in flavor of meat, seafood, and vegetables.
Additionally, Signature non-stick is oven safe at a higher temperature than Contemporary (500 degrees F) and is scratch resistant against metal utensils.
Price
While both collections are at the higher end of cookware offerings, the Signature collection is more expensive than the contemporary Contemporary collection due to its unique non-stick surface and 5-ply construction.
Compare the current prices on Amazon at these links: Calphalon Contemporary, Calphalon Signature.
What Are Their Similarities?
Warranty
Calphalon Contemporary and Signature stainless steel and non-stick cookware come with a lifetime warranty that covers defects in materials and craftsmanship.
Construction
Calphalon Contemporary and Signature non-stick cookware feature a triple-layer, PFOA-free non-stick coating, and a hard-anodized aluminum base.
Design
Contemporary and Signature cookware features sloped sides and flared rims for expert manipulation of food.
Cooking Performance
Calphalon Contemporary and Signature non-stick cookware is oven safe, but not broiler safe.
Both collections are dishwasher safe and compatible with most cooktops (except induction), including gas, electric, halogen, and glass.
Bottom Line: Which Collection Should You Buy?
If you’re looking for high-quality stainless steel cookware and are willing to pay for the best performance, go with Calphalon Signature (Contemporary no longer comes in stainless steel).
Its five-ply construction delivers superior durability and heat conduction. In other words, it has better cooking performance than most.
Since stainless steel cookware will last nearly forever, it’s worth the splurge.
If you’re leaning toward non-stick, save some money and get the Contemporary set.
Since you’ll eventually need to replace your non-stick cookware, there is no need to spend more for the Signature collection.
Contemporary non-stick is oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, has a triple layer of PFOA-free (chemical-free) non-stick, is made with hard-anodized aluminum, and is dishwasher safe.
If you’re looking to buy an individual piece, like a frying pan, go with Signature.
Why?
- One pan won’t break the bank.
- You’ll get a textured non-stick layer for optimal searing.
- You can use any utensil without damaging the surface.
- It’s oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (vs. 450 with Contemporary).
Both collections are available on Amazon where you can check out the current prices and read dozens of other reviews: Calphalon Contemporary, Calphalon Signature.
Side-by-Side Comparison Chart
Here’s an at-a-glance view of Calphalon Contemporary and Signature nonstick and stainless steel collection features:
| Contemporary Stainless Steel | Signature Stainless Steel | Contemporary Non-Stick | Signature Non-Stick | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Material | Brushed stainless steel | Brushed stainless steel | Heavy-gauge, hard-anodized aluminum | Heavy-gauge, hard-anodized aluminum |
| Core Material | Heavy-gauge aluminum (multi-clad) | Heavy-gauge aluminum (multi-clad) | Hard-anodized aluminum throughout | Hard-anodized aluminum throughout |
| Cooking Surface | Brushed stainless steel | Brushed stainless steel | 3 layers of non-stick coating (PTFE) | 3 layers of non-stick coating (PTFE) |
| Handles | Cast stainless steel | Cast stainless steel | Cast stainless steel | Cast stainless steel |
| Lids | Tempered glass | Tempered glass | Tempered glass | Tempered glass |
| Oven-Safe Temperature (degrees F) | 450 | 450 | 450 | 500 |
| Broil Safe? | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Dishwasher Safe? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible with Induction | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Unique Feature | Three-ply, fully-clad construction for even heat distribution | Five-ply, fully-clad construction for even better heat distribution | Extra layers of non-stick coating (3) for superior scratch-resistance | Triple-layer, textured non-stick surface for searing, compatible with metal utensils |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| Price (click to see on Amazon) | $$$ | $$$$ | $$$ | $$$$ |
Calphalon Company Background
At the heart of this company is a foodie—a man who loved cooking, entertaining, and top-shelf ingredients. Ronald Kasperzak combined his passion for business and food, founding the Commercial Aluminum Cookware Company in 1963.
Ron focused on commercial cookware at first, and over time, his company became a leading foodservice supplier of professional-grade cookware.
By the late 1960s, he was spearheading innovations to change the professional cookware market by applying an electrochemical process used in aerospace and architecture industries.
At the time, applying the process to cookware was unprecedented.
This process, known as hard-anodizing, created a surface 80% harder than stainless steel, making cookware exponentially more durable. The company called this new product, Calphalon.
In 1997, with the success of their new and unique product, they decided to rename the company from Commercial Aluminum Cookware Company to just, Calphalon Corporation.
The Toledo, Ohio-born company holds the honor of being the first company to offer pans made from hard-anodized aluminum and bridging the gap between professional and home cookware options.
Calphalon was purchased by Newell Brands in 1998 but remains committed to its role as a leader in culinary innovation.
