Cook & Mason

If you are here, then it means you are looking to replace your stainless steel or nonstick cookware but can’t decide between Cuisinart and Calphalon. It’s easier to get confused since both brands have similar designs and similar features.

In this head-to-head comparison of Calphalon vs. Cuisinart, you’ll find out how high their stainless steel and nonstick cookware scores in terms of durability, design, cooking performance, construction, materials, and much more.

Calphalon Cookware Set

What I Like

Nonstick and stainless steel option: Calphalon offers different sets of cookwares with either a stainless steel or nonstick construction. The stainless steel cookware is often a go-to for most seasoned chefs for various reasons, including its incredible durability under high heat, even heat distribution, and nonstick cooking experience. Also, you can easily get a crisp golden result with this option.

If the stainless steel cookware is not for you, Calphalon offers an impressive nonstick cookware set that allows you to cook with a smidge of butter or oil. Also, they are easy and convenient to use.

Excellent construction: Their set of cookwares are available in different gauge construction from medium to heavy-gauge. The five-ply / heavy-gauge cookware features three aluminum layers between two stainless steel layers to deliver excellent temperature control, durability, and strength. Plus, its heavy-gauge / three-ply has two stainless sandwiching a heavy-gauge aluminum core for consistent heat control, durability, and strength.

What I Don’t Like

Lids: Calphalon products do not use tight-fitting stainless steel lids, which comes in handy for cooking in your oven.

Best Calphalon Cookware Set – Top 4 Picks for You

Top 1 – Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans Boil-Over Inserts, Nonstick Cooking Set

The Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans are built to deliver unparalleled cooking versatility and ensure you spend less time in the kitchen. This set of cookware is arguably the most sought after collection from the lines of products offered by this brand – and for a good reason.

This unit features an innovative, silicone no-boil-over insert to avert, making a mess and spills when making beans, potatoes, rice, and pasta. This unique feature allows you to spend quality time with other tasks while cooking without being distracted often.

That’s not the only thing to love about this cookware set. It comes with straining covers, convenient measuring marks, and pour spouts to allow users to cook better and efficiently. Also, it comes with a stay-cool stainless steel long handle to offer excellent heat resistance. This way, you can securely and safely handle your pots and pans when cooking on the stovetop.

Top 2 – Calphalon Classic Pots And Pans Set, 10-Piece Cookware Set, Stainless Steel

Another decent choice for anyone looking to purchase a stainless steel cookware set is the Calphalon Classic 10-Piece Cookware Set, Stainless Steel Pots And Pans Set. Each piece features a modern and durable stainless steel construction.

Talking about construction, this cookware set features an impact-bonded aluminum base for excellent heat control and consistent even heat distribution. Like our top choice, the Calphalon Classic 10-Piece Cookware Set, Stainless Steel Pots And Pans Set sports long handles that stay cool and offer safe and secure handling when cooking on the stovetop.

Further, they are dishwasher friendly, and oven safe up to 450 degrees F. this cookware set includes inch Fry Pan, 10 inch Fry Pan, 1.5 quart; Sauce Pan with cover, 2.5 quart; Sauce Pan with cover, 3 quarts; Saute Pan with cover, and 6 quart; Stock Pot with cover. Even better, this product comes with a lifetime limited warranty.

Top 3 – Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick 11 Piece Cookware Set

The Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick 11 Piece Cookware Set comes with more nonstick layers for better performance. With extra layers, this product delivers superior nonstick performance and improved durability. Each piece comes with three nonstick layers to create a longer-lasting, metal-utensil safe nonstick surface.

This product is crafted from hard-anodized aluminum to deliver a durable cooking surface, making its warp and corrosion-resistant. Besides, it provides an even heat distribution for more consistent and improved cooking results.

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick 11 Piece Cookware Set is constructed with a very thick gauge for professional-grade durability and incredible reliability that will withstand everyday use rigors. This product includes 10″ fry pan; 12″ fry pan with cover; 1. 5-qt saucepan with cover; 2. 5-qt saucepan with cover; 3-qt saucepan with cover; 8-qt stockpot with cover.

