Looking for the best pan to match your cooking style? The material matters more than you think. A well-chosen pan doesn’t just improve your cooking results — it makes cooking more enjoyable, too.
In this guide, we compare the most popular cookware materials:
Each pan heats differently, reacts to temperature in its own way, and requires a different level of maintenance. A stainless steel pan is perfect for searing meat, while a PFAS-free aluminium pan is ideal for fast, low-fat meals.
Choosing the right material means cooking more efficiently, with less frustration — and no more disappointing purchases.
Stainless steel pans are durable, tough, and reliable. They can handle high heat, daily use, dishwasher cycles, and even metal utensils. They don’t have a non-stick coating, so a bit more cooking technique is required — but the results are excellent for meat, sauces, vegetables, and crispy potatoes.
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Stainless steel pans don’t have a non-stick coating, so the right technique is key.
Always preheat your pan properly, use enough cooking fat, and let your ingredients sear before moving them. Once they’re ready, they’ll release naturally.
Want more tips? Read our full guide on how to cook without sticking in a stainless steel pan.
Aluminium pans heat up quickly and are easy to handle thanks to their low weight. Most feature a modern PFAS-free non-stick coating that allows low-fat cooking without sticking . Ideal for busy days and beginner cooks.
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Multiply pans combine the strength of stainless steel with the heat conductivity of aluminium. This multi-layered construction provides even heating, fewer hotspots, and better energy efficiency.
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Carbon steel heats up quickly and can reach very high temperatures. Perfect for searing, frying or wok cooking. With time and proper care, it develops a natural non-stick patina.
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Cast iron has a timeless look, heats slowly, and retains heat exceptionally well. Perfect for slow-cooked dishes, high-heat oven recipes, or serving meals directly at the table. It’s heavy — but nearly indestructible.
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👨🍳 Choose stainless steel for powerful searing and long-term durability
🥗 Choose aluminium for quick, low-fat and effortless cooking
🔥 Choose carbon steel for high-heat flavour and a pan that evolves with you
🥘 Choose cast iron for slow cooking, table presentation and timeless quality
🍳 Choose multiply for top performance across all stovetops
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