The GreenPan Lima and Chatham collections represent two very different philosophies in cookware, differing primarily in material, cooking performance, and upkeep. GreenPan Lima features a lightweight aluminum body with a ceramic non-stick coating for quick, convenient cooking, whereas Chatham offers heavy-duty cast iron designed for superior heat retention and long-term durability.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which cookware is the right fit for your kitchen and cooking style.
GreenPan Lima Cookware
GreenPan Lima is known for its healthy, eco-friendly approach to non-stick pans. Featuring the brand's signature Thermolon ceramic non-stick surface, the Lima collection appeals to home cooks who value convenience, easy cleanup, and cooking with minimal oil without worrying about toxic fumes or chemicals.
- What it is: A popular line of healthy, ceramic non-stick cookware made with an aluminum core for fast and even heating.
- Key features: Signature Thermolon ceramic non-stick coating that is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. Features a durable, hard-anodized aluminum body and stay-cool stainless steel handles.
- Price: Mid-range, with individual frying pans starting around $50 and full sets typically ranging from $150 to $250.
- Materials/Construction: Hard-anodized aluminum base with a Thermolon ceramic interior. Lids are typically made of tempered glass.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and minimalist. Primarily available in a matte gray finish that suits contemporary kitchens.
- Pros: Excellent non-stick performance for foods like eggs and fish. Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Heats up quickly and evenly. Easy to clean. Toxin-free coating provides peace of mind.
- Cons: The non-stick coating has a shorter lifespan than cast iron and requires careful handling (no metal utensils). Not ideal for ultra-high-heat searing. Over time, the coating can degrade or stain.
The Lima collection is for daily users who prioritize healthy non-stick cooking, quick cleanup, and lightweight handling over long-term durability.
Shop this product: https://www.greenpan.us/collections/lima
Chatham Cast Iron Cookware
Chatham represents premium, heirloom-quality cookware celebrated for its durable cast iron and enameled cast iron pieces. Built to last for generations, this type of cookware is favored by serious home cooks for its incredible heat retention, which is perfect for searing meat, slow-cooking stews, and baking.
- What it is: High-quality cast iron and enameled cast iron cookware, including skillets, Dutch ovens, and grill pans designed for performance and longevity.
- Key features: Superior heat retention and even heat distribution. Suitable for all cooktops, including induction, and safe for use in the oven at high temperatures. Enameled surfaces require no seasoning.
- Price: Higher-end, with skillets starting around $70 and large enameled Dutch ovens costing $150 or more.
- Materials/Construction: Heavy-gauge cast iron, available in either a traditional raw, seasoned finish or with a multi-layered enamel coating to prevent rust.
- Style: Classic, rustic, and timeless. The enameled pieces come in vibrant, glossy colors that make them a stove-to-table statement piece.
- Pros: Extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Exceptional for searing, braising, and frying. Unparalleled heat retention keeps food warm long after cooking. Versatile enough for stovetop, oven, grill, or campfire use.
- Cons: Very heavy and can be difficult to lift and handle. Requires specific care - raw iron needs seasoning, and enameled iron can chip if dropped or subjected to thermal shock. Takes a long time to heat up.
This brand is ideal for passionate cooks who see their cookware as a long-term investment and need high-performance tools for techniques that require steady, even heat.
Shop this product: https://chathamhome.com
GreenPan Lima vs. Chatham Comparison
Materials & Durability
The core difference between these two lines is their material. The GreenPan Lima uses a hard-anodized aluminum body, which is lightweight and a fantastic heat conductor. However, its lifespan is determined by the ceramic non-stick coating, which can be scratched and will naturally wear out over a few years of regular use.
Chatham's cast iron is one of the most durable materials available for cookware. With proper care, a cast iron skillet can be passed down through generations. Enameled cast iron is slightly less rugged as the coating can chip, but it is still far more durable than any non-stick surface. Chatham wins by a landslide on longevity.
Cooking Performance & Heat
GreenPan Lima heats up very quickly, making it great for weekday breakfasts and quick stir-fries. Its non-stick surface allows food to release effortlessly with little to no oil. It excels at gentle-to-medium heat cooking.
