What are the best non stick frying pans
Best Nonstick Frying Pans, Tested and Reviewed
Breakfast makers know the true beauty of a nonstick frying pan. The best nonstick skillets release fluffy omelets, fried eggs and browned pancakes without any fuss. But the uses for nonstick cookware go far beyond that first meal of the day. The best nonstick pans can be used for reheating leftovers or frozen prepared meals.
So to find the best nonstick fry pan to buy in 2023, we put a dozen to the test. In the end, Misen's excellent 10-inch frying pan topped the field. With great balance, a flat cooking surface and an extra-comfy handle courtesy of a rubber sheath, this kitchen companion should serve you well in many of your culinary endeavors. But other nonstick skillets caught our eye as well including a budget pick, a unique nonstick pan that costs more but should last longer (more on that in a bit), and even a pick for home cooks with induction stoves.
And if you're wondering if nonstick cookware and Teflon are safe to use, the answer is yes. But that wasn't always the case. You can read more about that here.
Our best nonstick fry pans for 2023
Misen
Best overall nonstick fry pan
Misen 10-inch frying pan
For a nonstick skillet, the Misen 10-inch frying pan ticked more boxes than any others I tested. It's sturdy but not heavy, and has an excellent nonstick surface that released eggs and pancake batter with ease. Misen's nonstick pans use a PFOA-free, three-layer platinum coating that I found just slightly more nonstick than others. The three coats of nonstick are also intended to keep your nonstick surface from degrading as quickly. This pan is also oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
The gently flared sides allowed for pancakes and eggs to slide out without the use of a spatula but still kept contents from spilling over during cooking, even when given a few shakes.
What pushed the Misen pan over the top for me was the handle. It's encased in a protective and removable rubber sheath and makes for a seriously comfortable gripper. The handle also has almost no slant, something I find makes negotiating things like eggs and pancakes easier since they often require a good bit of maneuvering and flipping.
It's also a great-looking skillet. The Misen pan is sleek, ergonomic and looks much like something you'd find in a professional kitchen. Nonstick skillets don't generally have much swagger, but this one does. Misen's excellent nonstick pan is available in three sizes: 8, 10 and 12 inches. For some reason, the 8-inch is only available when bundled with another size.
$65 at Amazon
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Tramontina
Tramontina Professional Restaurant Fry Pan
Best budget nonstick pan
Tramontina's $40 (ish) 10-inch skillet takes the top spot for the best budget nonstick fry pan. You can find cheaper pans, but none of them match Tramontina's excellent combination of nonstick surfaces, even heating and comfy handle. The base is cast aluminum which should resist warping over time and continue to heat quickly and evenly with age. It's also oven-safe up to 400 degrees F.
This wallet-friendly pan is available in four sizes from eight inches up to 14 (which is an unusually large size and more pan than the average chef would want or need). The 10-inch pan is an ideal size for most people and is the one I evaluated in my testing.
$33 at Amazon
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HexClad
HexClad hybrid frying pan
Best splurge nonstick pan
HexClad is an intriguing addition to the nonstick conversation. While I'd almost never recommend spending over $100 -- or even close to that -- on a single nonstick pan given the inevitable surface erosion, HexClad may be the exception. This unique skillet has a surface that combines traditional nonstick with a honeycomb pattern of raised stainless steel to protect it.
The HexClad promise is that you'll get the benefits of nonstick but with the searing abilities of stainless steel, and a pan that should last longer than the average nonstick. I found the hybrid surface does indeed release food much in the way most other nonstick pans do. And while it doesn't sear quite like stainless steel, as the marketing lingo would have you believe, it does a better job than most other Teflon or nonstick skillets.
Nonetheless, this recommendation should be taken with a grain of salt since I've not had the luxury of testing it over time (the line hasn't even been around that long) to see how the nonstick holds up. But in the three or four months I've been using this pan with metal utensils to expedite wear, the skillet has shown no signs of nonstick or visible patina loss.
Read my full review of HexClad cookware here.
$180 at Hexclad
All-Clad
All-Clad hard-anodized 2-piece pan set
Best nonstick set and best for induction cooktops
If you want a small set of nonstick fry pans, I recommend All-Clad's excellent hard-anodized nonstick pans, which come in a set of two for around $60 or $70. If you're keeping up with the math, that's less per pan than our budget pick. All-Clad is a high-end cookware brand favorite of professional chefs.
Instead of a fully aluminum base, these nonstick pans are made with an aluminum core encased in bonded stainless steel so they'll work when used with induction cooktops. Be warned: The steel also makes them heavier than traditional nonstick pans. I've personally used an All-Clad's hard-anodized nonstick pan regularly for about six years. The nonstick coating is as good as any and it's only just now beginning to show major wear and signs of corrosion.
One consideration is that the sides are just barely flared and more like a saucier, so you'll likely have to use a spatula (plastic or wooden) to extract certain foods.
