5 Best Stainless Steel Cookware of 2024 Worth A Look

Looking for the perfect stainless steel cookware? Tired of replacing your cookware sets due to poor quality? We understand that finding that perfect cookware that can long for years and help you cook faster and better, can be overwhelming - we wrote this article specifically for you with durability, quality, and functionality being the top priorities. Easy to understand with no technical jargon - contact us, if you have any questions.

Why is Stainless Steel Cookware Popular?

Not only do they not bend, warp, rust, or chip but they are effortless to cook with, durable, and much easier to clean. It even protects you from the stressful and unpleasant experience of having to see your hours of love ruined because your food is stuck to the pan or worst, burnt due to poor-quality materials. Stainless steel cookware is cooking excellence.

Best Features to Look for in Your Stainless Steel Cookware

• 1) Full Clad: cladding is when the bottom and sides of stainless steel cookware have layers of aluminum, copper, and/or stainless steel. Often, you'll see them labeled as "tri-ply" but sometimes they can be 7-ply or 5-ply; these are called "multi-clad."

• 2) The Weight: you'll be spending hours in the kitchen, the last thing you need is to handle a heavy pan. The average weight of a stainless is a little over 3 lbs/pounds with the overall stainless steel cookware sets being over 25+ pounds.

• 3) Stainless Steel Grade: stick with 316 stainless steel. Not 400 or the 200 series of stainless steel. 316 is the most popular and the most proven to be an excellent mix of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum.To avoid confusing you, remember the word "tri-ply." Tri-ply equals good, equals easy to cook, protects you, and definitely easy to clean.

• 4) Type of Finish: There are two main finishes, brushed and polished. Brush stainless steel has this non-reflective, kinda dull, matte finish while a polished stainless less is what you would commonly think of or see whenever you see it. It's shiny, it's reflective almost like a mirror.

• 5) Stainless Steel Cookware Sets: make sure when buying that this set is versatile. Giving you the ability to cook in any situation whether that's oven, coal, fire, gas, electric, fry, saute, grill, and so on.

• 6) Warranty: if cookware that claims to be "high quality" doesn't offer you a warranty, this is your first major red flag. It's most likely they're fake or made from very poor materials. A seller who is confident in the product they make or sell will offer you a warranty without question. More tips on how to choose a stainless steel cookware.

The Average Price Range for High-Quality Stainless Steel Cookware

The average cost for high-quality cookware that is stainless steel is roughly around $200 to $550 or more for the complete set. The price of each set depends on the size, quality, quantity, and brand.

Usually, the higher up you go, the more premium options you have. And yes, you can find stainless steel cookware sets for $100 to $200. You're still getting a quality product just not the top-tier long-lasting quality kind.

Budget and Premium

The best thing about stainless steel cookware is they cater to all people. You have budget-conscious shoppers. You shoppers that only want the premium. And you have shoppers that are in between.

Quality budget-friendly cookware can be bought for around $30-$50 but you lose out on certain features such as having lids, oven-safe, and even dishwasher-safe.

When you go premium, you can expect only the best. Not just in terms of value for your money but for your health; the construction of these stainless steel cookware sets uses only the highest food-grade materials available.

Though sometimes, you're paying more not necessarily for the materials used but more for the brand. We believe that high quality doesn't have to cost you your home or your peace of mind. We wrote this for you, to help you discover the best in 'no particular order, these are the 5 best stainless steel cookware as of 2023.

5 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Brands

All-Clad

John Ulam started All-Clad, as a metallurgist, he was looking for a way to mix different metals together when he was working in the aerospace industry. John would later realize that the methods he used to develop unique metals for aerospace can be used for cookware, he created a product that would evenly distribute heat and be more durable than your typical cookware. 

D3 Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set

 

Pros:

• Made with top-quality materials, comes in multiple designs and styles.
• Both stainless steel and copper cookware sets distribute heat evenly.
• Durable, Versatile, and High performing.

Cons:

• Expensive. Very expensive. Most are over $1,000.
• Most cookware is very heavy, a stainless fry pan can weigh over 4 lbs.
• Time-consuming and high maintenance. Most require hand washing, not the dishwasher.
• Some cookware made with aluminum is known to react negatively to Pacific ingredients from tomatoes to citrus which can produce a metallic taste or discoloration in your food.

Cuisinart

Founded by Carl Sontheimer, he revolutionized the cookware industry by introducing the food processor. Since then, Cuisinart has expanded its product line from applicants to cookware. Building a reputation for quality and durability.

Cuisinart 12 Piece Cookware Set

Pros:

• Wide range of cookware products, stainless steel, ceramic, non-stick, and more.
• Good heat distribution.
• Relatively affordable.

Cons:

• Are not the most durable.
• Non-stick products have had reports of users experiencing their food sticking to their pans.

Calphalon

Ronald Kasperzak's Calphalon pioneered the hard-anodized aluminum which at the time was revolutionary as it offered a level of durability not seen before in the industry. Since then, Calphalon expand its cookware to include not just aluminum but nonstick, ceramic, and stainless steel.

