The Always Pan and Caraway Cookware are two of the most popular direct-to-consumer kitchen brands, but they target very different needs. The Always Pan by Our Place is a single, multi-functional piece designed to replace several pans, ideal for small spaces and everyday use, while Caraway offers complete sets of non-toxic, eco-friendly cookware designed as a long-term kitchen investment.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which cookware is the right fit for your kitchen and cooking style.
Always Pan 2.0 by Our Place
The Always Pan is a cleverly designed all-in-one pan that has gained a massive following for its functionality and eye-catching aesthetics. It’s designed to replace a fry pan, sauté pan, steamer, skillet, and more, making it a favorite for those with limited kitchen storage or anyone who values a minimalist setup. Its vibrant color palette and smart features make cooking and cleanup more convenient.
- What it is: A versatile, non-stick pan that combines eight traditional cookware functions into one.
- Key features: Patented non-stick ceramic coating made without PTFE/PFOA or PFAS, stainless steel steamer basket, a nesting spatula with a built-in spoon rest on the handle, compatible with all cooktops including induction.
- Price: Around $150
- Dimensions: 10.5 inches in diameter, 2.75 inches depth, 4-quart capacity.
- Materials/Construction: Heavy-gauge cast aluminum body for even heat distribution. Finished with a non-toxic ceramic coating.
- Style: Modern and chic, offered in a wide range of beautiful, contemporary colors like Sage, Terracotta, and Blue Salt.
- Pros: Excellent space-saver that replaces multiple other pans. Includes helpful accessories like a steamer and spatula. Striking design and colors make it a showpiece. Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Cons: The ceramic non-stick surface can degrade over time if not cared for properly (e.g., using high heat or metal utensils). Not designed for high-heat searing or oven use. Best for small households and may not be large enough for family-sized meals.
The Always Pan is perfect for individuals, couples, or city dwellers who want an attractive, multi-functional pan that handles most daily cooking tasks and looks great on the stovetop.
Shop this product: fromourplace.com/products/always-pan
Caraway Cookware Set
Caraway offers thoughtfully designed cookware sets focused on non-toxic materials and sustainable practices. Unlike a single pan, Caraway provides a complete kitchen solution for those looking to invest in a full cookware refresh. Their branding is minimalist and health-conscious, appealing to home cooks who prioritize clean cooking and a cohesive, modern kitchen aesthetic.
- What it is: A full set of non-toxic, eco-friendly pots and pans, typically including a fry pan, saucepan, sauté pan, and Dutch oven.
- Key features: Non-toxic ceramic coating free of PTFE and PFOA. Stainless steel handles, compatible with all cooktops, and oven-safe up to 550°F. Sets include a magnetic pan rack and a canvas lid holder for storage.
- Price: $395 for a 4-piece set to $595 for larger sets.
- Dimensions: The standard set includes a 10.5" Fry Pan, 3 qt Sauce Pan, 4.5 qt Sauté Pan, and a 6.5 qt Dutch Oven.
- Materials/Construction: Recycled aluminum core for even heating, coated with a durable, mineral-based ceramic surface.
- Style: Minimalist and Scandinavian-inspired with a clean, understated look. Available in a curated palette of neutral colors with a gloss or matte finish.
- Pros: Provides a comprehensive set for all types of cooking. Completely non-toxic and eco-friendly. Exceptionally durable construction is oven-safe. Includes a smart and effective storage solution.
- Cons: Significantly higher upfront cost. Sells primarily in sets, which may not suit someone who only needs a single pan. Non-stick coating still requires care to avoid damage.
A Caraway set is the ideal choice for health-conscious families or anyone looking to upgrade their entire kitchen collection with a high-quality, durable, and non-toxic set.
Shop this product: carawayhome.com/products/cookware-set
Always Pan vs. Caraway Comparison
Dimensions & Sizing
The primary difference here is the format. The Always Pan is a single 10.5-inch pan with deep sides, making it versatile enough for frying an egg or cooking a one-pot pasta meal for two. Its single footprint is ideal for kitchens where storage is tight. It’s built for daily convenience for one to three people.
Caraway, on the other hand, sells complete sets. Their standard set includes four distinct pieces: a 10.5" skillet, a saucier for liquids, a larger sauté pan, and a big Dutch oven for soups and roasts. This setup covers a much broader range of cooking styles and allows for preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, which is better suited for families or those who enjoy more complex cooking.