While you might only really need or want one nonstick skillet, consider this: If you spread the use of your nonstick pans out over two pans, you'll almost certainly extend the life of both. Plus, the smaller lighter 8-inch pan is great for quickly frying a single egg or reheating a small portion of leftovers from the night before.
$90 at Walmart
$70 at Amazon
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The rest of the field: Other nonstick pans we tested
In truth, a lot of these nonstick pans performed well in their most basic duty to cook food and then subsequently release it for an easy clean. The reason many didn't make the cut was a bloated price tag that just doesn't seem worth it for a pan that only lasts a few years. Others didn't have handles I loved, had balance issues, cooked less evenly than the winners or had other small flaws that edged them out of the top spots.
- OXO Good Grips fry pan
- Ninja Neverstick premium skillet
- Calphalon nonstick frying pan
- T-Fal Prograde titanium nonstick fry pan
- Viking Culinary nonstick fry pan
- Material The Coated Pan
- Made In nonstick fry pan
- Abbio nonstick skillet
What to know about nonstick pans
You have three basic options for the core material breakdown of your nonstick skillet. All three of these skillet types will have a nonstick coating. These coatings are largely made from a synthetic fluoropolymer called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Teflon is a familiar brand name for this nonstick material that you've likely heard of. Some cheap pan producers use fewer coatings of PTFE and so will wear out faster.
A visual tutorial on how not to store nonstick cookware
David Watsky/CNETIt's what's underneath the PTFE that matters more and, depending on your cooking needs and the type of stovetop you use, one might be better for you than the others.
Fully aluminum
Fully aluminum nonstick skillets are great because they are light and cheap -- nonstick pans have a short lifespan -- but they don't have the structure that comes with tough stainless steel so they're likely to warp faster. They heat up quicker than other pans since aluminum is a fierce conductor but won't work on induction surfaces.
Aluminum core with steel plate bonded to the bottom
With a stainless steel plate fasted to the bottom, your pan is likely to have more rigidity so if you tend to abuse cookware, it shouldn't warp or dent as easily. These pans are great because they'll work on induction stoves. The downside is that they're a bit heavier and generally more expensive.
Aluminum core fully encased in stainless steel
This makeup is similar to the above except the stainless steel plate surrounds the aluminum core entirely. These pans will also work with induction heating elements but have even more total weight and often cost more too. On the plus side, you'll have a sturdy pan with a core that should better withstand abuse. Be ready to exercise some patience, however, since a stainless steel-wrapped pan will take longer to heat up than one with only aluminum.
The materials that your pan is made from will affect the weight, durability and stove compatibility. And price too, of course.
David Watsky/CNETHow we test nonstick skillets
There are a few simple tests I run on nonstick skillets for measuring even heating, surface flatness as well as each pan's nonstick properties and ability to release food.
Fried and eggs and omelets: classic nonstick fare
The first and arguably most important test shows us how well each pan releases sticky foods including eggs and pancakes. I cooked both a fried egg and whipped egg omelet in each. The hope is that each one releases the food completely once cooked with as little food left as possible. In truth, all of the fry pans released the eggs well during this test and with no single skillet flunking it. There were some slight variances in performance, however. The pans I've selected as my top picks in each category all performed as well or better than average.
This is the lift you can expect with a good nonstick pan.
David Watsky/CNETPancakes reveal all. Well, a lot anyways
I also cooked a pan-sized pancake in each pan -- a test that does double duty. Beyond illuminating a pan's non-stickiness, it also shows how evenly a skillet heats and cooks.
After loading a cold pan with one cup of pancake batter, I turned the heat on and let it cook for two minutes. Normally, you'd add pancake batter to a preheated pan but here I want the batter to spread evenly and settle in the pan before cooking so I can really see if they have hot or cold spots. I flipped the pancake out of the pan and upside down. Yes, it was a messy business, but what was revealed on the other side were pancakes cooked at varying degrees of evenness that shed light on the pan's ability to cook evenly across its surface.
Browning a pancake shows us how evenly a pan cooks and how well it releases a notoriously sticky breakfast food.
David Watsky/CNETOther considerations
While performing these tests, I'm also careful to note other factors like a pan's overall size, weight and balance on the stove. I also consider the height and slope angle of its sides as well as the angle and construction of the handle. Some of these factors are admittedly subjective, especially handle comfort, so it might make sense to find a cookware superstore and test various handles before making a final selection.
It might seem like a small thing, but the handle angle can make a big difference in maneuvering the pan. I like the subtle slope of Misen's fry pan and the rubber sheath is easy on the hand.
