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We enlisted a team of commercial chefs, home bakers, and all-around foodies to test 10 of the best cookware sets on the market side-by-side. We tested each set, putting them through the paces by simmering sauces, flipping pancakes, frying eggs, searing steaks, and cooking up a storm in the kitchen. We measured heat transfer, compared searing ability, evaluated stacking space, and assessed ease of cleaning.
The Calphalon Premier Set is the best overall cookware set, thanks to its durability, excellent cooking performance, and well-designed handles and lids. For tighter budgets, the Tramontina 14 Piece Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set offers nonstick cooking and excellent cooking quality at an unbeatable price.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on November 26, 2025, to include additional product recommendations from Tramontina, All-Clad, and Lodge.
The Calphalon Premier Set is the clear favorite among our testing team. It cooks, simmers, and sears everything we throw at it with ease. Heat distribution is impressively even, and its MineralShield non-stick surface requires little to no oil or butter. The set includes nearly everything you'd want in a cookware collection—without the unnecessary extras that usually end up collecting dust and taking up space. It feels solid and well-constructed, with a comfortable weight and a thick, hard-anodized aluminum core. With proper care, we believe it can handle the demands of daily use for many years. One standout feature of the Calphalon Premier Set is its uniquely designed lids, which allow the entire set to stack neatly into two compact nests. If you're looking for an exceptional cookware set that saves space, the Calphalon Premier is an excellent option.
SPECIFICATIONS
Non-Stick Material
MineralShield nonstick coating
Internal Material
Hard-anodized aluminum
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Oven Safe Temperatures
450°F
PTFE/PFOA/Lead/Cadmium in Construction?
Yes, PTFE
Although the Calphalon Premier is our top pick, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind. It is not induction compatible, and the non-stick coating contains PFTEs, so if you prefer a non-toxic alternative, consider the ceramic-lined Tramontina 14 Piece Set (which is also compatible with induction cooktops). While the Premier's coating performed well throughout our testing, it will naturally wear down with regular use. Proper care can help extend its longevity. Finally, although the handles are comfortable and sturdily riveted, they did become quite hot during testing. If the price feels a bit high but you still want a quality cookware set, the Cuisinart MultiClad Pro is a strong alternative.
The Calphalon Premiere Set seared steaks perfectly and made for easy work and cleanup. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Best Bang for the Buck
Tramontina 14 Piece Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set
During our evaluation, the Tramontina 14 Piece Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set delivered impressive performance at a price that feels more than fair, making it a standout option for anyone wanting cookware that looks sharp and works smoothly. Its mineral-based “granite” nonstick coating is especially effective, giving both the cook and whoever's stuck on cleanup duty an easier time. The collection covers all the core pieces most kitchens rely on and even throws in a good-looking mix of wooden and plastic utensils. The lids sit securely and do a great job of trapping steam and tenderness, whether browning meat or sautéing vegetables. All the handles, including those on the lids, stay cool enough to grasp comfortably, even after extended cooking sessions. And if you care about style as much as utility, the bold color options add a clean, contemporary vibe. With the combination of its accessible price and solid build, choosing this Tramontina set felt like an easy win.
SPECIFICATIONS
Non-Stick Material
Ceramic
Internal Material
Aluminum
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Oven Safe Temperatures
350°F
PTFE/PFOA/Lead/Cadmium in Construction?
No
While the set is marketed as dishwasher friendly, you can expect better long-term results by handwashing, since running them through the machine may dull or discolor the finish. Like with any nonstick cookware, metal utensils aren't ideal, but the included assortment of spatulas, spoons, and stirrers means you won't have to go out and purchase a whole new set of cooking tools. The only minor issue we noticed was that the lid handles, which are secured with a screw, can loosen with use — though tightening them is a quick and straightforward fix.
The Tramontina has great cooking performance, but it also looks stylish in the kitchen.
The GreenLife Soft Grip stands out as the top performer in terms of nonstick ability among all the sets we reviewed. Whether cooking eggs, flipping pancakes, or tossing fried rice, nothing clings to the ceramic-coated surfaces. Cleanup is basically effortless — most of the time, a quick wipe with a damp cloth was all it needed. The set covers all the essentials and then some, including a stainless steel steamer, an assortment of utensils, and a tiny 4-inch fry pan that's ideal for a single egg. The steamer, in particular, proved useful, allowing us to prep vegetables while juggling the rest of dinner. Its bakelite-coated, ergonomic handles never got too hot to hold, so oven mitts aren't really necessary.
