These Are the Very Best Skillets for Sauteing, Searing, Simmering, and More

Skillets are real staples of the stovetop. You can use them to crisp bacon, saute vegetables, and even bake cornbread—we’d call that versatile! We’ve tested loads of skillets over the years, including a variety of makes and materials: durable cast iron pans, sleek stainless steel skillets, and even rectangular tamagoyaki pans for making Japanese omelets. Below, you’ll find our favorite skillets across our cookware reviews. And because pans can be pricey, we’re including our favorite budget-conscious picks, too.

Things to Consider

What You're Using the Skillet For

Skillets sure are versatile, but not every skillet is good for every cooking task. For example, cast iron shines at searing steak or baking golden cornbread, but is less ideal for sticky situations, like making crepes or scrambling eggs. For those tasks, nonstick is king. But if you’re looking to sear and braise in the oven, nonstick can’t handle the heat and a rondeau or an enameled braiser are better choices. 

That said, while it might be tempting to buy a different skillet for different needs, there are some great all-rounders that can pinch-hit at many things. Take a simple stainless steel skillet, for example: it’s great at searing and sauteeing, and can safely go in the oven, too. Rondeaus, which are also made of stainless steel, are wider and more capacious than a traditional skillet and sport taller sides. This makes them great for braising liquidy dishes that might overflow in a smaller pan. And there is even a dual-handled cast iron skillet, too, for when you need a little extra stability in and out of the oven.

Which Material Is the Best for a Skillet?

As mentioned above, every material has its pros and cons: Nonstick skillets will be the easiest to work with (and clean), but have the lowest heat tolerance and will eventually need to be replaced, as the coating will break down after a few years. 

On the other hand, stainless steel is a great choice for durability and even heat distribution and is one of our favorite skillet materials. Carbon steel is another excellent choice for these properties and is a lightweight alternative to cast iron. Like cast iron, though, it will need to be seasoned and maintained. 

Speaking of, cast iron is an enduring favorite for its ruggedness and ability to withstand ultra-high temperatures, but it’s heavy and also needs to be seasoned. If the latter doesn't sound appealing to you, enameled cast iron strikes a nice balance between heat retention and a semi-nonstick cooking surface, but it isn’t as durable. (You literally cannot destroy traditional cast iron—even a super-rusted one can be restored.) We will get into the differences between the two shortly.

In the end, there’s no “best” material, but rather it’s important to consider what you’re using the skillet for and choose accordingly.

Enameled Cast Iron vs. Cast Iron Skillets

Expanding on what we touched on above, many folks wonder if they should buy an uncoated cast iron skillet or an enameled one. The answer isn't definitive, since both have their pros and cons. Uncoated cast iron offers incredible browning abilities and can be used with metal utensils without fear of scrapes. It holds heat well, too. On the downside, it does take a smidge more work to clean, since it's prone to rusting if left damp after washing.

Enameled cast iron also retains heat nicely and offers a slick enamel surface that helps prevent foods from sticking (though it's hardly as nonstick as, well, nonstick). Plus, there's no seasoning required. However, the enamel can scratch and chip, so it's best to avoid using metal utensils with this style of pan.

Both are versatile workhorses though and can be used well on stovetops as well as in the oven.

Handles Are Important

While a handle might seem like an afterthought, it arguably makes a skillet a skillet. Without it, you’d just have a round pan that’d be tricky to move, especially while wearing oven mitts. Skillet handles differ based on the material and style of the pan, and throughout our reviews, we’ve found user preference varies. We particularly liked the ergonomic handle of the HexClad Hybrid Skillet. But, overall, a good handle (or handles) should be ergonomic, easy to grip, and provide enough leverage to lift and move the pan easily or give food a toss. It should also keep your hand far enough away from the heat. 

Consider the Skillet's Price

We think skillets should come with a reasonable price tag and have found that, in many cases, ultra-pricey cookware tends to perform the same as more affordable pieces. For example, a $20-ish Lodge pan has been our favorite for years. And with nonstick, cheaper is just better—since you'll have to replace it in a few years anyway.

Which Size Skillet Is Best? 

The skillets we recommend here are all between 10 and 12 inches. These are practical sizes that allow plenty of room in the pan for ingredients to cook evenly without crowding. Smaller skillets may cost less upfront but aren't as versatile unless you're frying just an egg or two. (Though, that is certainly an argument for having an 8-inch cast iron or carbon steel pan on hand.) A 10-inch skillet can accommodate enough food for up to three people, while a larger 12-inch option can feed four or more.

How Do I Tell If a Skillet is Compatible with Induction?