David Watsky/CNETDurability of nonstick coatings
This is a trickier factor to assess. Ultimately, you'll want your nonstick coating to last as long as possible, but you're really only able to gauge this with consistent use over time. In my experience, decent nonstick frying pans will last anywhere from three to four years before they really start to break down. While I don't have the luxury of testing each pan's durability over that timespan, I do look deep into reviews on each pan to see if there were any red flags or patterns that might suggest they corrode faster.
If your nonstick skillet looks anything like this, it's time to saddle yourself with a fresh pan.
David Watsky/CNETWhile no nonstick pan will last forever, our top pick the Misen as well as the All-Clad set feature three layers of nonstick coating which should conceivably give them a longer life.
Price was one of the biggest factors
Because of the short lifespan, you'd be wise not to spend a fortune on one nonstick skillet. Besides the HexClad which offers a unique hybrid surface intended to withstand metal utensils and wear and tear, I don't recommend spending more than $60 or $70 on a single nonstick pan.
If you go too cheap (pans under $40 or so), you'll find that nonstick coatings start to corrode much more quickly and you'll need to replace them sooner. I've made this mistake before and it's simply not worth the hassle just to save a few bucks.
Cost and value were some of the biggest determining factors I considered when choosing the best nonstick fry pans for 2022.
Quick guide to caring for your nonstick cookware
- You should never use metal utensils on nonstick skillets since they will scrape and scratch the coating and cause the pan to lose its nonstick properties much faster.
- Nonstick cooking spray is also not recommended for PTFE-coated pans. It can lead to a filmy buildup over time. Butter or natural cooking oil is your friend but a good, new nonstick pan shouldn't need much help.
- Don't use high heat when cooking with your nonstick pan. Scorching temps will damage the sensitive nonstick surface.
- Always handwash your nonstick pan. Some skillets are technically "dishwasher safe" but exposing them to that much hot water and soap for long periods will erode the nonstick surface over time. Plus, quality nonstick pans generally don't take more than a few soft wipes with a wet sponge and hot water to get clean.
- Storing nonstick cookware properly is also paramount. If you're going to stack it, use rubber or felt separators to protect the nonstick finish.
Nonstick frying pan FAQs
How long should a nonstick pan last?
If you care for it properly (no metal utensils, only handwashing), a typical nonstick skillet should last about four or five years before it starts to wear down and lose its nonstick properties. If you use your nonstick skillet more than three times per week, this timeline might shrink a bit. And if you only bust it out once per week or less, you'll probably have it a bit longer than five years.
When should you throw away your nonstick pans?
Nonstick cookware is pretty good about letting you know when it's ready to be retired. You'll often see visible signs of wear including faded color, nicks and scratches after a few years. Even if you're extra careful not to damage the surface, with force the slick surface will still wear down. When foods that formerly lifted from the pan with ease start to stick, you'll know it's time to re-up your skillet.
Is Teflon and nonstick cookware dangerous?
Short answer: No. The harmful chemical previously used in Teflon nonstick coating, PFOA, is banned in the US and was phased out in 2014. The caveat is if you're still using a nonstick skillet made and sold before 2014, it might be time to chuck it and bag a new one. You can read more about PFOA, Teflon and nonstick cookware safety here.
Is ceramic better than Teflon?
Ceramic has become a popular option for nonstick cookware. The main brag is that these pans use less chemicals than traditional polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surfaces. While they may be true, the chemicals used in modern nonstick aren't shown to be harmful.
The downside of ceramic coatings is that they will lose those nonstick properties faster than PTFE surfaces. They also tend to be more expensive with skillets from popular producers including the Always Pan and Caraway's skillets costing upwards of $100 for a single pan. That's a lot of moolah for a pan that might not see you through the next three or four years.
Will metal utensils ruin nonstick cookware?
Yes. You should always use wood, rubber or soft plastic when cooking with nonstick. Nearly all nonstick cookware surfaces will become damaged and break down faster if you use metal utensils.
The one exception we've encountered is HexClad's hybrid skillet since it features a nonstick skillet with raised stainless steel pattern to protect the nonstick. Full disclosure, I've only been cooking with the HexClad for a few months but it has withstood the assault of my metal utensils thus far.
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The Best Nonstick Skillets of 2023
Straight to the Point
We still recommend buying cheap nonstick pans, as they all have limited lifespans and coatings that will degrade over time. Our top picks include the T-fal Professional Nonstick Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator Fry Pan and Tramontina Professional Aluminum Nonstick Restaurant Fry Pan.
Nonstick cookware has a long history. It was invented in 1954 and introduced to the American market in 1961. And you can’t write about nonstick without talking about the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which was what made nonstick, well, nonstick and has been linked to negative health implications, increased risks of certain cancers, and environmental dangers. It’s since been eliminated from Teflon cookware (since 2013, in fact).
