Top 7 Stainless Steel Skillets: Expert Testing and Reviews

Top Pick

The Made In Stainless Clad Frying Pan secured the top position on our list and a spot in our Very Best Products of 2024 due to its well-balanced, ergonomic design, adaptability, and lightweight construction. During testing, we found flipping food effortless in this skillet. Additionally, the pan’s slightly sloped sides and flared rim ensure mess-free pouring. 

The skillet delivered fast and even cooking, achieving a perfect golden sear on salmon and chicken fillets while adding a delightful crispiness. Our beurre blanc sauce reached an ideal consistency, and the skillet boiled water rapidly while maintaining excellent heat retention. Sticking was minimal, and any residue left after cooking was easily removed during cleaning. 

This skillet excelled in all our tests, including durability. After being dropped (for testing purposes), it showed no significant damage or warping, demonstrating its long-lasting build quality. 

While not the most affordable option, this skillet outperformed several pricier models. Its slightly rounded handle, level with the pan, ensures a comfortable grip and ease of use. The large hanging hole is a practical feature for storage. However, the handle’s slim design may not suit everyone. 

Size: 8, 10, and 12 inches | Material: Stainless clad | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 800°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Top Budget Pick

Despite its affordable price, the Goldilocks 10-Inch Skillet delivered outstanding results in our tests. The skillet boiled water quickly and maintained heat effectively. Food was evenly browned without any undercooked spots. Minimal residue remained on the pan, but it cleaned off easily with a damp sponge. 

Much like our top pick, this skillet features angled sides that flare outward, with beveled edges for effortless, spill-free pouring. The skillet has a substantial weight, though we’d prefer a more balanced distribution toward the handle. Despite this, it remains easy to handle and maneuver, even with one hand. While it feels a bit hefty, flipping and moving it around posed no issues. 

The handle is rounded underneath with a pronounced groove on top for thumb placement. However, when the pan was full, the groove felt overly deep, causing the handle’s edges to press uncomfortably into the hand. A hanging hole at the handle’s end adds convenience for storage. 

The skillet didn’t perform as well as others in thermal shock (rapid temperature changes) and drop tests, which is expected given its budget-friendly price. It warped noticeably during thermal shock testing, but the drop test caused mostly cosmetic damage, leaving functionality intact. Overall, it’s an excellent, affordable option for home kitchens, though not suited for professional use.

Size: 10 and 12 inches |Material: Tri-ply stainless steel | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 550°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Top Premium Pick

The All-Clad D5 Stainless Brushed 5-Ply Bonded Fry Pan is a top choice for both home cooks and professionals. While it comes at a premium price, its features justify the investment. The skillet is slightly front-heavy but remains well-balanced and easy to handle with one hand. Professionals will find tossing food effortless, but beginners may need time to adjust due to its weight when full and the handle’s tendency to heat up during high-heat cooking (using a kitchen towel or oven mitt is recommended).

The handle is slim with a deep groove on top and a small ridge underneath where it connects to the pan, indicating the ideal finger placement for optimal grip. The skillet’s high, bell-curved sides and flared rim make sautéing effortless. During testing, this design trapped steam effectively when cooking multiple fillets, but with fewer items, the chicken browned uniformly without hot or cold spots. Water boiled in just 90 seconds, and the skillet maintained heat exceptionally well.

The pan’s even heat distribution ensured our beurre blanc sauce turned out perfectly—smooth, well-reduced, and emulsified. The sauce stayed stable for over 45 minutes without additional techniques. Cleaning was a breeze, with no sticking or burning even after searing meat. A quick wash with warm, soapy water was all it needed. Durability tests, including thermal shock and drop tests, revealed no significant damage, proving its suitability for professional kitchens.

Size: 8, 10, and 12 inches | Material: 5-ply stainless steel and aluminum | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 600°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Top Durability Pick

For a skillet that can withstand almost anything, the All-Clad D3 Stainless 3-Ply Bonded Fry Pan is an excellent choice. More affordable than the D5 line, it matches its durability. Though slightly front-heavy, the D3 feels lighter and easier to handle. It performed similarly to the D5 in water boil, heat retention, and thermal tests, but its heat retention is less forgiving, increasing the risk of overcooking if unattended. 

This skillet is ideal for single servings, and its quick heating minimizes inconvenience. Its standout feature is durability—it endured thermal shock and drop tests with only minor surface damage, none of which affected its performance. 

After the shock test, the pan showed only slight clouding and darkened edges, and the drop test caused minimal damage, even at the impact point. Built to endure, this skillet might be the last one you ever need. It’s ideal for daily cooks with some kitchen experience and those seeking a durable, high-quality investment. For professionals who demand heavy use, this bonded pan is easy to clean and highly reliable. 