Top 4 – Calphalon Classic Pots And Pans Set, 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set

The Calphalon Classic Pots And Pans Set, 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set features two PFOA-free nonstick layers for easy food release, extra durability, and effortless cleanup. This unit features hard-anodized aluminum to deliver even heat distribution and allow you to cook efficiently.

Additionally, it features a stay-cool long handle that stays cool on the stovetop. This unit is oven-safe up to 450 degrees. Plus, it’s compatible with halogen, glass, electric, and gas stovetops. This model features staining covers, pour spouts, and measuring marks to make cooking more efficient.

However, it includes durable, tempered glass lids to withstand everyday use. This product contains an 8-inch fry pan. 10-inch fry pan. 1.5-quart sauce pan with cover. 2.5-quart sauce pan with cover. 3-quart saute pan with cover. 6-quart stockpot with cover.

Cuisinart Cookware Set

What I Like

Decent oven-safe range: most cookware pieces from Cuisinart can be used in your oven safely, which makes them incredibly versatile. Most of them can withstand a maximum heat ranging between 350 to 550 degrees F.

Design: Cuisinart is not only functional and versatile, but they also look good in any kitchen setting. The Cuisinart stainless steel cookware features an elegant silver finish to complement most kitchen decor.

But the hard-anodized aluminum cookware comes in a simple black look to match most decors. I prefer the enameled cast iron set available in a wide variety of bold colors as it coordinates well with any kitchen setting.

What I Didn’t Like

Durability: the Cuisinart is a cheaper option, which means it won’t be as durable as the collections from Calphalon. Also, I will lean more to the Calphalon cookware sets since they offer higher cooking performance.

Best Cuisinart Cookware Set – Top 4 Picks of the Year

Top 1 – Cuisinart French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 13-Piece Cookware Set

Our top pick for the best Cuisinart cookware set is the Cuisinart French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 13-Piece Cookware Set. This product features a three-layer design to deliver optimal heat. Each piece has a pure aluminum core sandwiched with two layers of pure stainless steel to provide professional performance.

Here’s more: It sports Heat Surround Technology for even heat distribution along the sidewalls and bottom of the cookware. Cuisinart French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 13-Piece Cookware Set comes with ergonomic, stainless stick handles that remain cool to offer a more comfortable and safe grip. Its unique thumb rest and sturdily riveted for superb control and durability.

Another thing to love about this cookware set is its solid stainless steel side grips making it easier to lift the pots and pans and provides a lifetime of balanced cooking. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe and has a long-lasting brilliant finish.

Top 2 – Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized, 17 Piece Set

This 17-piece set from Cuisinart features a hard-anodized exterior that is non-porous, dense, and highly wear-resistant for professional performance and extra durability. It comes with a premium titanium-reinforced nonstick coating surface for a lasting food release. Also, it allows you to cook with a smidge of butter or oil for a low-fat, healthier cooking option and hassle-free cleanup.

This product sports solid stainless steel riveted stick handles, offering a reliable and safe grip while cooking with the pot or pan on your stovetop. Sadly, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized, 17 Piece Set is not dishwasher safe.

It includes 1 Qt. Saucepan with Cover, 2 Qt. Saucepan with Cover, 3 Qt. Saucepan with Cover, 8 Qt. Saucepan with Cover, 4 Qt. Dutch Oven with Cover, 3.5 Qt. Sauté Pan with Helper Handle and Cover, 8″ Skillet, 10″ Skillet, 12″ Skillet with Cover, 20cm Multi-Steamer Insert.

Top 3 – Cuisinart 77-11G Chef’s Classic Stainless 11-Piece Cookware Set

Next is Cuisinart 77-11G Chef’s Classic Stainless 11-Piece Cookware Set with a mirror finish and a classic look to cooperate with most decor. This induction-ready cookware set delivers professional performance.

Each piece features an aluminum encapsulated base for quick heat up and even heat distribution, which eliminates hot spots. Also, its stainless steel cooking surface won’t alter flavors, react with food, or discolor. This model has measurement markings to make it easier to cook.

Thanks to its tempered glass break-resistant glass covers, users can monitor their food without having to open the lid, leading to loss of flavor and heat.