Nowadays, traditional nonstick coatings are made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is sprayed onto the surface of the cookware in several layers. It’s generally regarded as safer than PFOA, but research is still ongoing. However, PTFE nonstick coatings can still wear, chip, and scratch easily. The coating can also break down at 500℉, so the pans shouldn’t be used at higher heats in the oven (many are oven-safe up to 400℉, though) and shouldn’t be preheated at a high heat or for a prolonged period of time empty on the stovetop. This can cause them to off-gas, releasing harmful pollutants into the air that have been linked to polymer fume fever.
However, this can be easily avoided by not heating a nonstick skillet empty, and certainly not using it for high heat applications. It also can be avoided by simply not using nonstick at all (as Daniel’s noted, you could use a well-seasoned carbon steel or cast iron pan for most everything). This all being said, there are certain cooking tasks where a nonstick pan is helpful to have on hand. This includes egg dishes like omelets, or delicate crepes.
Because we seldom recommend using it, we’ve never fully reviewed nonstick skillets. But, if you’re going to have one, you might as well get a good one that performs well and is easy to use. So, we rounded up 16 of the most popular nonstick skillets—priced between $20 and $220—and put them to the test.
The Winners, at a Glance
The Best Nonstick Skillet Under $40: T-fal Professional Nonstick Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator Fry Pan
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Also available at Walmart.
A solid performer at a reasonable (about $30) price, it did well in all of our tests. It’s dishwasher-safe and oven-safe to 400℉.
The Best Nonstick Skillet Under $50: Tramontina Professional Aluminum Nonstick Restaurant Fry Pan
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Also available at Walmart.
This was also oven-safe to safe to 400℉ and featured a handle with a removable, non-slip silicone grip that we particularly liked.
The Best Mid-Priced Nonstick Skillet: All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized 10-Inch Frying Pan
Buy on All-clad.com
Also available at Crate & Barrel.
The surprisingly affordable All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized 10-Inch Frying Pan handled the durability tests like a pro. It was one of two models we tested that had less-sloped sides which yielded a larger cooking surface that some cooks may prefer.
The Best Ceramic Nonstick Skillet: Red Copper 10-Inch Pan by BulbHead
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Also available at Walmart.
While this model gave us a bit less cooking surface than other skillets we tested, it was the best ceramic pan we tried. The warranty is a disappointment, though, since the user has to pay a fee for a replacement.
The Tests
Serious Eats / Donna Currie
- Over-Easy Eggs Test: Eggs were fried over easy to assess whether the pans were truly nonstick. Eggs were cooked with and without butter, and we used a metal spatula to flip the eggs to test durability.
- Omelets Test: We made diner-style omelets, testing for food release, cooking evenness, and the ability of the eggs to spread easily across the pan's surface.
- Crepes Test: We made crepes to test browning capacity as well as even cooking across the surface of the pan.
- Durability Test: Scratch tests were performed with both steel wool and a metal spatula to test the durability of the nonstick surface, and to assess the likelihood it would withstand normal cooking over a long period of time.
- Usability and Cleanup Tests: Throughout testing, we evaluated how easy it was to hold onto and use the pans. After cooking, the skillets were cleaned by hand. After the scratch test, the skillets that claimed to be dishwasher-safe were run through the dishwasher to test that claim.
What We Learned
Does Nonstick Surface Material Make a Difference?
We tested traditional nonstick pans, ceramic nonstick pans, and even one nonstick-stainless steel hybrid.Serious Eats / Donna Currie
Each one of the pans we tested had a different nonstick surface, although the exact material was hard to determine since manufacturers use proprietary coatings and give them their own names. Some surfaces were smoother than others, some were noticeably rough, two had ceramic rather than a Teflon-based material, and the Anolon X was a hybrid of nonstick and stainless steel. While there were slight differences with both the eggs and omelets in terms of how the eggs behaved in the pans (sliding easily or slighty suctioning to the surface, for example), in terms of everyday cooking performance, there was nothing to complain about with any of the pans. It was almost disappointing how similar the results were.
However, if you’re concerned about PTFEs and off-gassing, then you might want to consider just buying a ceramic nonstick pan since there’s no risk of it releasing fumes at all/at higher temps. These are not without their general cons, though. The coating on ceramic nonstick is made from sand and it’s very glass-like and, like glass, more brittle. As America’s Test Kitchen noted in their review of ceramic pans, ceramic is more prone to cracking and therefore becoming less-nonstick more quickly than traditional, PTFE-based nonstick.
What About Pan Material—Does That Matter?
The material of the pans—stainless steel vs. aluminum vs. multi-metal—made more of a difference in performance than the coating. However, this was more about the user adjusting to the pan, rather than the pan being a good or bad performer. The thicker, heavier, pans, with more stainless steel, took longer to preheat and retained heat longer. The thin aluminum pans heated faster, and cooled down faster. This, however, isn’t confined to nonstick cookware. This may be the best argument for buying a nonstick pan that is similar to the cookware that’s already in your kitchen, since you'll be more used to its heating profile.