Nowadays, a lot of cookware is induction compatible, but if there’s any doubt, look for an induction symbol on the packaging or the bottom of the pan. It looks like a squiggly line and says “induction,” so you can’t miss it! You can also grab a magnet and hold it to the bottom of any piece of cookware. If the magnet sticks solidly, the pan will work on an induction stove.

Our Longtime Favorite Skillets

The Best Stainless Steel Skillet

Made In 12-Inch Stainless Steel Skillet

$139 at Amazon $119 at Made In Cookware

What we liked: This responsive stainless steel skillet heated up quickly and evenly in our tests, searing chicken breasts to a nice golden brown and flipping evenly burnished crepes. The rounded handle was comfortable to grip, letting us toss and sauté with control. We noted that “overall, its construction and design are simple and utilitarian but solid.” That’s all you really need in a great skillet.

What we didn't like: While we didn't experience any warping with this pan, others have. If the pan's warped, it won't work well on glass cooktops. It doesn’t come with a lid, which isn’t a dealbreaker, but it would be nice to have.

Key Specs

• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: Up to 800°F
• Material: 18/10 stainless steel; 430 stainless steel
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes, but hand washing is recommended
• Warranty: 1-year (Made In also offers a 45-day trial period)

An Editor-Loved Stainless Steel Skillet

All-Clad D3 Stainless-Steel 12-Inch Fry Pan

$130 at Amazon $100 at Williams Sonoma $13 at Walmart

What we liked: All-Clad is a stalwart of the stainless steel scene, and the brand's D3 skillet is exceptional. We've long admired its lightning-fast responsiveness, spacious cooking surface, and sturdiness. Commerce editor Grace Kelly has had this skillet for five years, and it's served her well. "The All-Clad is a tough-as-nails skillet that heats up quickly and sears a mean steak," she says.

What we didn't like: The indented handle isn't everyone's favorite, but we still find it comfortable to hold.

Key Specs

• Compatible with induction cooktops: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: Up to 600°F
• Material: 18/10 stainless steel
• Weight: 2 pounds, 13 ounces
  Warranty: Limited lifetime
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

The Best Budget-Friendly Stainless Steel Skillet

Tramontina 12-Inch Stainless Steel Skillet

$70 $50 at Amazon

What we liked: This affordable stainless steel skillet punched above its weight class in our tests. It seared chicken quickly and evenly, and the sloped sides kept vegetables contained whilst sautéeing. It’s also broiler-safe, making it a truly versatile option.

What we didn't like: The long, sloping sides reduced the cooking surface area. It’s not as heat-safe as the Made In, though 500°F isn’t too shabby.

Key Specs

• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: Up to 500°F
• Material: 18/10 stainless steel; aluminum core; magnetic stainless steel
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes
• Warranty: Lifetime

The Best Cast Iron Skillet

Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet

$35 $20 at Amazon $20 at Walmart

What we liked: We've loved Lodge's cast iron skillet for years—it's reasonably priced and gets a mean sear on steak and chicken breast. In our tests, it heated up quickly and turned out perfectly golden cornbread. The handle is comfy to grasp, too.

What we didn't like: It's heavier than some of our other top cast iron picks, and in our test, cornbread stuck a wee bit, but we were able to get it out without it breaking.

Key Specs

• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: Up to 500°F
• Material: Cast iron
• Weight: 5 pounds, 7 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: No
• Top diameter: 10.25 inches
• Bottom diameter: 9 inches
• Handle length: 5 inches

The Best Lightweight Cast Iron Skillet

Lancaster No. 8 Cast Iron Skillet

$175 at Amazon View on Lancastercastiron.com

What we liked: This skillet weighs a little over four pounds, which is incredibly light for a cast iron skillet. In our tests, it heated up in a flash, seared steaks beautifully, and turned out golden cornbread with caramelized edges. Throughout our long-term testing, it's held up very well and the seasoning has built to a burnished black that releases food with ease.

What we didn't like: Because it's thin and light, it does wobble a bit on a glass-top stove. It doesn't have a helper handle, but because it's so light we didn't miss it.

Key Specs

• Weight: 4 pounds, 4.3 ounces
• Thickness: 3 millimeters
• Bottom diameter: 9.25 inches
• Top diameter: 10.5 inches
• Handle length: 5 inches
• Helper handle: No
• Pre-seasoned: Yes
• Cleaning: Hand-wash, dry, and rub with high smoke point, neutral oil
• Induction-friendly: Yes

The Best Enameled Cast Iron Skillet

Le Creuset 10.25 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle Skillet

$220 at Amazon $175 at Williams Sonoma

What we liked: In our enameled cast iron skillet tests, we loved the Le Creuset's performance and solid build quality. It browned well and heated quickly and evenly, and the angled pouring spouts on both sides of the rim are a convenient touch. The looped helper handle was also nice and wide, and made moving the skillet easy.

