Investing in stainless steel cookware is one of the ideal purchases in terms of durability, practicality among other benefits. This cookware is constructed with thick gauge steel allowing them to absorb and diffuse the heat efficiently.
The added thickness of the steel cookware helps greatly in resisting warping. Unlike the non-stick, pans that are scratched easily, the best stainless steel cookware less susceptible to scratching and flaking.
Additionally, the stainless steel cookware features superior construction meaning that the pots and the pans will last for many years.
This will give the consumer the biggest bang for their buck as a single purchase will provide them with decades of use cooking a variety of great tasting meals.
Top 10 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Comparison & Short Reviews
Searching for the top stainless steel cookware is a simple task. Remember that you have the right information to aid you to find exactly what you are looking for.
First, you need to identify the set that contains the right types of pans and pots as well as the best sizes that will match your cooking needs.
Next is to find a model that has better construction for even heat distribution and durability.
To help you get the best model we have listed a list of the top 10 best stainless steel cookware for you to compare the features and select the model that is best for you.
Stainless steel cookware makes a nice addition to your kitchen. Decorative and durable, they’ve become almost a must-have in any well-equipped kitchen.
But then, to get the most out of them, you need to go for the best. This is where the trouble starts as the selection process can be quite tricky.
However, there’s no cause for worry not to mention spending hours browsing the internet in search of the best cookware.
We’ve taken the trouble of searching the world of stainless steel cookware to give you the products that rank high in terms of quality, aesthetic and function.
Without further ado, let’s go straight to reviewing the products and touch on the features that give them an edge over other competitors.
Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set Review
Cuisinart MCP-12N is a 12-Piece Cookware Set features a core of pure aluminum bonded to a stainless steel interior and brush stainless materials.
This model is designed to provide a professional gourmet cooking result, as it offers the perfect heat to make sure all your food is evenly cooked for the best results.
This set also comes with cool grip handles that remain cool on the stovetop so that you can move and lift the cookware as needed even if they are still hot.
Another great feature that comes with this Cuisinart cookware is the cool grip handles. These handles are doing not only remain cool while on the top stove but are also ergonomically designed to ensure comfort and ease of handling.
In the same breath, the handles are slightly curved, to allow for even weight distribution. This makes the pot and pans feel lighter than they would have if the handles were completely flat.
Another reason why you may consider going for this model is the well-designed stainless lids that will lock in the moisture reducing the chances of the nutrients getting lost.
The tapered edges will also make it easy to pour without dripping. The cookware set is constructed using high-end steel to ensure durability. The stainless steel will not also react with food, affecting its quality, flavor and look.
Pros
- Cooks well than non-stick
- Excellent heat retention and conductivity
- High-quality cookware
- Pleasing appearance
- Durable
Cons
- Features stainless steel lids, meaning that you have to lift them to watch your food cook. This is a small compromise to live with especially when you consider its performance.
Chef's Star Professional Grade Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Chef's Star Professional Grade Stainless Steel Cookware is a top choice for professional chefs and serious moms who want to prepare delicious meals for their families for two main reasons.
It can handle any cooking task that you throw at and delivers top performance with both low as well as high heat cooking, as it oven and broiler safe.
This all clad pan is also induction compatible and an excellent choice for individuals who have smooth top or glass top ranges.
Another reason why the model is great is that it has a roomy cooking surface that can hold an entire cut up chicken without crowding the pan.
The ergonomic and comfortable handle ensure that the weight is evenly heated, making lifting easier. These cookware features surround heat technology that will make sure heat is distributed evenly around the cookware.
Additionally, the model is super easy to clean. Just soak the utensils in warm water and-and the stuck food will come out easily.
In addition, you do not have to worry about the food reacting with steel as the interior parts are well coated so that food will never react with steel. This means that the food will be well cooked without affecting its taste or color.
You will also enjoy having a set that comes with an elegant and contemporary improving the look of your kitchen.