Which Nonstick Pans Were the Easiest to Use?
While this is more subjective than data-driven, as we sorted pans into the go and no-go stacks to determine which would be the cream of the crop, we looked at things like the handles and whether they were comfortable to hold, and whether the pans felt balanced as we carried them or flipped food. In general, but not always, we preferred rounded, rather than squared-off handles and found added silicone grips to be a nice touch.
Can Any Nonstick Pans Withstand Scratching?
All of our favorite models withstood our durability tests with very minor or no damage.Serious Eats / Donna Currie
While many kitchens are fully armed with silicone and wood cooking tools (we don’t recommend nylon, as it’s not as heat-safe as silicone), the constant rubbing of even the softest utensils can damage some nonstick surfaces. We accelerated the damage by rubbing the pans with steel wool 20 times each in two directions in a "plus" (+) pattern, and scraping a metal spatula 10 times each in two directions in an X pattern across the surface as though we were getting under food to lift it. The surprising result was that there were a handful of pans—our ultimate winners— that showed little or no damage. That bodes well for their longevity in the kitchen.
How Long Do Nonstick Pans Last, Anyways?
This all being said: nonstick pans have a limited lifespan. Their surfaces just aren’t durable enough to last several years and they will scratch, chip, and degrade over time. It’s why we’ve historically recommended buying cheap nonstick cookware and why our top picks max out at $60. Because while there are some nice nonstick pans in the $100-plus range that performed well and were very pleasant to use, unless you’re wanting to spend gobs of money every few years, we just don’t think they’re worth it.
Why Cheap Nonstick Skillets Are Best
The Criteria: What We Look for in a Good Nonstick Skillet
Serious Eats / Donna Currie
First, a nonstick pan should truly be nonstick. Food should come out of the pan cleanly, with no sticking, and the pan should be easy to clean. While some pans are rated as dishwasher-safe (and we tested them), we’d recommend hand-washing to preserve the nonstick coating. Usability was also a major consideration. Even if food was skating around the pan like it was on ice, that’s not going to be enough if the handle was uncomfortable to hold or got painfully hot during cooking. Weight also played a role. While a heavier pan wasn’t necessarily bad, it could feel unwieldy.
The Best Nonstick Skillet Under $40: T-fal Professional Nonstick Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator Fry Pan
Buy on Amazon Buy on Walmart
Also available at Walmart.
What we liked: While this wasn’t the cheapest pan we tested, the price was still affordable, and the performance was very good. There was little damage to the cooking surface after both scratch tests, which bodes well for a long-ish life. Its handle was comfortable, with a non-slip silicone grip. It was dishwasher-safe, too, though that’s not our recommended cleanup method for nonstick.
What we didn’t like: This pan has a red logo on the cooking surface that’s supposed to fade when the pan is preheated and ready to cook. However, we think it’s best to ignore the indicator, given PTFE’s tendency to off-gas.
Price at time of publish: $32.
Key Specs
- Maximum oven temperature: 400℉
- Induction compatible: Yes
- Cooking surface diameter: 8 inches
- Weight: 1 lb, 13 oz
Serious Eats / Donna Currie
The Best Nonstick Skillet Under $50: Tramontina Professional Aluminum Nonstick Restaurant Fry Pan
Buy on Amazon Buy on Walmart
Also available at Walmart.
What we liked: This pan was well-priced, its handle was comfortable and non-slip thanks to its (removable!) silicone grip, and it performed incredibly well. It was lightweight, too, but still balanced.
What we didn’t like: For those with induction cooktops, this model isn’t compatible. It also had a slightly smaller cooking surface.
Price at time of publish: $42.
Key Specs
- Maximum oven temperature: 400℉
- Induction compatible: No
- Cooking surface diameter: 7 3/4 inches
- Weight: 1 lb, 15 oz
Serious Eats / Donna Currie
The Best Mid-Priced Nonstick Skillet: All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized 10-Inch Frying Pan
Buy on All-clad.com
Also available at Crate & Barrel.
What we liked: This pan is surprisingly inexpensive, considering it’s All-Clad. Also, surprisingly, the surface held up better in the scratch tests than the more expensive All-Clad pan we tested. It handled cooking tasks well, and cleaning was easy.
What we didn’t like: This pan was one of the heavier ones we tested. It was well-balanced, but for cooks who want a lightweight pan, they may prefer the T-fal or Tramontina. And while we liked the handle (it has a divot running the entire length of the top of the handle, like all All-Clad cookware that provides a natural thumb rest and leverage), we can see how others might prefer a smoother, rounded handle.
Price at time of publish $60.
Key Specs
- Maximum oven temperature: 500℉
- Induction compatible: Yes
- Cooking surface diameter: 8 3/4 inches
- Weight: 2 lb, 10 oz
Serious Eats / Donna Currie
The Best Ceramic Nonstick Skillet: Red Copper 10-Inch Pan by BulbHead
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Also available at Walmart.
