5 HexClad Alternatives That Cost Less and Perform Just As Good

Summary

This video explores alternatives to the high-priced HexClad pans, offering a hybrid surface for non-stick cooking and durability. Options like Henckels HXagon, Cooksy, and Anolon X provide similar benefits at lower costs, with differences in construction and design. The video also considers traditional cast iron and carbon steel, as well as the practicality of owning separate stainless steel and non-stick pans, for a more budget-friendly approach to achieving HexClad-like performance.

Takeaways

• 🍳 HexClad pans offer a hybrid surface that combines the searing ability of stainless steel with the food release of non-stick materials, but they come at a high cost.
• 🔪 Henckels' HXagon cookware is an alternative to HexClad, featuring a similar hexagon pattern and 3-ply stainless steel construction, but at a lower price point.
• 🥚 The thinner Henckels pans heat up faster and cook eggs and pancakes more quickly than HexClad, but both perform well in searing meats.
• 🔧 Differences in handle design between HexClad and Henckels affect usability, with Henckels offering a longer, higher-angled handle with a groove for better grip.
• 💰 HexClad's pricing is significantly higher than Henckels, with a 12-inch HexClad frying pan priced at $179 compared to an $87 3-piece Henckels set.
• 👍 Cooksy is another cost-effective alternative to HexClad, with a design that exposes more steel for oil retention and a smoother, cleaner cooking surface.
• 🛠️ Anolon X is a hybrid cookware collection that, like HexClad, integrates steel into the non-stick surface, offering good searing performance and metal utensil safety.
• 🔥 Anolon X pans heat up faster due to their thinner aluminum construction but may not retain heat as well as HexClad's fully clad stainless steel pans.
• 👐 Handle design differences in Anolon X provide a more secure grip and easier cleaning compared to HexClad's round handles.
• 🍳 Cast iron pans, while different in material and appearance, offer similar benefits to HexClad, including superior heat retention and longevity.
• 💡 The script suggests that purchasing separate stainless steel and non-stick pans can be a practical and cost-effective alternative to HexClad's hybrid pans.

Q & A

What is the primary advantage of HexClad pans?

HexClad pans have a hybrid surface that sears like stainless steel, releases food like non-stick, and is tough enough to handle metal utensils.

What is the major downside of HexClad pans mentioned in the script?

The major downside of HexClad pans is their high cost, making them expensive for some consumers.

What is the HXagon cookware collection by Henckels similar to HexClad in terms of design?

The HXagon cookware collection by Henckels has a hexagon pattern on the interior with raised stainless steel peaks, similar to HexClad, which protects the non-stick coating below.

How does the thickness of Henckels pans compare to HexClad pans?

Henckels pans are 2.4 mm thick, while HexClad pans are 3 mm thick.

What is the main difference in cooking performance between Henckels and HexClad pans when cooking eggs and pancakes?

The Henckels pan, being thinner, cooked eggs and pancakes much faster than the HexClad pan.

What are some distinctive features of the handles on Henckels HXagon pans compared to HexClad pans?

Henckels HXagon pans have longer handles that are angled higher, with a small groove on top, unlike HexClad's rounded handles.

What is the main concern regarding the non-stick coating of HexClad pans when used on a cooktop?

There is a risk that the raised steel pattern of HexClad pans will scratch the cooktop, as reported by a reader on PrudentReviews.com.

How does the price of Henckels pans compare to HexClad pans?

Henckels pans cost less than half the price of HexClad pans, making them a more affordable alternative.

What are some key differences between Cooksy and HexClad pans in terms of design and performance?

Cooksy pans have more exposed steel, a higher angled handle with wider circumference and attached screws, and a helper handle for easier lifting, while HexClad pans have a smoother cooking surface and no helper handle.

How does the price of Cooksy pans compare to HexClad pans?

Cooksy pans are between 20 and 30% less expensive than HexClad pans.

What are some alternatives to HexClad mentioned in the script for those looking for similar performance at a lower cost?

Alternatives to HexClad mentioned in the script include cast iron pans from Lodge, carbon steel pans, and the option of purchasing a separate stainless steel pan and a non-stick pan.

What is the main benefit of using cast iron pans over HexClad pans in terms of durability and heat retention?

Cast iron pans can last for generations, have superior heat retention due to their thickness, and can sear better than HexClad pans.

What is the advantage of HexClad pans over cast iron pans in terms of weight and cooking acidic sauces?

