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Ceramic Vs. Stainless Steel: Ultimate Comparison

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The debate of ceramic vs. stainless steel cookware boils down to coated vs. uncoated pans. Each has its own benefits and limitations:

Ceramic cookware is great for fast, non-stick cooking on stovetops. PFAS-free, it’s ideal for low-oil, low-heat dishes like eggs or fish without risking harmful fumes. However, it’s limited for nearly everything else.

Stainless steel is more durable and versatile. It handles everything from sticky eggs to high-heat searing, deglazing, and oven braising. But it takes practice to prevent food from sticking.

The best choice depends on your cooking style, habits, and priorities. Do you value convenience, durability, or safety? That’s where this guide comes in…

After using both for years, I compared them in terms of performance, ease of use, value, health/ safety, and more. You’ll also find tips on proper use and maintenance (like preventing sticking with stainless steel), the ideal cookware combo, and the five brands we trust most.

Let’s get started! Use “On this page” below to jump around.

Medically fact-checked by Dr. Ahmad Alsayes, MBBS

Material Overview

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Ceramic Non-Stick Overview:

Ceramic pans typically use an aluminum base with a sand-based, non-toxic coating, free from PFAS chemicals. They heat quickly, are perfect for low-oil cooking, and excel with delicate foods like eggs and pancakes. More eco-friendly than Teflon, they use safer materials and less energy in production.

However, they’re less durable, limited to low-medium heat, hand wash only, and lack heat retention, making them poor for searing.

  • Naturally non-stick, beginner-friendly, and similar to Teflon in cooking and cleaning ease.
  • Non-toxic, free of PFAS chemicals; safer than Teflon at high heat (800℉ limit vs. 464℉)
  • Less oil is required than stainless steel, reducing calorie intake.
  • Non-reactive with acidic or alkaline foods (No metallic tastes).
  • It will not crack if dropped like pure ceramic cookware.
  • Heats faster and more evenly than stainless when using an *aluminum base (*the majority use aluminum)
  • A larger variety of colors and designs is available.
  • Less durable than uncoated pans; coatings chip and scratch.
  • It has a shorter non-stick lifespan than Teflon – usually 3 years tops vs Teflon’s 4-5+ years.
  • It requires gentle cleaning and handling to protect non-stick lifespan; not dishwasher- or metal-utensil-safe.
  • Scratched coatings may expose base metal, which can leach into acidic foods.
  • Limited to medium or low heat to protect the coating; unsuitable for searing.
  • High-quality brands are expensive relative to their lifespan, with steel (and even Teflon) offering longer-term value.
  • Eco-friendliness depends on care and manufacturing practices.

Pure Ceramic Note: Unlike non-stick ceramic, pure ceramic cookware is metal-free and kiln-baked without coatings. It’s scratch-proof, microwave/ dishwasher-safe, and typically handles up to 2500°F due to the extremely high temperatures used to make it. But it’s fragile, slow to heat, expensive, and tricky to prevent sticking.

Stainless Steel Overview:

Stainless steel is made from iron, carbon, chromium, and nickel. It resists corrosion and is far more durable and heat-tolerant than non-stick cookware.

Chefs love its versatility. It’s perfect for searing, browning, deglazing, and even sticky foods with proper technique. It’s oven, broiler, and dishwasher-safe and free from coatings that degrade, offering easy upkeep and lifelong performance.

Stainless is best for experienced cooks who don’t mind using plenty of oil—and some patience—for stick-free results.