SPECIFICATIONS
Non-Stick Material
Thermalon
Internal Material
Aluminum
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Oven Safe Temperatures
Not oven safe
PTFE/PFOA/Lead/Cadmium in Construction?
No
With an aluminum base, the GreenLife Soft Grip pans heat fast and distribute heat consistently. Each item has a light feel, though we think the metal could be a bit thicker to boost sturdiness and reduce the chance of warping over time. The biggest issue we ran into was with the handles: since they're welded directly to the pan, applying pressure caused a noticeable amount of wiggle. We also found that the included plastic utensils tend to soften or melt during cooking, even on medium heat (yikes). Still, if cutting back on added fats is a priority for you, this set's slick cooking surface makes it easy to cook with less oil.
The Greenlife soft grip cooked and seared our steaks to perfection without leaving a sticky mess behind. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
The T-fal Stainless Steel Set 11 Piece is a solid stainless collection — and to our surprise, it actually heats faster than most stainless steel cookware we've tried. It comes with all the essentials a home cook would want, and the price is far more approachable than many of the other stainless options we tested. From searing steaks and sautéing veggies to letting sauces quietly bubble away, this set handled everything without complaint. Using the T-fal Stainless Steel Set felt easy and intuitive thanks to features like drip-free rims, built-in strainers on the lids, and measurement lines stamped inside the pots. The tri-ply build kept heat consistent across the surface, so eggs, steaks, and anything else we tossed on the pans cooked evenly with no annoying hot spots. If you're into that timeless stainless look, this set definitely delivers both style and sturdy craftsmanship.
SPECIFICATIONS
Non-Stick Material
None
Internal Material
Stainless steel throughout
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Oven Safe Temperatures
500°F
PTFE/PFOA/Lead/Cadmium in Construction?
No
Cooking with stainless does take a bit more technique, but once you get the hang of it, the payoff is worth it — better flavor and a set that'll hold up for a long time. Preheating is key to reducing sticking, and a simple water-drop test helps: if the droplet skitters around the pan, you're ready to add your oil or butter. Cleanup also demands a little patience since stuck-on bits and discoloration are common. Skip anything abrasive like steel wool to avoid scratching the finish. Instead, warm soapy water, a paste of baking soda, or a quick boil of water mixed with vinegar can take care of stubborn spots. If you're still unsure this set is the right stainless pick, you might want to check out the pricier Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad for comparison.
With the lasting quality and timeless style of stainless steel you're prepared for any meal. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
The Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Set is still our favorite cast iron cookware set because it offers excellent heat retention and cooking performance, plus they are nearly indestructible. You'll no longer have to worry about that housemate scratching the non-stick surface off with metal utensils with this cookware set in your kitchen. It can sear a tuna steak like no other, fry up eggs and pancakes, and comes with a Dutch oven, which we like to use for roasting and baking bread. An added bonus is that the Dutch oven lids fit the 8-inch skillet, too. Cooking performance is unparalleled when properly maintained and seasoned (and not overheated). If you're seeking a skillet, a Dutch oven, and a skillet that'll last you for decades, this cast iron set is a great choice.
SPECIFICATIONS
Non-Stick Material
Internal Material
Dishwasher Safe
Oven Safe Temperatures
PTFE/PFOA/Lead/Cadmium in Construction?
Extra care, seasoning, skills, and maintenance are required to use cast iron sets in general, and some folks simply aren't interested in taking on these chores. Out of the box, the cooking surface has a pebbly texture, which will smooth out over time and use. Be prepared for a long pre-heat time, and be ready to use oil or butter for all cooking dishes; otherwise, you'll be dealing with stuck-on foods. Even though it's marketed as “pre-seasoned,” we recommend seasoning it yourself to ensure its nonstick performance. Cleaning is straightforward and doesn't require delicate care like nonstick pans, so feel free to take some steel wool to it. After cleaning, be sure to dry it and dress it with some oil; otherwise, you'll notice some rust spots. While maintenance does take a little extra time, you won't be disappointed with its cooking performance or longevity. If you'd like a similarly priced cast-iron set to compare the Lodge against, take a look at the Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron. It's similar to the Lodge but isn't quite as nice feeling in the hands or as sturdy.