What we liked: If you’d rather buy a PTFE-free ceramic pan, this one fared well in our durability tests, with very little visible damage. While it was pretty basic looking, we found it lightweight and easy to handle.
What we didn’t like: After the scratch tests, this pan wasn’t quite as slidey as it was when new, but ceramic cookware is more brittle anyways. The larger issue, though, was that although the pan is sold as a 10-inch pan, the sides are sloped much more than others we tested, making the usable cooking surface smaller. It might be wise to buy the 12-inch size instead. Also, one of the rivets wasn’t tight against the pan, leaving space for food to get stuck. It’s not induction compatible.
Price at time of publish: $20.
Key Specs
- Maximum oven temperature: 500℉
- Induction compatible: No
- Cooking surface diameter: 7 1/4 inches
- Weight: 1 lb, 7 oz
Serious Eats / Donna Currie
The Competition
- OXO Non-Stick 10 Inch Frying Pan: This pan had little damage from the scratch tests. The price point made it affordable, and it was barely edged out by other pans. We still think that, if our traditional favorites are unavailable, this one’s worth buying.
- Misen 10-Inch Nonstick Pan: We actually really liked this pan, but since we reviewed it the handle was redesigned and now the 10-inch skillet is only available as part of a (pricey) set.
- The Anolon X 10-Inch Pan: This non-traditional nonstick pan, with its raised stainless steel grid, is virtually impossible to scratch. However, at $100 for the 10-inch model and $140 for the 12-inch one, it’s just too expensive.
- Hestan Professional Clad Stainless Steel TITUM 11-Inch Skillet: Very pretty and well-performing, we just can’t recommend someone buying a nonstick pan this expensive, since it will degrade over time. But, hey, if you know this, have the cash, and you really want to splurge, who are we to stop you.
- Farberware 10-inch Nonstick Frying Pan: There was some slight dulling of the surface after the scratch tests. It isn’t dishwasher safe, if that matters to you.
- Cuisinart 10-Inch Nonstick Skillet: There was some scratching and dulling after our durability tests. It was a solid performer, but was just out-performed and out-lasted by others.
- Made In Nonstick Frying Pan: This showed minor scratches after the scratch tests, but it was acceptable, and it performed well. However, it's fairly pricey.
- GreenPan Rio 10-Inch Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan: This almost took the top ceramic spot, thanks to its wider cooking surface than the BulbHead pan. However, the nonstick coating on the rim of the pan chipped in a few places. While that didn’t hurt the pan’s cooking ability, it doesn’t bode well for longevity. Also, the handle is welded rather than riveted, which made it feel less sturdy.
- All-Clad D3 Stainless 3-ply Bonded Cookware, Nonstick Fry Pan, 10-Inch: There’s a lot to like about this pan, but the scratch test showed slight damage. This was more expensive than the All-Clad pan that made the winner’s circle, and it’s not dishwasher-safe.
- Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Inch Fry Pan: This had barely visible damage in the center of the pan, and an affordable price, but it was edged out by the others. It had less-sloped sides for a wider cooking surface, which we liked.
- Winco AFP-10NS Gladiator Aluminum 10-Inch Non-Stick Fry Pan: A very utilitarian pan, the handle on this was less comfortable and tended to get hot when in use.
- Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick PRO Fry Pan: This pan survived the steel wool, but got some scratches from the metal spatula. They weren’t deep, but were visible, so it got edged out by other pans with less damage. It’s also expensive.
FAQs
Should nonstick pans be seasoned?
Some nonstick pans, and particularly ceramic ones, may require seasoning, which involves heating the pan with a bit of oil coating the cooking surface.
When should you throw away a nonstick pan?
Nonstick pans have outlived their usefulness when the coating is no longer nonstick. While it can be expected that pans will slowly lose their super-slippery surface, if eggs are welding themselves to the pan or cleaning requires serious scrubbing, it’s time to retire the cookware. Also, if there are deep gouges, peeling coatings, or chips in the cooking surface, the pan should be discarded. While most of the pans in the tests had warranties, they seldom cover wear-and-tear. It’s worth asking, though.
What size nonstick pan should you get?
We recommend a 10- to 11-inch nonstick for most home cooks. But, if you’re just looking for a pan to fry an egg or two in the morning, an 8-inch skillet might be worth considering too.
Can nonstick pans be stacked for storage?
During testing, the pans were not treated gently. They were stacked on top of each other to move them around, and to save space when they weren’t being tested. While most were unscathed, some sustained damage—particularly, their rims chipped. If you’re looking to stack your pans at home, we recommend placing a paper plate or some sort of buffer in between them.
What is a nonstick pan?
In short, nonstick pans have a coating that prevents food from sticking, making both cooking and cleaning easier. They’re most often used for cooking egg dishes. They can also be used for cooking foods with sticky sauces that tend to burn.