HexClad pans are lighter than cast iron pans, and they can simmer acidic sauces for hours without degrading the pan, unlike cast iron which can have its seasoning degraded by long periods of cooking with acidic ingredients.

What is the benefit of purchasing two separate pans, a stainless steel pan and a non-stick pan, over a HexClad pan?

Buying two separate pans can provide better non-stick performance from a dedicated non-stick pan and the durability and longevity of a traditional stainless steel pan without a coating that can wear out over time.

What is the price of the Tramontina Professional 12-inch fry pan mentioned in the script?

The Tramontina Professional 12-inch fry pan costs only $40 on Tramontina's website.

Outlines

00:00

🍳 Alternatives to HexClad Pans

This paragraph discusses the high cost of HexClad pans and presents several alternatives. Henckels HXagon cookware is introduced as a similar option with a hexagon pattern and stainless steel peaks, but at a lower price. Cooksy is highlighted for its affordability and distinct handle design, while Anolon X is noted for its thinner construction and aluminum base. Cast iron and carbon steel pans are also suggested as cost-effective alternatives, offering similar benefits to HexClad. The paragraph concludes with a comparison of buying two separate pans (stainless steel and non-stick) versus a single hybrid pan.

05:02

💰 Cost-Effective Alternatives to HexClad

The second paragraph emphasizes that purchasing a HexClad lookalike is not necessary to achieve its benefits. Brands like Lodge and Matfer are mentioned for their cast iron and carbon steel offerings, which provide similar performance at a lower cost. The paragraph suggests buying two separate pans, a stainless steel pan and a non-stick pan, as a practical and cost-effective alternative to a single hybrid pan. The Tramontina Professional 12-inch fry pan and the Heritage Steel Eater series are recommended as examples of affordable options. The paragraph ends with a note about affiliate links in the video description and an invitation to subscribe for more content.

Keywords

💡Hybrid Surface

A hybrid surface refers to a material or coating that combines the properties of two different surfaces to achieve a unique set of characteristics. In the context of the video, HexClad pans have a hybrid surface that allows them to sear food like stainless steel while also providing the non-stick properties of a non-stick surface. This is a key feature that sets HexClad apart from traditional cookware.

💡Non-Stick

Non-stick is a property of a surface that prevents food from adhering to it, making it easier to cook and clean. In the video, the non-stick nature of HexClad pans is highlighted as a desirable feature, allowing food to be released easily after cooking. The script also discusses alternatives to HexClad that offer similar non-stick performance.

💡Metal Utensils

Metal utensils are cooking tools made from metal, such as spatulas, spoons, and forks. The video mentions that HexClad pans are tough enough to handle metal utensils without damaging the surface, which is an advantage over traditional non-stick pans that may be scratched by such tools.

💡Henckels HXagon

Henckels HXagon is a cookware collection by the brand Henckels, which is traditionally known for its kitchen knives. The script introduces this collection as an alternative to HexClad, featuring a similar hexagon pattern and 3-ply stainless steel construction. The HXagon pans are noted for being thinner and more affordable than HexClad pans.

💡Cookware Construction

Cookware construction refers to the materials and design used to make a cooking pan or pot. The video script discusses the construction of HexClad and alternative brands, such as the thickness of the pans and the materials used, which affect the pans' performance in terms of heat distribution and durability.

💡Price Comparison

Price comparison is the act of evaluating the cost of similar products to determine the best value for money. The video script provides a detailed price comparison between HexClad pans and their alternatives, such as Henckels HXagon and Cooksy, to help viewers make an informed purchasing decision based on their budget.

💡Cooksy

Cooksy is another cookware brand mentioned in the script as a more affordable alternative to HexClad. It has a design that closely resembles HexClad but with some key differences, such as more exposed steel and a different handle design. The brand is praised for its value and unique features.

💡Anolon X

Anolon X is a hybrid cookware collection that, like HexClad, integrates steel into the non-stick surface for improved performance. The script discusses the similarities and differences between Anolon X and HexClad, including construction materials, heat retention, and handle design.

💡Cast Iron

Cast iron is a type of cookware made from铸铁, known for its durability and heat retention. The video script suggests cast iron pans as an alternative to HexClad, highlighting their ability to sear well and last for generations, despite being heavier and potentially less convenient for certain types of cooking.

