The main difference between Made In and HexClad cookware comes down to materials and cooking philosophy. Made In is a direct-to-consumer brand offering professional-grade cookware with traditional constructions, primarily high-quality 5-ply stainless steel and copper. Conversely, HexClad is a technology-driven brand known for its patented hybrid cookware, which combines a stainless steel structure with a PFOA-free, non-stick surface in a unique hexagon pattern.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which brand belongs in your kitchen.
Made In Cookware
Made In has built a reputation on providing professional-quality kitchen tools directly to consumers without the retail markup. The brand emphasizes craftsmanship, high-grade materials sourced from the US and Europe, and timeless designs that perform reliably in both professional and home kitchens. Their product line is favored by serious home cooks and chefs who appreciate the performance of traditional materials.
- What it is: A premium, direct-to-consumer brand offering professionally crafted cookware, knives, and bakeware.
- Key features: 5-ply stainless steel construction for even heating, stay-cool handles, oven-safe up to 800°F (for stainless), and an induction-compatible base.
- Price: Mid-to-premium. Individual pans range from $50-$300, while stainless steel sets typically start around $200.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and professional. The classic look of polished stainless steel or rustic copper fits easily into any modern kitchen.
- Materials/Construction: The brand's signature products use a 5-ply construction of premium American and European steel and aluminum core layers for exceptional heat control and retention. They also offer carbon steel, non-stick, and copper cookware.
- Pros: Professional-grade performance and durability. Transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices. Excellent heat conduction and control. Traditional materials are built to last a lifetime.
- Cons: Stainless steel has a learning curve for beginners and requires proper technique to prevent food from sticking. Generally a higher price point per piece compared to HexClad.
This brand is ideal for culinary enthusiasts who want restaurant-quality performance and "buy-it-for-life" durability from their cookware.
Shop this brand: madeincookware.com
HexClad Cookware
HexClad revolutionized the cookware market with its hybrid technology, aiming to offer the best of both stainless steel and non-stick in a single pan. Its patented laser-etched hexagon design creates a cooking surface of stainless steel "peaks" and non-stick "valleys." This allows for great searing and browning while still providing easy cleanup and food release, appealing to home cooks who value convenience and versatility.
- What it is: Hybrid cookware brand specializing in pans that combine non-stick functionality with stainless steel durability.
- Key features: Unique laser-etched hexagon pattern, tri-ply construction, scratch-resistant surface (metal utensil safe), oven-safe up to 500°F, and stay-cool handles.
- Price: Mid-to-premium. Individual pans are typically $50-$200, with sets ranging from $150 to $400.
- Style: Modern and tech-forward. The black hexagonal pattern inside and out gives the cookware a distinctive, high-tech look.
- Materials/Construction: The hybrid surface features a PFOA-free non-stick coating in the "valleys" and stainless steel "peaks." This sits on top of a three-ply construction with an aluminum core for heat distribution.
- Pros: Offers both durability and easy food release. Scratch-resistant surface can withstand metal utensils. Versatile for searing, sautéing, and daily cooking. Very easy to clean and maintain.
- Cons: The non-stick coating may not last as long as pure stainless steel. May not achieve the same hard sear as a classic stainless or cast iron pan. Less transparency on material sourcing compared to Made In.
HexClad is for everyday home cooks who want a single, versatile pan that simplifies cooking and cleanup without sacrificing durability.
Shop this brand: hexclad.com
Made In vs. HexClad Comparison
Materials & Construction
Made In focuses on superior, traditional materials with its 5-ply clad stainless steel. This multi-layered construction provides exceptional heat response, control, and retention, which is why professional chefs often prefer it. Their commitment to using high-grade European steel and copper is evident in the weight, feel, and performance of their products.
HexClad's innovation lies in combining materials. Its tri-ply base provides a solid foundation for heating, but the star is the laser-etched hybrid surface. This creates a functional compromise: you get the durability and searing capability from the stainless steel peaks, and the easy release from the non-stick valleys. While well-constructed, it is fundamentally a coated pan, meaning its longevity is tied to the life of that coating.