We Tested 11 Spatulas (Turners) for Nonstick Pans—Here Are Our Favorites
TOP 7 non-stick pans according to PosudaMart customers - 2020
Among the kitchen utensils, there should be a high-quality frying pan that will ensure a comfortable cooking process. After all, during the preparation of many dishes there is a stage of frying, sautéing, simmering or stewing. Convenience in use and maintenance directly depends on the quality and characteristics of the materials of manufacture.
We present to your attention the top of the best non-stick pans, which have become the most popular among Posudamart hypermarket customers. nine0004
Arcos Teflon Platinum Plus non-stick coating
Features:
- Diameter: 26 cm
- Height: 5 cm
- Other dimensions: 20.28 cm
Frying pan made of three-layer stainless steel.
Thanks to the three-layer structure (steel - aluminum - steel), the dishes heat up quickly and evenly, retain heat for a long time. It is convenient for stewing and languishing.
Teflon Platinum Plus non-stick coating, high quality and safe. nine0005
Mirror polished stainless steel long handle stays cool and comfortable to use.
The pan is suitable for use on all types of hob, including induction, and can be washed in the dishwasher.
GastroluxBiotan non-stick coating
Specifications:
- Diameter: 24 cm
- Height: 4 cm
Die-cast aluminum frying pan, which ensures the same heating temperature over the entire surface. nine0025 Gastrolux has developed a unique molding process for induction cookware. A ferromagnetic stainless steel honeycomb plate is embedded in an aluminum base without leaving a seam.
The cookware has a Biotan non-stick coating with a unique composition based on bio-minerals.
The base is 8 mm thick, which prevents the dishes from deforming.
The special edge on the edge of the product provides a “stop-drop” function when pouring or shifting food. nine0005
Detachable ergonomic handle with a strong latch that can withstand oven temperatures up to 260°C.
Suitable for all cooktops, including induction.
Dishwasher approved.
Zwilling, TWIN Choice CollectionDuraslide Non-Stick Coating
Specifications:
- Diameter: 24 cm
- Height: 4.5 cm
- Other dimensions: 20.28 cm
Housing made of high quality 18/10 stainless steel
Duraslide non-stick coating. This reinforced three-layer non-stick coating based on fluoroplastic will not contain harmful acids, cadmium and lead.
The capsule bottom is made using Sigma technology, with an internal layer of aluminum, it does not deform even during intensive use on gas stoves.
Handles are made of stainless steel with an athermal layer.
The special rim ensures accurate pouring of liquids.
The maximum use temperature is 230 degrees, it is not recommended to overheat the dishes.
Cookware is suitable for all cookers, including induction.
Dishwasher safe.
Le Creuset Le Creuset's unique heat resistant coating
Features:
- Diameter: 24 cm
- Height: 4.5 cm
- Other sizes: 20,26,30 cm
The Le Creuset pan is made of stainless steel with a 3 layer construction.
Premium quality 18/10 stainless steel on the inside and 18/0 magnetic steel on the outside. The aluminum core ensures even heat distribution.
Details such as a heat-resistant handle and anti-drip edges ensure functionality in use.
The pan is suitable for use on all heat sources, including induction, and can withstand temperatures up to 220°C. nine0005
Dishwasher safe.
WMFPermaDur non-stick coating
Features:
- Weight: 1330 g
- Diameter: 24 cm
- Other dimensions: 20.28 cm The name Cromargan ® consists of the terms "crom" and "argan": "crom" - because steel contains a large amount of chromium; "argan" - because the material is similar in color to silver. nine0025 High quality stainless steel is odorless, tasteless and unaffected by food acids. Cromargan ® is scratch resistant and maintains its excellent appearance even with heavy use.
The long-lasting PermaDur non-stick coating is suitable for both quick frying and gentle, oil-free cooking of delicate foods. Does not contain PFOA.
Thanks to two fixed and comfortable handles, the pan fits easily in the oven. nine0005
TransTherm universal bottom ® is suitable for all types of hob, including induction, and provides energy savings.
Dishwasher safe.
Swiss DiamondDiamond non-stick coating
Specifications:
- Diameter: 24 cm
- Height: 7 cm
- Other dimensions: 26 cm
Frying pan made of high quality cast aluminum with diamond non-stick coating. nine0005
Maximum comfort and stability are achieved thanks to a comfortable, perfectly flat bottom.
Diamond Coating consists of a layer of non-stick composite materials formulated with real diamonds - this formula guarantees no cracks, blistering or flaking of the surface. It is the strongest non-stick coating currently available.
The ergonomic handle is made of heat-resistant Bakelite, which allows you to use the pan in the oven at temperatures up to 260 °C. nine0005
Lid made of heat resistant glass.
The cookware is suitable for use on all types of stoves, including induction.