💡Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is a type of steel alloy that is lighter than cast iron but offers similar heat retention and durability. The script mentions carbon steel as a lighter alternative to cast iron for those who find the weight of cast iron skillets to be a concern, while still desiring the benefits of HexClad.

💡Stainless Steel Pan

A stainless steel pan is a type of cookware made from stainless steel, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. The video script suggests that purchasing a stainless steel pan along with a non-stick pan can be a cost-effective alternative to HexClad, providing the benefits of both types of surfaces without the higher price tag.

Highlights

HexClad pans offer a hybrid surface that combines the searing ability of stainless steel with the non-stick release of a non-stick pan and are durable enough for metal utensils.

The major downside of HexClad pans is their high cost, making them a luxury option for many consumers.

Henckels' HXagon cookware is a cost-effective alternative to HexClad, featuring a similar hexagon pattern and 3-ply stainless steel construction but at a lower price point.

Henckels pans are thinner than HexClad, which affects cooking speed, particularly for eggs and pancakes.

Henckels HXagon pans have a smooth stainless steel bottom unlike HexClad's hybrid pattern extending to the bottom.

HexClad's non-stick coating makes it easier to clean, but there's a risk of scratching the cooktop with the raised steel pattern.

Cooksy is a budget-friendly alternative to HexClad with more exposed steel for oil retention and a completely smooth cooking surface.

Cooksy pans have a helper handle for easier handling, a feature absent in HexClad frying pans.

Anolon X is a hybrid cookware collection that integrates steel into the non-stick surface, similar to HexClad, but with a few key differences.

Anolon X pans are thinner and made of aluminum, with a steel plate bonded to the bottom for induction compatibility.

Anolon X handles provide a more secure grip and are easier to clean due to flush rivets, unlike HexClad's standard rivets.

Cast iron pans are a more affordable alternative to HexClad, offering similar benefits such as excellent searing and durability.

Carbon steel is a lighter alternative to cast iron with similar performance benefits at a lower price.

Purchasing separate stainless steel and non-stick pans can be a practical and cost-effective alternative to HexClad's hybrid pans.

Tramontina Professional and Heritage Steel Eater series are examples of affordable, quality pans that can be paired for a versatile cooking setup.

The video description will include affiliate links to the mentioned alternatives, allowing viewers to purchase at no extra cost while supporting the channel.

A more detailed breakdown of HexClad's pros and cons is available in a separate video for those interested in comprehensive information.

Transcripts

HexClad pans have a hybrid surface  that sears like stainless steel,  

releases food like non-stick, and is  tough enough to handle metal utensils.

But it has one major downside,  it’s incredibly expensive.

So, if you want the versatility  of HexClad but don't want to pay  

the high prices, these are the best alternatives.

Henckels is known for its kitchen knives but  recently launched the HXagon cookware collection. 

Like HexClad, these pans have a hexagon pattern  on the interior with raised stainless steel  

peaks that protect the non-stick coating below. They also have the same 3-ply stainless steel  

construction, but Henckels pans are only  2.4 mm thick, while HexClad's are 3 mm. 

I tested both pans side by side, and both  seared chicken and burgers nice and evenly. 

But since the Henckels pan is thinner,  it cooked eggs and pancakes much faster. 

Similar to HexClad, Henckels HXagon pans  have rounded handles, but they’re longer,  

angled higher, and have a small groove on top. 

Another difference is that HexClad extends its  hybrid pattern to the bottom, while Henckels  

pans have a smooth stainless steel bottom. The  non-stick coating makes HexClad easier to clean,  

but there's a risk that the raised steel  pattern will scratch your cooktop. This  

hasn't happened to me, but it did  happen to PrudentReivews.com reader. 

The biggest difference between HexCad and  Henckels is the price. Henckels pans cost  

less than half the price of HexClad. For  example, the 12-inch HexClad frying pan  

is currently listed on HexClad.com for $179. The Henckels 3-piece set, which includes an 8,  

10, and 12-inch frying pan is  listed at only $87 on Costco.com.

Cooksy is another brand that looks  almost exactly like HexClad but is  

less expensive and has a few key features. If you look closely, you’ll see that Cooksy  

pans have more exposed steel than HexClad. This  is great for keeping oil in the center of the  

pan and protecting the non-stick coating,  but it requires you to grease the surface  

with more fat to prevent eggs from sticking. The handle design is another key difference  

between Cooksy and HexClad. Cooksy handles  are angled higher, have a wider circumference,  

and they're attached screws rather than  rivets. Because of this, the cooking  

surface is completely smooth and easier to clean. Cooksy’s 12-inch frying pan has a helper handle  

that makes it easier to pick up with two hands.  HexClad frying pans don’t have a helper handle. 