We loved the Lodge's searing and frying capabilities, but we loved the ability to use metal kitchen utensils even more. This cast iron cookware set is built to last for decades. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Amazon Basics Non Stick 15-Piece offers what every beginning chef needs to start on their kitchen adventure. At a great price point, we were surprised at how well this set performed. With riveted handles, vented lids, and a quality Teflon non-stick cook surface, we cooked and cleaned our way into a blissful food coma. If you're on your way to college or want to begin experimenting in the kitchen, the Amazon Basics Non Stick 15-Piece will open the door to culinary exploration without a huge investment.
SPECIFICATIONS
Non-Stick Material
Teflon
Internal Material
Aluminum
Dishwasher Safe
No
Oven Safe Temperatures
Not oven safe
PTFE/PFOA/Lead/Cadmium in Construction?
Not stated aywhere in product info
At this price point, we were happy to find that the Amazon Basics really does provide all the basics, including plastic utensils. The set is made with thin-gauge aluminum, so cooking on low to medium heat will help prevent metal warping. It's neither oven nor dishwasher safe, so your baked desserts and quick clean-ups will have to be put aside. The Teflon coating performed very well in testing, eggs and pancakes slid off the pan, but it won't tolerate metal utensils. If you're looking for a cookware set with a few more features and higher quality, still at a reasonable price, check out the T-Fal Signature Nonstick Dishwasher Safe 12pc.
The situation room. We always test side-by-side so that we can compare products and see how each stacks up against its competition. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Tested
After selecting the most promising sets to test, we bought them at retail price and got to work in the kitchen. We spent over 40 hours cooking up a storm with each pot and pan. Tests included release evaluations with pancakes and eggs, searing steaks, sautéing vegetables, and simmering tomato sauce. With all sets in hand, we took the time to meticulously compare each, noting performance differences while working through a carefully designed testing regime. After our initial testing period ended, we have continued to use these sets throughout the year and provide updates on durability and performance as we go.
Our testing of cookware sets is divided across five different metrics:
Cooking Performance (25% of overall score weighting)
Maintenance & Clean Up (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (25% weighting)
Quality & Durability (15% weighting)
Storage & Features (15% weighting)
Cooking a tasty meal was our favorite way to test the cookware sets. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing team knows their way around a kitchen.
Lead tester, Dominik Bleeg, has worked in commercial kitchens in the past and understands the demands that cookware is subjected to. He also worked in the fire service and is used to making meals for a crew of people, and now loves to cook at home for his growing family. Between these experiences, he has a good understanding of quality and functionality when it comes to cookware sets.
Jason Wanlass has been part of the greater GearLab Team for multiple years. An avid adventurer, he has tested many products and written numerous reviews on camping gear. He recently combined his love for all things gear with a passion for cooking and now shares his insight on cooking-related products. Jason is no stranger to simmering with slow cookers, baking with mixers, and cooking up crispy fries with an air fryer. He has an eye for detail and likes finding the little things that make a product great to use.
Ben Applebaum-Bauch has been testing kitchen equipment and home goods at GearLab for several years. In that time, he has reviewed 200 products across an array of categories. He has worked in multiple commercial kitchens over the years and is an avid at-home cook.
Analysis and Test Results
Any functional kitchen needs some excellent cookware. With all sets tested and compared, we offer our recommendations after thoroughly using each one. To help us evaluate the product quality, we focus on five important metrics for each, identifying the best and those that can be left on the store shelves.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Cost can be a major factor for most people when deciding what to buy. We don't consider price when selecting products to test, but we do consider value when it comes to our final recommendations. How a product's performance stacks up against what it costs is common logic for the savvy buyer. In other words, we look at whether a pricey set of cookware actually performs to its higher price through standout results. If any set performs at a level that matches (or exceeds) the investment, we consider it high value. On the flip side, we also highlight sets that might not take the top spot overall but still punch above their weight for what you pay.
