HexClad vs. Scanpan: Which Cookware Is Better?

Are you searching for new pots and pans but can’t decide between HexClad and Scanpan?

HexClad is an up-and-coming brand specializing in hybrid cookware that combines the ease of non-stick and the durability of stainless steel.

Scanpan is the pioneer of eco-friendly cookware with decades of proven performance and durability.

So which is better? What factors should you consider when shopping?

In this comparison of HexClad vs. Scanpan, I break down how each brands’ cookware differs in terms of materials, construction, performance, design (with lots of pictures), price, and more.

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

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Use the links below to navigate the comparison:

• HexClad vs. Scanpan: Comparison Chart
• Difference 1: Product Offerings
• Difference 2: Base Construction
• Difference 3: Cooking Surface
• Difference 4: Cooking Performance
• Difference 5: Design
• Difference 6: Where It’s Made
• Difference 7: Company History
• Difference 8: Price
• Difference 9: Downsides
• What Others Are Saying
• Bottom Line: Should You Buy HexClad or Scanpan?

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HexClad vs. Scanpan: Comparison Chart

Here is a quick comparison chart of HexClad vs. Scanpan if you’re in a hurry. I’ll go into more detail in each section throughout the comparison.

	HexClad	Scanpan
Product Offerings	One collection: Hybrid	Over ten collections
Base Construction	Hybrid of 3-ply stainless steel and non-stick material	5-ply stainless or cast aluminum
Cooking Surface	Hybrid of stainless steel and non-stick	STRATANIUM or STRATANIUM+ non-stick
Oven-Safe Temperature	500°F	500°F
Induction-Compatible	Yes	CTX, CSX, IQ, and Induction Plus are induction-compatible
Design	Distinct hexagonal pattern with riveted stay-cool handles	Shiny stainless or dark cast aluminum with rivetless Bakelite or steel handles
Where It’s Made	Made in China	Made in Denmark
Company History	Introduced in the U.S. in 2016	Established in 1956
Downsides	Expensive, food sticks	Non-stick surface is less durable than HexClad
Price	$$$$ (view on Amazon and HexClad.com)	$$$ (view on Amazon)
More Details	HexClad Review	Scanpan Review

Difference 1: Product Offerings

HexClad’s product lineup is currently limited to one collection: Hybrid. Despite the lack of options, this collection is designed with a unique stainless steel and non-stick surface, providing you the best of both worlds (more on this in a minute).

Scanpan offers 11 collections, including:

• Classic
• Classic Induction
• Professional
• Pro IQ
• CTX
• HAPTIQ
• TECHNIQ
• Maitre D’
• CS+
• ES5
• Pro S+

Although Scanpan offers both non-stick and stainless steel cookware, they’re best known for their ultra-durable non-stick collections. The top three non-stick collections are the Classic, Professional, and CTX.

The Classic Collection features a cast aluminum base, PFOA/PFOS-free non-stick coating, and rivetless handles. It’s Scanpan’s most extensive collection, with nearly fifty pieces included.

The Professional Collection also includes PFOA/PFOS-free non-stick cookware made from 100% recycled aluminum. The big difference is the aesthetics. These pots and pans have brushed stainless steel lids and handles, giving them a professional appearance. There are fewer options in this collection than the Classic, but it includes all the essentials.

Finally, cookware in the CTX Collection features a 5-ply base, which delivers incredible heat distribution. You can use this cookware on all stovetops, including induction. It boasts a beautiful shiny satin exterior that makes it stand out in your kitchen.

Difference 2: Base Construction

One of the major differences between HexClad and Scanpan cookware is its base construction.

HexClad’s base features 3-ply (three-layer) construction. The outer layer is steel, the core is aluminum, and the top layer is steel.

3-ply cookware is super durable due to the steel and heats quickly and evenly due to the conductive core aluminum layer.

The Scanpan cookware base is either made of cast aluminum or 5-ply stainless steel. The 5-ply collections (CTX and CS+) are similar to HexClad but with three core layers of aluminum instead of one.

The real difference between HexClad and Scanpan is that Scanpan offers several collections with a cast aluminum base.

Cast aluminum is made by melting down aluminum before pouring it into a mold. The aluminum is then cured and cooled. While this process is more costly and drives up the price, it results in more durable cookware that’s nearly warp-proof.

Compared to the most common type of aluminum used in non-stick cookware (stamped or spun), cast aluminum is sturdier.

Difference 3: Cooking Surface

The cooking surface is the significant difference between HexClad and Scanpan, and arguably, one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing between the two.