Top 4 – Cuisinart 77-17N 17 Piece Chef’s Classic Set

This is another 17-piece cookware set from Cuisinart designed to allow you to cook under a broiler, in the oven, or on the stovetop. Also, it’s freezer safe for smart storage.

Cuisinart 77-17N 17 Piece Chef’s Classic Set is oven safe up to 500 degrees F and dishwasher safe for a convenient cleaning experience. Plus, its original brilliant finish lasts for almost a lifetime.

Nonetheless, this set comes complete with 1.5 Quart Saucepan with cover, 1 Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover, 2 Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover,3 Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover,3.5 Quart Sauté Pan with Helper Handle & Glass Cover,4 Quart Dutch Oven with Glass Cover,8 Quart Stockpot with Glass Cover,8″ Skillet,10″ Skillet,12″ Skillet with Glass Cover,20cm Steamer Insert with Cover.

Conclusion

We’ve done our part. Now, it’s up to decide which brand best serves your purpose. However, we are confident that both brands of high-quality cookware deliver excellent cooking performance. Keep in mind that Calphalon cookware sets come with a salty price tag and more durable than collections from Cuisinart.

If you are reading this post, you are probably looking for a new cookware set to replace your old, warped bottom pans and pots creating hot spots or with broken or loosed handles. Especially with the nonstick coating of the pans flaking, now is the right time to shop for one of America’s test kitchen Best Cookware Sets.

However, the market offers almost an endless list of options, with most products not living up to their hype. This makes choosing the right set a bit challenging. Fortunately, we’ve done the homework for you, and here’s a review of the top-rated cookware set for your kitchen with a detailed buying guide to ensure you make the right pick.

Top 6 America’s Test Kitchen Best Cookware Set, Cooks Illustrated

Top 1 – Calphalon Simply Calphalon Hard-Anodized Nonstick 8-Piece Cookware Set

Our top pick is Calphalon Simply Calphalon Hard-Anodized Nonstick 8-Piece Cookware Set – and for a good reason. Each piece features a hard-anodized aluminum construction to deliver quick heat up and even heat distribution.

Its nonstick coating offers easy food release and a snappy cleaning experience. This set includes 6-quart covered stockpot, a 1- and 2-quart covered saucepan, and an 8- and 10-inch omelet pan. The Calphalon Simply Calphalon Hard-Anodized Nonstick 8-Piece Cookware Set comes with a dual-riveted cast stainless steel handle for secure handling. Its silicone accents ensure a cool to the touch experience.

Even better, it includes a domed tempered glass cover to seal in your food’s flavor and juice while ensuring it’s easier to monitor your food. Plus, this cookware set is oven-safe up to 400 degrees F and backed by a 10-year limited warranty.

Top 2 – Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set

Aside from this cookware set coming in a wide range of color options to match any kitchen settings, each piece is made with durable aluminum and hard, sturdy enamel porcelain exteriors. Its excellent craftsmanship ensures all pieces in the set withstand the rigors of daily use.

They come with a nonstick coating for hassle-free food release, allowing cleaning the pots and pans with the least effort. Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set include 3-quart sauté pan with lid, 1-quart and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 6-quart stockpot with lid, 8.5-inch and 10-inch frying pans, slotted turner, and spoon.

Besides, this 12-piece nonstick cookware set magnifies its shatter-resistant glass lid to lock in flavor and juice, and dual-riveted rubberized stainless steel handles for secure handles, as well as a spoon and slotted turners.

This multipurpose set of pots and pans are oven safe up to 400 degrees F and suitable for all stovetops, except induction.

Top 3 – All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware Set

The third is All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware Set and is a decent choice for home cooks. This set offers more than classic stainless steel style – high performance, excellent construct, and ease of use. It’s perfect for both beginners and culinary artists.

Another thing to love about this complete set of pans and pots is its versatility. This unit includes 2-quart, and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 8-inch, 10-inch fry pans, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid.

Each piece offers excellent heat distribution and retention, which means you can simmer, saute, braise, and sear on medium heat. This kitchenware set features three alternating layers of aluminum and stainless steel for outstanding performance. Besides, they are dishwasher safe for a convenient cleaning experience, oven safe up to 600 degrees F, and a decent warranty to protect your investment.