In testing, the Calphalon Premier Set came out on top, and its premium price reflects its strong showing. The Tramontina Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set also impressed us, offering excellent performance at a very approachable cost. The T-fal Stainless Steel Set runs a bit more expensive than the Tramontina and delivers similar cooking results, but it stands out with sturdier construction.
Lining up all the cookware sets to get a sense of what each brings to the kitchen. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Cooking Performance
To evaluate cooking performance, we went hands-on in the most literal way — by actually preparing our daily meals with each set. We ran a series of side-by-side tests to see how the cookware compared, focusing on things like heat distribution, their ability to maintain a steady simmer, how well they seared, and, at the end, evaluating how much food would stick to the pans. And of course, to keep things “scientifically balanced,” we made sure to taste everything along the way to judge overall food quality. It's a tough job, but someone had to do it.
Cast iron is an age-old material that people have been cooking on for generations, and for good reason. The Amazon Basics and Lodge, performed very well, offering some of the tastiest and crispiest food. However, they were bested by the more modern Calphalon Premier Set.
The Calphalon Premier earned top marks across all metrics. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Cooking Evenness
To determine how evenly each cookware set heated, we placed each pan over medium heat for three minutes and then checked multiple spots with an infrared thermometer. Consistent temperatures across the surface are key for getting a solid sear on proteins or turning out uniformly golden pancakes. Overall, nonstick sets made with thicker-gauge metal and an aluminum core showed the most consistent results. Stainless steel also performed well, even with thinner construction, while cast iron generally lagged behind in this specific test.
With its excellant nonstick qualities, the Greenlife Soft Grip made cooking breakfast a breeze. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Among all the contenders, the Tramontina Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set showed the tightest temperature range at about (+/- 5 °F). Next in line were the GreenLife Soft Grip at (+/- 10 °F) and the Cuisinart MultiClad Pro at (+/- 11 °F). Each of these delivered reliably even cooking, and adding a bit of butter or oil made the distribution even more uniform. Cast iron, unsurprisingly, had the widest spread, which makes sense given how the casting process can leave the material thicker in some spots than others. Even so, despite the thermometer revealing swings of up to 33 °F, we didn't notice major issues during real-world cooking or searing.
We measured the temperature of each pan. In the center, top, left, right, and bottom locations for three different temperatures. This data was averaged and we determined standard deviation to see which had the best evenness. Credit: Amber King
Stickiness
To assess how prone each pan was to sticking, we cooked a lineup of common foods — eggs, pancakes, bacon, and seared meats. We paid attention to how easily food released from the surface and whether anything stubbornly clung to the pan afterward. All tests were done over medium heat, with proper preheating, and we used oil for the stainless steel and cast iron sets as recommended. As expected, traditional nonstick surfaces performed the best, while ceramic nonstick tended to be slightly grabbier than coatings similar to Teflon.
Making sure you get pans to temp and using a bit of oil helps keep food from sticking to stainless steel. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Oil Is Important
It's important to note that without oil or butter and an appropriate preheat, any set could stick. We are confident in the comparative information supplied by our stickiness testing, but your experience could differ depending on your cooking practices.
The Calphalon Premier Set showing off its nonstick qualities while using a metal utensil.
Among the nonstick options, the GreenLife Soft Grip had the slickest surface, with the Calphalon Premier coming in as a close second. Food practically fell off both pans, making cleanup a breeze. Both sets use standard nonstick coatings, though the Calphalon version held up better in terms of durability. For ceramic-coated cookware, the Tramontina Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set came very close to matching those results. When the pans were perfectly clean, they behaved like true nonstick, but over longer cooking sessions, bits of food started to cling here and there.
A little soap and warm water are sometimes needed to help loosen stubborn food bits on stainless steel.
Cast iron, of course, is in its own category. Getting it to a place where food doesn't stick takes regular seasoning and some ongoing care. Using oil or butter — especially for foods like eggs and pancakes — makes a huge difference. Each use adds another microscopic layer of seasoning, gradually building a naturally slick surface. Though the pans arrived “pre-seasoned”, we did some additional seasoning before starting to cook. Out of the box, all the cast iron had a textured feel; the Lodge was the smoothest, while the Amazon Basics Cast Iron felt the roughest. Over time, that pebbly texture evens out, but for anyone impatient, a little low-grit sandpaper can speed the process — cast iron can handle it. Once preheated and lightly oiled, we were able to fry a sunny-side-up egg in each pan without issues, proving that while cast iron takes effort, it can absolutely compete with nonstick cookware in real-world cooking.
