The main difference between Hexguard and Hexclad lies in their core materials and price points. Hexclad features a patented hybrid technology that combines a stainless steel grid with a non-stick surface for superior searing and durability, positioning it as a premium, long-term investment. Hexguard is a more affordable alternative that focuses on providing a high-performance, non-toxic ceramic non-stick surface on a hard-anodized aluminum base.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which cookware brand is the right choice for your kitchen and cooking style.
Hexclad Cookware
Hexclad is a well-established brand known for its innovative hybrid cookware that aims to deliver the best qualities of both stainless steel and non-stick. The unique design features a distinctive hexagonal grid of stainless steel over a non-stick base, providing high-heat searing capabilities, impressive durability, and easy cleanup. This construction has made it a favorite among serious home cooks and professional chefs who demand versatility and longevity.
- What it is: Patented hybrid cookware that combines a stainless steel structure with a PFOA-free non-stick surface.
- Key features: Hybrid technology for searing and easy release, oven safe up to 500°F, compatible with all cooktops including induction, scratch-resistant surface that is safe for metal utensils.
- Price: Premium pricing, typically ranging from $100 to $300 per piece.
- Materials/Construction: A three-ply construction with an aluminum core for even heating, sandwiched between layers of stainless steel. The cooking surface features the laser-etched stainless steel hexagonal grid over a non-stick coating.
- Style: Sleek and professional with a modern aesthetic, characterized by its visible hexagonal pattern and brushed stainless steel handles.
- Pros: Excellent searing and browning capabilities. Extremely durable and scratch-resistant. Combines the benefits of stainless steel and non-stick. Even heat distribution prevents hot spots. Generally comes with a lifetime warranty.
- Cons: High price point can be a significant investment. Heavier than traditional non-stick or ceramic pans. Can have a slight learning curve to achieve optimal non-stick results.
Hexclad is built for the cook who treats their kitchen gear as a long-term investment and wants durable, versatile pans that can handle everything from delicate eggs to a hard sear on a steak.
Shop this product: hexclad.com
Hexguard Cookware
Hexguard is a newer brand in the kitchenware space that offers a more accessible entry into a similar modern aesthetic. The brand focuses on creating affordable, high-performance ceramic non-stick cookware that is free from harmful chemicals like PTFE and PFOA. Hexguard emphasizes durability, scratch resistance, and eco-friendliness, targeting health-conscious home cooks who want reliable, easy-to-use pans for everyday cooking.
- What it is: Cookware featuring a proprietary ceramic non-stick coating on a hard-anodized aluminum base.
- Key features: Non-toxic ceramic coating that is PTFE and PFOA free. Compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops. Designed to be scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
- Price: More budget-friendly, typically between $50 and $200 per piece.
- Materials/Construction: A hard-anodized aluminum base provides even heat distribution, while the cooking surface uses a proprietary, durable ceramic non-stick coating.
- Style: Minimalist and modern with clean lines and smooth black or metallic finishes, featuring a subtle interior hexagonal pattern.
- Pros: More affordable price point. The non-toxic ceramic coating puts health and safety first. Lightweight and easy to handle. Excellent non-stick performance and simple cleanup.
- Cons: Ceramic non-stick may not be as durable long-term as Hexclad's hybrid design. Not as well-suited for very high-heat searing. Scratch resistance may be lower compared to a steel hybrid surface.
The Hexguard line is perfect for everyday home cooks who prioritize a non-toxic surface, easy cleanup, and a budget-friendly price without sacrificing a modern aesthetic.
Shop this product: hexguard.com
Hexclad vs. Hexguard Comparison
Materials & Construction
The biggest difference is in the construction. Hexclad uses a patented multi-ply system with a stainless steel grid etched over a non-stick surface. This hybrid approach gives you the durability of steel and the slickness of non-stick. The peaks of the hexagons are stainless steel, while the valleys contain the non-stick coating, protecting it from metal utensils.
