Buying a frying pan: choosing the right material, size and coating

A frying pan should heat evenly, suit your hob and be easy to clean. In practice, unclear coating information, unsuitable sizes or incorrect care can quickly lead to disappointment. If you are looking for a frying pan for induction, gas or ceramic hobs, do not focus solely on colour and marketing claims. Compare the technical specifications too.

Common buying and marketing pitfalls

1. “Non-stick” does not automatically mean easy to care for

A non-stick frying pan can make frying easier with less fat. However, its lifespan depends greatly on temperature, kitchen utensils and cleaning. Metal turners, heating an empty pan and abrasive cleaning products can damage the surface. Similar precautions often apply to a ceramic frying pan: silicone or wooden utensils and hand washing can help protect the coating.

If you are looking for a PFAS-free frying pan, read the specific material information carefully. “Ceramic” and “uncoated” do not mean the same thing. According to the product information, the Ballarini frying pan with CeraForce coating uses a PTFE- and PFOA-free ceramic surface. An uncoated stainless steel frying pan or cast-iron frying pan, on the other hand, is designed for a different style of cooking.

2. Hob compatibility is not always checked thoroughly enough

An induction frying pan must have a magnetic base or a suitable induction disc. Aluminium alone generally does not work on induction hobs. Many modern models therefore combine an aluminium body with a stainless steel base.

Before buying, check whether the pan is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and induction hobs. Claims such as “suitable for all hob types” should be confirmed specifically in the product details.

3. Oven safety and dishwasher suitability are limited

An ovenproof frying pan is only as heat-resistant as its weakest component. The pan body may withstand higher temperatures, while a plastic or Bakelite handle can restrict use in the oven. For example, Silit Belluna is listed as heat-resistant up to 260 °C, but according to the product information, oven use is approved only up to 70 °C.

A “dishwasher-safe frying pan” does not necessarily mean that the dishwasher is the best care option. For coated models, hand washing can help extend their service life. Uncoated carbon steel and cast iron should generally not be put in the dishwasher.

The most important selection criteria

Material: stainless steel, aluminium, ceramic or cast iron?

• Stainless steel frying pan: Uncoated stainless steel is durable and suitable for high temperatures. Food can stick more readily if the pan is not preheated correctly and used with enough oil. Multi-layer constructions with an aluminium core distribute heat more evenly.
• Aluminium frying pan: Aluminium is lightweight and responds quickly to temperature changes. A coating can reduce sticking. For induction, a suitable stainless steel base is required.
• Ceramic frying pan: A ceramic non-stick surface can be an alternative to PTFE coatings. Avoid high heat when the pan is empty and do not use metal utensils.
• Cast-iron frying pan: Cast iron retains heat and is ideal for searing. The material is heavy and needs to be dried and regularly oiled to prevent rust.
• Carbon steel: A carbon steel pan develops a patina through seasoning. It is heat-resistant, but not dishwasher-safe, and requires more care than a coated pan.

Diameter and usable cooking surface

The right size depends on your hob, household size and typical portions:

• 20 cm frying pan: For one egg, small portions, pancakes or a one-person household.
• 24 cm frying pan: Practical for two portions and everyday dishes with a limited amount of ingredients.
• 26 cm frying pan: A versatile size for several portions, vegetables, meat or fried potatoes.
• 28 cm frying pan: Provides more room for family meals, but requires a sufficiently large cooking zone.
• 30 cm: Suitable for larger quantities, although it may sit unevenly on smaller hobs.

Also pay attention to the base diameter. The stated pan diameter does not always indicate the actual heated surface.

Handle, lid and oven use

A frying pan without a lid is usually lighter and is ideal for direct frying. A frying pan with a lid is useful when you want to braise food, reduce liquid or keep dishes warm. Removable handles save storage space, but must be compatible with the relevant pan system.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

5five Aluminium Frying Pan – 26 cm, Grey

Why this product fits the profile: The 26 cm aluminium body offers a versatile size for everyday use and, according to the product information, is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and induction hobs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The hob compatibility and two non-stick layers are clearly specified. Hand washing is recommended for a longer service life.

Key benefit & strengths

26 cm diameter, aluminium body, stainless steel induction disc and, according to the product information, dishwasher-safe.

Suitable for: Quality-focused buyers

KT Hybrid Stainless Steel Deep Frying Pan, 26 cm

Why this product fits the profile: The combination of stainless steel, an aluminium core and a honeycomb structure is designed for households looking for a versatile pan for different hob types and the oven.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, the pan is free from PFAS, PTFE and PFOA. The multi-layer base is designed to distribute heat across the cooking surface.

Key benefit & strengths

Suitable for all common hob types and, according to the product information, ovenproof up to 260 °C and dishwasher-safe.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent cooks

BALLARINI Frying Pan, 24 cm, Carbon Steel

Why this product fits the profile: Carbon steel is suitable for high temperatures and searing. The 24 cm size is ideal for smaller to medium-sized portions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The care requirements are clearly defined: seasoning, drying immediately and oiling. The pan is not intended for dishwasher use.

Key benefit & strengths

Carbon steel body, riveted steel handle and, according to the product information, suitable for induction, gas, ceramic hobs, oven use and open flames.

Suitable for: Households with limited storage space

5five Aluminium Frying Pan Set – 20 cm & 26 cm

Why this product fits the profile: The two diameters cover small and medium-sized portions. The removable handle can save space when storing the pans or taking them camping.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sizes and suitability for several hob types are specified. Hand washing is recommended for a longer service life.

Key benefit & strengths

Two aluminium pans, two non-stick layers, removable handle and, according to the product information, suitable for gas, induction, ceramic and electric hobs.

Care tips for a longer service life

• Preheat coated pans only on a low to medium setting and do not heat them empty for extended periods.
• Use wooden, plastic or silicone utensils if the manufacturer does not recommend metal utensils.
• Allow a hot pan to cool before cleaning to prevent thermal stress.
• Clean stainless steel with mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge.
• Dry carbon steel and cast iron immediately, then apply a thin layer of oil.
• Always observe the specified temperature limit for lids, handles and oven use.

Frequently asked questions about frying pans

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

You need a magnetic base for induction. Stainless steel or aluminium pans specified as suitable for induction are suitable. A pure aluminium base without an induction disc will not work reliably.

How long does a coated frying pan last?

Its lifespan depends on the quality of the coating, temperature and care. Overheating an empty pan, scratches and frequent aggressive cleaning can shorten the effectiveness of the non-stick surface. Hand washing and suitable kitchen utensils are usually gentler.

Which size is suitable for a two-person household?

A 24 cm frying pan is often suitable for smaller quantities. If you regularly fry several ingredients at the same time, a 26 cm frying pan or 28 cm frying pan offers greater flexibility. The key point is that the base should match the size of the cooking zone.