Joybuy Insights

Buying a frying pan: what size, coating and hob type is right for your household?

A frying pan needs to do more than brown food in everyday use. It should suit your hob, withstand the temperatures you need and be easy to clean. At the same time, terms such as ‘non-stick’, ‘granite’ or ‘suitable for all hob types’ don’t automatically mean you’ve found the right pan.

Three common pitfalls often end up costing buyers money:

  • Unclear hob compatibility: An aluminium frying pan will work on a gas or ceramic hob, but it isn’t necessarily suitable for induction. What matters is a magnetic base or an explicit statement from the manufacturer.
  • Assuming a coating is scratch-resistant: Don’t overheat a coated frying pan when it’s empty, or use metal utensils or scouring pads on it. Even a dishwasher-safe pan can suffer more wear with frequent washing.
  • Choosing the wrong size for your household: A 24 cm pan is handy for smaller portions and one-person households. For several people or larger quantities, a 28 cm pan offers more cooking space, but needs more storage space and a suitably sized cooking zone.

The key things to consider when buying a frying pan

1. Check the hob type and base

If you’re looking for a pan for induction, read the product description carefully. The term ‘suitable for all hob types’ is only meaningful if it specifically lists gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs. For an induction hob, the base must be magnetic and sit flat on the surface.

Traditional iron and cast iron pans are also suitable for gas hobs. On ceramic hobs, the underside should be clean and as smooth as possible to avoid scratching the glass surface. If you’re unsure, check the technical specifications for the model you’re considering.

2. Know the difference between materials and coatings

An aluminium frying pan is usually lighter than a cast iron pan and heats up relatively quickly and evenly. This makes it a good choice for eggs, vegetables, pancakes and everyday frying. A non-stick pan with a coated surface makes it easier to turn delicate foods. Wooden, silicone or plastic utensils are better suited to the job than metal ones.

A cast iron pan retains heat for longer, making it a good option for searing or slow cooking. Uncoated cast iron does need looking after: dry it thoroughly after cleaning and often apply a light coat of oil. An enamelled cast iron pan is easier to care for, but is still relatively heavy.

3. Check oven and cleaning instructions

An oven-safe pan isn’t automatically suitable for every temperature. Check the stated maximum temperature and the handle material. Plastic or Bakelite handles may limit how you can use the pan in the oven.

Even if a pan is dishwasher-safe, hand-washing it with a soft sponge is often best. Product information may specify that models with wooden handles or delicate coatings are suitable for hand-washing only. Before using any pan for the first time, wash it with warm water and mild washing-up liquid.

Our picks for different cooking needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners
PURECOOK 24 cm aluminium frying pan

PURECOOK aluminium frying pan with non-stick coating, 24 cm

Why this product suits this cooking profile: The 24 cm size is ideal for smaller households and everyday portions. According to the product information, the pan is suitable for induction, gas and ceramic hobs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly lists the compatible hob types and advises hand-washing and taking care with the coating.

Key benefits and strengths

Aluminium body, 24 cm diameter and wooden handle; according to the product information, the surface is designed for low-fat cooking.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect a high standard of quality
Le Creuset 23 cm enamelled cast iron pan

Le Creuset Signature cast iron frying and serving pan, 23 cm

Why this product suits this cooking profile: This enamelled cast iron pan is suitable for all hob types, including induction, as well as for use in the oven. Its weight of 1.93 kg is worth bearing in mind when choosing a pan.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly state the diameter, weight, compatible hob types, oven suitability and cleaning instructions. The enamel makes it easier to care for than uncoated cast iron.

Key benefits and strengths

Enamelled cast iron, oven-safe and, according to the product information, dishwasher-safe; hand-washing is recommended to keep it in good condition.

Ideal for: Special cooking needs and frequent use
Ballarini Vipiteno 28 cm frying pan

Ballarini Vipiteno frying pan with non-stick coating, 28 cm

Why this product suits this cooking profile: The 28 cm cooking surface is suitable for family portions and regular frying. According to the product information, the pan works on gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The maximum oven temperature of 160 °C and care instructions are clearly stated. This makes it easier to choose a pan that suits how you plan to use it.

Key benefits and strengths

28 cm diameter, four-layer Nerolite coating, THERMOTION indicator and, according to the product information, suitable for the oven and dishwasher.

Ideal for: Home cooks who enjoy making speciality dishes
COOKER KING 24 cm crêpe pan

COOKER KING non-stick crêpe pan, 24 cm

Why this product suits this cooking profile: Its shallow shape is designed for crêpes, pancakes and similar dishes. According to the product information, this model is PFOA-free and suitable for induction.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its specialised design means a high-sided pan won’t get in the way when you’re turning thin batter. Even so, check the care and hob instructions before buying.

Key benefits and strengths

24 cm diameter, shallow crêpe-pan design and, according to the product name, suitable for induction hobs.

Looking for more options?

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

Care tips to help your pan last longer

  • Use coated pans over medium or low heat and don’t leave them empty on the hob.
  • Use wooden, silicone or plastic utensils to protect the surface.
  • Let a hot pan cool down before washing it. Moving it quickly from very hot to cold water can put strain on the material and coating.
  • Dry uncoated iron and cast iron pans straight away, then apply a thin layer of oil if needed.
  • Stop using the pan if you notice any damage, flaking coating or a loose handle.

Frequently asked questions about frying pans

Which frying pan is suitable for induction?

A pan for induction needs a magnetic base that sits flat on the hob. Suitable options include aluminium models with a stainless steel base that are specifically labelled as induction-compatible, as well as iron and cast iron pans. Always check the manufacturer’s information before buying.

Is a coated frying pan dishwasher-safe?

It depends on the model. Some pans are listed as dishwasher-safe, while others are suitable for hand-washing only. Even with a dishwasher-safe pan, hand-washing with a mild detergent can be gentler on the coating and handle.

Which size should you choose: a 24 cm or 28 cm pan?

A 24 cm pan is generally suitable for one or two smaller portions, eggs or crêpes. A 28 cm pan gives you more room for family portions, vegetables or several pieces of meat. Also measure your cooking zone and check that the pan will fit in your drawer or cupboard.