The core difference between HexClad cookware and traditional stainless steel lies in the cooking surface and intended use. HexClad is a modern hybrid cookware that features a laser-etched hexagon pattern combining a stainless steel structure with non-stick valleys, designed to provide both durability and easy food release. Classic stainless steel cookware, from brands like Cuisinart, has an uncoated, pure stainless steel surface celebrated for its extreme durability, heat retention, and ability to achieve a superior sear.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which type of cookware is the right choice for your kitchen.
HexClad Cookware
HexClad has made a name for itself by creating hybrid cookware that aims to deliver the best of both worlds: the searing power and durability of stainless steel and the easy-to-clean convenience of a non-stick pan. Its signature hexagon-patterned surface allows food to slide off easily while being durable enough to handle metal utensils, making it a versatile option for everyday cooks.
- What it is: Hybrid cookware featuring a laser-etched stainless steel grid over a PFOA-free non-stick surface, built on a tri-ply construction.
- Key features: Unique hexagon non-stick surface, scratch resistance (safe for metal utensils), tri-ply construction for even heating, compatible with all cooktops (including induction), and oven safe up to 500°F.
- Price: Mid- to high-range, with individual pans typically costing $100-$200 and full sets ranging from $300-$700+.
- Style: Sleek and modern with a distinctive, high-tech hexagon pattern and polished steel accents.
- Materials/Construction: It has a three-layer construction: a magnetic stainless steel exterior, an aluminum core for even heat distribution, and a stainless steel/non-stick hybrid interior.
- Pros: Excellent balance of searing and non-stick performance. Extremely easy to clean compared to traditional stainless steel. Durable enough for metal utensils. Even and consistent heating. Perfect for cooking delicate foods like eggs and fish.
- Cons: More expensive than most traditional non-stick or entry-level stainless steel sets. The non-stick properties may require occasional re-seasoning and may not last as long as a pure stainless steel pan's lifespan.
This cookware is a great fit for the home cook who wants one versatile set that can handle almost any task without the steep learning curve or difficult cleanup of traditional options.
Shop this product: hexclad.com
Traditional Stainless Steel Cookware
For decades, stainless steel has been the workhorse of professional and serious home kitchens. Valued for its longevity, non-reactivity, and ability to withstand incredibly high temperatures, it excels at searing meats, sautéing vegetables, and creating flavorful pan sauces. Brands like Cuisinart, All-Clad, and Calphalon offer a wide variety of stainless steel options.
- What it is: Classic, uncoated cookware made from durable stainless steel, often featuring a multi-ply construction with a conductive core of aluminum or copper.
- Key features: Uncoated cooking surface, multi-ply construction (3-ply or 5-ply), compatibility with all cooktops, ability to withstand very high oven and broiler temperatures, and dishwasher safe.
- Price: A very broad price range, from budget-friendly sets around $100 to premium, professional-grade sets costing over $1,000.
- Style: Timeless, professional aesthetic with either a polished mirror finish or a more muted brushed finish.
- Materials/Construction: Typically made from high-grade stainless steel (like 18/10) with a core of aluminum or copper layered between steel for optimal heat conduction.
- Pros: Extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Exceptional heat retention and distribution. Perfect for achieving a deep brown sear on meats. Non-reactive material won't impart flavors into acidic foods. Can handle very high heat.
- Cons: A learning curve is required to prevent food from sticking. Can be more difficult to clean. Lower-cost pans without a conductive core can heat unevenly. Quality varies significantly by price point.
Stainless steel cookware is the right choice for cooks who prioritize performance, precision, and longevity and are willing to master the techniques needed to use it effectively.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com
HexClad vs. Stainless Steel Comparison
Materials & Construction
HexClad's cookware is built with a tri-ply construction: a layer of magnetic stainless steel on the bottom for induction compatibility, an aluminum core, and a top layer of stainless steel fused with a non-stick coating. The defining feature is the laser-etched hexagon design, where stainless steel "peaks" protect the non-stick "valleys" from scratches.
Traditional high-quality stainless steel cookware also uses a multi-ply construction (3-ply, 5-ply, or even 7-ply) to bond conductive metals like aluminum or copper with non-reactive stainless steel. This ensures even heating without hot spots. The key difference is its surface - it is pure, uncoated metal, which gives it extreme durability but no built-in non-stick properties.