Size: 8, 10, 12, and 14 inches | Material: Tri-ply stainless steel and aluminum | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 600°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Top Pick for Easy Cleaning

During testing, the Misen Stainless Skillet impressed with its easy cleaning process—no soaking or heavy scrubbing needed. For best results, heat the skillet thoroughly before adding oil, ensure the oil is hot, and let food sear properly before moving it. 

Even when food stuck due to user error, a gentle scrub with hot, soapy water removed residue effortlessly. After preparing beurre blanc, the pan rinsed clean with minimal effort. While many stainless steel pans recommend hand washing, Misen confirms this skillet is dishwasher-safe.

Though it doesn’t retain heat or boil water as quickly as pricier models, it provides consistent heat distribution and stable temperatures. Its curved edges make pouring and flipping easy. Durability tests showed minor warping from thermal shock and a small dent from impact, neither of which affected its performance. 

This skillet is oven-safe up to 800°F and delivered strong performance across all our tests. Its affordability and ease of cleaning make it an excellent value for money.

Size: 8, 10, and 12 inches | Material: 5-ply stainless steel | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 500°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Top Lightweight Pick

Le Creuset’s Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan feels lighter than its 3.7-pound weight suggests, thanks to its thoughtful design. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight, non-bulky skillet that’s easy to handle, even when full. During testing, we noted its balanced weight and ergonomic handle, which stays cool and accommodates larger hands comfortably. 

The skillet’s gently sloping sides and flared edge facilitate mess-free pouring and flipping, though they slightly reduce cooking surface area (fitting two chicken breasts would be tight). It heats quickly and evenly, but cleaning after searing chicken required more effort than just soap and water. 

This skillet endured shock tests with only minor cosmetic damage, justifying its higher price. It’s ideal for those seeking a durable, lightweight skillet for regular use, even if you’re prone to kitchen mishaps. 

Size: 8, 10, and 12 inches | Material: Tri-ply stainless steel | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 500°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Top Pick for Beginners

If you’re curious about the benefits of stainless steel skillets but hesitant to invest in a high-end model, this affordable option from OXO is a great starting point. Ideal for beginners, it performed well in our tests, offering a balanced weight distribution and a comfortable, curved handle that’s easy to grip with either hand. 

The skillet heats up rapidly and evenly, delivering perfectly browned meat and fish fillets while maintaining heat effectively. Cleaning was a breeze, requiring only a light scrub with soap and water. After durability tests, it remained functional with minimal damage, showcasing its sturdy build and excellent value. It’s a reliable kitchen workhorse, even for novice cooks. 

The skillet’s tall sides and flat edges make pouring slightly less convenient compared to other models. However, the sharp upward curve and flat sides allow for easy food flipping without utensils—ideal for practicing culinary flips. The handle includes a hanging hole, and its sleek design makes it suitable for display. 

Size: 8, 10, and 12 inches | Material: Tri-ply stainless steel and aluminum | Compatible Cooktops: All | Oven Safe: Yes (up to 600°F) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Final Verdict

Made In’s Stainless Clad Frying Pan is our top pick for stainless steel skillets. It’s lightweight, well-balanced, and features an ergonomic handle for easy handling, flipping, and pouring. It heats quickly and evenly and is effortless to clean. For a budget-friendly alternative, the Goldilocks 10-Inch Skillet is a great choice, offering rapid boiling, excellent heat retention, and even browning.

Our Testing Process

We evaluated 19 top stainless steel skillets based on design, cleaning ease, performance, durability, and value. Each skillet was measured, weighed, and used to prepare dishes like rice, salmon, chicken piccata, mushrooms, and beurre blanc sauce. For the first test, we tossed uncooked rice to assess handling and weight, then poured it back to check ease of tilting and pouring. 

We then boiled water in each skillet to gauge heat responsiveness and retention, timing how long it took to boil and how quickly it cooled. Salmon was seared to test browning, and mushrooms were cooked to evaluate heating speed and evenness.

Throughout testing, we assessed each skillet’s balance, ergonomics, and suitability for different users. Handle design was evaluated for comfort and ease of use. We conducted thermal shock and drop tests to check for warping, dents, and scratches, ensuring durability. Cleaning difficulty was noted, and overall value was determined by comparing price to performance.

How to Shop for Stainless Steel Skillets Like a Pro

Size

Stainless steel skillets typically come in 8, 10, and 12-inch sizes. “For a household of four, a 10-inch pan is ideal if you’re buying just one,” Carte suggests. “If you can afford two, consider an 8-inch and a 12-inch for versatility—the perfect combination!” (Alternatively, a stainless steel cookware set with multiple sizes might be a worthwhile investment.)

