The Our Place Always Pan 2.0 and the original Always Pan 1.0 are multifunctional pans from Our Place designed to replace multiple kitchen tools. The key difference is that the 2.0 features a significantly more durable, scratch-resistant ceramic non-stick coating, an improved handle, and a thicker base for better heat retention, making it a longer-lasting investment. The original 1.0 is the more budget-friendly first version known for its style and versatility but with a less durable non-stick surface.
Here’s a full comparison to help you decide which Always Pan is the right choice for your kitchen needs.
Our Place Always Pan 1.0
The original Always Pan redefined countertop cookware by offering a single, stylish pan that could sauté, fry, steam, and more. It became wildly popular in minimalist kitchens and for home cooks looking to reduce clutter without sacrificing function. Its blend of modern design and all-in-one readiness made it an instant favorite.
- What it is: A versatile 10-inch non-stick pan intended to function as a frypan, sauté pan, steamer, skillet, and saucier.
- Key features: PFOA-free non-stick ceramic coating, lightweight aluminum core for even heating, stainless steel lid, nesting beechwood spatula, and steamer basket.
- Price: Around $145
- Style: Sleek minimalist design with a matte exterior available in a range of muted, trendy colors like Sage, Spice, and Steam.
- Materials/Construction: Cast aluminum body with a ceramic non-stick interior coating and a stainless steel lid.
- Pros: Lightweight and easy to handle, beautiful design serves as a statement piece, replaces up to 8 pieces of traditional cookware, heats up quickly and evenly.
- Cons: The non-stick coating can wear down or scratch over time, especially with frequent use or metal utensils. Requires careful hand washing to maintain its surface. Not as durable for heavy, everyday cooking.
This pan is an excellent choice for casual cooks, those new to the brand, or anyone prioritizing aesthetics and versatility on a slightly tighter budget.
Shop this product: ourplace.com/products/always-pan
Our Place Always Pan 2.0
Listening to customer feedback on the original, Our Place introduced the Always Pan 2.0 to be a more durable and high-performing version of its famous predecessor. It keeps the same multifunctional spirit and beautiful design but makes key upgrades to materials and usability, specifically enhancing the longevity of the non-stick coating.
- What it is: An upgraded 10-inch multifunctional pan with a focus on improved performance and long-term durability.
- Key features: Upgraded, scratch-resistant ceramic non-stick coating, redesigned ergonomic handle for better grip, a thicker base for superior heat retention, and a vented glass lid.
- Price: Around $165
- Style: Retains the iconic minimalist aesthetic of the original but often with more refined finishes and an expanded color palette.
- Materials/Construction: Cast aluminum body with a next-generation durable ceramic non-stick coating and a strong borosilicate glass lid.
- Pros: Significantly more durable and scratch-resistant coating extends the pan's life. Redesigned handle is more comfortable and heat-resistant. Thicker base ensures better searing and heat retention. Clear glass lid makes it easier to monitor cooking.
- Cons: A higher price point than the original. Still not dishwasher safe and requires non-metal utensils for best results.
The 2.0 is designed for frequent home cooks who need a reliable, long-lasting workhorse pan and are willing to invest in superior performance and durability.
Shop this product: ourplace.com/products/always-pan-2.0
Our Place Pan 1.0 vs. 2.0 Comparison
Materials & Construction
The biggest update is in the non-stick coating. The Always Pan 1.0 uses a standard ceramic coating that, while effective, drew criticism for losing its non-stick properties over time. The Always Pan 2.0 introduces a new, more resilient ceramic coating engineered to be more durable and scratch-resistant. This directly addresses the main drawback of the original.
Additionally, the 2.0 features a thicker cast aluminum base, which helps it retain heat more effectively for better searing and more even cooking. The lid on the 1.0 is stainless steel, whereas the 2.0 features a clear, vented glass lid, letting you keep an eye on your food without releasing heat.
Cooking Performance & Durability
While both pans heat evenly thanks to their aluminum construction, the 2.0's thicker base gives it an edge in heat retention, making it better for tasks that require a consistently hot surface like searing steak. The enhanced durability of the 2.0’s coating means it's built to withstand the rigors of daily cooking far better than the 1.0. It's less prone to scratching and should maintain its non-stick performance for much longer.
Both are versatile enough for everyday meals, but for those who cook several times a week, the 2.0’s superior durability makes it the more practical choice for long-term use.
Design & Ergonomics
Both pans share the same stylish, minimalist aesthetic and come in a variety of fashionable colors. At 10 inches in diameter, they are conveniently sized for most household cooking tasks. The main ergonomic difference is the handle. The Always Pan 2.0 features a redesigned handle that feels sturdier and more comfortable to grip, providing better balance, especially when the pan is full.
Price & Value
The Always Pan 1.0 is the more affordable option, making it an accessible entry point to the Our Place ecosystem. However, the extra $20-$25 for the Always Pan 2.0 provides significant value in the form of durability and a longer lifespan. If you plan to use the pan frequently, investing in the 2.0 means you're less likely to need a replacement in a year or two, making it the better long-term value buy.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both versions of the Always Pan are impressive multifunctional pieces, but they are built for slightly different users.
Choose the Always Pan 1.0 if:
- You're on a tighter budget and want to save some money upfront.
- You cook infrequently and will be using the pan for light tasks.
- You're testing the brand for the first time and aren't ready for a bigger investment.
- You are diligent with handwashing and using non-metal utensils.
Choose the Always Pan 2.0 if:
- You cook regularly and need a durable pan that can handle daily use.
- Longevity and scratch-resistance are your top priorities.
- You’ve been frustrated with non-stick coatings wearing out quickly in the past.
- You're willing to pay a little extra for better performance and long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Always Pan 1.0 and 2.0?
The main difference is durability. The Always Pan 2.0 has a significantly more robust, scratch-resistant ceramic non-stick coating, an improved handle, and a vented glass lid, while the 1.0 uses an earlier version of the coating that is more prone to wear over time.
Is the Our Place Pan 2.0 worth the extra cost?
For most people, yes. If you cook more than a couple of times a week, the added durability of the 2.0's coating easily justifies the higher price, as it will last much longer and perform better over its lifespan.
Can you use metal utensils in the Always Pan 2.0?
While the 2.0's coating is more scratch-resistant, Our Place still recommends using non-metal utensils like wood or silicone to protect the surface and maximize the pan's longevity. Metal tools can still cause damage to any non-stick surface.
Are both pans induction-compatible?
Yes, both the Always Pan 1.0 and 2.0 are designed to be compatible with all cooktops, including gas, electric, and induction.
How do you clean the Always Pan?
Both pans should be hand-washed with a soft sponge and mild dish soap once cooled. The dishwasher and abrasive scrubbers are too harsh and will degrade the non-stick coating over time.
Did the size change from Pan 1.0 to 2.0?
No, the core cooking dimensions remain the same. Both are 10 inches in diameter with a 2.6-quart capacity, perfect for preparing meals for two to four people.
What makes the 2.0 non-stick coating better?
The 2.0 uses a new generation of non-toxic ceramic non-stick coating that is lab-tested to be more durable and long-lasting than the coating on the original pan. It was specifically formulated to address customer feedback about the longevity of the 1.0's surface.
Do they come with the same accessories?
Yes, both versions typically include the custom nesting stainless steel steamer basket and a beechwood spatula with an integrated spoon rest on the handle.
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