Joybuy Insights

Buying a frying pan: compare materials, sizes and coatings sensibly

A frying pan is part of the basic equipment in almost every kitchen. However, the wide choice often leads to poor purchases: the pan is unsuitable for the hob, the stated size does not describe the usable cooking surface, or the coating requires more care than the product description suggests. If you are looking for a frying pan for long-term use, you should therefore consider more than just the price and appearance.

Three common purchasing and marketing pitfalls

1. ‘Suitable for all hob types’ without checking the pan base

An induction frying pan requires a magnetic base and should sit flat on the cooking zone. With gas, electric and ceramic hobs, other properties are important, such as shape retention and even contact with the heating surface. You should therefore check the specific hob types listed, rather than relying only on general marketing claims.

2. The coating and care requirements are not clearly distinguished

A coated frying pan often makes it easier to fry with little oil and to clean the pan. However, it should not be heated strongly while empty for extended periods. Metal cooking utensils can damage the surface unless the manufacturer specifically states that they are suitable.

An uncoated stainless steel frying pan, cast iron frying pan or carbon steel frying pan is generally more resistant to scratches, but requires controlled temperatures and the correct initial treatment. With cast iron and carbon steel, seasoning or regular oiling is part of the care routine.

3. Diameter is confused with usable cooking surface

A 24 cm frying pan is practical for smaller portions, eggs, pancakes or side dishes. A 28 cm frying pan offers more space for several portions, but also requires a larger cooking zone and is usually heavier. With a deep frying pan, the internal height is another factor. For casseroles, sauces and meals for several people, a deep frying pan with lid may be more practical than a standard shallow pan.

The most important selection criteria

Material: heat distribution, weight and performance

  • Aluminium with stainless steel core: Multi-layer constructions with an aluminium core can distribute heat quickly across the surface. Stainless steel on the outside and inside is robust and is often suitable for all hob types.
  • Stainless steel: An uncoated stainless steel frying pan is hard-wearing and usually dishwasher-safe. To prevent food from sticking as much, preheating, the right temperature and sufficient fat are important.
  • Cast iron: A cast iron frying pan retains heat for a long time and is suitable for slow cooking, high-temperature searing and serving directly at the table. It is heavy and should be dried immediately after washing and lightly oiled.
  • Carbon steel: A carbon steel frying pan responds more quickly to temperature changes than cast iron. Seasoning creates a patina over time. Water, long cooking times with acidic ingredients and the dishwasher can damage this protective layer.
  • Ceramic coating: A ceramic frying pan is often chosen because it is made without PFAS, PTFE or PFOA. Such claims should appear directly in the product information. ‘PFAS-free’ describes the declared material property and does not automatically indicate a general health benefit.

Coating: assess use and lifespan realistically

Coated models are practical for delicate foods and easy cleaning. Preferably use wooden, silicone or plastic turners, and follow the stated maximum temperature. A dishwasher-safe frying pan may be placed in the dishwasher according to the product information, but washing it by hand can still help protect the coating.

A coated pan should no longer be used if the coating is visibly peeling or has deep scratches. An uncoated pan, on the other hand, can often be re-treated, but is not automatically maintenance-free.

Handle, lid and oven suitability

A heat-insulated handle makes working at the hob easier. When using the pan in the oven, the handle’s temperature limit must be checked separately. A glass lid may also have its own maximum temperature. Before buying, you should therefore compare the following information:

  1. Suitable hob types, including induction.
  2. Maximum oven temperature for the pan, handle and lid.
  3. Dishwasher suitability.
  4. Diameter, internal height and weight.
  5. Instructions on preheating, cooking utensils and cleaning.

Our selection by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Maxcook Cast Iron Skillet 10 cm

Maxcook Cast Iron Skillet, 10 cm

Why this product suits this profile: This compact cast iron frying pan is suitable for individual portions, butter, sauces or side dishes. It is specified as suitable for gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The uncoated surface makes it clear that seasoning and drying are necessary. It is explicitly not suitable for the dishwasher.

Main benefit & strengths

Compact diameter, good heat retention and no chemical non-stick coating according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality standards
WMF Profi Resist Serving Pan 24 cm

WMF Profi Resist Serving Pan, 24 cm

Why this product suits this profile: This 24 cm pan combines Cromargan stainless steel, an aluminium core and PermaDur coating with a honeycomb-style stainless steel structure.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly specifies the hob types, oven suitability and dishwasher suitability. Empty overheating and abrasive cleaners should still be avoided.

Main benefit & strengths

Suitable for induction, compatible with several hob types and dishwasher-safe according to the product description.

Suitable for: Keen cooks with a range of uses
ZEROPAN Hybrid deep frying pan with lid

ZEROPAN Hybrid Non-Stick Deep Frying Pan with Lid

Why this product suits this profile: This deep stainless steel frying pan with ceramic coating, glass lid and suitability for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and induction hobs supports frying, braising and preparing sauces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The manufacturer states that it is free from PFAS, PTFE and PFOA. The temperature limits of 260 °C for the pan and 148 °C for the lid should be observed.

Main benefit & strengths

Deep design, glass lid, compatibility with all hob types and declared dishwasher suitability.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent cooks
BALLARINI 24 cm carbon steel frying pan

BALLARINI Frying Pan, 24 cm, Carbon Steel

Why this product suits this profile: This carbon steel frying pan is specified as suitable for gas, induction, ceramic hobs, ovens and open flames. It is aimed at users who prefer high temperatures and a natural patina.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The care requirements are clear: season before first use, dry immediately and apply a thin layer of oil. The dishwasher is explicitly unsuitable.

Main benefit & strengths

24 cm diameter, steel handle, oven suitability and no chemical non-stick coating according to the product description.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Care tips for everyday use

  • Use coated pans over low to medium heat and do not overheat them while empty.
  • If necessary, use stainless steel with the hot-pan, cold-oil method to help food release more easily.
  • Dry cast iron and carbon steel completely after washing and apply a thin layer of oil.
  • Do not immediately cool hot pans with cold water.
  • Check the approved temperature for handles and lids before using them in the oven.
  • With a wok frying pan, make sure the cooking zone is large enough and that the pan stands securely.

Frying pan FAQ

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

A frying pan with explicitly stated induction compatibility and a magnetic, flat base is suitable. Multi-layer stainless steel frying pans, cast iron frying pans and many coated models meet this requirement. With small pans, the size of the pan base should match the cooking zone.

Is a coated frying pan or a stainless steel frying pan easier to care for?

A coated frying pan is often easy to clean when used carefully. Stainless steel is less susceptible to scratches and can often be placed in the dishwasher, but requires more attention to temperature and the amount of fat when frying. The right choice therefore depends on the level of care you are prepared to provide and the cooking methods you use.

How long does a frying pan last?

Its lifespan depends on the material, temperature, cooking utensils and cleaning method. With proper care, cast iron and carbon steel can be re-treated. Coatings are more sensitive to overheating and scratches. Regularly check the coating, handle and whether the base is still flat before continuing to use the pan.