Pros
- Superior Design
- Easy to clean
- The lids will fit well on the rims
- Sturdy construction
- Durable
Cons
- The model cannot resist tough scrubbing
Duxtop SSIB-17 Professional 17 Piece Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set
Duxtop SSIB-17 Professional 17 Piece Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set is a great addition to any kitchen and a nice replacement for your old set.
The manufacturer is well known for manufacturing products that offer you with a long lasting service for a long time
Another impressive feature that comes with this Duxtop stainless steel cookware set is the perfectly fitting lids. This will not only help in locking in the moisture but also fixing the moisture during cooking.
This makes food retain all its nutrients and be healthier. The lids are constructed with stainless steel making them durable and oven safe.
The model comes with drip-free pouring edges that assist you when serving. The edges pour smoothly without messing your serving table or kitchen cabinet.
Besides keeping your kitchen neat, the drip-free edges will not mess the sides of the cookware making cleaning easy. Everyone would appreciate having a model that can work on all types of cookers.
With this Duxtop stainless steel cookware, you can cook over the gas stove, induction cooker, electric burners and smooth cooktops. Additionally, the pots, pans, handle and lids are safe in the oven.
Another impressive feature that comes with this Duxtop stainless steel cookware is the ergonomic handles that give you excellent grip when lifting the cookware.
Additionally, the cookware has high-quality stainless steel handles that are riveted with stainless steel rivets for additional stability.
What is more, the handles remain cool to the touch even after being on top of cookers for a long time.
Pros
- Very easy to clean and maintain
- Attractive and easy to use
- Works well on induction stoves
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Drip-free pouring rims
Cons
- A bit expensive although worth every penny
T-fal E469SC Tri-ply Stainless Steel Multi-clad Cookware Set
The T-fal E469SC Tri-ply Stainless Steel Multi-clad cookware offers the users with a different sized pan and pots that feature a cooking surface that is nonstick. They are very safe to use and durable.
To enhance its performance, this model comes with a hard tri ply constructions that make it not only durable but also dishwasher safe.
They are durable and stylish, making sure you have the service you need.
Another reason why you need to consider this set is their ability to store efficiently, saving you a lot of space. This makes them perfect to use in a small sized kitchen.
Stay-cool stainless steel handles will help you to cook your food easily without burning your hands.
The handle of this set is designed to stay cool even after remaining on your stove for a long time. This makes it easy lift when your food is ready.
The T-fal E469SC cookware is constructed using stainless steel making it sturdy and durable.
The tri-clad base technique allows you to use the cookware with any induction range. This means that you can use this pan with any burner type including electric burner, ceramic cooktop, gas stove, etc.
Pros
- Affordable
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit,
- Freezer safe
- Easy to clean in a dishwasher
Cons
- It is not recommended for use with an induction stove.
Cooks Standard 10 Piece Multi-Ply Clad Stainless Steel Cookware Set
If you are looking for a standard quality induction pan that is set under economic range, you should give Cooks Standard Multi-Ply Clad cookware set a try.
One of the factors that make this cookware to stand out is the impact bonding technology. This is a very modern technology that applies aluminum disc to the bottom part of the cookware to ensure that it receives the even level of heat distribution for better cooking.
Besides this impressive technology, the Cooks Standard Multi-Ply Clad cookware set is constructed using a combination of multi-element aluminum core coupled with 18/10 steel to come up with cookware that is sturdy and attractive.
The heavy-duty construction is one of the features that make Cooks Standard Multi-Ply Clad cookware set to stand out.
The construction involves a combination of stainless steel with a multi-element aluminum core to form a permanent bond. This will allow for even heat distribution throughout the pan for maximum cooking performance. This construction makes the cookware sturdy and durable, giving you great cooking for a long period.
Additionally, the Cooks Standard Multi-Ply Clad cookware set is dishwasher safe. This will enable quick as well as easy cleaning after meal preparations.
The cookware has a smooth cooking surface that provides excellent pours so that no food will stick to the surface.