  • A coating-free, non-toxic surface that’s metal utensil-safe.
  • Extremely durable; quality pans rarely need replacement.
  • Allows deglazing for enhanced flavor; non-reactive with acidic foods, unlike cast iron.
  • There are no iron leaching risks (like cast iron/ carbon steel).
  • It’s lighter and faster heating than cast iron with no seasoning needed, yet it has a similar searing performance.
  • Highly versatile; brown, sear, and even cook eggs with little to no sticking with proper techniques.
  • Oven- and dishwasher-safe without damage concerns, though oven use is dependent on handle and lid material. All-steel is best.
  • More sustainable than ceramic; infinitely recyclable without special preparation.
  • Food can stick without proper technique; it is less beginner-friendly.
  • It needs more oil than ceramic and is harder to clean when food sticks.
  • Slower heating than ceramic pans, though multi-clad pans improve this.
  • If scratched deeply, it can leach nickel or chromium into acidic foods; avoid it if you’re allergic, as the released nickel can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Or, opt for nickel-free versions.
  • Heavier and more expensive for quality multi-clad pans.
  • Cheaper, thinner options can easily warp, rust, and scorch food due to hot spots.
  • It can discolor from overheating, burning oil, and hard water.

It’s clear that comparing ceramic vs stainless steel is comparing apples to oranges. They are simply different tools for different jobs… That’s why it’s best to have both—

If you’re short on time, jump down to our ideal combo, where I show you how to leverage the most from each material without wasting money. You can also head straight to our top brand picks.

Or, keep reading to see how we came to this conclusion. In the next section, we test and compare each material in-depth across various kitchen factors:

Ceramic vs Stainless Steel Cookware: In-Depth Comparison

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Heating Abilities & Cooking Versatility

Winner = Stainless Steel: Ceramic pans are best for even, low-temperature tasks like omelets. Multiclad stainless steel excels in high-heat cooking as well as low-stick use, making it more versatile overall.

Ceramic Non-Stick: Heat Conduction > Retention

Ceramic pans rely on a metal base, usually aluminum, for heating. Aluminum heats quickly and evenly but doesn’t hold heat well. This makes it great for quick tasks like omelets but less effective for high-heat searing.

Stainless steel bases hold heat better but heat up slower, and high heat can still damage ceramic coatings.

Now, high-quality, thicker options like GreenPan’s GP5 or Caraway pans balance speed and retention better. However, while versatile for low-to-medium heat cooking, all ceramic pans struggle with tasks like crusting meats.

Stainless Steel:  Balanced Heat, Superior Versatility

Stainless steel isn’t a great heat conductor by itself. So, fully clad designs (3-ply, 5-ply, 7-ply) add conductive aluminum or copper layers. These layers ensure fast, even heating and excellent heat retention. This makes stainless steel ideal for searing, browning, deglazing, and oven use.

Thicker 7-ply pans rival cast iron for heat retention without needing seasoning! On the other hand, thinner 3-ply pans heat and cool quickly but can develop hot spots, leading to sticking. 5-ply strikes the best balance for versatility, handling tasks from searing to cooking eggs effectively.

Non-Stick Performance & Cooking Ease

Winner = Ceramic: Ceramic pans are beginner-friendly and unmatched for quick, sticky meals like a morning omelet. Stainless steel suits experienced cooks (or those willing to learn) for unmatched flavor and versatility, though more challenging for sticky foods.

Ceramic Non-Stick: Effortless Non-Stick Cooking

Ceramic cookware is inherently non-stick, rivaling Teflon but without PFAS chemicals. Ideal for beginners, it ensures easy food release with minimal oil and no extensive preheating.

That said, all of my ceramic pans demand a small bit of oil to match Teflon’s food release. However, they require much less than stainless, making it great for lower-calorie cooking of eggs, pancakes, or fish. But, the non-stick coating degrades over time, especially with high heat or abrasives, reducing its long-term ease of use.

Stainless Steel: Mastering the Learning Curve

Stainless steel isn’t non-stick by nature and requires skill and oil to prevent sticking. Proper preheating (using the “water drop test“) and adding oil at the right time are key steps.

While it has a learning curve, stainless steel offers durability and the ability to create flavorful fond, perfect for deglazing and making rich sauces. It never wears out and requires no seasoning upkeep like cast iron.

How do I prevent food from sticking to stainless steel?