Here we see the cast iron pans going through the seasoning process before use. We massaged it with oil then baked the pans for one hour. Credit: Amber King
Stainless steel demands the most technique. Sticking usually comes down to temperature, so proper preheating is essential. When we heated the pans correctly and added oil at the right moment, both the T-fal Stainless Steel Set and the All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Stainless-Steel performed without any major sticking. That said, stainless steel will never be as naturally slick as cast iron or nonstick, and it requires more precise methods to achieve flawless results.
Deliciously golden pancakes are made easily thanks to Calphalon's nonstick pan. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Searing Ability
For our searing test, we added a tablespoon of butter to each skillet and let it warm over medium heat for a few minutes. Once the butter was fully melted and the pans were properly preheated, we placed a seasoned steak into each one. The steaks were cooked for four minutes per side while we kept an eye on how well each skillet held its heat. After cooking, we sliced into the steaks to check how evenly they were cooked — and, naturally, enjoyed the results.
The Lodge cast iron set did great in our searing test. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
The cast iron pans — the Lodge and the Amazon Basics — delivered the strongest sear overall. They took a bit longer to heat up, but the crust they produced was the crispest and most flavorful. Close behind were the T-fal Stainless Steel Set and the Cuisinart MultiClad Pro, both stainless steel performers. As for the traditional nonstick sets, the Calphalon Premier Set came out on top for achieving the best sear.
The effort of cooking is well rewarded with a tasty meal and good company. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Maintenance & Clean Up
Nobody wants to waste cooking time scrubbing pots and pans, so we looked closely at how easy each set was to clean and maintain. For this part of testing, we hand-washed every pot, pan, and lid, and also ran dishwasher-safe pieces through a hot rinse cycle to see how they held up. Nonstick sets — especially the Calphalon Premier Set — were the quickest to tidy up, often needing nothing more than a quick wipe with a damp cloth. Surprisingly, the stainless steel options were less demanding than expected. With proper preheating and oil use, both the Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad and Cuisinart MultiClad Pro cleaned up with just a simple scrub at the sink.
Dishwasher compatibility can also make life easier, but not every set can be tossed in the wash. Cast iron should never go in the dishwasher, and even many nonstick sets that are technically labeled as dishwasher-safe still recommend handwashing to preserve the coating. Knowing which pieces can handle machine washing, and which cannot, makes a big difference in long-term care.
Dishwasher Safe
Dishwasher Safe
Calphalon Premier Set
Lodge Season Cast Iron Set
✖
T-fal Stainless Steel Set 11 Piece
Cuisinart MultiClad Pro
Tramontina 14 Piece Ceramic Induction-Ready Cookware Set
CAROTE 10pc Nonstick Granite Induction
Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron
✖
T-Fal Signature Nonstick Dishwasher Safe 12pc
GreenLife Soft Grip
Amazon Basics Non Stick 15-Piece
✖
Stainless steel tended to collect more stuck-on bits than nonstick or cast iron, but the actual cleanup wasn't dramatically more effort. A warm water soak loosened most residue, and anything extra was easily handled with a baking-soda paste. Abrasive scrubbers like steel wool are a no-go, since they can scratch the finish. Over time, stainless steel will pick up stains from oil and cooked-on food, but a soak in a vinegar-and-water mix restores its shine. It may take a little more elbow grease overall, but considering how long stainless steel can last, we think it's a fair trade-off.
Don't be afraid to take steel wool and a touch of soap to cast iron! Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Traditional nonstick sets — such as the Calphalon Premier and T-Fal Titanium — were consistently the simplest to clean. Food just doesn't cling to these surfaces, so there's rarely any need for forceful scrubbing. The only downside is that most nonstick coatings shouldn't be paired with harsh sponges, so if something like sticky rice gets attached, your tools are limited. Still, a short soak with hot, soapy water usually solves the problem quickly.
