Buying a frying pan: materials, sizes and key differences at a glance

A frying pan needs to do more than withstand high temperatures in everyday use. It should suit your hob, household size and favourite dishes. Unclear information about coatings, oven suitability or cleaning can also easily lead to the wrong purchase.

Three common pitfalls are particularly worth watching out for:

• “Suitable for all hob types” without checking the details: Not every pan is suitable for induction. For example, the De Buyer Choc Frying Pan 28 cm is designed for gas, electric, ceramic and halogen hobs, but the product information says it is not suitable for induction.
• Assuming dishwasher-safe means easy to care for: A pan may be dishwasher-safe, while the manufacturer still recommends hand-washing to protect the surface. Other models, such as the De Buyer pan and the USELUCK ceramic pan, must not go in the dishwasher.
• Non-stick coatings being described as durable across the board: A non-stick coating will generally last longer if you use medium heat and wooden, plastic or silicone utensils. Metal utensils, abrasive cleaners and heating an empty pan can damage the surface.

The key things to consider when buying a frying pan

1. Choose a material and coating to suit your cooking style

A coated aluminium frying pan usually heats up quickly and is well suited to delicate foods such as eggs, fish and pancakes. Ceramic surfaces, as found on a ceramic pan, are often marketed for low-fat cooking. What matters most, though, is the specific care advice and maximum temperature.

An uncoated stainless steel pan is resistant to scratches from suitable metal utensils and can handle high temperatures. However, food may be more likely to stick. The Maxcook Tri-Ply pan is made from 304 stainless steel with an aluminium core, and is listed as suitable for induction, gas, electric, ceramic and halogen hobs. For best results, use the right preheating and oiling technique.

A cast iron pan retains heat for a long time, making it suitable for slow cooking or searing. However, it is heavier and needs more care. Dry uncoated cast iron immediately after washing and, if needed, apply a thin layer of oil to help prevent rust.

2. Choose a diameter and depth to suit your household

The size affects both portion sizes and heat distribution:

• 20 to 24 cm: suitable for single portions, breakfast, eggs or smaller side dishes.
• 26 to 28 cm: a versatile size for one to three people and everyday meals.
• 30 cm or more: useful for families, larger quantities and wok-style cooking; make sure your hob has a cooking zone large enough.

A deep frying pan or lidded sauté pan gives you extra room for sauces, vegetables, stews and braised dishes. High sides help reduce splashes and make it easier to stir larger quantities. A wok is especially suited to frequent stirring thanks to its shape, but it needs enough space on the hob.

3. Check the hob, oven and cleaning information

For an induction pan, the product description must explicitly state that it is suitable for induction. Oven suitability is not a given either. Some pans can go in the oven only up to a certain temperature, while others are not oven-safe at all. Removable handles can make oven use easier, but must be removed and reattached correctly.

When it comes to cleaning, look out for these three different descriptions:

1. Dishwasher-safe: The manufacturer says the pan can go in the dishwasher.
2. Hand-washing recommended: The pan can go in the dishwasher, but hand-washing may help protect its coating or surface.
3. Not dishwasher-safe: Clean with warm water, mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge.

Our picks for different types of user

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

BALLARINI Murano frying pan, 20 cm

Why this product suits this profile: This compact aluminium pan is ideal for smaller portions and, according to the product information, has a five-layer GRANITIUM Extreme non-stick coating.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The product information confirms that it is suitable for induction and the dishwasher, and gives a maximum oven temperature of 150 °C. This makes it easy to check the key compatibility details before you buy.

Key benefits & strengths

20 cm diameter, Thermopoint temperature indicator and soft-touch handle. Hand-washing is recommended to protect the coating.

Ideal for: Quality-conscious shoppers

ZWILLING Pro stainless steel frying pan, 24 cm

Why this product suits this profile: The combination of polished 18/10 stainless steel, Duraslide Ultra coating and SIGMA Clad base is designed for versatile use.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The product information explicitly lists compatibility with all hob types, including induction, as well as oven suitability up to 230 °C. However, avoid using metal utensils with the coating.

Key benefits & strengths

24 cm diameter, wide pouring rim and multi-layer base with an aluminium core. The description says it is dishwasher-safe, though hand-washing is recommended.

Ideal for: Special uses & frequent cooking

Naturepan Deep Sauté Pan, 28 cm, with lid

Why this product suits this profile: The high sides and included lid make this pan a good choice for sauces, braised dishes, vegetables and larger one-pan meals.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The description lists compatible hob types, dishwasher suitability and a maximum oven temperature of 260 °C. Checking these details helps prevent unsuitable use based on assumptions.

Key benefits & strengths

28 cm diameter, ceramic coating, glass lid and high sides. For a longer lifespan, low to medium heat and soft kitchen utensils are recommended.

Ideal for: Fans of traditional cookware

Staub cast iron frying pan, 16 cm

Why this product suits this profile: The enameled cast iron is designed for single portions and side dishes, and for serving straight at the table.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The product information confirms that it is suitable for induction and the oven up to 230 °C, as well as being dishwasher-safe. Hand-washing is recommended to protect the enamel.

Key benefits & strengths

16 cm diameter, 0.4-litre capacity, enamelled surface and compatibility with all hob types, including induction.

Care tips for a longer lifespan

• Preheat coated pans over medium heat and avoid heating them empty for extended periods.
• Use wooden, plastic or silicone utensils with non-stick and ceramic surfaces.
• Let a hot pan cool before washing it to protect the material and coating.
• Dry stainless steel pans after cleaning to reduce water marks.
• Do not soak cast iron, and dry it thoroughly after washing.
• Check the handle, lid and maximum oven temperature before first use.

Frequently asked questions about frying pans

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

A pan is suitable for induction only if this is explicitly stated in the product information. Stainless steel, cast iron and many aluminium pans with a magnetic base work on induction hobs. For coated models, you should also check the maximum permitted temperature.

What size is best for a family household?

For many households, 26 to 28 cm is a practical size range. This gives you enough space to cook several portions, while usually being easier to handle than a 30 cm pan. If you often cook large quantities or use a wok, a 30 cm wok may be a better choice.

How long does a non-stick pan last?

Its lifespan depends on the heat, utensils, cleaning and storage. Low to medium heat, soft kitchen utensils and hand-washing can help protect the coating. Replace the pan if the surface starts to peel visibly, becomes badly scratched or food keeps sticking to it.