Best CHEAP Cookware Brands (And 4 to Never Buy)

Summary

In this video, the creator explores budget-friendly cookware options, showcasing brands that offer great performance at a fraction of the price of premium brands. Henckels, Lodge, Tramontina, Cuisinart, and Ninja NeverStick are highlighted for their quality and value, with specific features to look for, such as pan thickness and handle design. The video also warns viewers about lower-quality cookware brands like Carote, Farberware, Blue Diamond, and Circulon. Viewers are guided on how to evaluate cookware based on construction and durability to ensure they’re getting the best deal for their money.

Takeaways

• 😀 Henckels Clad H3 cookware offers performance similar to All-Clad D3 at a fraction of the price, with a set of two pans priced at $80.
• 😀 Lodge cast iron skillets provide excellent value for money, lasting a lifetime for under $30 and outperforming many higher-priced cast iron brands.
• 😀 Tramontina's Tri-Ply Clad collection offers performance like All-Clad but at less than half the price, with the 12-inch pan priced at $55.
• 😀 Cuisinart's MultiClad Pro collection is one of the best budget-friendly stainless steel cookware options, offering high-end features for $70.
• 😀 Goldilocks cookware delivers similar quality to premium brands like All-Clad but at a much lower price, with the 12-inch skillet priced at $60.
• 😀 Ninja NeverStick cookware comes with a rare 10-year warranty for non-stick performance, offering excellent durability for an affordable price of $50 for a 12-inch fry pan.
• 😀 Carote cookware is a brand to avoid due to its thin pans and insecure detachable handles, which impact durability and safety.
• 😀 Farberware's Classic collection is subpar, with thin, lightweight pans and plastic handles that are only oven-safe up to 350°F.
• 😀 Blue Diamond pans are poorly constructed, with flimsy ceramic non-stick coatings that wear out quickly, offering poor value for $50.
• 😀 Circulon pans fail to deliver on their promises, with a design that causes food to stick and makes cleaning difficult due to the raised circular pattern.

Q & A

Why should I consider buying low-cost cookware brands?

Low-cost cookware options can provide excellent performance similar to premium brands but at a fraction of the price. Some budget-friendly options are made with similar materials and construction, making them a great value for those who want high-quality cookware without the high cost.

What are the two key features to look for when buying low-cost cookware?

When buying low-cost cookware, you should look for thickness and handle quality. Thicker cookware is more durable and retains heat better, while handles that are at least 8 inches long, made of metal, and with a groove or flat design provide better durability and control.

How does Henckels Clad H3 compare to All-Clad D3?

Henckels Clad H3 is similar to All-Clad D3 in terms of construction and performance, with an aluminum core and stainless steel exterior. The main differences are the handle design, manufacturing location, and price. Henckels offers a more affordable set compared to All-Clad.

Why is Lodge considered one of the best budget cookware brands?

Lodge is known for its durable cast iron cookware made in the USA. Their skillets, Dutch ovens, and other cast iron pieces perform excellently, holding heat well and offering long-lasting value. Their cast iron skillets are priced affordably and are considered one of the best for searing, frying, and baking.

What makes Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad cookware a good value?

Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad cookware performs similarly to All-Clad but is much cheaper. The cookware is well-made with a three-layer construction for even heat distribution, and it's highly durable. At a price point of $55 for a 12-inch frying pan, it offers great value for money.

What sets Cuisinart's MultiClad Pro cookware apart from other low-cost options?

Cuisinart's MultiClad Pro offers several upgrades compared to other low-cost cookware. It features a longer handle, a wider cooking surface, and better construction with polished interior walls. The handle is ergonomically designed for a firmer grip, and the cookware heats evenly and retains heat well, making it a great choice for its price.

What are the advantages of Ninja NeverStick cookware?

Ninja NeverStick cookware is affordable and comes with a 10-year warranty that covers the performance of the non-stick coating. The cookware heats evenly, holds heat well, and is made from hard-anodized aluminum. Its long warranty and durable coating make it a good option for those seeking value in non-stick cookware.

Which cookware brands should be avoided based on the video?

The video recommends avoiding brands like Carote, Farberware (Classic collection), Blue Diamond, and Circulon. These brands are considered to have major flaws such as thin walls, poor heat retention, flimsy construction, or non-durable non-stick coatings.

Why is the thickness of cookware important?

The thickness of cookware affects its durability and heat retention. Thicker pans are less likely to warp and provide better heat distribution, which is essential for consistent cooking. Ideally, stainless steel pans should be at least 2.5 mm thick, and aluminum non-stick pans should be around 3.5 mm thick.

What is the drawback of detachable handles in cookware?

Detachable handles in cookware are less secure and can be prone to wobbling or breaking. They often don't provide a stable, secure grip, making them less safe and less durable compared to riveted or welded handles, which are more secure and long-lasting.