Hexguard, conversely, uses a more traditional construction method: a hard-anodized aluminum body with a proprietary ceramic non-stick coating applied on top. While durable for a ceramic pan, it doesn't have the integrated steel structure, making Hexclad cookware inherently more resistant to scratches and high heat over the long run.
Durability & Performance
In terms of raw cooking power and durability, Hexclad has the upper hand. The stainless steel component allows for excellent heat retention and enables you to get a restaurant-quality sear on meats that is often difficult to achieve with purely non-stick surfaces. It's also recognized for being metal-utensil safe due to its design.
Hexguard still offers strong performance for everyday cooking tasks like frying eggs, sautéing vegetables, and simmering sauces. Its core function is to be an excellent non-stick pan. While it is designed to be scratch-resistant, it's generally best to use wood or silicone utensils to preserve the life of any ceramic coating.
Price & Value
Hexclad is positioned as a premium product with a price to match, often double that of Hexguard pieces. Its value comes from its longevity, with a lifetime warranty and rugged construction, one pan could genuinely last decades. It's an investment piece.
Hexguard offers much better upfront value. It provides a non-toxic, effective non-stick experience for a fraction of the cost. For shoppers on a budget or those not ready to commit to a high-end set, Hexguard delivers solid performance without a major financial outlay.
Style & Aesthetics
Both brands aim for a modern, professional look with their signature hexagonal patterns. Hexclad’s look is more defined by its stainless steel grid, giving it a somewhat industrial, high-tech appearance that many associate with professional kitchens. Hexguard's aesthetic is cleaner and more minimalist, with a uniform surface finish that appeals to those who prefer a subtler design.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both cookware brands are excellent choices, but they are built for different types of cooks with different priorities.
Choose Hexclad if:
- You're an enthusiastic home cook who wants versatile, professional-grade gear.
- Durability and long-term value are more important to you than the initial cost.
- You frequently sear steaks, pork chops, or other proteins and need high-heat performance.
- You want the convenience of using metal utensils without worry.
Choose Hexguard if:
- You're looking for an affordable, high-quality non-stick pan for everyday cooking.
- A completely non-toxic, PFOA and PTFE-free coating is your top priority.
- You value lightweight, easy-to-handle cookware with simple cleanup.
- You prefer to stick with a specific budget but don't want to compromise on modern design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Hexclad and Hexguard?
The main difference is the material. Hexclad uses a hybrid of stainless steel and non-stick for extreme durability and searing power, while Hexguard uses a more conventional ceramic non-stick coating over an aluminum base for cost-effective, non-toxic cooking.
Is Hexclad actually worth the money?
For those who cook frequently and require high-performance, durable pans, many users find Hexclad worth the investment. Its longevity, backed by a lifetime warranty, means you won't need to replace your cookware every few years.
Can you use metal utensils on Hexclad and Hexguard?
Hexclad is specifically engineered to be safe for metal utensils, as the stainless steel grid protects the underlying non-stick coating. With Hexguard, like most ceramic cookware, it is recommended to use nylon, silicone, or wood utensils to extend the life of the non-stick surface.
Which brand is better for cooking eggs?
Both are great for eggs due to their non-stick properties. However, Hexguard's fully ceramic surface might provide a slightly more fool-proof non-stick experience, while Hexclad requires proper preheating to ensure foods release easily.
Are both Hexclad and Hexguard non-toxic?
Yes, both brands market their cookware as PFOA and PTFE-free, making them safe and non-toxic options for health-conscious consumers.
Which cookware is more durable?
Hexclad is more durable due to its stainless steel hybrid construction. It's designed to withstand much more abuse and higher cooking temperatures than a standard ceramic pan.
How do you clean these pans?
Both brands are designed for easy cleaning. A simple wipe with soap and a soft sponge is usually enough. For stuck-on food, the stainless steel structure of Hexclad allows for more vigorous scrubbing if needed.
Do Hexclad and Hexguard pans work on induction cooktops?
Yes, both brands state that their cookware is compatible with all stovetops, including induction ranges.
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.