Cooking Performance & Versatility
HexClad offers truly versatile performance. Its non-stick properties are excellent for delicate items like eggs, pancakes, and flaky fish, providing easy release and simple cleanup. At the same time, the stainless steel grid allows you to get a decent sear on steaks and vegetables, a capability most traditional non-stick pans lack.
However, for pure searing power, stainless steel is unmatched. Its uncoated surface is ideal for creating a deep, brown crust (the Maillard reaction) and developing "fond" - the browned bits that are essential for making rich pan sauces. It requires more skill with heat management and oil usage but rewards the user with superior browning and professional-level results.
Durability & Maintenance
One of HexClad's biggest selling points is its durability compared to other non-stick pans. The raised steel grid allows cooks to use metal utensils without a high risk of scratching the non-stick coating underneath. Clean-up is typically simple with soap and water. However, like all non-stick coatings, its performance may degrade over many years.
A well-made stainless steel pan can last a lifetime - or several. It is nearly indestructible and won't chip, peel, or wear out. The trade-off is maintenance. It requires more effort to clean, especially after searing, and can develop heat tint or stubborn stains that require specialized cleaners like Bar Keepers Friend to remove.
Price & Value
HexClad products are priced in the premium mid-range category, competing with high-end non-stick and mid-tier stainless steel brands. The value is in its hybrid functionality - you get two types of performance in one pan. For someone who doesn't want to own multiple sets of cookware, it can be a good investment.
The price of stainless steel cookware varies dramatically. You can find serviceable entry-level sets for a little over $100, while top-tier brands like All-Clad command prices upwards of $1,000. It presents a different value proposition: a long-term investment in durability and performance. A quality stainless steel set bought today will likely still be performing well decades from now.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both cookware types are excellent, but they are designed for vastly different priorities and cooking styles.
Choose HexClad if:
- You want the convenience of non-stick for daily meals like scrambled eggs and fish.
- Easy cleanup is one of your top priorities.
- You want a single, versatile pan that can sear meat and release delicate foods.
- You appreciate a modern kitchen aesthetic and are willing to pay for innovative technology.
Choose Stainless Steel if:
- You prioritize durability and want cookware that will last a lifetime.
- Achieving the perfect, high-heat sear on meat and vegetables is crucial to your cooking.
- You enjoy making complex pan sauces by deglazing the fond from the bottom of a pan.
- You don't mind a little extra scrubbing and are looking for a professional-grade tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between HexClad and stainless steel?
The primary difference is the cooking surface. HexClad features a hybrid surface with stainless steel peaks and non-stick valleys, designed for both searing and easy release. Traditional stainless steel has a pure, uncoated metal surface focused on incredible durability and high-heat cooking.
Is HexClad really non-stick?
Yes, HexClad cookware is PFOA-free non-stick. The performance for cooking foods like eggs and pancakes is excellent, especially when used with a small amount of fat and proper heat control. Its non-stick properties are protected by the steel grid, making it more durable than typical non-stick pans.
Can you use metal utensils on HexClad pans?
Yes, one of the key marketing features of HexClad is that it is metal-utensil safe. The stainless steel structure shields the non-stick coating in the valleys from damage, making it much more scratch-resistant than conventional non-stick pans.
Which is better for searing meat, HexClad or stainless steel?
While HexClad can achieve a good sear, traditional stainless steel is superior for searing. The completely flat, uncoated surface of a stainless steel pan makes better contact with the food, leading to a deeper, more even crust and better fond development for pan sauces.
How do you clean HexClad cookware?
For most uses, handwashing with a regular sponge and warm, soapy water is all that's needed. For tougher residue, you can use a scouring pad or even steel wool, as the stainless steel grid can withstand it. HexClad is also dishwasher safe.
Why does food stick to my stainless steel pan?
Food typically sticks to stainless steel for two reasons: the pan isn't hot enough before adding food, or there isn't enough cooking fat (oil or butter). The key is to preheat the pan properly before adding oil, and then make sure the oil is shimmering before adding ingredients.
Is HexClad considered healthier or safer?
HexClad uses a PFOA-free non-stick coating, which aligns with modern safety standards for non-stick cookware. Stainless steel is also considered very safe as it is inert and non-reactive, meaning it doesn't leach materials into food.
Which type of cookware lasts longer?
High-quality stainless steel cookware almost always lasts longer. With no coating to wear out, it can withstand decades of heavy use. While HexClad is very durable for a non-stick pan, its coating will eventually diminish over many years, whereas a stainless steel pan likely won't.
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