What we didn't like: We did have some issues with food sticking, but when properly heated and oiled, this was less of an issue.

Key Specs

• Weight: 4 pounds, 15 ounces
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: 500°F

Another Great Enameled Cast Iron Skillet

Staub 10-Inch Fry Pan

$160 at Amazon $200 at Williams Sonoma

What we liked: The Staub enameled cast iron skillet was one of the lighter-weight options we tested at under five pounds. It was a close second in our review, searing steak golden brown and creating picture-perfect fried eggs.

What we didn't like: We wished the helper handle was larger. The cornbread baked up slightly unevenly, but it still tasted delicious.

Key Specs

• Weight: 4 pounds, 15 ounces
• Diameter: 10 inches
• Cooking surface diameter: 8.25 inches
• Max heat: 900°F
• Care instructions: Dishwasher-safe (though we'd recommend hand-washing to preserve its longevity)
• Induction compatible: Yes

The Best Budget Enameled Cast Iron Skillet

Crock-Pot Artisan 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

$45 $31 at Amazon

What we liked: If you want a decent enameled cast iron skillet that performs well and won't break the bank, we quite liked this option from Crock-Pot (and no, it's not a slow cooker!). Its slick surface made it easy to flip over easy eggs and sear steak without sticking.

What we didn't like: It didn’t have quite the same heat retention as our pricier top picks and over the course of long term testing, the enamel has built up a few unsightly stains.

Key Specs

• Weight: 6 pounds, 5 ounces
• Diameter: 10 inches
• Cooking surface diameter: 8.25 inches
• Max heat: 500°F
• Care instructions: Hand wash
• Induction compatible: Yes
  

The Best Carbon Steel Skillet

Mauviel M'Steel Black Carbon Natural Nonstick Frying Pan With Iron Handle

$95 at Amazon

What we liked: When we tested 13 carbon steel skillets, Mauviel took the top spot with its pleasing heft and even, well-distributed heating. Carbon steel is basically nonstick when properly seasoned, and the Mauviel’s generous surface area allows for a variety of uses—including making an excellent tarte tatin.

What we didn't like: It was a bit heavy, which made it harder to tilt and turn.

Key Specs

• Weight: 3 pounds, 3 ounces
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: 680°F

The Best Budget Carbon Steel Skillet

Vollrath 58920 French Style 11" Carbon Steel Fry Pan

$46 at Amazon $46 at Walmart

What we liked: Vollrath pans are lightweight, affordable, and frequently found in professional kitchens, so we weren’t surprised when this 11-inch skillet performed well in our tests. This pan heats quickly and evenly and won’t break the bank. 

What we didn't like: The handle on this pan is pretty dang long, which can be cumbersome.

Key Specs

• Weight: 2 pounds, 6 ounces
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: 600°F

The Best Nonstick Skillet (That's Also Induction-Friendly)

T-fal Professional Total Nonstick Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator Fry Pan

$52 at Amazon $32 at Walmart

What we liked: T-fal is an enduring name in the nonstick skillet game. This pan performed well in our tests thanks to a smooth coating, and even heating. You can even toss it in the dishwasher—though we recommend washing it by hand to extend the life of the nonstick coating.

What we didn't like: Since nonstick pans can off-gas at high temperatures, we suggest ignoring T-fal’s signature “your pan is now ready” Thermo-Spot heat indicator.

Key Specs

• Weight: 1 pound, 13 ounces
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: 400°F

The Best Budget Nonstick Skillet

Tramontina 10-Inch Professional Aluminum Nonstick Restaurant Fry Pan

$60 $30 at Amazon $31 at Walmart

What we liked: This pan did well in our tests: Eggs slid off easily, as did omelets and crepes. It also sports a silicone-lined handle that is pleasantly grippy. As we recommend when considering a nonstick skillet, this one is pretty cheap.

What we didn't like: It's not induction-compatible and sports a slightly smallish cooking surface.

Key Specs

• Maximum oven temperature: 400℉
• Induction compatible: No
• Weight: 1 lb, 15 ounces
• Care instructions: Dishwasher-safe; we recommend hand-washing

The Best Ceramic Frying Pan

Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan

$95 $85 at Amazon

What we liked: Ceramic offers the benefits of nonstick without the off-gassing. In our tests, the ceramic skillet from Caraway released fried eggs, omelets, and even crepes without a hitch. It's also oven-safe to 550°F, which is a great boon for versatility.

