The OXO SoftWorks and Good Grips skillets are both reliable non-stick pans from OXO, but they differ in handle design, price, and target user. The Good Grips line is known for its signature ergonomic, non-slip silicone handle designed for maximum comfort and safety, while the SoftWorks collection offers dependable performance and quality at a more budget-friendly price point with a simpler handle design.
Here's everything you need to know about these two popular cookware lines to decide which skillet is the right fit for your kitchen.
OXO SoftWorks Skillet
The OXO SoftWorks Skillet is the brand's dependable and affordable non-stick frying pan designed for everyday cooking. It focuses on the essentials: a durable non-stick surface, solid construction for even heating, and a clean, straightforward design, making it a favorite for home cooks who need reliability without extra bells and whistles.
- What it is: A value-oriented, PFOA-free non-stick skillet designed for general-purpose kitchen tasks.
- Key features: Durable three-layer non-stick coating, aluminum body for quick and even heating, and a comfortable, heat-resistant handle.
- Price: Ranges from $40 to $70, depending on the size (8 to 12 inches).
- Style: Simple and modern with clean lines and a classic dark gray or black finish.
- Materials/Construction: It features a PFOA-free, scratch-resistant non-stick coating over an aluminum base to ensure excellent heat conduction.
- Pros: More affordable than the Good Grips line. Provides reliable, even heating. Durable non-stick surface holds up well to daily use. Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Cons: The handle is less ergonomic than the Good Grips version. The non-stick coating requires careful handling to prevent scratches over the long term. Not all models are induction compatible.
This skillet is an excellent choice for a budget-conscious home cook, new homeowner, or anyone who needs a solid, no-fuss non-stick pan for everyday use.
Shop this product: amazon.com/dp/B085CDLX9L
OXO Good Grips Skillet
The OXO Good Grips Skillet is a user-centric pan that puts comfort and an exceptionally secure grip at the forefront of its design. Built on OXO's reputation for ergonomics, this skillet features the brand’s iconic soft, non-slip handle, making it easier and safer to maneuver, especially for those with limited grip strength or who spend long hours in the kitchen.
- What it is: A mid-range non-stick skillet emphasizing ergonomic design for superior comfort, safety, and handling.
- Key features: Signature soft, contoured non-slip silicone handle that stays cool. Hard-anodized aluminum construction for durability and even heating. PFOA-free non-stick coating.
- Price: Ranges from $50 to $80 for standard 8 to 12-inch sizes.
- Style: Modern and functional, with a defining handle that offers a secure and comfortable grip. The rest of the pan features a sleek, durable aesthetic.
- Materials/Construction: The hard-anodized aluminum body is more scratch-resistant and durable than standard aluminum. The handle is made of soft, heat-resistant silicone for enhanced grip.
- Pros: Exceptionally comfortable and secure handle prevents slips, even when wet. Hard-anodized construction offers great durability. Compatible with most stovetops, including induction. Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
- Cons: Priced slightly higher than the SoftWorks line. The silicone handle may not be preferred by cooks used to all-metal cookware.
The Good Grips Skillet is ideal for anyone who prioritizes comfort and safety, including frequent cooks, people with arthritis, or users with limited dexterity.
Shop this product: amazon.com/dp/B073X2DDBX
OXO SoftWorks vs. Good Grips Comparison
Price & Value
The most immediate difference is price. The OXO SoftWorks skillet is the more economical option, retailing for about $10-$20 less than its Good Grips counterpart in a comparable size. This makes it an excellent value proposition, delivering solid OXO quality for a smaller investment.
However, the Good Grips skillet justifies its higher price with superior handle ergonomics and often more robust construction, like a hard-anodized body. If comfort and ease of use are priorities that will enhance your daily cooking experience, the modest price increase for the Good Grips version can be seen as a worthwhile investment in better design.
Materials & Construction
Both skillet lines use aluminum bodies for fast and even heat distribution and feature PFOA-free, multi-layer non-stick coatings. The primary difference is often that the Good Grips line features a hard-anodized aluminum body, which is denser and more durable than the standard aluminum found in some SoftWorks models. This can make the Good Grips skillet more resistant to scratches and warping over time.
