Lieferung heute & morgen
Qualitätsgarantie
Willkommens-Angebote freischalten: KOSTENLOSE Lieferung | Bis zu 80 % RABATT | Kostenlose 30-Tage-JoyPlus-Testphase
App herunterladen
A 20 cm frying pan is ideal for single portions, eggs, omelettes, pancakes, vegetables or small side dishes. Its compact size is practical for people living alone, couples, students and households with limited storage space. However, models can differ considerably in their coating, hob compatibility, suitability for oven use and cleaning requirements.
If you focus only on the colour, discount or the term ‘non-stick pan’, you could overlook important details. The points below will help you choose a small frying pan that suits the way you cook.
The stated size usually refers to the diameter at the top. The actual base of the pan may be considerably smaller. For example, Naturepan models have a stated base diameter of 15.8 cm, while Sanho models measure 15.5 cm. On an induction hob, the base should match the cooking zone as closely as possible for reliable heat transfer.
A pan suitable for all hob types may work on gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs, but still not be suitable for use in the oven. This is often due to the handle material. According to the product information, the Sanho version with a Bakelite handle is not oven-safe, while the version with a PVD stainless steel handle can be used at up to 230 °C for a maximum of 60 minutes. The oven temperature for the Silit Belluna is also limited to 70 °C.
A dishwasher-safe pan can go in the dishwasher according to its product information, but harsh detergents and high temperatures can put more strain on the coating than washing by hand. For coated pans, the care instructions often recommend warm water, mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge. Always follow the guidance for the specific model.
A coated 20 cm frying pan is often made of aluminium with a non-stick coating. Aluminium conducts heat relatively quickly, while a multi-layer base can affect how evenly the heat is distributed. Ceramic-coated pans are often marketed as ceramic frying pans. This doesn’t necessarily mean the pan is made entirely of ceramic: it usually has a ceramic coating on an aluminium or stainless steel body.
If you’re specifically looking for a PFAS-free pan or a PFOA-free pan, check the manufacturer’s exact product information. The coatings on the Naturepan, Zeropan and Redchef models are described as PFAS-, PTFE- and PFOA-free. According to its product information, the BALLARINI Murano uses a PFOA-free GRANITIUM coating. These claims apply to the specific product descriptions and shouldn’t automatically be assumed to cover other ranges from the same brand.
For an induction-compatible 20 cm pan, the base needs to be magnetic and sufficiently flat. Models with a stainless steel base or a suitable induction layer are designed for this. With small pans, the diameter of the base in contact with the hob is also important. If it’s much smaller than the cooking zone, the usable cooking area may be limited.
According to its product description, the Zeropan FD Hybrid has a three-layer construction, with an aluminium core between layers of stainless steel. This design is intended to support fast, even heat distribution. With stainless steel pans that don’t have a traditional non-stick coating, you’ll usually need to manage the temperature carefully to help prevent food from sticking.
Before buying, check that these three details work for your needs:
A stainless steel handle is generally more heat-resistant than a plastic or Bakelite one, but always follow the manufacturer’s specific limit. Use oven gloves when taking a pan out of the oven, even if the handle is described as staying cool on the hob.
Why this product suits this profile: According to the product information, this compact aluminium pan is suitable for induction, gas, ceramic and electric hobs, covering the most common hob types in German homes.
The product information gives both its hob compatibility and its 15.8 cm base diameter. This makes it easier to check whether it will fit your cooking zone before you buy.
The ceramic coating is described as free from PTFE, PFAS and PFOA; oven-safe up to 260 °C and dishwasher-safe.
Why this product suits this profile: This pan combines a cold-forged aluminium body with a five-layer GRANITIUM Extreme coating and a Thermopoint temperature indicator.
The maximum oven temperature of 150 °C and the recommendation to wash by hand are clearly stated. This helps ensure the pan isn’t mistaken for one that can handle higher oven temperatures or is especially low-maintenance for everyday use.
Suitable for induction and other hob types; the Thermopoint indicator helps you judge when the pan has reached the right temperature.
Why this product suits this profile: The hybrid design combines stainless steel with a ceramic coating and, according to the product description, is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and induction hobs.
The material combination and maximum temperature of 260 °C are clearly stated. The supplier also describes the coating as free from PFAS, PTFE and PFOA.
Three-layer construction with an aluminium core; described as dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 260 °C.
Why this product suits this profile: This compact pan has an aluminium body and ceramic coating, and is suitable for several hob types. Its stainless steel handle is designed for oven use.
The product information clearly distinguishes the ceramic coating from the pan body material. It also gives the maximum oven temperature of 230 °C and a maximum duration of 60 minutes.
Listed as suitable for induction, gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and infrared hobs; hand-washing is recommended to protect the coating.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Even a high-quality non-stick pan needs the right care:
There’s no single lifespan that applies to every pan. It depends on the temperature, how often you use it, how you clean it and the utensils you use.
This size is best suited to one or two smaller portions. It’s usually a handy, space-saving choice for eggs, an omelette, vegetables, pancakes or a side dish. A larger pan is more practical for several generous portions.
Look for an explicit ‘induction-compatible’ label and compare the actual base diameter with your cooking zone. According to their product information, the Naturepan, Zeropan, Sanho and BALLARINI models mentioned in this article are suitable for induction.
No. ‘Ceramic coating’ describes the type of surface. Whether a model is sold as a PFAS-free pan or a PFOA-free pan should be clear from its specific material or product information. Always check the details for the model you’re considering.