What we didn't like: It's five pounds which was one of the heavier models we tested.

Key Specs

• Weight: 5 pounds
• Materials: Aluminum, ceramic
• Care: Hand-wash only; avoid metal utensils 
• Maximum oven temperature: 550ºF
• Induction compatible: Yes

The Best Sauté Pan

Made In Stainless Clad Saute Pan 3.5 QT

$169 $161 at Amazon $159 at Made In Cookware

What we liked: While a sauté pan isn't exactly a skillet, they share enough similar qualities that we think it's worth including in this roundup. This stunner from Made In had incredible browning power in our tests, turning out crispy, golden-brown chicken skin and cutlets, and caramelized cabbage. There's ample surface area for cooking, and the flared lip allows for easy pouring. It can handle temperatures of 800˚F—not too shabby!

What we didn't like: There's a lot more material to this pan than the skillets on our list, which makes it a pricier pick.

Key Specs

• Weight: 3 pounds; 4 pounds with lid
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: 800°F

The Best Braiser

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Braiser

$290 at Amazon $290 at Williams Sonoma

What we liked: Think of a braiser as a skillet with added value. Most braisers are made of cast iron coated in enamel, which, paired together, make for a pan that gets ripping hot and sports a sleek, forgiving surface. (No need to worry about acid stripping seasoning, like you do with an uncoated cast iron skillet). Plus, they're roomy and come with lids. The enamel glaze on this braiser refused to chip or crack, no matter what we did to it. There's plenty of room for searing without crowding the pan. The wide, roomy handles were comfortable and made us feel confident when maneuvering it in and out of the oven. Like all Le Creuset products, it comes in a variety of attractive colors.

What we didn't like: It costs a lot and it's kinda heavy.

Key Specs

• Weight: 12 pounds, 11.5 ounces
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Oven-safe temperature: 500˚F

The Best Rondeau

Misen 6 QT Rondeau

$134 at Amazon

What we liked: A rondeau is basically a wider sauté pan with two side handles instead of one long one. It's a super versatile piece of cookware: You can sear, sauté, and braise in it. When we tested rondeaus, our favorite came from Misen. It was responsive, gave chicken skin a gorgeous golden brown sear, and braised a silky and succulent chicken and cabbage stew.

What we didn't like: We wished the handles were a little higher up the sides and that Misen provided an oven-safe temperature rating.

Key Specs

• Materials: Stainless steel
• Stated capacity: 6 quarts
• Oven-safe: Yes (Misen does not say up to what temperature) 
• Weight (without lid): 4 lbs, 12.7 ounces
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

The Best Tamagoyaki Pan

TECHEF Tamagoyaki Japanese Egg Pan

$23 at Amazon $23 at Walmart

What we liked: Tamagoyaki pans are rectangular so they can make the perfect-shaped Japanese omelet (a.k.a tamagoyaki). And, since they are essentially nonstick pans, they can also be used to cook a single grilled cheese or even a piece of French toast. This one from Techef had a securely attached handle and a slight incline at the lip which made it easy to turn out beautiful rectangular omelets. Plus, it's under $30.

What we didn't like: It's nonstick so it's best not to use it over high heat. The coating will eventually wear off, too.

Key Specs 

• Materials: Teflon nonstick coating, aluminum
• Weight: 1 pound, 0.8 ounces
• Induction-friendly: Yes
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes, though we recommend hand-washing nonstick skillets

FAQs

What’s the difference between a skillet and a frying pan?

There is no difference! It’s really just a matter of preference in how you refer to the pan. Skillets (or frying pans) are characterized by the aforementioned sloping sides and are available in a variety of sizes and materials. Given their longevity, cast iron may be the first thing that comes to mind when picturing a frying pan.

Are there any skillets that are better than cast iron?

Cast iron is ultra-durable and, contrary to popular belief, not as tedious to maintain as you might think. However, because cast iron is so heavy, you might prefer a different material for everyday cooking. Consider carbon steel or stainless steel for similar longevity without the heft.

What is the best skillet?

We think the best skillets are the ones that combine performance, longevity, and price. For that reason, our top recommended materials are stainless steel, cast iron, and carbon steel.

Why We're the Experts

• Summer Rylander is a food and travel journalist based in Nuremberg, Germany. She has written numerous stories for Serious Eats, including a review of pasta drying racks and a piece about how to choose between ceramic and nonstick skillets.
• Grace Kelly is the commerce editor at Serious Eats. She's been with the site since 2022 and previously worked at America's Test Kitchen.
• For this story, we combed through our library of extensive cookware reviews, choosing picks that outperformed the competition in test after test.