Design
At first glance, you may not notice the design differences between Calphalon Contemporary and Signature cookware.
Both collections have a simple but elegant design. They not only look great in the kitchen, but they perform exceptionally well too.
Despite their similarities in design, each collection has subtle yet important differences.
Let’s take a look.
Exteriors
Calphalon Signature stainless steel collections have brushed stainless steel exteriors, as opposed to polished.
What does this mean?
Polished stainless steel exteriors are bright and shiny, like a mirror, while brushed exteriors have a duller surface, similar to a matte finish.
While the shininess of polished steel cookware is more traditional, the muted exterior finish gives both of these collections a sleek and modern look.
If you prefer a shiny exterior, check out Calphalon’s Tri-Ply collection (see on Amazon). It’s their only stainless steel cookware with a polished exterior.
The non-stick exteriors for Calphalon Contemporary and Signature pieces come in a dark gray, matte metal finish made of hard-anodized aluminum. Classy without being flashy.
Interiors
We’ll get more into how the pans are constructed later in this comparison (skip ahead), but I want to mention a few things about the interior cooking surface of the pans.
All pans are crafted with sloped sides and flared edges to aid even the most amateur home chef with expert-level manipulation and release when tossing or agitating food while cooking.
Both Calphalon Contemporary and Signature non-stick pans are coated with PFOA-free surfaces.
Calphalon Signature non-stick differentiates from Contemporary in that you can use any utensil to stir and flip your food without harming the surface, including metal spoons and whisks.
Besides being metal utensil safe, Calphalon Signature non-stick cookware has a specially textured surface designed to sear and seal in flavor that, according to Calphalon, works just as good as its stainless steel counterparts.
Below is a close up look at this unique textured non-stick surface.
Contemporary non-stick requires the use of scratch-resistant utensils such as nylon, coated, or wood.
Stainless steel interior surfaces for Contemporary and Signature cookware are both made from brushed stainless steel.
Handles
Both collections feature cast, brushed stainless steel handles designed to minimize heat conductivity. As a result, handles stay cooler on cooktops. To be safe, always use oven mitts or heat resistant gloves while handling cookware.
Long handles on fry pans, woks, and saucepans are slightly curved upward and securely bolted to one side of the pan, leaving space between the prongs to cut down on heat transfer.
Some pots and pans, such as Dutch Ovens and Everyday Pans, have handles on each side for stability during transport.
Design-wise, the Contemporary and Signature collection have subtle differences worth noting.
The long, Contemporary stainless steel handle is affixed to the cookware with two bolts while the Signature has a three-bolt design.
Side handles are bolted in two places on either side of Contemporary cookware. These handles are curved and flush to the cooktop surface. The Signature style features upward-angled side handles that are squared and have a double-bolt design to keep them secure.
Lids
Lids for Calphalon Contemporary and Signature, both stainless steel and non-stick, are made from tempered glass designed to handle high temperatures (up to 450 degrees F).
Handles on the lids of Contemporary cookware are curved, while Signature handles are squared.
Construction
Calphalon constructs the Contemporary and Signature non-stick pots and pans with heavy-gauge, hard-anodized aluminum and finishes the cooking surface with three layers of PFOA-free non-stick coating.
Why hard-anodized aluminum?
Because it makes the cookware extremely durable and predictable. In short, it’s built to last and provides even heat distribution.
Here’s where the offerings differ. The non-stick coating used to make Calphalon Signature cookware features a unique texture designed to provide an excellent sear on meat, similar to how stainless steel cookware works.
If you ask any professional chef, they will tell you that non-stick cookware is not the best for searing.
Why?
To get a good sear, it’s helpful for the food to stick to the cooking surface. Sticking maximizes the contact between the heat and the meat, creating a crust that locks in juices.
While it’s possible to sear meats with Calphalon Contemporary non-stick cookware, you won’t be able to get the same caramelization and crust that you can with Signature.
If you prefer stainless steel, Signature cookware has fully-clad (or multi-clad) construction with steel exterior layers and a heavy-gauge aluminum core.
The process of cladding involves the layering of metal to produce a durable product with higher marks in heat conductivity than cookware with impact-bonded aluminum bases (like some of Calphalon’s less expensive collections – see our comparison of Calphalon Contemporary vs. Classic for details).
The aluminum core helps the pan get to the right temperature fast and keep it that way.
Calphalon Contemporary stainless steel (which was discontinued in 2020) has three-ply construction. Three-ply construction is when two layers of stainless steel on the exterior surface and the cooking surface encapsulate one layer of heavy-gauge aluminum in the middle.
This type of construction provides even, consistent heating. The absence of hot spots means the entirety of the food cooks at the same temperature, more quickly and accurately.
