The main difference between cookware from Made In and HexClad comes down to cooking technology and target audience. Made In offers professional-grade cookware with traditional surfaces like stainless clad and PFOA-free non-stick, designed for classic cooking performance and superior heat control. HexClad, in contrast, built its brand on a patented hybrid surface that combines the searing ability of stainless steel with the easy-release properties of non-stick, all in one pan.
Here’s a detailed look at both brands to help you decide which cookware best suits your kitchen and cooking style.
Made In Cookware
Made In is a direct-to-consumer brand known for producing durable, high-performance cookware crafted in the USA, France, and Italy. Endorsed by professional chefs, their products are designed to deliver restaurant-quality results for serious home cooks who value premium materials, exceptional heat conduction, and timeless design.
- What it is: A premium cookware brand offering multi-ply stainless steel, carbon steel, and traditional non-stick pans and pots.
- Key features: 5-ply stainless clad construction for even heating, stay-cool handles, and options for both classic steel and high-quality non-stick surfaces.
- Price: Mid-to-high range. Individual pans typically range from $50 to $150, with full sets costing between $200 and $600.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and professional. The designs are classic and understated, focusing on function over flashy aesthetics.
- Materials/Construction: Premium materials including 18/10 stainless steel, copper cores in some lines, and PFOA-free non-stick coatings on specific items.
- Pros: Superior heat control and retention, extremely durable construction built to last a lifetime, classic design that fits any kitchen, used and trusted in professional kitchens.
- Cons: Requires more oil or fat to prevent sticking on stainless surfaces, has a slight learning curve for temperature management, and the price point is an investment.
Made In is ideal for the enthusiastic cook who wants professional-level control and is willing to invest in pieces that offer exceptional performance and will last for decades.
Shop this product: madeincookware.com
HexClad Cookware
HexClad has become popular for its innovative hybrid technology that etches a stainless steel hexagon pattern over a non-stick surface. This design aims to provide the best of both worlds: the durability and searing capability of stainless steel plus the convenience and easy non-stick cleanup of nonstick surfaces.
- What it is: A hybrid cookware brand featuring a patented stainless steel and non-stick surface.
- Key features: Laser-etched hexagon design, tri-ply construction, PFOA-free non-stick layer, scratch-resistant surface that can withstand metal utensils, and dishwasher-safe.
- Price: Mid-range. Individual pans cost around $100-$130, with sets priced between $300 and $500.
- Style: Distinctly modern and high-tech, characterized by the visible hexagon pattern on the cooking surface.
- Materials/Construction: A tri-ply build combines a layer of magnetic stainless steel, an aluminum core for conductivity, and a steel/non-stick hybrid cooking surface.
- Pros: Highly scratch-resistant and durable for a non-stick pan, easy to clean and dishwasher safe, offers good food release with less oil, and works on all cooktops including induction.
- Cons: Doesn’t provide a perfectly non-stick surface like traditional Teflon, searing ability is good but may not match pure stainless steel, and the hybrid surface can still be damaged with extreme use.
The HexClad line is perfect for the everyday home cook who wants versatile, low-maintenance cookware that is more durable and forgiving than traditional non-stick options on the market.
Shop this product: hexclad.com
Made In vs. HexClad Comparison
Materials & Construction
Made In focuses on classic, proven construction methods using premium materials. Their flagship stainless clad cookware features a 5-ply build - two outer layers of stainless steel surrounding three inner layers of aluminum - for superb heat distribution and durability. This heavy-duty approach is why professional kitchens trust it to withstand high-volume, intense commercial kitchen environments.
HexClad uses a tri-ply construction (stainless steel, aluminum, stainless steel) which is standard for quality pans. The true difference is its patented hybrid cooking surface. The stainless steel "peaks" of the hexagon pattern protect the non-stick "valleys," allowing you to use metal utensils without a high risk of scratching the surface, which helps extend the life of their pans significantly longer than a typical "non-stick" pan, offering added peace of mind, making it a bit more carefree to use.