Pros
- Food does not stick when cooking
- Sturdy and durable steel construction
- Durable, heavy feel
- Dishwasher usable
- Oven safe
Cons
- Food sticks if not properly preheated
All-Clad BD005710-R D5 Brushed 18/10 Stainless Steel Cookware Set
All-Clad 10-Piece is a stylish and one of the best stainless steel cookware set optimized for most induction cooktops. The set is made of durable 18/10 brushed stainless steel - a high-quality material that’s nonreactive, non-stick and fingerprint-free.
Compared to most cookware sets, All-Clad BD005710-R D5 sports a 5-layered construction that’s designed to take a beating. Such a construction renders it warp-free.
The set is further infused with an aluminum layer that makes it more conductive and allow for even distribution of heat.
Every piece in the set is designed to withstand temperatures of up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, which is far more than other stainless steel cookware can withstand. This makes the set safe to use in an oven.
The handles are riveted to make them more stable while the rims are flared for spill-free pouring. The set is designed to be dishwasher safe to give you an easy time during cleaning. It’s definitely a set that will take your cooking skills to a whole new level.
Pros
- Warp-free bonded construction
- Most forgiving cooking performance
- Designed for all recipes and works great in browning and searing
- Compatible with induction cooktops
- Improved grip
- Safe for use in oven and broiler
- Spill-free pouring
Cons
- The handle gets hot
Circulon Genesis Stainless Steel Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set
This cookware set is designed to provide a fun and momentous cooking experience. The set is made of non-stick stainless steel that sports a perfect balance of durability and style.
The sports an aluminum bonded construction, a feature that works well to provide even heat distribution and great resistance against impact.
Every piece is designed to work on all stovetops, something that adds to the versatility of this stainless steel cookware set.
The set has excellent heat resistance that enables it to withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s dishwasher safe for hassle-free cleaning and comes with glass lids for see-through cooking.
This set is one of the most affordable and makes a nice choice for beginners who desire something that’s chic and contemporary.
Pros
- Impact resistant bonded base
- Superior cooking release
- Sturdy double riveted handles
- Compatible with all stovetops
- Oven safe
Cons
- The handles get hot
- Ridges make cleanup quite a challenge
ELO Premium Stainless Steel Kitchen Induction Cookware Pots and Pans Set
ELO Premium Multilayer 8-piece set presents German engineering at its best. This best stainless steel cookware set is specially designed for those in need of high-quality stainless steel pots.
It’s made of premium quality 18/10 stainless steel that takes its durability to the limit.
The set provides the super conductive properties of an aluminum core. An integrated heating system provides the convenience of uniform cooking.
The exterior is designed to ooze with style and luxury, thanks to its magnetic steel finish.
It’s one of the few sets that provides the convenience of an integrated measuring scale. This provides accurate measurement of ingredients.
This cookware set works with all stovetops; electric, gas, glass ceramic and induction. It can withstand temperatures of up to 464 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it resistant enough for use in an oven.
Handling the set is quite safe since the handles are designed to stay cold even when subjected to high temperatures.
Pros
- Works with all stovetops
- Even heat distribution
- Easy measurement of ingredients
- Easy spill-free pouring
- Stay cool metal handles
Cons
- Not suitable for multiple cooking functions
OXO Good Grips Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Pro Cookware Set
Looking for an all-round stainless steel cookware set? Well, this 13-piece set from OXO might be your best bet. The set sports a 3-layered construction that’s designed to be durable and resistant to impact.
The outer layers are made of stainless steel while the middle layer is made of heat-radiant aluminum for superior conductivity. This is a set that heats fast and uniformly to guarantee professional results every time you step into the kitchen.
The set doesn’t scratch and can withstand oven temperatures of up to 430 degrees Fahrenheit. With it, you get the convenience of see-through cooking made possible by the clear lids made of tempered glass.
Accurate measurement of ingredients is made possible by integrated markings. The set is designed to be compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
It’s definitely a must-have for any professional cook who desire a stainless steel cookware that provides the best in quality and versatility.
Pros
- Uniform heating 3-ply construction
- Compatible with all types of stovetops, including induction
- Measurement markings for enhanced cooking performance
- Drip free edges
- Stay cool handles
- Smart shape design for efficient stirring and quick evaporation
Cons
- Expensive but worth the cost
Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Base Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Tramontina 12-Piece is a quality cookware set that sits quite low in terms of price. The set gives you the elegance of stainless steel finish and the durability of a bonded 3-ply construction.
