The All-Clad Stainless Steel 4112 and 41126 Sauciers come from the same family of premium cookware, but their core difference is size and capacity. The 4112 is a compact 2.5-quart pan perfect for small households and specific tasks, while the 41126 is a larger 4-quart version built for bigger meals and greater versatility.
Here is a detailed comparison to help you choose the right All-Clad saucier for your kitchen.
All-Clad D3 Stainless 2.5-Quart Saucier with Lid (4112)
The 4112 is All-Clad's compact workhorse, a high-performance saucier designed for everyday tasks like heating sauces, cooking grains, or reheating leftovers. Its smaller footprint and classic construction make it a go-to piece for individuals, couples, or anyone with limited kitchen and storage space.
- What it is: A professional-grade 2.5-quart stainless steel saucier pan from All-Clad's core D3 collection.
- Key features: 3-ply bonded construction with an aluminum core for even heating, a polished stainless steel finish, and a comfortable, stay-cool riveted handle.
- Price: Around $100-$130.
- Dimensions: Approximately 7 inches in diameter with a 2.5-quart capacity.
- Materials/Construction: Features a thick aluminum core sandwiched between layers of durable, non-reactive stainless steel, which extends all the way up the sides of the pan.
- Pros: Excellent heat control and responsiveness. Heats up quickly and evenly. Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Perfect size for small-batch cooking. Easier to store in smaller kitchens.
- Cons: Limited capacity is not ideal for cooking family-sized meals. Higher price point for its size compared to entry-level brands.
This saucier is for the home cook who values precision for tasks like making delicate sauces or side dishes and doesn't need a large-volume pan.
Shop this product: all-clad.com/d3-stainless-3-ply-bonded-cookware-saucier-pan-with-lid-2-5-quart.html
All-Clad D3 Stainless 4-Quart Saucier with Lid (41126)
The All-Clad 41126 is the larger, more versatile sibling, offering a generous 4-quart capacity for more ambitious kitchen projects. It's built for those who cook for a family, entertain guests, or enjoy meal prepping larger batches of soups, sauces, and grains.
- What it is: A larger-capacity 4-quart stainless steel saucier pan from the same D3 Stainless collection.
- Key features: Same 3-ply bonded construction and build quality as the 4112 but with nearly double the capacity. It also includes the secure-fitting lid and riveted ergonomic handle.
- Price: Typically costs between $150-$180.
- Dimensions: Around 9 inches in diameter with a 4-quart capacity.
- Materials/Construction: Utilizes the exact same bonded stainless steel with an aluminum core as found in the brand's other premium D3 cookware, ensuring signature All-Clad performance.
- Pros: Versatile enough for family meals, soups, and risottos. Offers excellent heat conduction in a larger size. More flexible for a wider range of recipes. Solidly built for years of use.
- Cons: Heavier and more cumbersome to handle and store. Takes longer to heat up due to its larger volume and surface area. Higher initial investment.
The 41126 is ideal for serious home cooks and larger households that require cookware that can handle bigger volumes without compromising on performance.
Shop this product: all-clad.com/d3-stainless-3-ply-bonded-cookware-saucier-pan-with-lid-4-quart.html
All-Clad 4112 vs. 41126 Comparison
Dimensions & Capacity
The clearest distinction between these two models is size. The 4112 holds 2.5 quarts, making it perfectly suited for preparing sauces for two to four people, cooking a cup of rice, or reheating a portion of soup. Its 7-inch diameter fits comfortably on smaller burners and won't crowd your cooktop.
The 41126 steps up significantly with a 4-quart capacity. This extra space makes it far more versatile for cooking pasta sauces for the family, making large batches of chili, or preparing dishes requiring more room for stirring, like risotto. Its larger 9-inch base provides more surface area for searing but requires a bigger burner for optimal performance.
Materials & Construction
When it comes to quality and materials, there is no difference. Both saucepans are part of All-Clad's legendary D3 Stainless line, crafted in the USA. They are both made with a three-layer bonded construction: a fast-heating aluminum core is bonded with two durable layers of stainless steel.