Performance & Versatility
When it comes to pure searing power, Made In's stainless steel cookware has the edge. It can achieve higher temperatures and create a more aggressive fond (the browned bits on the bottom of the pan) for making pan sauces. Its precise heat control also makes it a favorite for delicate techniques. However, it requires proper preheating and fat usage to prevent sticking.
HexClad provides excellent versatility for the busy home cook. It can comfortably sear a steak, fry an egg without sticking, and simmer a sauce. Its biggest performance benefit is its forgiving nature. You get a good sear without fear of disastrous sticking, making it a great all-in-one workhorse for a wide range of meals and skill levels.
Style & Aesthetics
The choice here is purely subjective. Made In embodies a classic, professional kitchen aesthetic with its brightly polished stainless steel, clean lines, and minimalist design. It's a timeless look that signals high quality and seriousness in the kitchen.
HexClad is modern and eye-catching. The distinctive hexagon pattern on both the interior and exterior gives it a tech-inspired appearance that stands out. It's designed for consumers who appreciate contemporary, innovative tools.
Price & Value
While similarly priced, Made In often carries a slightly higher price tag, especially on individual signature pieces like their Stainless Steel Skillet. This price reflects the high cost of its premium materials and European manufacturing. The value proposition is in its "buy it for life" durability - a well-cared-for Made In pan can last for generations.
HexClad’s value comes from its hybrid functionality and convenience. You're paying for patented technology that aims to solve a common cooking problem. For many, having a durable, scratch-resistant pan that is easy to clean represents a high value for daily use.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both brands offer excellent, high-quality cookware, but they are engineered for different types of cooks and priorities.
Choose Made In if:
- You're a serious home cook or culinary enthusiast looking for professional-level results.
- You value uncompromising performance for searing and precise heat control.
- You understand or are willing to learn the techniques for cooking on traditional stainless steel.
- You prioritize "buy for life" durability and transparent, high-quality material sourcing.
Choose HexClad if:
- You want maximum versatility and convenience for everyday cooking.
- Easy cleanup and a forgiving cooking surface are top priorities for you.
- You frequently use metal utensils and worry about scratching typical non-stick pans.
- You prefer a modern aesthetic and appreciate kitchen tech innovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Made In and HexClad?
The main difference is the cooking surface. Made In uses traditional surfaces like premium 5-ply stainless steel for maximum performance and durability. HexClad uses a patented hybrid surface that combines stainless steel with a PFOA-free non-stick coating for versatility and easy cleaning.
Is HexClad really non-stick?
Yes, HexClad cookware has excellent non-stick properties thanks to the PFOA-free coating in its surface "valleys." While some users note it behaves best with a small amount of oil or butter, it delivers a much easier release for foods like eggs and fish than traditional stainless steel.
Which brand is better for searing meat?
For achieving a deep, crusty sear on a steak or other proteins, Made In's stainless steel cookware is generally superior. Its ability to retain high, even heat and develop a fond for pan sauces makes it the preferred tool for this specific task.
Is Made In cookware hard to clean?
It can be if not used correctly. The key to easy cleanup with stainless steel is proper heat management and using enough oil to prevent food from sticking. If food does stick, a bit of soaking or a non-abrasive cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend usually removes it easily.
Can you use metal utensils on HexClad pans?
Yes, one of HexClad's primary selling points is its durability. The stainless steel "peaks" on the cooking surface protect the non-stick coating in the "valleys," making it resistant to scratches from metal spatulas, whisks, and spoons.
Which brand lasts longer?
With proper care, a Made In stainless steel pan has the potential to last a lifetime, or even multiple generations. HexClad is very durable for a pan with non-stick properties, but like all coated pans, the non-stick coating will eventually degrade over many years of use, while the stainless steel in a Made In pan will not.
Where are Made In and HexClad products made?
Made In sources materials and manufactures its products in various countries known for their craftsmanship, including the USA, France, and Italy, and is transparent about it on its website. HexClad cookware is designed in Los Angeles and manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility in China.
Which brand offers better value for money?
Value is subjective here. Made In offers long-term value through generational durability and professional performance. HexClad offers everyday value through its hybrid functionality, convenience, and ease of use. Both are premium brands priced accordingly for their quality and features.
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