With HexClad, you’ll notice a unique hexagon pattern on the cooking surface which features stainless steel peaks and non-stick valleys.

The stainless steel peaks offer the ability to get a great sear on your meat.

Simultaneously, the non-stick valleys allow you to easily clean up your pan and cook with minimal amounts of butter, grease, or oil.

This design makes HexClad more durable and longer-lasting than standard non-stick surfaces (including what Scanpan offers) because the steel peaks protect the non-stick material. In fact, you can use metal utensils without scratching the surface.

Scanpan offers two patented non-stick coatings called Stratanium and Stratanium+. What’s the difference? And what makes them unique?

Stratanium is a thick, 5-layer coating composed of interlocking particles. The unique design provides impressive food release and durability. Like HexClad, you can use metal utensils without scratching or peeling the surface.

With Stratanium+, you get all of the above and more. The Stratanium+ surface is slightly rough, which aids in getting the best cooking results so that you can achieve more crispiness and flavor than any other non-stick coating.

Bottom line — both brands offer durable cooking surfaces, but they take a different approach. HexClad protects its non-stick material with raised steel, while Scanpan reinforces its non-stick coating with multiple layers and interlocking particles.

Difference 4: Cooking Performance

While HexClad is more versatile and innovative with its hybrid surface, it doesn’t excel in any specific area.

Some recipes need strictly non-stick or strictly stainless steel to achieve the best results.

For example, HexClad can sear meats well due to the stainless steel on the cooking surface, and it works well for stir-frying and sauteing due to its non-stick elements.

But, I’ve found eggs, fish, and other delicate ingredients stick to the surface. It’s not just me; read reviews on Amazon, and you’ll see the same complaints.

Scanpan, on the other hand, offers both stainless steel and non-stick cookware. You can use stainless steel for searing, braising, and sauces and the non-stick for delicate ingredients that tend to stick.

Plus, the Stratanium+ surface is textured, which allows you to sear and brown with its non-stick pans, too. It’s not as effective as a stainless steel surface, but it provides better results than a traditional non-stick surface.

Sanpan and HexClad cookware is oven safe up to 500°F. All HexClad pieces are induction-compatible, but with Scanpan, it varies by collection. The CTX, CSX, IQ, and Induction Plus collections are induction-compatible; the others are not. 

Difference 5: Design

HexClad’s unique design is the same across all of its cookware.

The hexagon pattern with stainless steel peaks and non-stick valleys runs throughout the cooking surface and exterior.

As you can see, the pattern varies towards the rim of the pan.

The exterior features a shiny steel ring and more steel/non-stick hexagonal pattern.

Each item features round riveted handles. The handles are hollow to disperse heat and stay cool.

Scanpan’s cookware design varies by collection. I’ll highlight some of the most popular collection’s unique elements.

The Classic collection has a more traditional appearance. It’s made from 100% recycled cast aluminum with a black exterior.

The black rivetless handles make it easy to clean (no more scrubbing around rivets).

The collection utilizes the Stratanium non-stick coating and features a glass lid with a black knob.

The Professional collection also uses 100% recycled aluminum, sharing the same black exterior as the Classic collection cookware.

It has stainless steel lids, handles, and knobs, which provide an attractive contrast and elegant appearance. The handles are attached with two rivets. This collection features the Stratanium non-stick coating.

The CTX collection stands out thanks to its 5-ply brushed stainless steel exterior. This collection boasts hollow stainless steel knobs and handles, attached with two rivets.

Difference 6: Where It’s Made

All HexClad cookware is designed in Los Angeles but made in China.

Scanpan cookware is produced in Denmark, but some stainless steel products are made in China.

Difference 7: Company History

HexClad launched in the US in 2016. While the company is still young, it offers a lifetime warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy. You can purchase the products on HexClad.com or Amazon.

Scanpan is based in Denmark and was established in 1956. The company was the first cookware manufacturer to make eco-friendly, PFOA-free cookware.

They make their products from 100% recycled aluminum using the strictest environmental standards. Reducing waste, energy consumption, and its carbon footprint has been part of Scanpan’s DNA since its inception.

Besides their extensive cookware range, they also offer a full line of cutlery and accessories.

Difference 8: Price

Despite its recent entry into the market, HexClad is priced similar to established premium cookware brands with long-standing reputations.

Though Scanpan is also pricey, it’s more affordable than HexClad.

Overall, the price will vary by product and from where you purchase it.