Calphalon 13-piece pots and pans set

Pros:

• Known to be durable
• Excellent heat distribution
• Many non-stick options

Cons:

• Not affordable
• Due to the materials used, most can be quite heavy

Le Creuset

Founded in France, throughout the decades, Le Creuset has established its reputation for having one of the very best enameled cast iron available in the world. From their signature Dutch oven to the latest and greatest enameled cast iron options, to even stainless steel, kitchen accessories, bakeware, kitchen products, and more. Without a doubt, Le Creuset is a juggernaut in the cookware industry.

Lecreuset 10-piece cookware set

Pros:

• Almost a hundred years of proven experience
• Timeless design
• Proven tough construction
• Can last for generations
• Easy to clean
• Even heat distribution

Cons:

• Very, very expensive (luxury item)
• Very heavy especially their cast iron product line
• Most are not "dishwasher safer"
• Limited versatility, not compatible with all types of cooktops
• High maintenance, enamel coating without proper care will chip or crack
• Limited color options
• Limited "lifetime" warranty

Imarku

Imarku though relatively young in the industry, has a rich history of innovation. Building upon the techniques and methods pioneered by many great makers throughout the years, Imarku has strived to strike a balance between high-quality products and competitive pricing. Proving to everyone that high quality doesn't have to cost you your home. You can see this in every product Imarku offers.

 14-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Pros:

• Competitively priced high-quality products
• Made with the most durable, long-lasting materials available
• Wide option of cookware from pots, pans, utensils, stainless steel, nonstick, and more
• Dishwasher safe
• Oven safe (up to 450F)

Cons:

• Handles have a tendency to loosen over time
• Only available for online purchase

This 14pc stainless steel cookware set by Imarku gives you the most for your money. From the saucepans, saute pans, stockpots, frying, and more - each is built with tri-ply construction proven to be durable, versatile, and high quality with its even heating and long-lasting build.

Comes with lids, easy-to-grip handles, resistant to scratches, dents, and acidic ingredients. Good for every cooking surface. Best of all, with the quality that you get from oven safe to even dishwasher-safer, this is the very definition of a high-quality product that is competitively priced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is stainless steel cookware safe to use?

A: Stainless steel cookware is not only safe but it's a non-reactive material, multi-clad construction protects your food from harmful chemicals such as commercial sauces, and alkaline, or acidic ingredients.

Q: Can stainless steel cookware be used on induction cooktops?

A: Yes. Most quality stainless steel cookware is built with iron which can produce magnetism which is perfect for induction cooking as helps quickly and efficiently build up heat. It is important to always check first, as not all stainless cookware is "induction safe", "induction ready", or "Induction compatible."

Q: Ceramic vs Stainless Steel Cookware?

A: Ceramic distributes heat evenly, has non-stick properties, and absolutely beautiful but they're fragile and not as tough as stainless steel. Stainless steel is tough, durable, and easy to clean, most are dishwasher-safe, can be cooked on multiple cooktop surfaces, are great for searing, and browning, and even protects you from harmful chemicals. Ultimately, this will all depend on your own personal preference, your cooking needs, and your budget. Learn more about pros and cons of ceramic vs stainless steel cookware.

Q: What are the best cleaning methods for stainless steel cookware?

A: These are the best cleaning methods:

1. Using a mild detergent, warm water, and a sponge is the best especially just after cooking. Preventing damaging your stainless steel cookware by avoiding using any rough scrubbers or abrasive sponges. Exposure or damage can make your cookware prone to stains and rust over time.
2. For tougher stainers, use vinegar or baking soda and water. Use a soft sponge, and just clean, multiple times, go over the tough stain. Never use steel wool, especially brush.

Q: What are the disadvantages of stainless steel cookware?

A: Here are 3 disadvantages:

1. Poor Heat Distribution: yes, they heat up fast but more in a kind of dome-like way rather than even distribution that you get with copper or aluminum cookware.
2. Can be heavy: some stainless cookware can weigh half of a typical cast iron which is not entirely a bad aspect as it proves that your cookware is top quality however wrist fatigue does occur.
3. Requires Maintenance: unlike nonstick cookware, if you don't clean or maintain stainless cookware properly, it can get stained or discolored over time. And some can be very expensive especially if you purchase them from a reputable brand that demands high quality in everything they make. Detailed guide: how to clean stainless steel pans. 

Q: Stainless Steel Cookware vs Nonstick Cookware Set?

A: Nonstick cookware is easier to clean, great for eggs and fish, lightweight, easy to handle, requires much less oil, and comes in many colors and even designs. With stainless cookware, you get durability, broiler safe, oven safe, retains heat very well, great for flavorful dishes, and versatile for various cooking techniques.

Ultimately, this is a matter of value. If you want lightweight, easy to handle, easy to clean, and great for delicate recipes then you want nonstick but if you want long-lasting, versatility for any cooktop surface then go with stainless steel cookware. Learn more which one you should choose: stainless steel vs nonstick cookware.

Final Thoughts

In the end, it'll be your choice. Whatever your budget is, whether you go for the high-end Le Creuset or one in the middle, Imarku - the cookware you choose should amplify the love and care that you express through your cooking.

The "investment" that you purchase today, isn't merely for the brand but for the price vs value they offer. At Imarku, we believe a top-tier quality product doesn't have to cost you your home. You get only the best at fair prices.