Materials & Construction
Both brands use a non-toxic ceramic coating over an aluminum base, which ensures even heating. However, Caraway positions its construction as a more durable, long-term option. Caraway pans feel slightly heavier and more robust, and they are oven-safe up to 550°F - a major advantage for recipes that require finishing in the oven.
The Always Pan also has a quality build but is generally not considered oven-safe and is best used over low to medium heat on the stove to protect its non-stick coating. Both require similar care: avoid metal utensils, high heat, and abrasive scrubbers to maximize the life of the non-stick surface.
Price & Value
This is a clear point of differentiation. At around $150, the Always Pan offers incredible value for those who need a single, versatile tool. It's an accessible update that performs many jobs well without requiring a huge financial commitment.
Caraway starts at around $395 for its base set, which is a significant upfront investment. However, you're getting four high-quality pieces and an included storage system. For those outfitting a new kitchen or replacing an old set, Caraway often presents a better value per piece when buying the complete system.
Style & Versatility
Both brands excel in design. The Always Pan is bright, playful, and Instagram-famous. Its wide range of expressive colors serves as a statement piece that can add a pop of personality to any kitchen. Its versatility comes from doing many tasks adequately in one piece, bolstered by its clever steamer basket and integrated spatula rest.
Caraway's aesthetic is more subdued, minimalist, and uniform. Available in elegant earthy and neutral tones, it contributes to a calming, cohesive kitchen environment. Its versatility lies in the synergy of a complete set - you have the right tool for every specific job, from searing a steak in the fry pan to simmering sauce in the saucepan.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both of these cookware options are excellent, but they are built for distinctly different cooks and kitchens.
Choose the Always Pan if:
- You live in an apartment or home with a small kitchen and limited storage space.
- You primarily cook for one or two people and appreciate minimalist cookware.
- You want a bold statement piece and love having fun color options.
- You need a versatile pan for quick, everyday meals like stir-fries, eggs, and pasta.
- You're on a budget and want a single, affordable, high-performing pan.
Choose a Caraway Cookware Set if:
- You're ready to invest in a complete, matching cookware set for a full kitchen upgrade.
- Your top priority is using non-toxic and environmentally friendly materials.
- You need durable, oven-safe cookware for more advanced recipes.
- You cook for a family or entertain guests frequently and need multiple pots and pans.
- You prefer a clean, minimalist, and sophisticated kitchen aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Always Pan and Caraway?
The key differences are format and philosophy. The Always Pan is a single, multi-functional piece designed for simplicity and small spaces. Caraway offers a full set of specialized, non-toxic cookware intended as a long-term, comprehensive kitchen investment.
Is Caraway cookware really non-toxic?
Yes, Caraway prides itself on its non-toxic construction. Its cookware is made without PTFE (like Teflon), PFOA, PFAs, and heavy metals. They use a mineral-based ceramic coating on a recycled aluminum core for a healthier cooking surface.
Can you put the Always Pan or Caraway pans in the oven?
Caraway pans are oven-safe up to 550°F, making them versatile for a wide range of cooking techniques. The Always Pan is not designed for oven use, its primary function is as a stovetop pan.
Which brand is better for induction cooktops?
Both the Our Place Always Pan and all of Caraway’s cookware are compatible with induction cooktops, as well as gas and electric stoves.
Does the Always Pan truly replace a full cookware set?
For a minimalist or a single person, the Always Pan can capably handle most day-to-day cooking jobs. However, it cannot fully replace the specialized functionality of a large Dutch oven for soups or a small saucepan for heating liquids, so those who love to cook may still need a few other pieces.
Why is Caraway so much more expensive?
The higher price of Caraway reflects that you are purchasing a full set of four distinct pieces of cookware (fry pan, saucepan, sauté pan, and Dutch oven), plus their proprietary racks and lid holder for storage. The per-piece cost is comparable to other premium cookware brands.
How do I clean and care for this type of non-stick cookware?
For both brands, it's best to hand wash with a soft sponge and mild soap to protect the non-stick coating. Avoid high heat for extended periods, never use metal utensils, and let the pans cool down completely before washing to prevent damage.
Which one has a better warranty or return policy?
Caraway offers a 30-day free trial and a limited one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects. Our Place offers a 100-day trial and a similar one-year limited warranty on the Always Pan’s non-stick coating and components.
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