The chart below shows the current prices on Amazon of both brands. Check the prices to learn more about each product.

Difference 9: Downsides

No cookware is perfect, and Scanpan and HexClad are no exception. Let’s explore the downsides of each brand.

HexClad is a new brand, so its cookware isn’t yet proven over time. While there is a lifetime warranty, it’s still a bit of a risk to invest in such new brands.

HexClad features a hybrid surface which the company claims is non-stick, but customers have reported that they can’t cook delicate items, like fish and eggs, without some sticking (I’ve experienced this issue in my own testing).

Last, over time, the non-stick elements break down, and you will need to replace the pan. Therefore, it’s tough to justify HexClad’s high price point.

Although more affordable than HexClad, Scanpan is expensive compared to other non-stick cookware, and since you’ll eventually need to replace it, it may not fit everyone’s budget.

Despite durability claims, a minority of Scanpan customers complain that the non-stick coating didn’t hold up any longer than lower-end cookware options.

Another drawback of Scanpan is that its cast aluminum bases are heavy and difficult to maneuver.

Finally, if you have an induction cooktop, only a few Scanpan collections are induction-compatible.

What Others Are Saying

To better understand how these two brands compare, it’s important to review what the other experts have to say.

Good Housekeeping gives Scanpan Classic four out of five stars, saying the company delivers “top-notch” performance for various recipes from burgers to crepes to soup. They also loved that the cookware is oven- and dishwasher-safe and resistant to stains.

Both brands made Good Housekeeping’s roundup of the best cookware sets. Scanpan CTQ cookware came in sixth place as the best ceramic option. HexClad came in eighth place as the best hybrid non-stick cookware.

CNN Underscored awarded HexClad the best restaurant-quality pan. They loved it for its fancy vibe, sturdiness, and easy release. The reviewers mentioned that, while it is expensive, it’s a very tough pan that withstands scratches and high temperatures.

The New York Times praised Scanpan Classic’s heat distribution, but the reviewers were not fans of the straight sides, making it hard to flip ingredients.

Consumer Reports conducted detailed testing on HexClad and loved its uniform browning ability, excellent durability, and sturdy, stay-cool handles. The experts heaped similar praise for Scanpan.

Bottom Line: Should You Buy HexClad or Scanpan?

Now that we’ve covered the key facts and main differences between HexClad and Scanpan, it’s time to make a decision.

Let’s quickly recap the key differences before I give my recommendation:

Product offerings: HexClad only has one offering, while Scanpan has several unique collections.

Base construction: HexClad’s cookware features a reliable and sturdy 3-ply aluminum and stainless steel base. Scanpan utilizes a range of base materials, including cast aluminum and 5-ply stainless steel.

Cooking surface: HexClad boasts a unique cooking surface that combines both stainless steel and non-stick, giving you the best of both worlds. Scanpan uses patented coatings called Stratanium or Stratanium+, which provide exceptional food release.

Cooking performance: HexClad excels in searing, but its non-stick surface isn’t ideal for more delicate ingredients like eggs and fish. Scanpan provides exceptional food release and is completely non-stick.

Design: HexClad features a unique design with stainless steel peaks and non-stick valleys. Scanpan’s cookware varies by collection; you’ll find both black aluminum and shiny stainless steel exteriors with various handle types, including silvery steel, gold-toned steel, and wood.

Where it’s made: HexClad cookware is made in China. Most of Scanpan’s cookware is produced in Denmark, but some stainless steel pieces are made in China.

Company history: HexClad is a new company, launching in the US in 2016. Scanpan was launched in Denmark in 1956.

Price: Both brands are more expensive than many other non-stick brands, but HexClad is pricier than Scanpan.

So which is better? HexClad’s hybrid design is unique, but it’s priced like high-end stainless steel. The non-stick valleys will eventually wear down, eliminating the cookware’s non-stick ability. Overall, I don’t think it’s worth the high price tag.

Scanpan, on the other hand, is one of the best cookware brands in the world and has a proven track record. The cooking surface is fully non-stick, so it releases food more efficiently. While it’s still expensive, it is more affordable than HexClad.

Between the two, I recommend Scanpan. However, if you’re intrigued by the hybrid technology and can afford it, HexClad is worth a try.

Bottom line — you could buy multiple Scanpan pans and get better non-stick results for the price of one HexClad pan.

If you’re ready to buy or want to learn more, check out both brands at the links below:

• Scanpan on Amazon and Scanpan.com
• HexClad on Amazon and HexClad.com