The main difference between GreenPan and Made In ceramic cookware comes down to build quality, target audience, and price. GreenPan pioneered the affordable, eco-friendly ceramic non-stick market with colorful, lightweight pans perfect for everyday use, while Made In offers premium, professional-grade cookware with a heavier build, superior durability, and a higher price point aimed at serious home cooks.
This guide will walk you through the key differences to help you decide which ceramic cookware brand is the right investment for your kitchen.
GreenPan Ceramic Cookware
Launched in 2007, GreenPan is famous for introducing Thermolon, the first ceramic non-stick coating free from toxic chemicals like PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. The brand focuses on creating healthy, stylish, and accessible cookware, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers and families looking for a reliable, non-toxic alternative to traditional non-stick pans.
- What it is: Eco-friendly, ceramic non-stick cookware featuring a proprietary Thermolon coating over an aluminum base.
- Key features: Signature Thermolon non-stick surface, excellent heat distribution, and a wide variety of bright, modern color options.
- Price: An accessible mid-range option, with individual pans priced from $20 to $150 and full sets typically costing between $100 and $200.
- Style: Modern and vibrant with an approachable, friendly look. Pans are available in shades like navy, teal, cream, and black to match contemporary kitchen designs.
- Materials/Construction: Aluminum bodies provide quick and even heating, while the Thermolon ceramic coating provides easy food release. The construction is generally lightweight and easy to handle.
- Pros: A pioneer in non-toxic cookware. Affordable and budget-friendly. Available in many vibrant colors and styles. Easy to find online and in major retail stores. Lightweight design is easy to handle day-to-day.
- Cons: Non-stick coating can be less durable than premium alternatives. Lighter construction may not offer the same heat retention as heavier pans. Some users report the non-stick performance fades over time with heavy use.
GreenPan is perfect for home cooks who need dependable, non-toxic cookware for daily meals and appreciate having a range of modern, stylish colors to choose from without a major financial commitment.
Shop this brand: greenpan.us
Made In Ceramic Cookware
Made In is a direct-to-consumer brand that brings professional-grade kitchen tools to home chefs. Their ceramic non-stick cookware line is designed for high performance and exceptional durability, featuring a robust multi-layer construction and a chemical-free coating. Made In focuses on longevity, stripping away retail markups to offer premium quality at a more accessible, though still higher, price.
- What it is: Professional-quality ceramic non-stick cookware focused on durability, longevity, and superior cooking performance.
- Key features: Multi-ply base for excellent heat conduction, ultra-durable non-stick surface, and a substantial, heavy-duty feel.
- Price: A premium cookware line, with individual pans starting around $80 and sets ranging from $200 to $400.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and professional. The aesthetic is understated, with matte black or dark gray finishes that look at home in a high-end kitchen.
- Materials/Construction: Features a thick aluminum core for superior heat control and retention. The construction is noticeably heavier and more robust than many consumer-grade alternatives, designed to withstand intense use.
- Pros: Exceptional durability built for long-term use. Professional-grade heat distribution and retention. Long-lasting non-stick surface with proper care. Sleek, timeless design. Direct-to-consumer model focuses on quality materials.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than GreenPan. Heavy weight can be a drawback for some users. Limited color and style options. Sold exclusively through their website, limiting shopping options.
Made In is built for the passionate home chef who treats cooking seriously and is ready to invest in high-performance tools that will last for years.
Shop this brand: madeincookware.com
GreenPan vs. Made In Comparison
Materials & Construction
The most significant difference lies in the build quality. GreenPan uses aluminum bodies that are lightweight and heat up quickly, which is great for everyday tasks like cooking eggs or sautéing vegetables. However, their construction is not as heavy-duty.
Made In cookware is designed with a thicker, more substantial multi-ply base. This results in superior heat retention and more even heat distribution across the cooking surface, preventing hot spots. It feels heavier and more balanced in hand, a characteristic of professional cookware built for longevity.
Style & Aesthetics
If aesthetics are a key factor, your preference will be clear. GreenPan offers a vibrant and modern look with cookware available in a wide spectrum of colors, from bold blues to soft pastels. This allows you to choose pans that complement your kitchen decor and express personal style.
Made In takes a minimalist, performance-focused approach. Their non-stick cookware features a sleek, restaurant-style design with classic dark finishes. The look is timeless and professional, prioritizing function over passing trends.