1. Preheat the (empty) pan for several minutes over medium-low heat. You can tell the pan’s ready by dropping water onto the pan. If the water balls up/ rolls around like mercury, it’s ready for step 2.

2. Once preheated, add a thin layer of high smoke point oil and wait about 20-30 seconds. The oil should start to smoke a little.

3. THEN add the food. Voila — you have a non-stick pan!

Note: Don’t force stuck-on food. It’ll release naturally when ready. Let eggs and pancakes sit for a moment before flipping or scrambling them. Also, never go above medium heat, as it’ll cause the eggs or pancakes to burn and stick. We go through this process step-by-step in our Non-Stick Alternatives Guide.

Durability & Longevity

Winner = Stainless Steel: Ceramic pans offer short-term ease but need careful handling, lasting up to four years at most. Stainless steel can perform for decades with minimal upkeep, making it the winner.

Ceramic Non-Stick: Delicate

Ceramic cookware delivers excellent non-stick performance initially. However, it wears out faster than Teflon, lasting around 3 years with proper care.

High heat, metal utensils, and improper storage can damage the coating and reduce non-stick properties. Aluminum-based ceramic pans are also more prone to warping from high heat or thermal shock. Thicker, premium options like GreenPan GP5 are sturdier but come at a higher price.

Lastly, use silicone or wooden utensils, moderate heat, and padded stacking to extend lifespan.

Stainless Steel: Built to Last

Stainless steel cookware is nearly indestructible, with no coating to wear out. It also resists rust and corrosion, keeping its look and performance for decades unless heavily warped.

Thicker, fully clad designs like 5-ply or 7-ply are the most warp-resistant and provide superior heat retention. Yet, even thinner 3-ply pans last far longer than ceramic when properly cared for.

Cleaning Ease & Maintenance

  • Cleaning Ease Winner = Ceramic: Ceramic pans are easier to clean daily but need careful handling to maintain their coating.
  • Maintenance Ease Winner = Stainless Steel: Stainless steel pans require more effort to clean but can handle harsher cleaning techniques, simplifying maintenance.

Ceramic Non-Stick: Easy Cleaning with Complex Maintenance

Ceramic non-stick pans are a breeze to clean when the coating is intact. Residue from foods like eggs slides off effortlessly. However, maintaining their performance takes extra care…

Dishwashers, metal scrubbers, or abrasive cleaners can damage the coating. Gentle hand washing is a must. Proper storage and moderate heat also help extend the coating’s life, making ceramic less simple to maintain than stainless steel.

Tips for Maintaining Ceramic:

  • Hand Wash Only: Use mild soap and a soft sponge; baking soda can tackle stubborn residue.
  • Avoid Aerosol Spray: Opt for a dab of high-smoke-point oil instead, as chemical propellants can create a film that increases sticking.
  • Skip Abrasives: Prevent scratches by avoiding harsh cleaners and steel wool.
  • Prevent Shock: Allow hot pans to cool before rinsing to avoid warping or coating damage.
  • Proper Storage: Stack pans with protective liners to avoid chipping.
  • Moderate Heat: Prevent overheating to protect the coating
  • Replace When Needed: Chipped or cracked coatings (with the base metal peaking through) signal it’s time for a new pan.

Stainless Steel: Tedious Cleaning with Simple Maintenance

Cleaning stainless steel takes more effort due to its lack of a non-stick coating. Residue can cling from improper preheating, not enough oil, or going too hot.

While scrubbing and soaking are often necessary, stainless steel’s durability allows for harsher cleaning methods and dishwasher use without damage. It’s easier to maintain overall; you don’t need to baby it. And for even easier maintenance, choose mirror-polished options to reduce food adhesion.

