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There are a few simple tests that I run on non-stick pans to measure even temperature, surface smoothness and non-stick properties of the pan and the ability to release food.
Fried eggs and omelets: high value for money
The first and most important test shows us how well each pan pulls out sticky foods including eggs and pancakes. I cooked a fried egg and scrambled an egg for each omelet. The hope is that everyone takes out the food once cooked with little food left over. Indeed, all frying pans produced eggs well during this test and without a single skillet firing. There was a slight difference in performance, however. The pans I’ve chosen to rank at the top of each category performed as well or better than average.
This is the lift you would expect with a good non-stick skillet.
Pancakes reveal all. Well, more anyway
I also baked a crock pot in each pan – an experiment that served two purposes. Apart from indicating the non-stickiness of the pan, it also shows how well the skillet heats up and cooks evenly.
After loading a cold pan with one cup of pancake batter, I turned on the heat and let it cook for two minutes. Usually, you can add pancake batter in a heated pan, but here I want the batter to spread evenly and settle in the pan before cooking to see if it has a hot or cold place. I flipped the pancake in the pan and swirled it around. Yes, it was messy business, but what was revealed on the other side were pancake gradients that highlighted each pan’s ability to cook evenly on its surface.
A browning pancake shows us how the pan cooks evenly and how it turns out a classic breakfast.
Some facts
While doing this test, I also take care to note other factors such as the size of the pan, its weight and the fit of the stove. I also consider the length and slope of the sides as well as the angle and design of the handle. Some of these products are acceptable, especially for comfort, so it would make sense to find a cookware store and try different handles before making a final decision.
It may seem like a small thing, but the angle of use can make a big difference in pan handling. I like the slope of the Misen pan. The rubber grip was easy on my hand.
Durability of non-stick coatings
This is a difficult thing to assess. Ultimately, you’ll want your non-stick coating to last as long as possible, but you can measure this by using it regularly. In my experience, good non-stick frying pans can last anywhere from three to four years before they start to break. Although I do not have the opportunity to test the durability of the pan at that time, I look deeply into the reviews on each pan to see if there are any red flags or signs that would indicate that it will deteriorate quickly.
If your old skillet looks like this, it’s time for a new pan.
Although no non-stick pan can last forever, our top picks Misen also All Clothes they have three layers of non-stick coating which should give them a long life.
Price was one of the biggest factors
Because of its short lifespan, you’d be wise not to spend a lot of money on a single non-stick skillet. Apart from HexClad which offers a special hybrid surface intended to withstand metal utensils and wear and tear, I do not recommend spending more than $60 or $70 on one nonstick skillet.
When you get very cheap (pans under $40 or more), you will find that the non-stick coating starts to deteriorate very quickly and you will need to replace it soon. I’ve made this mistake before and it shouldn’t be a problem just to save a few bucks.
Price and value are some of the main factors I considered when choosing the best frying pans of 2024.