Cayne notes that size depends on personal preference and lifestyle, but cautions about weight: “A pan should feel substantial, but if it’s too large, it may become unwieldy and difficult to handle safely.”

Material

When selecting a stainless steel skillet, terms like ply and grade describe the material’s composition. The grade refers to the nickel and chromium ratio in the alloy, while the ply indicates the number of material layers in the pan.

“Stainless steel is created by combining various metals, and its quality depends on this blend,” Cayne explains. “High-quality skillets distribute heat evenly, have a core that conducts heat effectively, and retain heat well, which is why they take time to warm up.”

Carte notes that while steel is highly durable, it corrodes on its own. Adding chromium prevents corrosion, and nickel enhances its appearance and rust resistance. Since steel isn’t the best conductor, a stainless steel skillet with a copper or aluminum core improves heat distribution, ensuring even and efficient cooking. 

“Opt for 18/10 or 18/8 grade stainless steel when choosing a skillet,” Carte advises. “The first number indicates chromium content, and the second represents nickel.” However, more layers (ply) don’t always mean better quality. “It’s just additional layers,” she adds.

When evaluating a skillet’s material, consider the handle—all-metal is ideal. “Cheaper pans with plastic handles limit oven use, which is essential for tasks like searing and finishing dishes in the oven,” Carte says. 

Cooktop Type

Most stainless steel skillets work on gas and electric stovetops, but unless specified, they may not be compatible with induction cooktops. (All skillets on our final list are induction-safe.)  

“If you’re not settled in a permanent home, choosing an induction-compatible skillet offers flexibility for the future and works with all stove types,” Carte advises. 

Maintenance

Stainless steel skillets require less upkeep than cast iron. “They’re simpler to care for than nonstick pans,” Carte explains. “You don’t need to worry about scratching them or using specific tools. Unlike cast iron, there’s no need to dry them meticulously to prevent rust.”

Simply clean your stainless steel pan thoroughly after each use and only use the oven or dishwasher if explicitly stated as safe. Cayne suggests letting the pan cool before washing. While all skillets on our list are dishwasher-safe, many brands recommend hand-washing. (The Misen Stainless Skillet, our easiest-to-clean option, is dishwasher-safe according to the brand.)  

More Stainless Steel Skillets to Consider

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless Steel Skillet: This skillet is lightweight but slightly front-heavy, making it less balanced than our top picks. While manageable with two hands, one-handed use felt awkward. It failed the thermal shock test, but at $40, it’s a decent choice for beginners, first-time movers, occasional cooks, or as a secondary pan.

Questions You Might Ask

How do stainless steel skillets compare to cast iron and nonstick skillets?

Each type of pan has its strengths and weaknesses. Nonstick cookware excels with delicate foods but lacks durability. “I’ve never had a nonstick skillet last,” Carte says. “Whether it’s $20 or $200, or how carefully I’ve treated them, they all eventually wear out.”

Cast iron, while durable, is heavy and demands regular upkeep. “Cast iron skillets are classic kitchen staples, but their weight makes them less ideal for tasks requiring finesse, like sautéing or flipping,” Carte explains. “This is where stainless steel skillets excel.”

Stainless steel offers numerous advantages. “These pans are crafted from a blend of metals, providing benefits like non-reactivity, high heat retention, and durability,” Cayne notes. “The main drawback is their slow heating time, so cooks must allow them to reach the proper temperature.”

Can stainless steel skillets be nonstick?

Yes, stainless steel skillets can achieve nonstick results with proper technique. “Using the right heat and adding high-heat oil when the pan is hot works wonders,” Carte says. “Keeping the pan clean between uses is also crucial to prevent residue buildup.”

Cayne emphasizes letting the pan heat thoroughly before adding oil and allowing food to sear or cook properly before flipping or stirring. This approach minimizes mess, even with dishes like pasta, rice, and eggs.

What is the lifespan of a stainless steel skillet?

“A well-made stainless steel skillet with a solid weight and a copper or aluminum core can last decades,” Cayne explains. “Proper care is essential.” Carte adds that with the right maintenance, a high-quality stainless steel skillet can endure a lifetime.

Take Our Word for It

This article was authored by Kat de Naoum, a writer with over a decade of experience and an editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, a leading US platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing. We tested 19 stainless steel skillets, assessing design, heating performance, cleaning ease, durability, and value. Kat also consulted Janice Carte, founder and chef at Tiny Spoon Chef, and Alison Cayne, founder and CEO of Haven's Kitchen.