Tips for Maintaining Stainless Steel:

  • Soak Stuck-On Food: Use warm soapy water or boil water in the pan to loosen debris.
  • Use Cleaning Aids: Baking soda or Bar Keepers Friend removes stains and discoloration from overheating or hard water.
  • Avoid Shock: Let a hot steel pan cool before submerging in water to prevent warping.
  • Skip Steel Wool: Replace steel wool with Scotch-Brite pads or hard brushes to prevent surface roughness that can increase sticking.
  • Replace When Needed: Exposed copper or aluminum cores from deep scratches indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Toxicity & Allergy Considerations

Winner = Stainless Steel: Ceramic pans are PFAS-free and safe from lead and cadmium, but some low-quality coatings can present titanium dioxide risks. Stainless steel is PFAS-, glazing-, and coating-free, offering the safest choice overall, though some nickel or chromium may leach with wear (poses low risk unless allergic).

Ceramic Non-Stick: Is it Truly Non-Toxic? Mostly

Ceramic cookware is free of PFAS, making it a safer alternative to Teflon. High-quality coatings are also free from lead or cadmium leaching risks, even if scratched (unlike some pure ceramics). However, exposed base metals (from scratching) may leach trace aluminum or nickel.

The main concern with cheaper ceramic coatings is titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. These may leach at high heat or into acidic foods, but are they safe?

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified TiO2 as a potential carcinogenic, while the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently deemed it unsafe as a food additive. That said, the full risks to humans remain unclear, but some animal studies suggest potential dangers.

Choosing reputable US brands like GreenPan or Caraway minimizes these risks, as they follow strict safety standards.

Stainless Steel: Durable and Safe with Caution

Stainless steel avoids PFAS, lead, and coatings altogether, eliminating risks from chipping, nanoparticles, or lead-leaching ceramic glazes. Unlike cast iron, it’s non-reactive and doesn’t release iron when cooking with acids.

However, deep scratches can cause nickel or chromium leaching, particularly with acidic ingredients. For most users, stainless steel is safe, but those with nickel allergies should be cautious.

Avoid slicing in the pan to reduce risks and choose higher-grade steel (18/8 or 18/10), which resists corrosion better than lower-quality, rust-prone 201-grade.

Environmental Considerations

Winner = Stainless Steel: Ceramic cookware offers eco-friendly perks but depends on brand practices and proper care for sustainability. Stainless steel stands out for its unmatched durability and ease of recycling, making it the better long-term choice.

Ceramic Non-Stick: A PFAS-Free Option with Caveats

Ceramic non-stick cookware avoids highly-polluting PFAS “Forever Chemicals” and emits less CO₂ during production than Teflon. However, its shorter lifespan often means more replacements, especially if not cared for properly. Recycling is more challenging, too. You must sand the coating off before processing.

That said, brands like GreenPan and Caraway improve sustainability by using recycled metals, solar energy, and recyclable packaging. Recycling programs for end-of-life cookware are also available.

Stainless Steel: Durable and Infinitely Recyclable

Stainless steel is inherently more eco-friendly as it’s infinitely recyclable without extra processing (no coatings). Plus, its durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, especially with high-quality pans. Steel is the most sustainable choice overall.

Stovetop & Oven Compatibility

Winner = Stainless Steel: Stainless wins for complete stovetop-to-oven compatibility and versatility. It’s a better choice for high-heat and dual-use cooking. Ceramic cookware is easier for everyday stovetop tasks but is more limited in the oven.

  • Note that handle and lid materials are also essential considerations for oven use. Plastic-sleeved handles, for example, limit heat resistance. All-steel is best.

Ceramic Non-Stick: Stovetop Ease, Oven Cautions

Ceramic pans are versatile for stovetop use but have limitations in the oven. While these coatings safely tolerate higher temperatures than Teflon, they degrade with prolonged heat exposure, harming non-stick performance.

Aluminum-based ceramic pans also warp more easily than stainless steel. Lastly, only ceramic pans with magnetic bases work on induction stoves, like some GreenPan models. 

Stainless Steel: Unmatched Versatility

Stainless steel excels in both stovetop and oven use. It handles high heat without damage, perfect for oven braising, broiling, or roasting.

Also, most stainless steel cookware is induction-compatible, as steel is magnetic. This makes it versatile across all types of cooking surfaces.

