Joybuy Insights

Buying a frying pan: materials, sizes and the right model for every hob

A frying pan needs to do more than just fry food. It should suit your hob, heat evenly, be safe to handle and be easy to clean after cooking. At the same time, terms such as ‘non-stick’, ‘scratch-resistant’ and ‘suitable for all hob types’ can make it harder to compare products.

Three common buying mistakes can be particularly costly:

  • Not checking what ‘suitable for all hob types’ really means: A pan may be listed as suitable for induction, while its oven suitability or maximum temperature is limited.
  • Confusing coating with care requirements: A coated frying pan isn’t automatically suitable for metal utensils, high temperatures or the dishwasher.
  • Choosing the wrong size for your household: A 20 cm pan is handy for individual portions, but offers little cooking space for several people. A 30 cm pan, on the other hand, needs enough room on your hob and in your cupboard.

The key things to consider when buying a frying pan

1. Assess the material and coating realistically

A stainless steel pan with a multi-layer construction, for example stainless steel and aluminium, can distribute heat more evenly across the base than a very thin, single-layer model. Stainless steel pans are also available without a coating and are suitable for high-heat searing. However, controlling the temperature properly is important to stop food sticking to the base.

A coated frying pan makes it easier to remove delicate foods such as fish, eggs and pancakes. With ceramic or PTFE-based coatings, follow the care instructions. Metal utensils, overheating an empty pan and sudden temperature changes can damage the surface.

If a product is described as PFAS-free, PFOA-free or PTFE-free, this claim should come directly from the manufacturer’s information. According to ZEROPAN’s product information, certain models have a ceramic coating that is free from PFAS, PFOA and PTFE. This does not amount to a general health claim; the product labelling and instructions for use remain the deciding factors.

2. Check hob compatibility and oven suitability

An induction pan needs a suitable magnetic base. Models with a stainless steel or 430-grade steel base are often listed as suitable for induction. For gas, electric, ceramic and halogen hobs, the shape and stability of the base, as well as the manufacturer’s information, also matter.

When using a pan in the oven, there are two different temperature limits to check:

  • Pan body: maximum temperature and permitted time in the oven
  • Lid and handle: often lower temperature limits or not suitable for oven use

So, with a frying pan with a lid, don’t assume the glass lid can go in the oven with the pan. According to the product information, the ZEROPAN hybrid model’s pan is oven-safe up to 260 °C, but its lid is only suitable up to 148 °C.

3. Choose the right diameter, sides and weight

As a rough guide, common sizes are:

  • 20 cm: individual portions, breakfast or small side dishes
  • 24 to 26 cm: versatile size for one or two people
  • 28 cm: suitable for several portions and larger cuts of meat
  • 30 cm and over: plenty of cooking space, but heavier and takes up more room

A deep frying pan or sauté pan is a good choice if you plan to use it for braising, deglazing or cooking pasta and vegetables, as well as frying. An extra helper handle can make heavier stainless steel or cast iron models easier to handle.

Cleaning is another factor to consider: a dishwasher-safe pan can reduce the effort involved in caring for it. However, manufacturers often still recommend hand-washing coated surfaces, as gentle cleaning with a soft sponge is less abrasive.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: budget-conscious beginners
ZEROPAN Standard Frying Pan 20 cm

ZEROPAN Standard Frying Pan 20 cm

Why this product suits your needs: Its compact size is ideal for individual portions and smaller kitchens. According to the product information, the model has an aluminium core, a 430-grade steel base and a ceramic coating.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information specifically states that it is suitable for induction and other hob types, and has a maximum oven temperature of 260 °C.

Key benefits and strengths

20 cm diameter; according to the product information, dishwasher-safe and suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and induction hobs.

Ideal for: quality-conscious buyers
PURECOOK Tri-Ply 304 Stainless Steel Large Frying Pan

PURECOOK Tri-Ply 304 Stainless Steel Large Frying Pan

Why this product suits your needs: The 28 cm body, made from 304 stainless steel with an aluminium core, is designed for larger portions and different hob types. According to the product description, a glass lid is included.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information specifies the materials, sandwich construction, lid and compatibility, rather than relying on vague non-stick claims.

Key benefits and strengths

28 cm diameter; according to the product information, suitable for induction, gas, ceramic and halogen hobs, as well as being dishwasher-safe.

Ideal for: specialist cooking and frequent use
ZEROPAN Standard Deep Sauté Pan 30 cm with Glass Lid

ZEROPAN Standard Deep Sauté Pan 30 cm with Glass Lid

Why this product suits your needs: Its deep shape combines the functions of a frying pan and a braising pan. According to the product information, it has room for larger family portions and includes an extra helper handle.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information clearly distinguishes between the pan’s oven suitability up to 260 °C and the need to remove the glass lid.

Key benefits and strengths

30 cm diameter; deep sides, lid and helper handle, and, according to the product information, suitable for all common hob types.

Ideal for: fans of chargrilled flavours
ZWILLING Shine Series 28 cm Grill Pan

ZWILLING Shine Series 28 cm Grill Pan

Why this product suits your needs: This ridged aluminium grill pan is designed to create chargrilled lines on vegetables and proteins. According to the product information, it is suitable for gas hobs.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information specifies a maximum temperature of 150 °C, recommends hand-washing and advises against using the pan in the oven.

Key benefits and strengths

28 cm rectangular grilling surface; PTFE coating according to the product information; ergonomic handle and hand-washing recommended.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about frying pans

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

An induction pan needs a magnetic base. Look for the manufacturer’s explicit statement that it is ‘suitable for induction’. The base diameter should also match the cooking zone to help transfer heat as evenly as possible.

How long does a coated frying pan last?

Its lifespan depends on the type of coating, the temperature and how you care for it. Use wooden or silicone utensils with delicate surfaces, avoid heating the pan empty for a long time, and let it cool before cleaning. With proper use, an uncoated stainless steel pan may wear differently from a frying pan with a ceramic or PTFE coating.

Is a dishwasher-safe pan always the best choice for easy cleaning?

Dishwasher-safe means the manufacturer considers the pan suitable for this method of cleaning. However, hand-washing coated pans with mild washing-up liquid may be gentler. Always follow the care instructions for the specific model, particularly if it has wooden handles, a glass lid or a delicate coating.