Joybuy Insights

Buying a frying pan: how to choose the right material, coating and size

A frying pan is a kitchen essential in almost every home. Yet unclear coating information, incompatibility with your hob or a handle that cannot withstand high temperatures can easily lead to the wrong purchase. So if you’re looking for a frying pan for induction, gas or electric hobs, don’t focus solely on the price or claims such as ‘non-stick’.

The following points will help you find the right pan or pan set for your home.

Common pitfalls when buying a frying pan

1. ‘Non-stick’ alone tells you little about the coating

A coated frying pan can be made with a range of different materials. Alongside traditional synthetic coatings, there are ceramic and hybrid options. Terms such as ‘granite’, ‘stone’ or ‘titanium’ don’t automatically tell you exactly what the coating is made of.

If you’re looking for a PFAS-free pan, check for a clear statement from the manufacturer. PFAS, PFOA and PTFE are different terms and are not interchangeable. So a claim such as ‘PFOA-free’ doesn’t automatically tell you whether PFAS or PTFE are also excluded. Always check the specific product description.

2. Induction compatibility isn’t always explained for the whole pan

An induction pan needs a magnetic base. Aluminium or ceramic pans often have a magnetic stainless steel plate built into the base. Without this layer, the pan won’t work, or may only work to a limited extent, on an induction hob.

So check that induction, gas and electric hobs are explicitly listed as compatible. This is particularly important if you’re moving house or changing your hob.

3. Oven safety and dishwasher suitability are easy to confuse

An oven-safe pan isn’t necessarily suitable for every temperature. The handle often limits the maximum temperature, and a glass lid may have a lower temperature limit than the pan itself.

The same applies to a dishwasher-safe pan: even if it can be cleaned in the dishwasher, regular machine washing may shorten the life of its coating. Hand-washing with a soft sponge is therefore recommended for many non-stick pans.

The key things to consider when buying a frying pan

Choose the right size and shape for your household

For one or two people, a diameter of 20 to 24 cm is often enough. A 26 to 28 cm frying pan gives you more room for vegetables, meat or several portions. Deeper pans are also suitable for braising, sautéing and cooking with liquid.

A shallow crêpe or pancake pan, on the other hand, has a low rim. This makes it easier to flip food, but less suitable for sauces or larger quantities. A pan with a lid is handy for cooking food through, keeping it warm or reducing liquids.

Compare materials and heat distribution

  • Aluminium: lightweight and heats up quickly; often paired with a coating and a magnetic induction base.
  • Cast iron or heavy cast aluminium: usually heavier, with more mass and even heat distribution.
  • Stainless steel: durable and heat-resistant. Uncoated versions are particularly resistant to scratches. To help prevent food sticking, preheat the pan properly and use medium heat.
  • Ceramic pan: has a ceramic non-stick coating. Check the details for each model to confirm whether it is free from PFAS, PFOA and PTFE.
  • Multi-layer stainless steel: an aluminium core between layers of stainless steel can improve heat conduction. According to the product information, the Maxcook Tri-Ply uses 304 stainless steel with an aluminium core and is suitable for several types of hob.

Read the care instructions before buying

Coated pans should generally not be used with metal utensils or abrasive cleaning products. An uncoated stainless steel pan is less susceptible to damage, but food may stick more if it’s used at the wrong temperature.

Also check:

  1. the maximum oven temperature,
  2. whether the handle is removable or heat-resistant,
  3. the cleaning instructions,
  4. the actual cooking surface size,
  5. the weight, including the lid.
Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners
SENSARTE Nonstick Crepe Pan

SENSARTE Nonstick Crepe Pan

Why this product suits this profile: This shallow 10-inch pan is designed for crêpes, pancakes, tortillas and omelettes, making it a good fit for smaller households with a specific use in mind.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists compatibility with induction, gas and electric hobs, as well as a maximum oven temperature of 302 °F. It clearly states that the pan should be hand-washed.

Key benefits and strengths

Aluminium core, magnetic stainless steel base and Bakelite handle; according to the product information, made without intentionally added PFOA, lead or cadmium.

Ideal for: Quality-conscious shoppers
ZEROPAN Hybrid Non-Stick Deep Frying Pan

ZEROPAN Hybrid Non-Stick Deep Frying Pan with Lid

Why this product suits this profile: This model combines stainless steel, a ceramic coating, a lid and oven use up to 260 °C, making it a versatile choice for everyday cooking.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information gives separate temperature limits for the pan itself, up to 260 °C, and the glass lid, up to 148 °C. This makes it easier to plan how to use the pan in the oven.

Key benefits and strengths

According to the product information, the coating is free from PFAS, PTFE and PFOA. The pan is compatible with all standard hob types and is dishwasher-safe.

Ideal for: Specific cooking needs and frequent use
Redchef Gemstone Aluminum II Fry Pan Set

Redchef Gemstone Aluminum II Fry Pan Set, 20 and 24 cm

Why this product suits this profile: Two sizes cover smaller portions and everyday pan-fried dishes. This set is ideal if you often switch between different pan diameters.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists compatibility with induction, gas and electric hobs, as well as oven safety up to 842 °F. According to the product information, the pans can be cleaned in the dishwasher, although hand-washing is recommended to help protect them.

Key benefits and strengths

Forged aluminium body, ceramic non-stick coating, riveted stainless steel handles and two pan sizes; described as PFAS-free in the product information.

Ideal for: Households looking for an uncoated pan
Maxcook 304 stainless steel frying pan

Maxcook 304 stainless steel pan, 22 cm, with glass lid

Why this product suits this profile: The uncoated surface is a good option if you’d rather avoid a non-stick coating and are happy to use the right preheating and oiling techniques.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information explicitly identifies the cooking surface as uncoated 304 stainless steel. There’s no ambiguity about it having a supposed non-stick coating.

Key benefits and strengths

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

Looking for more options?

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

Frying pan FAQs

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

Choose a pan with a magnetic base. For coated aluminium models, the technical information should explicitly state that they’re ‘suitable for induction’. A small magnet can give you an initial indication when checking a pan you already own, but it’s no substitute for the manufacturer’s information.

How long does a coated frying pan last?

Its lifespan depends on the temperature, how it’s cleaned and the utensils you use. Metal utensils, overheating an empty pan, sudden temperature changes and abrasive cleaning products can all damage the coating. Use wooden or silicone utensils where possible, don’t heat the pan when it’s empty and let it cool before washing.

Is a stainless steel pan or a non-stick pan cheaper to run?

Energy use depends more on the pan’s diameter, the type of hob and the temperature than on the material alone. A pan that distributes heat evenly can help you make better use of it. Stainless steel usually needs a little more attention when preheating, while a non-stick pan makes it easier to cook delicate foods. The right choice depends on whether easy cleaning, a coating-free surface or versatility matters most to you.