Some heat, a drop of oil and a paper towel to help spread it around is all that's required when seasoning cast iron after washing. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
With a bit of basic care, the Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron and Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron sets were also surprisingly low-maintenance. Cleanup is straightforward — you can use a pot scraper, steel wool, or even a touch of soap without harming the cookware. The key is drying the pans completely, either on the stove or with a towel, and finishing with a thin layer of oil to keep them seasoned and protected. Just remember, cast iron and dishwashers do not mix.
We put all the dishwasher safe sets through a cycle to see how they held up. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Ease of Use
When looking at overall ease of use, we paid attention to practical details that impact day-to-day cooking. That included how securely the lids sat, whether the handles felt natural in the hand, and whether potholders were necessary during regular use. We also considered how much cooking experience each set assumes — some require a bit of technique, while others are very beginner-friendly right out of the box.
Budget-friendly nonstick sets like the T-Fal Signature and GreenLife were easily the most approachable. Their slick surfaces mean even novice cooks can keep food from sticking without much trial and error. They're lightweight, straightforward, and include all the essentials, which makes them simple to maneuver in a busy kitchen. The one drawback is that neither set excels in terms of clean, controlled pouring.
Among the more premium nonstick offerings, the Calphalon Premier and Tramontina Ceramic Cookware Set earned our preference. The Tramontina pieces are noticeably lighter and come with comfortable, well-shaped handles, giving them a very user-friendly feel.
With their unique approach, the Calphalon Premier lids allow for easy stacking. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
The Calphalon Premier stands out for its oversized glass lids — a little heavier, but designed to fit every skillet, which makes stacking and storing them easier. One trade-off is heat buildup; the handles get quite warm after extended cooking. As expected, none of these nonstick sets requires much technique, making them great for anyone who wants an uncomplicated experience.
Cast iron, on the other hand, demands more care and comes with a few challenges. These pans heat intensely, so potholders are a must, and their weight can be tough if you need to transfer food out of the pan. Performance also depends heavily on proper seasoning and upkeep. Both tested sets behaved similarly, though the Lodge collection includes larger skillets, while the Amazon Basics set offers a Dutch oven with a hanging wire — a perk if you're planning to take it camping.
We loved the T-Fal stainless steel set for its price, but also its quality. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
For stainless steel, the T-fal set edged out the Cuisinart Multiclad in usability. T-fal's lighter build and more balanced design made it easier to handle, and its rounded handles felt better in hand, especially with a full pan. Like many stainless sets, both required potholders after a while, since the handles eventually heated up.
Quality of Construction
When shopping for cookware, the quality of construction is one of the most important factors to consider, especially if you want a set you can use for years. We looked closely at build quality in person and dug through plenty of long-term user reports online, and though our initial testing period was just a few months, we have continued to use these sets and update our experience with long-term usage. As expected, sets made with higher-grade materials and multi-layer construction tended to hold up the best.
Cast iron, of course, was the runaway winner here. When it's looked after, cast iron can last for generations. Between our two contenders, the Lodge set clearly stands out. Lodge has been producing cast iron for more than 120 years, and it shows — the pieces are heavier, better balanced, and feel more refined. The Amazon Basics set performs well for the price, but it's lighter and doesn't have the same solid, grounded feel.
Stainless steel is another extremely durable option, which is why so many pros rely on it. If you're going this route, aim for at least a 3-ply construction. The T-Fal set is our pick because it's fully stainless steel and noticeably lighter than the Cuisinart. The Cuisinart Multiclad and All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply are also great choices, but keep in mind they use an aluminum core. The upside is quicker heating; the downside is that it's not 100% stainless through and through. The T-Fal set did discolor a bit faster during testing, but that didn't affect how it cooked. With regular care, a good stainless steel set should easily last a decade or more.
The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro offers a lot if your looking to get a stainless steel set, but it'll hurt your wallet. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Nonstick, unfortunately, is the least durable category. The coating can wear down, chip, or scratch over time. That said, the Calphalon Premier and Tramontina Ceramic Cookware Set really impressed us. Both had tough surfaces that held up even when we pushed them with metal utensils (seriously — don't do that at home). In contrast, the Amazon Basics Nonstick showed scratches almost immediately when treated the same way.
"Durability" Doesn't Apply to the Coating
Many companies claim nonstick cookware to be incredibly durable. Some market them with statements like “Hard Anodized Aluminum.” It's important to note that these metals are the CORE of the pan, not the outer layer that receives all the direct contact. Focus on finding cookware with a durable nonstick layer, ideally with a thicker construction.