Affordability & Value Over Time

Upfront Cost Winner: Ceramic Non-Stick

Ceramic pans typically cost less than stainless steel. Quality options from brands like GreenPan and Caraway range from $50–$100. On the other hand, multiclad stainless steel pans from brands like All-Clad or Cuisinart can cost $100–$300. So, ceramic pans are generally more affordable for your initial purchase.

Value Over Time Winner: Stainless Steel

Stainless steel offers better long-term value. It resists wear, doesn’t depend on fragile coatings, and works for virtually all cooking methods without breaking down. While costing more upfront, quality pans are a one-time investment. They can last a lifetime with proper care.

In contrast, even the best ceramic pans last only 3–4 years, so they’re less cost-effective over time. I recommend buying individual ceramic pieces instead of sets, as you’ll need to replace them. It’s best to mix and match—more on that below.

Appearance & Style Variety

Winner = Ceramic: Ceramic is great for those seeking aesthetic appeal or a way to match appliances. If you want variety, it’s the best choice. Stainless steel better suits practical cooks who prefer durability and easy maintenance over vibrant designs.

Ceramic Non-Stick: Vibrant but Some Tradeoffs

Ceramic cookware comes in a wide range of colors and designs, making it easy to match your kitchen decor. Brands like Caraway and GreenPan offer bold, pastel, and artistic options. However, the vibrant look can fade or chip with frequent use, so proper care is needed.

Stainless Steel: Timeless, Sleek, & Permanent

Stainless steel has a classic, minimalist look that lasts. It resists corrosion and has no coatings, so its appearance stays intact. The silvery finish is easy to clean and renew if stained and pairs well with almost any kitchen style.

While it doesn’t have the color variety of ceramic, stainless steel comes in different finishes:

  • Mirror-polished: A glossy, reflective surface that’s easier to clean.
  • Matte-polished: A more subdued finish that resists fingerprints and smudges for a cleaner look with less maintenance.

My Verdict on Ceramic Vs Stainless Steel Pots & Pans: The Ideal Combo

Ceramic and stainless steel cookware aren’t competitors—they’re complementary, excelling in different tasks. It’s best to have both—

Ceramic pans are perfect for delicate tasks but have a shorter lifespan. Stainless steel offers unmatched versatility, durability, and reliability for long-term use.

A mix of both caters to various cooking needs while maximizing performance and longevity. Here’s how to assemble the ideal mix:

Ideal-Combo-of-Ceramic-and-Stainless-Steel-Pots-and-Pans-Infographic

Stockpots and Saucepans: Stainless Steel Wins

When it comes to stockpots and saucepans, sticking is rarely an issue since these are primarily used for liquids like soups, stews, and sauces. Steel is the best choice here because:

  • It handles frequent stirring and prolonged high heat without risking wear.
  • It can last a lifetime, making it far more cost-effective than ceramic, which can degrade with prolonged use.
  • Retains heat better than aluminum-based ceramic pans, cooking stews and sauces more evenly and efficiently.
  • Makes no difference in cooking and cleaning ease vs ceramic pots.

Skillets and Sauté Pans: Use Both for Their Strengths

Skillets and sauté pans are where most of the sticking (and difficult cleaning) happens.

This is where ceramic cookware vs stainless steel really show their differences and why it’s ideal to have both:

  • Ceramic Non-Stick: For fast, gentle, and low-fat cooking of delicate foods like eggs, pancakes, and fish when in a rush. Or when stainless steel is simply too cumbersome for your needs.
  • Fully-Clad Stainless Steel: Ideal for those higher-heat tasks like searing/ browning meats or making pan sauces. Its superior heat retention ensures even cooking and better caramelization vs ceramic pans. It also tolerates abrasive cleaning (sometimes needed after searing) better than coated pans.