Price & Value
GreenPan is the clear winner on budget-friendliness. With individual pans often costing less than $50 and sets under $200, it provides an accessible entry point into non-toxic cooking. The value is in its affordability and immediate usability for daily cooking.
While Made In is more expensive upfront, its value comes from long-term durability. These pans are an investment intended to last for many years with proper maintenance, potentially saving you from needing to replace a less durable pan every couple of years. Serious cooks often find the superior performance and lifespan justify the initial cost.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is where Made In truly stands apart. Its robust construction and resilient non-stick surface are engineered to handle more rigorous use and maintain performance over time. While no non-stick pan is indestructible, Made In's is built to last longer than most consumer-grade options.
The GreenPan Thermolon coating performs well for everyday use but can be more susceptible to wear and tear. To maximize its lifespan, it's crucial to avoid using metal utensils, high heat, and abrasive cleaning methods. Both brands recommend handwashing to protect the non-stick surface.
Who Each One Works Best For
GreenPan is perfect for beginner cooks, college students, or anyone who wants an affordable, non-toxic pan for daily use. It's also a great choice for those who want their cookware to serve as a design element in their kitchen, thanks to the wide variety of colors. If you're on a tight budget or just need a reliable pan for simple meals, GreenPan is an excellent choice.
Made In is for the passionate home cook who is ready to upgrade their kitchen arsenal. If you frequently cook complex meals, value precise temperature control, and want cookware that mimics the performance of a professional kitchen, Made In is the brand for you. It's an investment for someone who sees cooking as a serious hobby or craft.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both cookware brands are excellent non-toxic options, but they cater to very different types of home cooks.
Choose GreenPan if:
- You're on a budget and want a great non-toxic pan without a big investment.
- You value aesthetics and want colorful cookware to match your kitchen design.
- You need lightweight pans that are easy to maneuver for everyday meals.
- You like the convenience of purchasing from different retailers like Amazon or Williams Sonoma.
Choose Made In if:
- You're a serious home cook who demands high performance and durability.
- You see your cookware as a long-term investment and are willing to pay for quality.
- You prefer cookware with substantial weight for better heat retention and stability.
- You appreciate a timeless, professional aesthetic in your cookware.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between GreenPan and Made In?
The primary difference is their target market and construction. GreenPan offers affordable, stylish, and lightweight ceramic non-stick cookware for everyday home cooks. Made In produces premium, heavy-duty, professional-grade cookware designed for serious chefs who prioritize performance and long-term durability.
Is Made In's ceramic cookware worth the higher price?
For serious home cooks, yes. The higher price reflects superior materials, a more robust construction for better heat control, and a more durable non-stick surface designed to last much longer than budget alternatives. If you cook often and value performance, it's a worthwhile investment.
Which brand is better for a beginner cook?
GreenPan is better for beginners. Its affordability, user-friendly design, and wide availability make it an easy and low-risk starting point for someone building their first kitchen or exploring non-toxic cookware.
Are both GreenPan and Made In non-toxic?
Yes, both brands are committed to producing non-toxic cookware. Their ceramic non-stick coatings are free from PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, making them a safe choice for health-conscious consumers.
How long does the non-stick coating last on GreenPan vs. Made In?
With proper care, the coating on a Made In pan is generally expected to last longer than a GreenPan's. Made In's construction is engineered for greater resilience and longevity, while GreenPan is more of an entry-level product whose coating may wear out sooner with heavy use.
Can I put GreenPan or Made In cookware in the dishwasher?
While many GreenPan models are listed as dishwasher-safe, both brands strongly recommend handwashing with a soft sponge to preserve the integrity and extend the life of the non-stick surface. Dishwasher detergents can be harsh and abrasive, causing the coating to degrade faster.
Which cookware heats more evenly?
Made In's cookware typically heats more evenly due to its thicker, multi-ply construction. This robust base distributes heat uniformly across the surface and retains it better, providing more consistent cooking results for tasks like searing.
Where can I buy GreenPan and Made In cookware?
GreenPan is widely available and can be purchased on their official website, Amazon, and at major retailers like Williams Sonoma and Bed Bath & Beyond. Made In is sold exclusively through their website, madeincookware.com, as part of their direct-to-consumer business model.
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.