Signature stainless steel takes it up a few notches. Signature stainless steel cookware features five-ply, fully-clad construction, which consists of three aluminum core layers fused between two layers of stainless steel.
The extra layers of aluminum in the Signature collection give it a leg up in terms of heat distribution and temperature control. In other words, Signature cookware heats up faster and more evenly, and when you turn the burner up, the pan reacts more quickly.
Cooking Performance
While cooking performance can be subjective, there are a few key features I want to point out to help you differentiate between the Calphalon Contemporary and Signature cookware.
Both collections are impressive and have a lot in common, but Calphalon Signature elevates the cooking game due to its construction and unique features.
Here’s what you need to know.
Heat Conduction and Retention
Signature stainless steel has the upper hand with fast, even heat conduction simply because it has more layers of heat conductive material (aluminum) than Contemporary.
Signature stainless cookware is constructed with three layers of heavy-gauge aluminum, fused between two layers of stainless steel for superior heat conductivity.
Contemporary stainless (again, this cookware was discontinued in 2020) has one layer of heavy-gauge aluminum sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel.
Don’t get me wrong; both stainless steel collections deliver the goods.
But, the redundancy of the cladding on the Signature collection provides faster heat conduction, more even heat distribution, longer heat retention, and more precise temperature control.
When it comes to the non-stick offerings, Contemporary and Signature cookware are both made from hard-anodized aluminum and feature triple-layer, PFOA-free non-stick coating.
They are identical in terms of heat conductivity; but, Signature cookware has a textured surface designed to mimic the performance of stainless steel when it comes to searing, browning, and sautéing.
Oven-Safe Temperature
Excluding Signature non-stick cookware, which is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, all other Contemporary and Signature pieces are oven safe up to 450 (including lids).
Cooktop Compatibility
Calphalon Contemporary and Signature stainless steel cookware is compatible with all cooktops. Yes, even induction.
You can safely use the non-stick offerings on every kind of stove except induction.
Cleaning and Care
In terms of cleaning and care, there is no difference in how you handle Contemporary and Signature cookware.
Calphalon and Signature stainless steel and non-stick cookware collections are dishwasher-safe, but I’m a firm believer in handwashing pots and pans of high quality.
Even though Calphalon permits using the dishwasher to clean both collections, they mention in their manual that the luster of stainless steel fares better when you use gentle detergents and a little elbow grease.
Never nest (stack on top of each other) cookware as it may damage the interior cooking surface.
Never rinse a piping hot pan under cold water. The sudden temperature change will cause it to warp (learn the six most common causes of warped pans).
Check out my guide to cleaning Calphalon hard-anodized pans for more details.
Product Offerings
With both collections, you have the option to purchase a complete set or choose from an array of individual pieces.
The main difference between Calphalon Contemporary and Signature in terms of product offerings is that Signature comes in both non-stick and stainless steel; Contemporary only comes in non-stick.
Additionally, the Signature collection features curated cookware sets, while the Contemporary collection only offers individual pots and pans.
Below are the most popular offerings of each collection.
Calphalon Contemporary Non-Stick Individual Pieces (see all on Amazon):
- 10-in. And 12-in. Fry Pan bundle
- 11-in. Square Grill
- 11-in. Square Griddle
- Panini Pan and Press
- 5-qt. Dutch Oven with Cover
- 5-qt. Shallow Sauce Pan with Cover
- 13-in. Deep Skillet with Cover
- 12-in. Everyday Pan with Cover
- 8-in. Fry Pan with Cover
- 8-in. Fry Pan
- 10-in. Fry Pan
- 12-in. Fry Pan
- 10-in. Stir Fry Pan
- 5-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 5-qt. Pour and Strain Sauce Pan
- 5-qt. Sauce Pan with Steamer Insert and Cover
- 3-qt. Sauté Pan with Cover
- 7-qt. Sauteuse (large, dome-shaped sauté pan) with Cover
- Multi-Pot
- 8-qt. Stock Pot with Cover
- Flat Bottom Wok
- Roaster and Rack
Calphalon Signature Stainless Steel 10-Piece Set (See on Amazon):
- 8-in. Omelette Pan
- 10-in. Omelette Pan
- 2-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 3-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 3-qt. Sauté Pan with Cover
- 8-qt. Stock Pot with Cover
Calphalon Signature Stainless Steel Individual Pieces:
- 10-in. Skillet Pan with Cover
- 12-in. Omelette Pan
- 2.5-qt. Shallow Sauce Pan with Cover
- 4-qt. Covered Chef Pan
- 5-qt. Dutch Oven with Cover
Calphalon Signature Non-Stick 10-Piece Set (See on Amazon):
- 10-in. Omelette Pan
- 12-in. Omelette Pan
- 2-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 3-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 3-qt. Sauté Pan with Cover
- 8-qt. Stock Pot with Cover
Calphalon Signature Non-Stick Individual Pieces:
- 8-in. and 10-in. Omelette Pan Set
- 10-in. Omelette Pan
- 12-in. Omelette Pan with Cover
- 12-in. Round Grill Pan
- 12-in. Round Griddle Pan
- 12-in. Everyday Pan with Cover
- 5-qt. Dutch Oven with Cover
- 1-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 2-qt. Sauce Pan with Cover
- 4-qt. Soup Pot with Cover
- 5-qt. Sauteuse (large sauté pan) with Cover
- 8-qt. Stock Pot with Cover
- 12 in. Flat Bottom Wok with Cover
Price
In general, Calphalon is considered a mid to high-end cookware brand.