Cooking Performance & Versatility
For fine temperature control, Made In takes the lead. Its 5-ply construction responds precisely to temperature changes, holds heat evenly, and develops a superior fond (the browned bits at the bottom of the pan) that is crucial in creating flavorful classic pan-sauces. It is the better choice for experienced cooks looking to sear a steak, delicately saute vegetables, or create one-pan meals with layers of flavor.
HexClad offers excellent day-to-day family-friendly versatility, working like an "all-arounder." It sears better than a regular non-stick pan and provides enough food release to handle everyday tasks like scrambled eggs or pancakes, making cleanup easy. Being dishwasher-safe is also a major benefit here, providing low-stress maintenance for busy family cooking.
Price & Value
A Made In pan tends to cost more than a comparable HexClad pan, particularly for stainless steel fry pans. Made In justifies this cost through its professional-grade materials and intended longevity, drawing inspiration from its heritage craftsmanship. These aspects are central to the brand's unique approach.
HexClad offers strong value for those who might otherwise wear out cheaper non-stick pans frequently. Their hybrid pans are highly scratch and damage-resistant and should last years of everyday cooking. Their prices are reasonable and make this an affordable luxury purchase for those upgrading their kitchen experience.
Style & Aesthetics
Made In embraces a minimalist, professional kitchen aesthetic. Its mirror-polished surfaces, ergonomic handles, and subtle branding focus entirely on cooking performance, integrating seamlessly into any kitchen space without vying for attention.
HexClad's visual identity is its most distinguishing feature, with an etched hexagon pattern offering a modern, technological edge. This look is ideal for design-conscious consumers who want their kitchen tools to make a bold statement.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both brands offer high-quality products that will provide years of cooking enjoyment, but each targets different needs and cooking styles.
Choose Made In if:
- You prioritize classic cooking results and the long-term lifespan of professional stainless steel cookware.
- You are focused on creating high-quality sauces and recipes that require precise tools.
- You want professional-grade materials and are willing to learn the nuances of pre-heating stainless steel pans.
- The traditional European style and chef-quality focus appeal to your cooking approach.
Choose HexClad if:
- You are concerned about scratching traditional non-stick pans with metal utensils.
- You prefer everyday convenience with easy-to-maintain cookware.
- You want a versatile, all-around frying pan that sears well and is easy to clean.
- You appreciate a modern aesthetic and tech-infused design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Made In and HexClad?
Made In offers traditional professional-grade cookware with either full stainless steel or separate non-stick surfaces, focusing on ultimate heat control. HexClad offers a unique hybrid design combining stainless steel and non-stick properties.
Which cookware do professional chefs prefer?
Many professional chefs prefer traditional materials like those Made In provides because they offer precise thermal control and are built to handle intense use. However, the convenience and durability of HexClad have made it a popular choice for home cooks and some professionals.
Is HexClad truly non-stick?
HexClad is a hybrid and not entirely traditional non-stick. A light amount of seasoning oil should be applied while its cooking surface is cold, especially for sticky dishes like eggs. While not completely frictionless, it releases cooked food more easily than regular stainless ware.
Can I use metal utensils on HexClad and Made In pans?
You can safely use metal utensils on HexClad's hybrid surface and Made In's stainless steel pans. With traditional coated non-stick pans, it's recommended to use wooden or silicone utensils to avoid scratching.
Is Made In or HexClad easier to clean?
HexClad is generally easier to clean because of its hybrid design, which resists sticking. Made In requires a bit more care but offers excellent results when managed properly across its offerings.
Is Made In cookware worth the high cost?
For cooks dedicated to refining technique with superior results, Made In is worth the investment. The pots and pans offer precise heat control and long-lasting durability.
Which heats up faster, HexClad or Made In?
Both brands offer cookware with aluminum cores for fast heating and even distribution. There is little difference in heating speed in home cooking settings.
Where are Made In and HexClad products made?
Made In's cookware is crafted in the USA, France, and Italy. HexClad designs its products in Los Angeles and manufactures them in advanced facilities overseas.
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