Joybuy Insights

Buying a frying pan: how to compare materials, sizes and coatings

A frying pan is part of the everyday kitchen kit in many British homes. But non-stick, stainless steel, ceramic and cast-iron frying pans all differ in how well they retain heat, how much care they need and what they’re best used for. If you focus only on eye-catching claims such as ‘non-stick’ or ‘suitable for all hob types’, it’s easy to overlook important details.

Common pitfalls when buying a frying pan

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

A frying pan isn’t automatically suitable for induction. It needs a magnetic base, or one that’s specifically stated to be induction-compatible. Aluminium and ceramic pans therefore need an integrated induction base. The size of the contact area matters too: a small base beneath a large pan may distribute heat less evenly.

2. Mistaking a non-stick coating for a completely tough surface

A non-stick pan makes it easier to cook eggs, fish or pancakes. However, it’s still a wear-and-tear item. Metal utensils, steel wool, overheating an empty pan and sudden temperature changes can all damage the coating. Claims such as ‘scratch-resistant’ shouldn’t be taken as permission to use sharp knives or scrub the pan vigorously.

The same applies to a ceramic frying pan: mineral coatings usually need low to medium heat and gentle kitchen utensils. A dishwasher-safe pan can go in the dishwasher, but washing it by hand may help the coating last longer.

3. The size and depth don’t suit your cooking habits

A 24 cm pan is often a good choice for smaller portions and one-person households. For family meals, 26 to 28 cm is more practical. A deep frying pan with a lid offers more room for vegetables, casseroles or sauces. A ridged grill pan, on the other hand, is designed to create sear marks and let fat drain away, so it’s less versatile for cooking liquid-based dishes.

The key things to consider

Material: aluminium, stainless steel or cast iron?

Aluminium heats up quickly and is relatively lightweight. That makes a coated aluminium frying pan practical for everyday use. However, the material alone doesn’t tell you whether it’s suitable for induction.

Stainless steel is particularly durable when uncoated and lets you use a range of kitchen utensils. However, a stainless steel frying pan needs careful temperature control: preheat the pan, add the oil afterwards and keep an eye on the heat. Without a coating, food may initially stick more readily.

Cast iron retains heat for a long time and is ideal for searing food. A cast-iron pan is usually heavier and needs to be dried regularly, with a layer of oil applied if necessary. Uncoated cast iron also needs seasoning and protection against rust. A small pan with a diameter of 10 cm is better suited to individual portions, sauces or side dishes than a family meal.

Coating and care

Before you buy, check:

  • Is the surface made with PTFE, ceramic or no coating?
  • Which kitchen utensils can you use?
  • Is the pan dishwasher-safe?
  • What’s the maximum oven temperature?
  • Does the lid need to be removed before putting the pan in the oven?

The Ballarini 24 cm pan is listed as having a CeraForce ceramic coating without PTFE or PFOA. According to the product details, it’s suitable for gas, induction, ceramic, halogen and oven use up to 250 °C. The manufacturer still recommends low to medium heat, soft utensils and preferably hand washing.

Diameter, depth and lid

A 24 cm frying pan is compact and easy to handle. A 26 cm pan gives you more cooking space without being impractical on many hobs. Pans measuring 28 to 30 cm are suitable for cooking several portions, but you’ll need enough room in your cupboard and on your hob.

A frying pan with a lid helps prevent splashes and keeps moisture in the dish. If you choose a deep pan, also check its capacity, weight and whether the handle is sturdy. If you plan to use it in the oven, check that the handle, coating and lid can all withstand the temperature.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: First-time buyers on a budget
5five 26cm Forged Aluminium Pan

5five 26cm Forged Aluminum Pan

Why it suits this need: This 26 cm aluminium pan is a practical size for everyday cooking and relatively lightweight at 0.75 kg. It’s designed for frying, sautéing and baking.

How it helps you avoid common pitfalls

The product details specify a three-layer non-stick coating and a stainless steel base. Hand washing is recommended to help it last longer, and metal utensils should be avoided.

Key benefits and features

2.2 mm forged aluminium and a 3 mm stainless steel base; ergonomic Bakelite handle.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality
Maxcook 304 Stainless Steel Frying Pan with Glass Lid

Maxcook 304 Stainless Steel Uncoated Frying Pan, 22 cm, with Glass Lid

Why it suits this need: The uncoated stainless steel surface is a good choice for households looking for a sturdy design and a glass lid included as standard.

How it helps you avoid common pitfalls

As no non-stick coating is specified, the pan isn’t marketed as having a permanent non-stick effect. Preheating and adding the oil at the right time are still important.

Key benefits and features

Tri-ply construction with 304 stainless steel and an aluminium core; suitable for induction, gas, electric, ceramic and halogen hobs; dishwasher-safe.

Ideal for: Specific cooking needs and frequent use
Staub Square Cast-Iron Grill Pan

Staub Square Grill Pan – Cast Iron, 21 × 34 cm

Why it suits this need: This rectangular grill pan is designed for steaks, vegetables and sear marks. It’s ideal if you want to grill with a pan that retains plenty of heat.

How it helps you avoid common pitfalls

The ridges and pouring spout make the pan’s intended use clear. That helps prevent you from treating a grill pan as an all-purpose pan for sauces or casseroles.

Key benefits and features

Enamelled cast iron, suitable for all hob types including induction; oven- and dishwasher-safe; foldable silicone handle.

Ideal for: Families and dishes cooked with a lid
28cm Forged Aluminium Pan with Lid

28cm Forged Aluminum Pan + Lid

Why it suits this need: The 28 cm pan and transparent glass lid are ideal for larger portions, sauces and dishes that need to cook covered.

How it helps you avoid common pitfalls

The integrated stainless steel induction base addresses a common concern with aluminium pans. The recommendation to hand wash takes the more delicate non-stick surface into account.

Key benefits and features

Forged aluminium body, glass lid and suitable for gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply fully with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Care tips to help your pan last longer

  1. Don’t leave a coated or ceramic pan empty over high heat for extended periods.
  2. Let hot pans cool before washing them to avoid thermal stress.
  3. Use wooden, silicone or plastic utensils with delicate coatings.
  4. Dry stainless steel thoroughly after cleaning to reduce water marks.
  5. Don’t soak cast iron; dry it straight after cleaning. A thin layer of oil can help protect it from rust.
  6. Before you buy, check whether the handle and lid are oven-safe.

Frying pan FAQs

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

An induction pan needs a magnetic base that the manufacturer has specifically approved for induction use. Stainless steel, cast iron and many aluminium or ceramic pans with an integrated induction base are suitable. The product description should list the other compatible hob types as well as induction.

What size is best for a family household?

A pan measuring 26 to 28 cm is often a practical choice for cooking several portions. A deep frying pan with a lid gives you extra room for vegetables, meat and sauces. Still, check the diameter of your hob, the pan’s weight and the storage space available.

How long does a non-stick pan last?

Its lifespan depends on the heat, utensils, cleaning and storage. Scratches, overheating or harsh cleaning can reduce the effectiveness of the coating. Hand washing, medium heat and placing a protective layer between pans when stacking them can help protect the surface day to day.