Storage & Features
When we looked at storage, we focused on how easily each set tucked away and whether any smart design features helped keep things organized. We checked how the lids fit with the pots and pans, whether oversized handles created clutter, and which sets actually nested well. Every set has holes in the handles for hanging, but if you're using cabinets, stacking is usually the way to go. In this category, the Calphalon Premier stood out by a mile.
The Calphalon Premier shines because of its lid design. Instead of the usual domed lids with a knob on top, each lid is flat and uses a handle similar to what's on the pan. That lets the pieces sit perfectly on top of each other, making the whole set extremely compact. If your kitchen is short on storage, this system is a game-changer.
Thanks to their lid design, the Calphalon set stacks cleanly and easily in kitchen cabinets. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Some sets that aren't specifically marketed for space-saving still perform surprisingly well here — including the GreenLife Soft Grip, Amazon Basics Nonstick, and the T-Fal sets. They all stack cleanly into a stable tower as long as you store the lids separately or nest them inside the pots. The T-Fal Stainless Steel set also nests easily and has fewer pieces, which simplifies the whole setup.
For being such an affordable option, the Amazon Basics stacks neatly and compactly. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Functionally, the T-Fal Stainless Steel set covers all the essentials without throwing in random pieces you'll never touch. The pots have measuring marks inside, and the saucepan comes with a straining lid and a drip-free pour spout. The Calphalon Premier also includes everything you realistically need, and its flat lids lock neatly into place on each pan, keeping the whole system stable and intuitive.
The built in lid strainer was a much appreciated feature with the T-Fal set. Credit: Dominik Bleeg
Several other sets — including the GreenLife, Tramontina, and Amazon Basics Nonstick — are packed with everything you'd expect from a starter kit, plus bonus utensils. The GreenLife, T-Fal Stainless Steel, and Cuisinart Stainless Steel sets also include handy strainers.
A high-quality cookware set can really make the difference in a kitchen, and can make cooking that much more fun! Credit: Laura Casner
How to Choose a Cookware Sets
Before deciding on your cookware set here are four important questions to consider.
The “right” material really comes down to how you like to cook and the foods you make most often. If you're into getting a deep, flavorful sear on meats, cast iron or stainless steel tends to be the go-to. For everyday things like eggs, pancakes, and other breakfast favorites, a nonstick skillet usually makes life easier. Heartier dishes such as soups, braises, and slow-cooked meals benefit from a roomy stock pot or a solid Dutch oven. Some shoppers may also prioritize a non-toxic surface above everything else. Taking a moment to define your cooking style, along with the material that supports it, will make choosing the right set much simpler.
Cookware packages come with wildly different piece counts, so thinking through a few basics helps. Start with your storage situation — do you have room for lids, and can you stack things neatly? After that, think about how many people you typically cook for and how often you fire up the stove. A large collection might sound great, but extra pots that never get used just add clutter. Lastly, weigh your budget and your actual cooking habits to figure out how big of a set makes sense for your household.
Your stove style absolutely plays a role in what cookware works best. Induction ranges require pots and pans with magnetic bases; the easy test is to see if a magnet sticks to the bottom. Electric cooktops perform best with fully flat-bottomed cookware so heat spreads evenly across the surface. Gas burners are more flexible and can handle almost any material, but you'll still want cookware that makes solid, stable contact with the flame for consistent results.
Most sets include the essentials—sauce pans, sauté pans, and a stock pot or similar large vessel—but you'll want to think about the specialty items you'll actually use. Do you see yourself working with a griddle-style pan, a casserole dish, or other niche pieces? Once you know which core items you rely on most, you can pick a set that covers the basics and then add any extra pans you need to round out your kitchen.
Finding the right size cookware set saves space and avoids unnecessary pieces in the kitchen. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Conclusion
Tracking down the perfect cookware set can feel overwhelming with so many choices on the market. The good news is that we've already sifted through the noise for you. Our picks are carefully researched, impartial, and designed to point you toward the right set for your cooking goals. Hopefully, after working your way through this review, you'll feel confident, and maybe even a little excited, about the set that fits your kitchen best.
—Dominik Bleeg, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, & Jason Wanlass