The defining feature of the Good Grips skillet is its handle - a soft, contoured silicone grip designed for comfort and control. The SoftWorks handle is functional and heat-resistant but lacks the premium, non-slip feel that makes the Good Grips line famous.
Design & Ergonomics
This is where the two lines truly diverge. The SoftWorks skillet has a simple, utilitarian design that is perfectly adequate for everyday cooking. Its handle is comfortable enough, but it's a standard feature.
In contrast, the Good Grips skillet is designed from the handle out. Its signature ergonomic grip is soft, absorbs pressure, and provides a secure hold even with wet or greasy hands. This makes tasks like flipping pancakes or sautéing vegetables easier and more comfortable, reducing strain on the wrist. For cooks who value a tool that feels good in their hands, the ergonomic advantage of the Good Grips skillet is its biggest selling point.
Who Each One Works Best For
Both are great skillets, but they cater to slightly different priorities. The OXO SoftWorks collection is a perfect match for beginner cooks, students, or anyone furnishing a kitchen on a budget. It's for the person who needs a reliable pan that gets the job done without needing premium features.
The OXO Good Grips collection is tailored for a more discerning user. It’s for the avid home cook who spends a lot of time at the stove and appreciates tools that reduce fatigue. It's also an excellent choice for individuals with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or any condition where grip strength is a concern, as the secure handle offers greater control and safety.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both OXO collections offer fantastic non-stick performance, but they are built for different users and priorities.
Choose the OXO SoftWorks Skillet if:
- You're on a tighter budget and want the best value for your money.
- You need a dependable, basic non-stick skillet for everyday tasks.
- Ergonomic handles are not a primary concern for you.
- You are furnishing a first apartment or looking for a low-cost, high-quality option.
Choose the OXO Good Grips Skillet if:
- Comfort and a secure grip are your top priorities.
- You cook frequently and want to reduce hand and wrist strain.
- You or someone in your household has arthritis or limited grip strength.
- You are willing to pay a slight premium for enhanced ergonomics and durability features like a hard-anodized body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between SoftWorks and Good Grips?
The primary difference is the handle. The Good Grips skillet features OXO's signature soft, ergonomic, non-slip handle for maximum comfort and control. The SoftWorks skillet has a more standard, less contoured handle and is generally priced lower.
Are both OXO skillets PFOA-free?
Yes, both the OXO SoftWorks and Good Grips skillet lines feature non-stick coatings that are free of PFOA chemicals, making them a safer choice for daily cooking.
Can I put these skillets in the oven?
Oven safety varies by specific product, but most Good Grips Pro models are oven-safe up to 430°F. Always check the product specifications for the exact model you own, as some SoftWorks versions may have a lower temperature limit.
Which skillet lasts longer?
With proper care, both skillets are durable. However, the hard-anodized aluminum body on many Good Grips models gives them a slight edge in scratch and warp resistance, potentially leading to a longer lifespan.
Are these skillets dishwasher safe?
While many OXO non-stick pans are listed as dishwasher safe, hand washing is highly recommended for all non-stick cookware. Using a soft sponge and gentle soap will help preserve the non-stick coating and extend the life of your skillet.
Is the handle on the Good Grips version really better?
For most people, yes. The ergonomic shape and soft, non-slip material provide a noticeably more comfortable and secure grip compared to standard handles, which can be especially helpful when lifting a heavy, hot pan.
Can I use metal utensils on these skillets?
No. To protect the non-stick coating from scratches, you should only use silicone, nylon, or wooden utensils with both the SoftWorks and Good Grips skillets.
Are the SoftWorks and Good Grips skillets induction compatible?
Compatibility depends on the specific product within each line. Many Good Grips Pro models feature a stainless-steel base making them induction-ready, while some SoftWorks models may not be. Always double-check the product packaging or online listing for induction compatibility.
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