Top 4 – Tramontina 80116/249DS Gourmet Stainless Steel Induction-Ready Tri-Ply Clad 12-Piece Cookware Set

Next on our list is Tramontina 80116/249DS Gourmet Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set with a mirror-polished exterior finish to make this kitchenware easy to clean and attractive. Also, its satin-finished interior adds a touch of elegance and style.

Each piece features a riveted cast stainless steel handles for extra support and stability. The lids are crafted with 18/10 stainless steel to help seal in nutrients and heat.

Talking about construction, Tramontina 80116/249DS Gourmet Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set features Tri-Ply Clad construction: a triple layer of metal – magnetic stainless steel, aluminum core, and 18/10 stainless steel. This results in unbeatable heat conductivity and even heat distribution.

Top 5 – Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

First, this kitchenware set features a polished cooking surface that won’t react with food, discolor, or alter your food’s flavors. Like any top-rated set of pots and pans, this model has cool grip hands secured with stainless steel rivets for easy and safe handling.

That’s not all: it includes tight-fitting, self-basting lids to lock in your food’s nutrients and flavor. This model sports triple-ply construction with a pure aluminum core for unparalleled heat distribution. This ensures even heat distribution to get rid of hot/cold spots and maximum heat retention.

Each piece is oven safe to 550 degrees F and offers a drip-free pouring thanks to its tapered rim. It comes with tight-fitting stainless steel covers to seal in your food’s nutrients and natural juices for more flavorful, healthier results. This set includes 8-quart covered stockpot; 3-1/2-quart covered saute pan; 1-1/2- and 3-quart covered saucepans; 8- and 10-inch open skillets; steamer insert with lid.

Top 6 – All-Clad Essentials Nonstick Cookware set

Another kitchenware set coming with just about everything you need to cook from stovetop to oven to table. This product is crafted with durable, heavy-gauge anodized aluminum to ensure a warp-resistant and even cooking.

This model includes a 13-inch square pan, a 4 quart sauté pan with a lid, 8.5 inch and 10.5-inch fry pans, a 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, a 7-quart stockpot with lid, and multipurpose insert, and two bonus silicone trivets.

All-Clad Essentials Nonstick Cookware set comes with an ergonomic, riveted handle offering a secure, comfortable grip. Each piece is compatible with your halogen, ceramic, electric, and gas tops except induction.

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Cookware set cooks illustrated

Before making a choice, you need to consider a couple of factors to ensure you make an informed decision. These includes

Heat Conductivity

Some metals have high heat conductivity. For example, stainless steel is a poor conductor of heat, whereas copper offers excellent heat conduction. Kitchenware crafted with high heat conductivity material heats up much quicker and gets cooled just as quickly.

However, we recommend stainless steel since it can be used with high heat for more cooking functions than nonstick cookware.

Price

The amount you are willing to splurge on a cookware set determines what you end up with. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t opt for a set of pots and pans because it comes with a hefty price tag. Also, a cheap set might mean pots and pans without many bells and whistles, which won’t come in handy in your daily cooking. Therefore, you should always go for kitchenware, offering a great bang for your buck.

Durability

Not all cookware is crafted to last longer and maintain its elegant looks. In our opinion, stainless steel is the most durable and serves your purpose for many years. Keep in mind that only a handful of stainless steel cookware is dishwasher safe.

Reactivity

Some metals like aluminum react with acidic dishes, including tomato. This means your food has a high tendency to contain some metals. Therefore, you should consider cookware that won’t react with your food, alter its flavor, or discolor over time.

Maintenance

If shining your cookware is a bit too stressful to do every night, then it’s best to splurge on kitchenware requiring the least amount of maintenance. Generally, Cookware made of cast iron and copper requires a lot of effort to keep it in tip-top shape. However, stainless steel cookware is easy to maintain for a pristine-looking set of pots and pans.

Conclusion

By now, you should be aware that there are several brands offering cookware ranging from inexpensive to outrageous. When choosing the best cookware set, you should consider balanced weighted pans and pots.