And just like Henckels HXagon, Cooksy  pans have a smooth steel bottom. 

The best part about Cooksy is that it's  between 20 and 30% less expensive than  

HexClad, depending on the piece. The main downside of Cooksy is  

its limited selection. They only offer a  few frying pans, saucepans, stock pots,  

and sets.HexClad has a much wider range, including  specialty items like roasting pans and griddles.

Anolon X is another hybrid cookware collection  with steel integrated into the non-stick surface.

Similar to HexClad, Anolon  X pans are good for searing,  

and you don't have to worry about sticking  as long as the surface is greased.

The steel mesh also does a great job  keeping oil in the center of the pan.

And just like HexClad, Anolon  X pans are metal utensil-safe,  

oven-safe up to 500°F, and dishwasher-safe. One of the most significant differences between  

Anolon X and HexClad is their construction.  Anolon X pans are slightly thinner and aluminum. 

Since aluminum isn't magnetic, these pans  have a steel plate bonded to the bottom to  

make them compatible with induction cooktops. Anolon X heats up faster due to its thinner  

construction and aluminum base, but it  doesn't retain heat as well as the thicker,  

fully clad stainless steel HexClad pans. Another key difference is their handles.  

HexClad handles are round and comfortable,  but if your hand is greasy or wet,  

or you’re holding a towel or wearing an oven mitt,  there’s a chance the handle will rotate. 

Anolon X handles are flat on the top and  bottom with a slight curve to rest your  

thumb. This design provides a more secure grip  and prevents the pan from rotating in your hand. 

Another feature I like about Anolon X  handles is the flush rivets. Unlike HexClad,  

which has standard rivets that stick out,  Anolon X rivets are flat and easier to clean. 

Although Anolon X pans are not cheap, they’re  less expensive than HexClad. The Anolon X 12-inch  

pan costs $129 on Anolon.com. The same size  HexClad pan is currently $179 on HexClad.com.

Cast iron pans look nothing like HexClad and  are made from totally different materials,  

but they provide similar or, in some  cases, better results in the kitchen.  

And trusted brands like Lodge cost  less than half the price of HexClad.

The key benefits of HexClad are that  it sears well, food doesn't stick,  

you can use metal utensils, and it lasts  longer than traditional non-stick pans.

But a well-seasoned cast iron skillet  checks all of those boxes, too. In fact,  

it can last for generations, and, in most cases,  

it sears better than HexClad because it's  thicker and has superior heat retention.

The main advantage of HexClad over  cast iron is that it's lighter,  

and you can simmer acidic sauces for hours.

With cast iron, large amounts  of acidic ingredients cooking  

for long periods can degrade the seasoning.

If the weight of a cast iron skillet is a concern,  

carbon steel is a lighter option  with almost the same benefits.

The point is, you don’t need to buy a HexClad  lookalike to get the benefits of HexClad. Cast  

iron and carbon steel brands like Lodge and Matfer  provide similar performance at a much lower price.

While HexClad combines stainless steel  and non-stick properties into one pan,

another practical and cost-effective  alternative is to purchase two separate pans:  

a stainless steel pan and a non-stick pan.

With this approach, you'll get better non-stick  performance from a dedicated non-stick pan.

And a traditional stainless  steel pan is more durable and  

longer-lasting because it doesn't have  a coating that can wear out over time.

You might think buying two pans defeats  

the purpose because you’ll spend  more money, but that’s not true.

One of my favorite non-stick pans is the  Tramontina Professional 12-inch fry pan,  

which costs only $40 on Tramontina's website.

If you pair this with a stainless  steel pan like the Heritage Steel Eater series,  

Misen, or Goldilocks, you save  money and get two quality pans.

If you're ready to buy, I'll link to all these  alternatives in the video description. Those are  

affiliate links, so I'll earn a commission if  you click and buy, but at no extra cost to you.

If you want to learn more about  HexClad, check out this video  

where I break down all pros  and cons in much more detail. And for more videos like this,  

click the logo to subscribe to the channel. Thanks  for watching; we'll see you in the next video.