The Novara pan represents the practical, budget-friendly option for everyday cooking, while HexClad is a premium hybrid of stainless steel and non-stick technology for serious home chefs. Novara offers dependable non-stick performance at a very low price point, whereas HexClad's patented design provides superior durability, searing capability, and longevity for a much higher investment.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which cookware is the right choice for your kitchen and cooking style.
Novara Pan
The Novara pan is a go-to choice for home cooks looking for reliable, user-friendly cookware without a hefty price tag. As a brand, Novara focuses on delivering practical value through durable non-stick coatings, comfortable handling, and versatile sizes perfect for daily meals. It's designed to be an accessible workhorse for everyone from college students to busy families.
- What it is: An affordable non-stick pan built for everyday, general-purpose cooking tasks like frying eggs, making pancakes, and sautéing vegetables.
- Key features: Durable non-stick coating, ergonomic stay-cool handles, dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup, and compatible with most stovetops, including induction.
- Price: Highly affordable, with most individual pans priced between $20 and $60.
- Materials/Construction: Typically features a multi-layer non-stick surface over an aluminum or stainless steel base for even heating.
- Style: Simple and functional. Its straightforward, classic design focuses on practicality rather than standing out aesthetically.
- Pros: Excellent value for the low price, widely available at major retailers, effective non-stick performance for everyday foods, lightweight and easy to handle.
- Cons: Non-stick coating is less durable than premium alternatives and can be damaged by metal utensils, may not withstand very high heat for long periods, has a more utilitarian look.
The Novara pan is a smart pick for anyone on a budget, a beginner cook, or someone who needs a dependable, low-maintenance pan for daily use.
Shop this product: novara.com
HexClad Pan
HexClad is a premium cookware brand known for its innovative technology that merges the best qualities of stainless steel and non-stick into one pan. Its distinctive laser-etched hexagon design creates a surface of stainless steel "peaks" and non-stick "valleys," allowing for high-heat searing while being easy to clean. This hybrid approach targets serious home cooks who demand professional-grade performance and durability.
- What it is: A high-performance hybrid pan that combines a stainless steel and non-stick surface, designed for versatile and demanding cooking techniques.
- Key features: Patented hybrid design, scratch-resistant surface that's safe for metal utensils, oven-safe up to 500°F, dishwasher-safe, and compatible with all cooktops.
- Price: Premium pricing, with individual pans typically costing between $100 and $200.
- Materials/Construction: Features a three-ply construction with an aluminum core between two layers of stainless steel for rapid, even heating. The cooking surface is a laser-etched stainless steel grid with non-stick coating.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and professional. The unique hexagonal pattern gives it a high-tech and sophisticated appearance that stands out in any kitchen.
- Pros: Exceptionally durable and long-lasting, combines the searing power of steel with the easy release of non-stick, oven-safe design adds versatility, safe to use with metal utensils.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than traditional non-stick pans, heavier than aluminum pans, may require a slight learning curve to master heat control for best results.
This pan is ideal for the enthusiastic home chef who sees their cookware as a long-term investment and needs a single versatile pan for a wide range of cooking tasks.
Shop this product: hexclad.com
Novara Pan vs. HexClad Pan Comparison
Materials & Construction
The core difference between Novara and HexClad lies here. Novara uses a traditional construction: a non-stick coating applied over an aluminum or stainless steel core. This is effective for everyday cooking, but the coating is the main point of failure. Over time, it can scratch or wear away, especially with metal utensils or high heat.
HexClad’s hybrid construction is far more complex. The PFOA-free non-stick material sits in the valleys of a laser-etched stainless steel grid. This grid protects the vulnerable non-stick surface from direct contact with utensils while providing excellent heat conduction for a great sear. This design is fundamentally more durable and built to withstand tougher use.
Durability & Longevity
HexClad is the clear winner in terms of durability. Its scratch-resistant design allows for the use of metal spatulas and whisks that would ruin a Novara pan. The robust, tri-ply stainless steel body resists warping under thermal shock and is built to last for years, justifying its premium price as a long-term investment. Novara pans are durable for their price class but should be considered a consumable item that will likely need replacing every few years with regular use.
Style & Aesthetic
Novara cookware is designed with function first. Its appearance is simple and standard, meant to blend into any kitchen without making a statement. It’s practical and doesn't draw attention to itself. In contrast, HexClad's cookware has a distinct, high-tech look. The hexagonal pattern is instantly recognizable and signals a premium, modern piece of equipment, making it a stylish addition for those who take pride in their kitchen's appearance.
Price & Value
This is the most significant differentiator. A single Novara pan can cost a fraction of a single HexClad pan - you could buy an entire set of Novara cookware for the price of one HexClad frying pan. Novara offers tremendous upfront value for its functional performance.
HexClad’s value is calculated over the long term. Its longevity means you might not need to replace it for a decade or more, potentially making it cheaper over time than buying multiple non-stick pans. Its performance and versatility also add value for passionate cooks who will use its full capabilities.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both pans serve their purpose well, but they are aimed at totally different users, budgets, and culinary ambitions.
Choose the Novara Pan if:
- You're cooking on a strict budget and need the best performance for the lowest price.
- You are a beginner cook or need a reliable, basic pan for simple daily meals.
- You prioritize lightweight, easy-to-handle cookware.
- You understand your cookware has a limited lifespan and are okay with replacing it every few years.
Choose the HexClad Pan if:
- You are passionate about cooking and want a pan that excels at everything from searing steak to flipping omelets.
- Durability and longevity are your top priorities, and you view cookware as a long-term investment.
- You want the freedom to use metal utensils without worrying about damaging the surface.
- The pan’s aesthetic and modern design appeal to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the Novara and HexClad?
The main difference is technology and price. Novara is a traditional, affordable non-stick pan for everyday use. HexClad is a premium-priced hybrid pan that combines stainless steel and non-stick for superior durability and searing performance.
Is HexClad really non-stick?
Yes, but it performs best when used correctly. The non-stick coating in the pan's valleys provides easy food release. However, proper preheating and the use of a small amount of oil are recommended to achieve the ideal non-stick experience, similar to seasoning a cast-iron or carbon steel pan.
Can you use metal utensils on HexClad and Novara pans?
You can safely use metal utensils on HexClad pans, as the stainless steel grid protects the underlying non-stick surface. It is strongly recommended to avoid metal utensils on Novara pans, as they will quickly scratch and degrade the traditional non-stick coating.
Which pan is easier to clean?
Both are relatively easy to clean and dishwasher safe. The smoother surface of a new Novara pan might seem slightly easier to wipe down. HexClad's textured surface is still simple to clean, but sometimes tiny food particles may need a gentle scrub with a sponge.
Is HexClad worth the money?
For serious home chefs who cook frequently and desire high-performance, versatile cookware, HexClad is often considered worth the investment due to its longevity and hybrid capabilities. For casual cooks, the high price point may not be justifiable.
Are Novara and HexClad pans oven-safe?
HexClad pans are typically oven-safe up to 500°F, making them great for finishing dishes in the oven. Novara pans are often oven-safe but usually to a lower temperature (around 350°F), so it's critical to check the specific model's instructions.
Do both pans work on induction stovetops?
Yes, both Novara and HexClad offer pans that are compatible with induction stovetops, as well as gas and electric. This makes them versatile for almost any modern kitchen.
Which brand offers better value?
This depends on your definition of value. Novara offers unbeatable short-term and budget value. HexClad offers superior long-term value for cooks who want a buy-it-for-life piece of high-performance equipment.
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