AMT GastrogussUltra-durable titanium coatingSpecifications:
- Diameter: 24 cm
- Height: 5 cm
- Other dimensions: 20,24,26,28 cm
The frying pan is made of cast aluminum, which is alternately coated with protective and non-stick coatings. nine0025 Thanks to the titanium coating, there are no restrictions on cooking.
The pan is equipped with a removable handle.
Just press the button, and the pan can be used in the oven for making casseroles.Thanks to the high sides of the pan, you can not only fry meat or fish, but also perfectly stew vegetables.
The thick bottom heats the surface evenly.
Durable non-stick titanium coating eliminates the use of vegetable oil and other fats in cooking. nine0005
Suitable for any type of heating surfaces.
The manufacturer does not recommend washing the pan in the dishwasher
car.1. Before using a new non-stick cookware, rinse it with warm water and wipe dry. Add a small amount of oil, heat over moderate heat and let cool, then drain the oil and wipe the inside with a kitchen towel. Now your dishes are ready for full use. nine0005
2. To maintain a pleasant appearance and functionality, immediately after cooking, wash the dishes thoroughly with a slightly abrasive sponge and dishwashing detergent. Due to the strength of the material, dishes with a diamond non-stick coating can also be washed in the dishwasher.
©Posudamart, 2020
How to choose a non-stick pan
Choosing a material0003 AP . They are made from three types of aluminum - forged, cast and stamped, as well as stainless steel.
- Stainless steel. This material provides the maximum service life of dishes and allows you to cook dishes of any recipe - from fast frying over high heat to many hours of languishing at low temperatures.
- Extruded aluminium. The frying pans are produced by the embossing method, when a sheet of aluminum is placed under pressure under a stamping press. Another name is extruded aluminum. This material is not suitable for long-term heating, it is better to use such a pan for quick frying, for example, for cooking scrambled eggs, frying sausages or just for heating. The most affordable of the three types of aluminum in financial terms. nine0018
- Cast aluminium. A frying pan made of this material, on the contrary, is intended for dishes that require a long cooking time, for example, stews over low heat. An important advantage of frying pans made of this material, which is rarely mentioned, is the features of the handle attachment, thanks to which it will not loosen even after several years of operation.
- Forged aluminium. Somewhere between extruded and cast aluminium, both in performance and price, this pan is perfect for regular use. nine0018
Choosing the type of non-stick coating
The choice of non-stick coating is as important as choosing the right casing material. We will discuss the features and benefits of four types of coatings - classic, marble, granite and ceramic.
Classic non-stick coating
Classic AP is suitable for both frying and stewing, requires a small amount of oil when cooking. However, compared to other types of AP, it does not have a long service life - it rarely exceeds two years, even if all operating rules are observed. To extend the life of the coating, you should eliminate the use of metal spatulas, replacing them with silicone, wooden or plastic ones. nine0005
Also, a frying pan with a classic AP is afraid of a sharp temperature drop - you should not put hot dishes directly from the stove under running water, you should wait until the frying pan cools down a bit.
With that said, the Classic AP pan is a great option in a kitchen where a variety of dishes are being prepared – this cookware is suitable for frying and stewing, for cooking over high heat and for simmering over low heat.
Marble non-stick coating
Frying pans with a marble non-stick coating have the same basis as the dishes with classic AP - PTFE. The difference lies in the addition of stone chips, which changes the characteristics of the coating.
Mainly, it becomes much stronger. The service life is significantly increased - high-quality models with a non-stick marble coating are unlikely to fail in less than 3 years of use, subject to the rules of operation.
It is also worth mentioning that cooking in a marble-type non-stick pan requires a minimum amount of oil, due to the peculiarities of the coating structure.
Thus, the properties of the marble coating resemble the classical one. It is also universal, also afraid of micro-scratches and sudden changes in temperature. The differences are in less oil required for frying and longer durability. If you're trying to lead a healthy lifestyle, but you can't completely give up fried foods, a good AP marble pan is the perfect choice for you - you can fry in it, but with a minimum amount of oil, the potential harm will be minimized. nine0005
Granite non-stick coating
Granite AP differs from marble in the concentration of stone chips - in granite it is slightly higher. This makes it much more durable and also stronger - this type of coating is the only one that is not afraid of contact with metal objects. Using a granite AP pan, you can not only use iron spatulas when cooking, but also not worry too much about the fact that your family members practice a high culture of serving with a fork right out of the pan - the coating will hold up. nine0005
True, granite AP requires much more oil when cooking than marble and classic counterparts. This coating is ideal for those who are looking for a multifunctional frying pan seriously and for a long time (non-stick properties last up to 4 years).
Ceramic non-stick coating
If the basis of all the above-described AP is PTFE, then the ceramic coating stands apart, since it is made of sand, which determines the properties of ceramic AP.
Learn more