It’s got an aluminum layer infused between two 18/8 stainless steel layers to provide excellent conductivity and even distribution of heat.
The set is designed for multiple cooking functions; sauteing, browning, frying, boiling and steaming.
The lids are made of tempered glass that enables you to watch as your food cooks.
This cookware set is compatible with all stovetops and induction cooktops. It makes a wonderful choice for those looking for a stainless steel cookware that’s lightweight with some quality to match.
Pros
- Compatible with all cooktops, including induction
- Accommodates multiple cooking functions
- Good conductivity and even heat distribution
- Designed for multiple cooking functions
Cons
- High heat limitations
Now that you’ve got an insight of the best stainless steel cookware sets on the market, it’s now time to step up and incorporate one of these quality sets in your kitchen.
They provide a perfect way of enhancing your kitchen’s decor and make a wonderful choice for both amateur and professional cooks.
These cookware sets receive lots of positive reviews from customers and are made by reputable brands that have become a household name in today's society. You surely won't go wrong with them.
How stainless steel cookware works
Stainless steel cookware is constructed using heavy gauge steel and an aluminum base to help in the heat distribution process.
This metal will also absolve and distribute heat efficiently, cooking the food evenly and faster. This means that you will use lesser energy thus saving the energy costs.
Since the cookware is constructed using the high-grade steel, they are resistant to scratches and very durable. The cookware will also not react with food, meaning that they will never affect the taste and look of your food.
Difference between stainless steel cookware and ceramic cookware
Both the stainless steel and ceramic cookware come with high recommendations making it hard for you to choose the best.
Both cookwares are good, but like everything else, they have their good and bad points. The main difference between the ceramic and stainless steel cookware is in terms of durability, style, and price.
Durability
Stainless steel cookware is constructed using grade steel that can last a lifetime with proper care. They are also resistant to scratching and breakage. This cookware will withstand repeated and heavy-duty use for many generations.
Although the ceramic cookware is durable, they are more susceptible to scratching and breakage making them less durable than the stainless steel.
Style
The stainless steel cookware never goes out of style. On the other hand, the best ceramic cookware is stylish and easy to mold in a new design in order to compete with the stainless steel cookware.
User’s experience
Novice users find ceramic cookware easier to use than the stainless steel once. However, with a little experience, they will find the stainless steel cookware easy to use.
The stainless steel cookware is the best for experience cooks such as chefs as they withstand repeated use.
How To Choose The Best Stainless Steel Cookware
Construction
The stainless steel cookware is constructed with high-grade steel, which is an iron-based metal alloy. This alloy should contain at least 11 percent chromium and other additional metals such as nickel but never lead.
Chromium will provide rust resistance and durability; the nickel will provide hardness, rust resistance, and high polishing characteristics.
Additionally, a stainless steel cookware should come in a nice design and have sturdy handles that are easy to grip.
Numbers of layers
Another consideration while selecting this type of Cookware is the number of layers. Stainless steel is not the best conductor of heat, so a sheep of copper or aluminum is sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel to enhance conductivity.
In the same breath, some stainless steel cookware comes with the bottom layer constructed using aluminum or copper. The number of the layers are termed as Ply or clad.
All clad cookware means that the layers are bonded in an efficient manner to improve the heat distribution.
The ply will indicate the number of layers; 3-ply means that it uses three layers while five ply means that there are five layers. The high the number of layers the more efficient the cookware.
Grade of Stainless Steel
200 series
This is one of the first grades of stainless steel used in the construction of the stainless steel cookware. It is inexpensive when you compare it to the 300 series but weak in terms of corrosion resistance and durability.
Many manufacturers have replaced this grade with the 300 series, which are recommended for cooking and kitchen usage.
300 series
The 300 series is the most common grade used to construct the cookware.
It is more resistant to corrosion and rust. This makes it more durable than the other grades.