If you’re looking to save money but still get a solid cookware set, collections like the Calphalon Classic (see on Amazon) and Select by Calphalon (see on Amazon) are the best-value options.
But, if you’re looking for premium cookware built for superior performance and longevity, you’ll have to spend more for the Contemporary and Signature collections.
I mentioned at the beginning of this article that Calphalon Signature is the more expensive collection, but Contemporary isn’t too far behind.
Both collections warrant a higher price tag due to their quality, heavy-gauge, hard-anodized aluminum, and multi-clad construction.
In general, the Signature collection tends to run between 10% to 40% more expensive than the Contemporary collection, but the exact difference in price depends on which sets/pieces you buy and where you buy it.
To compare prices for Calphalon Contemporary vs. Signature cookware, check out each collection on Amazon:
If the complete sets give you sticker shock, start by purchasing individual pieces to get a feel for the cookware. Later, you can pick up more pieces to create a custom set or, if you’re ready, go all out and get a complete set.
Bottom Line: Should You Buy Calphalon Contemporary or Signature?
Choosing between Calphalon Contemporary and Signature is a tough call.
Both collections feature an attractive design, heat up fast and evenly, and are built to last.
The truth is, you can’t go wrong with either. But, if you need a nudge in one direction, here are my recommendations.
Price Pick
When it comes to price, Calphalon Contemporary is the winner.
It has heavy-gauge aluminum construction, a triple-layer non-stick coating, and sleek, modern-looking handles.
It’s high-performing, long-lasting, and cheaper than the Signature collection.
Performance Pick
If price is no object, go with the Signature stainless steel collection.
Why?
The five-ply construction delivers second-to-none durability, heat conduction, and heat retention.
Only high-end All-Clad collections, like All-Clad D5 (see on Amazon), rival the cooking performance of this collection. But, All-Clad will cost you much more.
Additionally, it’s compatible with all cooktops, oven-safe, broiler-safe, dishwasher safe, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Besides that, home chefs love it. It’s called “impressive,” “worth the money,” and “beautiful.”
Non-Stick Pick
If you’re getting a full set of non-stick cookware, my suggestion is to go with the Contemporary collection. It’s unnecessary to pay a higher price for an entire Signature non-stick set.
The only two advantages of Signature non-stick cookware are:
- The textured non-stick surface mimics results seen with the use of quality stainless steel in terms of searing, browning, and sautéing.
- You can use all types of cooking utensils, including metal, without damaging the surface.
To me, it’s not worth paying a premium for those benefits.
However, you could buy a set of Contemporary non-stick cookware for everyday use and purchase one Calphalon Signature pan (like this 12-inch Frying Pan on Amazon) to do your searing.
Going this route takes care of pretty much all your cooking needs at the lowest possible price (between these two collections).
Just remember, non-stick is not broiler-safe, so if you love broiling, consider stainless steel.
Ready to make your choice? Both collections are available at most kitchen supply stores and on Amazon at the links below:
If you found this article helpful, you should also check out:
- Is Calphalon Cookware Any Good? An In-Depth Review
- Calphalon Contemporary Cookware: An In-Depth Review
- Calphalon Classic vs. Contemporary: What’s the Difference?
- Calphalon Signature vs. Calphalon Premier: Which Cookware Is Better?
- All-Clad vs. Calphalon: Non-Stick and Stainless Cookware Compared
- T-fal vs. Calphalon: In-Depth Cookware Comparison
- Calphalon vs. Cuisinart: How Does Their Cookware Compare?
- All-Clad vs. Cuisinart: How Does Their Cookware Compare?
- Is All-Clad Cookware Worth the High Price? An In-Depth Review
- Select by Calphalon vs. Calphalon Premier: Which Cookware Is Better?
- Calphalon Premier Cookware Review (With Pictures)
- What Is the Best Calphalon Cookware Set? (Top 5 Reviewed)