5 Best Ceramic and Stainless Steel Cookware Brands

Ceramic Brands to Consider:

1. GreenPan Ceramic Non-Stick

GreenPan Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware On Gas Stove Cooking Steak
GreenPan Valencia Pro

GreenPan is a leader in PFAS-free cookware. They offer durable, diamond-reinforced coatings and thick, hard-anodized bases for better browning and lifespan.

The GP5 and Valencia Pro lines, in particular, stand out for their extra-rugged designs (counteracting the fragility of ceramic pans) and induction compatibility. Their cookware provides easy, non-stick cooking with a drop of oil, making it an excellent option for beginners.

GreenPan is available on Amazon and directly on their website.

Recommend Options:

Want to know more? Read our in-depth GreenPan review.

2. Caraway Ceramic Non-Stick

Caraway Ceramic Non-Stick Skillet Sitting On Gas Stovetop
Caraway

Caraway makes high-quality ceramic pans with a thicker design than many other options. This not only improves cooking performance but also ensures a longer lifespan. The ultra-slick coating is multi-layered to prevent sticking longer, though it isn’t diamond-reinforced.

Caraway heats quickly and evenly on all stovetops, as it’s induction-ready. However, its heat retention is slightly lower than that of GreenPan’s super-thick GP5. To make up for it, they offer far more color options than GreenPan.

You can find Caraway on Amazon or direct from their website.

Recommend Options:

Want to know more? Read our in-depth Caraway review.

3. Xtrema: Best Pure Ceramic

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Xtrema Versa

Although we’re focusing on ceramic non-stick pans here, it’s worth it to shout out my favorite pure ceramic brand – Xtrema!

Xtrema stands out as a fully ceramic, 100% metal-free cookware option. Unlike ceramic-coated non-stick pans, it eliminates aluminum, nickel, or chromium leaching risks, making it a safe choice for allergy sufferers.

Like cast iron, Xtrema excels in heat retention, high-heat performance, and searing while being lighter and requiring no seasoning. It’s also dishwasher- and microwave-safe, adding convenience.

However, Xtrema can crack if dropped, and some ceramics may leach lead or cadmium. That’s why I only trust Xtrema, as they meet strict Prop 65 standards for lead safety.

Recommend Options:

  • Versa pan: I’ve owned this pan for 3+ years and find it incredibly versatile. Considering Xtrema’s cost, this is the pan to get if you can only get one.

Want to know more? Read our in-depth Xtrema review.

Stainless Steel Brands to Consider:

4. All-Clad: Best Stainless Steel Cookware

All-Clad-D5-stainless-steel-cookware-on-stovetop
All-Clad D5 saute

All-Clad, founded in 1971, was the first to bond stainless steel with aluminum or copper cores, ensuring even heating throughout the pan.

Key collections today include the D3 and D5 lines:

D3: A fully-clad, tri-ply option with three layers and a single aluminum core wrapped in 18/10 stainless. It heats evenly at a lower cost but doesn’t retain heat as well as the D5. This makes it less effective for searing and more prone to sticking or scorching, especially with eggs.

D5 – My top choice: The D5’s five-layer design includes dual aluminum layers with a solid steel core. It’s more durable and warp-resistant than the D3, lasting longer. The D5’s thicker build also offers better heat retention, making it better for searing and low-stick cooking. How? It heats more gradually and evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots and scorching when cooking eggs.

Both lines are induction-compatible, oven- and broiler-safe up to 600℉, and come with durable stainless steel lids and handles. Made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty, they’re a reliable, long-lasting investment.

Want to know more? Read our in-depth All-Clad review.

5. Cuisinart Multiclad Pro: Best Budget-Friendly Stainless Steel

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro on Stovetop
Multiclad Pro

All-Clad sets the standard, but even its D3 line is expensive. Cuisinart’s Multiclad Pro offers the closest budget-friendly alternative I’ve used. It performs almost identically to the D3 at a much lower cost. The main difference? All-Clad is slightly smoother and less prone to sticking.