316 series
This is the most durable and ultra-high-quality grade. It is also referred as the 316 surgical steel. Besides being of the highest quality, this model will protect nickel from leaching into food. The 316 grade contains a small percent of molybdenum titanium, allowing it to be more corrosion resistant. Utensils constructed from this grade are the most expensive.
400 series
Cookware made of the 400 series stainless steel is more corrosive than that of 300 series. This is because the grade is free of Nickel meaning that there is no leaching of Nickel into food.
However, the absence of nickel makes it less durable as it is susceptible to rust.
Each of the grades will indicate the quality of the materials. The 18/0, 18/8 and 18/10 will refer to the portion of construction.
For instance, a grade that is stamped 18/10 is the best for the construction of cookware. It simply means that the portion is constructed using 18 percent of Chromium and 10 percent of Nickel.
Things to consider when purchasing the Stainless Steel Cookware
- Look for stainless steel with aluminum core
Although cookware that is made from pure stainless steel will be durable, and resistant to corrosion, it does not do well when it comes to heat retention, making it hard to cook the food evenly. To rectify this problem, select the models that feature a copper, aluminum at the base or both in the base.
- Consider the number of layers
Stainless steel cookware should have aluminum or copper sheet sandwiched between the stainless steel materials to improve the heat conductivity. The number of metal layers used is termed as ply or clad.
- Select the set that has those pieces that you use often
Although most people will look at the number of pieces that comes with the set, there is no need of going for a set with 21 pieces, but you are going to need only 12 pieces. Get the finest value for your money by choosing the set that has pieces that you can use regularly.
- Easy to use on all stoves
The cookware should also be designed with handles and lids that are safe to use in the oven. Additionally, the set should be easy to use on all stoves.
- Maintenance
The best cookware features high-quality construction for more durability and easy maintenance. The best steel quality is the 18/10, as it is rust and corrosion resistant, making it more durable.
- Consider the handles and the lids
Before selecting, the stainless cookware set for your kitchen, consider the handles and the lids and make sure that they are durable. The handles must also provide a comfortable and secure grip.
Some Using tips
Preheat properly
For the best results always preheat your cooking pans or pots before you start cooking in them. The preheating time will take about 5-10 minutes depending on the type of stove you have.
Get Bar Keeper’s Friend
This type of cleaning agent will help you to clean the cookware very fast. It contains a baking soda in liquid form or powder forms. Use the agent with non-scratch sponge pad, and you will save a lot of time.
Use oil for sticky food
If you are cooking sticky food such as eggs, a little oil will of much help to avoid sticking. However, cooking food that does not stick much is not an issue. These foods include making sauces, saluting onions, boiling things in water or frying rice.
Cleanup
For fast cleanup, soak the pans and pots in warm and soapy water and clean them using a soft sponge. Although some companies recommend cleaning using the washing machine, hand wash will make the cookware to remain in top condition for long.
Do not scrub the pan
If you find food stuck at the base of the pan, do not try to rip it off. Let it cool down for few minutes, and a nice browned crust will form. This crust comes out easily on its own if it does not use a wooden spatula to scrape the bottom.
Stainless steel cookware is one of the best choices when selecting ideal cookware for your kitchen. However, when steel is coupled with other materials, it may expose you to a given level of reactivity. For instance, stainless steel cookware that contains a nonstick coating will expose the food to harmful chemicals in the nonstick coat.
These include the Teflon and PFOA which are unsafe for your health. Both the interior and interior surface should be covered using stainless steel which is treated to avoid leaching of chemicals to the food.
Additionally, ensure that you use cookware labeled all clad or ply construction. Although they are a bit expensive, they are more efficient when it comes to durability and cooking food evenly.
Affordable Kitchen & Baths
Conclusion
Choosing the best stainless steel cookware may be confusing, but with our guide, we hope that you will find a model that will suit your needs perfectly. The main reason for selecting cookware constructed using stainless steel is because they are stylish, beautiful to look at, and can last a lifetime.
Use our tips above, and you will be guaranteed of having a set that will give you a service that you can depend on for many years to come. Good luck!