This construction ensures there are no hot spots and that heat is distributed evenly from the bottom all the way up the sides. Both pans feature a stain-resistant polished exterior, riveted steel handles designed to stay cool on the stovetop, and tight-fitting stainless steel lids. You can expect the same exceptional performance and durability from either one.
Price & Value
The All-Clad 4112 is the more affordable option, typically priced around $130, while the larger 41126 comes in at approximately $180. The choice in value comes down to your cooking habits. If you primarily cook for one or two people and own larger pots for other tasks, the 4112 delivers professional-grade performance at a lower cost.
However, if you are looking for a more flexible, do-it-all saucier, the 41126 offers significantly more capacity for a modest increase in price. For those who frequently cook larger meals, its versatility provides better long-term value, as it can do everything the smaller pan can and much more.
Who Each One Works Best For
The All-Clad 4112 is made for compact living and focused cooking. It's a perfect fit for apartment dwellers, couples, or anyone building a cookware collection piece by piece. If your kitchen is short on storage, its smaller size will be a huge advantage. It excels at preparing side dishes, gravies, and single-serving meals.
The 41126 is designed for families and avid home cooks. If you often find yourself preparing multi-portion meals, batch-cooking for the week, or tackling more involved recipes, this is the better pan. It can handle soups for four, sauces for six, and is a great tool for anyone who loves to entertain.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both pans offer the premium quality and performance that All-Clad is known for, but they are tailored to different kitchens and cooks.
Choose the All-Clad 4112 (2.5 Quart) if:
- You usually cook for one or two people.
- You have limited cabinet or storage space in your kitchen.
- You need a dedicated pan for precise tasks like making delicate sauces or gravies.
- You're looking for a more budget-friendly entry into the All-Clad ecosystem.
Choose the All-Clad 41126 (4 Quart) if:
- You regularly cook meals for a family of three or more.
- You enjoy batch cooking or preparing meals for the week ahead.
- You want a versatile, multi-purpose pan for soups, pasta dishes, and more.
- You have ample storage space and don't mind a heavier piece of cookware.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the All-Clad 4112 and 41126?
The only significant difference is their capacity. The 4112 is a 2.5-quart saucier, while the 41126 is a larger 4-quart saucier. Materials, construction quality, lid design, and handle are identical, just scaled to size.
Are the materials and build quality the same for both models?
Yes. Both pans are part of the All-Clad D3 Stainless collection and feature the exact same 3-ply bonded construction with an aluminum core and stainless steel surfaces. The quality is consistent across both models.
Can I use these pans on an induction cooktop?
Absolutely. Both the 4112 and 41126 are compatible with all cooking surfaces, including gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops. They are also oven and broiler-safe up to 600°F (without lid).
Which saucepan is better for a small family?
For a small family of two to three, the 41126 (4-quart) is generally the more versatile option. While the 2.5-quart is good for sides, the 4-quart can handle a main course like a pasta sauce or soup for the whole family.
Are All-Clad pans dishwasher safe?
Yes, All-Clad D3 Stainless cookware is dishwasher safe. However, many users recommend handwashing with a gentle detergent to maintain the pan's polished finish and extend its life.
Is the higher price of the 41126 worth it?
If you need the extra capacity, yes. The price increase is proportional to the larger amount of material used. For anyone who cooks in large volumes, the versatility of the 4-quart pan provides exceptional value and makes it a kitchen workhorse.
Do the handles on these sauciers get hot?
All-Clad handles are designed to stay cool on the stovetop thanks to their riveted, V-shape design that dissipates heat. However, they can get hot near the base of the pan and will become very hot if used in the oven. Always use a pot holder as a precaution.
Where can I buy the All-Clad 4112 and 41126?
Both models are widely available through All-Clad's official website, high-end department stores like Williams Sonoma, and online retailers such as Amazon and Sur La Table.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