Like the D3, the Multiclad Pro features tri-ply construction with a thick aluminum core wrapped in 18/10 stainless steel. This ensures fast heating and excellent corrosion resistance.

It also responds to heat changes faster than 5-ply, which is great for precise recipes that need a quick sear, followed by a simmer and immediate cooldown. However, the tradeoff with faster heating is that it’s more finicky to prevent sticking vs 5-ply’s more gradual, consistent heat.

What sets the Multiclad Pro apart from Cuisinart’s lower-cost TPS10 line is its all-stainless steel lids. They’re oven- and broiler-safe up to 550℉, offering more versatility than the TPS10’s glass lids (450℉ limit).

With an induction-ready base, the Multiclad Pro is a versatile, durable, and affordable choice for any kitchen.

Recommend Options:

Want to know more? Read our in-depth Multiclad Pro review.

Recap & Final Recommendation

The “best” cookware material depends on your cooking style, priorities, and budget. If I had to choose one, it would be stainless steel for its versatility.

However, investing in a complete set of either material isn’t always best, especially with ceramic (it needs replacing every few years). So, consider a combination:

  • Stainless Steel Stockpots and Saucepans: Durable, efficient, and coating-free, yet no additional cleaning difficulty. Get 3-ply at a minimum for even heating (avoid single-layer steel).
  • Ceramic Non-Stick Skillet or Sauté Pan: Use sparingly, for the stickiest foods only, and handle carefully to extend its lifespan. A single, high-quality, extra-thick skillet (e.g., GreenPan GP5 or Caraway) is enough. Avoid buying a complete ceramic set, as these pans need replacing every few years.
  • Fully-Clad 5-Ply Stainless Steel Skillet and/ or Sauté: This is your workhorse pan for all high-heat searing, browning, frying tasks, or oven braising tasks. Basically, everything that isn’t super sticky (i.e. eggs). As you gain experience with this pan, you may eventually ditch ceramic altogether. 5 or 7-ply is best for preventing sticking, as they balance heat retention and conduction.

Now, after trying both, you may decide stainless steel just isn’t for you. In that case, you didn’t waste money on an entire set! You can build out the rest of your collection with ceramic instead. I mainly use cast iron for eggs but I reserve my ceramic Always Pan for when I’m in a rush. For everything else, I use stainless.

That said, some prefer sticking (pun intended) with one material that best suits their values. If that’s your case, here’s who should pick what if you’re only getting one:

Pick ceramic-coated if:

  • You’re a beginner cook and don’t want to worry about proper preheating and oiling.
  • Easy cleaning is a priority, with minimal scrubbing required.
  • You cook a lot of eggs and other delicate foods, mainly at lower temperatures.
  • You want to avoid excess calories by using little to no cooking oil.
  • You want to cook meals faster, saving time and effort.
  • A shorter lifespan is acceptable for your needs.
  • You prefer vibrant, colorful cookware to match your kitchen style.

Pick stainless steel if:

  • You’re a beginner cook and don’t want to worry about proper preheating and oiling.
  • Easy cleaning is a priority, with minimal scrubbing required.
  • You cook a lot of eggs and other delicate foods, mainly at lower temperatures.
  • You want to avoid excess calories by using little to no cooking oil.
  • You want to cook meals faster, saving time and effort.
  • A shorter lifespan is acceptable for your needs.
  • You prefer vibrant, colorful cookware to match your kitchen style.

Happy Cookin’!

P.S. Comparing ceramic vs stainless steel cookware provides good insight into coated vs uncoated pans. But, there are more options to consider, each with unique benefits that may suit you even better. Check them out in our Ultimate Guide to Safe Cookware!

Picture of Adam Heck
Adam Heck

Hi there! I'm Adam, author and founder of TGL. Since 2016, I've produced and sold non-toxic kitchenware throughout the US. Today, I'm using my passion and experience in sustainable product manufacturing to help families avoid unsafe reusable foodware. When I'm not writing, you'll find me hiking or camping throughout Appalachia!

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