Chatham's cast iron is slow to heat but retains that heat exceptionally well. This property makes it the champion for achieving a deep, crusty sear on a steak, for simmering a stew for hours at a low, even temperature, or for baking bread with a perfect crust. It is a tool for patience that delivers powerful results.
Care & Maintenance
The GreenPan Lima is relatively low-maintenance. While handwashing is recommended to prolong the life of the non-stick surface, cleaning is usually just a quick wipe with a soft sponge. The main rules are to avoid metal utensils, high heat, and abrasive scrubbers.
Chatham requires more attention. Raw cast iron must be kept seasoned (coated with baked-on oil) to remain non-stick and rust-proof. It should never be put in the dishwasher. Enameled versions are easier to clean and don't need seasoning but must be handled carefully to avoid chipping the enamel, and can't be exposed to sudden temperature changes (like pouring cold water into a hot pot), which can cause cracking.
Price & Value
GreenPan Lima offers great value upfront. It is much more affordable than cast iron, making it accessible for building a starter kitchen or for those who don't want to make a large financial investment in cookware. Its value lies in its convenience and healthy non-stick properties.
Chatham represents a long-term value proposition. The initial cost is significantly higher, but because it will not need to be replaced, it can be cheaper over a lifetime. It is an investment in performance and durability that pays for itself over decades of use.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both GreenPan and Chatham are excellent choices, but they serve different cooks and different tasks beautifully.
Choose GreenPan Lima if:
- You cook "release" foods like eggs, pancakes, and delicate fish frequently.
- You prioritize quick cleanup and dishwasher-safe convenience.
- You prefer lightweight cookware that is easy to handle and store.
- You want a healthy, non-toxic cooking surface and are willing to replace your pans every few years.
- You are on a budget or are looking for a great starter cookware set.
Choose Chatham if:
- You love to sear meat, roast vegetables, slow-cook stews, or bake.
- You view cookware as a "buy it for life" investment and value durability above all.
- You don't mind the weight of the pans or the extra care required for cleaning and maintenance.
- Superior heat retention for consistent cooking results is your top priority.
- You appreciate a timeless kitchen aesthetic and want pieces that can go from stove to oven to table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between GreenPan Lima and Chatham?
The main difference is the material and purpose. GreenPan Lima is lightweight aluminum cookware with a ceramic non-stick coating designed for convenience and everyday use. Chatham is heavy-duty cast iron or enameled cast iron built for high-heat cooking, superior heat retention, and lifetime durability.
Is GreenPan Lima's non-stick coating safe?
Yes. GreenPan's proprietary Thermolon ceramic non-stick is derived from sand and is made without PFAS, PFOA, lead, or cadmium. It will not release toxic fumes, even if accidentally overheated.
Does Chatham cast iron need seasoning?
It depends on the type. Traditional raw cast iron pieces from a brand like Chatham require seasoning - a layer of baked-on oil - to create a non-stick surface and prevent rust. Enameled cast iron pieces have a vitreous glass coating and do not need to be seasoned.
Which brand is more durable?
Chatham's cast iron cookware is far more durable. A cast iron pan can last for decades or even generations, while a non-stick pan like the GreenPan Lima will typically need refreshing every few years as the coating wears out.
Can I use metal utensils on GreenPan Lima cookware?
No, it is strongly recommended that you only use silicone, nylon, or wood utensils. Metal utensils can easily scratch and damage the ceramic non-stick coating, shortening its lifespan.
Which is better for high-heat searing?
Chatham's cast iron is unquestionably better for high-heat searing. Its ability to get roaring hot and retain that heat delivers an excellent crust on meat that non-stick pans cannot replicate.
Are both brands oven-safe?
Yes, but to different degrees. The GreenPan Lima is typically oven-safe up to 600°F (lids often to 425°F). Chatham cast iron is generally safe to much higher temperatures and is often used for baking and roasting inside the oven.
Which pan is easier to clean?
For most everyday messes, the GreenPan Lima is easier to clean thanks to its non-stick surface. However, a well-maintained enameled cast iron pan also cleans up very easily, and tough messes on raw cast iron can be scrubbed without fear of damaging the cooking surface.
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.
