This article reviews Circulon vs. Calphalon cookware and which one is the best.
I love non-stick, lightweight cookware. It’s perfect for making eggs. But you know what I don’t love? Non-stick coatings that peel and are full of questionable chemicals.
That’s why I prefer hard-anodized, non-stick cookware. It gives me the best of both worlds. Yet, there’s a significant difference between the higher-end brands and the cheap, low-quality sets.
- 1 At a Glance
- 2 Things to consider before buying a hard-anodized non-stick cookware set
- 2.1 Why hard-anodized non-stick?
- 2.2 Non-stick, Teflon and PTFE
- 2.3 How to care for hard-anodized non-stick
- 2.4 Features to look for in hard-anodized non-stick
- 3 Product Reviews: Calphalon vs. Circulon cookware
- 3.1 Circulon Premier Professional, 13 Piece, Brown
- 3.2 Calphalon Classic Oil-Infused Ceramic Cookware, 11-Piece
- 4 Side-by-Side Comparison
- 4.1 Performance
- 4.2 Versatility
- 4.3 Non-stick Quality
- 4.4 Cleaning
- 4.5 Lids
- 4.6 Price
- 5 Alternatives
- 5.1 T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set, 12-piece
- 5.2 All-Clad Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set, 10-Piece
- 6 The Last Word: Circulon vs. Calphalon cookware
At a Glance
My recommendation: Go with the Circulon Premier Professional Set. It performs well and is a better option for non-stick cooking.
For readers keen to avoid Teflon, I would recommend Calphalon Classic as, unlike Circulon, it is Teflon-free.
When it comes to exclusive cookware brands, Calphalon and Circulon are two that come to mind. Both home and professional chefs turn to these products, making them trusted choices.
But there are some differences between these sets. You may want your cookware to handle high temps in the oven, or you may want a set that is especially easy to clean.
Which one is the best set for you? Read on to find out.
Things to consider before buying a hard-anodized non-stick cookware set
Why hard-anodized non-stick?
I love stainless steel cookware, but it has its drawbacks. It’s more prone to sticking and is slower to heat. The same goes for cast iron or enamel cast iron. They are durable and versatile, but they’re also slow to heat and heavy.
That’s why, for many people, having non-stick cookware is a must. Delicate and sticky foods like eggs, fish fillets, and crepes are better in a non-stick pan.
The only problem? Non-stick aluminum cookware can be a bit delicate and tends not to last very long. (Though it does depend on the brand.)
Plus, plain aluminum is highly reactive with acidic foods and may be toxic. This is why it is normally coated in a non-stick layer – yet this layer can get scratched and expose the aluminum.
So what’s the solution? Hard-anodized aluminum cookware. Hard-anodized aluminum is aluminum that has been submerged in a chemical bath with an electrical charge. The ensuing reaction causes a hard, nonporous, highly durable layer of aluminum oxide to form on the surface.
This layer of aluminum oxide is non-reactive, meaning you can safely cook acidic foods without worry. Another perk? Hard-anodized aluminum is very tough and doesn’t damage as easily.
One note, however. Most hard-anodized sets apply an additional non-stick coating on the outer layer of the cookware. This cookware is still wholly safe to use. If you’re worried, you should always check the product description for exact materials.
Non-stick, Teflon and PTFE
Non-stick coatings traditionally contain a polymer called PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene). Teflon is the brand name of non-stick coating containing PTFE.
While no studies conclusively show PTFE is dangerous, many people feel uneasy about using it. PTFE does release toxic vapors at high temperatures (above 500°F or 260°C). (You can avoid this in everyday cooking by never heating an empty pan and not leaving the pan on a high heat for long.)
If you want to avoid Teflon, look out for the words: PTFE-free. (Or read my reviews as I check this for you.)
How to care for hard-anodized non-stick
There are a few things you need to know to properly take care of hard-anodized aluminum cookware. After all, you want it to stay safe and in tip-top shape!
First, it’s better to hand wash hard-anodized pots and pans. Some brands advertise their cookware collections as dishwasher-safe, but I would stick to hand-washing just to err on the safe side. Be sure to stay away from abrasive and scratchy cleaners.
Treat this cookware with care. I would use extra caution when handling it to avoid damaging the surface. Avoid stacking these pots and pans, if possible. Use wooden or silicone cooking utensils.
Finally, stick to low or medium heat. High heat is not recommended for hard-anodized cookware. If your cookware is oven-safe, only cook at temperatures below 500°F (260°C). As always, let your cookware cool before washing. Going from a hot oven to cold water can lead to thermal shock, thereby damaging your cookware.
Features to look for in hard-anodized non-stick
If you want a PTFE-free hard-anodized aluminum set, make sure your cookware has no additional non-stick coatings.
Want to monitor food efficiently? Look for transparent glass lids. Some saucepan lids have rims with holes so you can strain any cooking liquid. This is great for pasta.
Of course, handles that stay cool to the touch are essential. Many feature stainless steel or silicone-covered stainless steel handles.
Some sets are dishwasher-safe. While I wouldn’t recommend cleaning hard-anodized aluminum pots and pans in the dishwasher, it’s helpful when brands offer this option.
Product Reviews: Calphalon vs. Circulon cookware
Circulon Premier Professional, 13 Piece, Brown
This Circulon cookware set features hard-anodized aluminum construction with a bronze-brown exterior. The 13 piece set includes:
- 8-quart (7.57 liter) covered stockpot
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) covered sauté with helper handle
- 3-quart (2.84 liters) covered saucepan
- 2-quart (1.89 liters) covered saucepan
- 1-quart (.95 liter) covered saucepan
- 12-inch (30.48 cm) French skillet
- 10-inch (25.4 cm) French skillet
- 8.5-inch (21.59 cm) French skillet
These Circulon pots and pans have rubberized stainless steel handles for a comfortable grip that stays cool to the touch. The tempered glass lids are self-straining. Customers loved how they could strain pasta and rice without having to use a separate colander.
The cooking surface features Circulon’s TOTAL patented food release system, a triple-layer non-stick coating with raised circles to prevent sticking during the cooking process. This ringed cooking surface also makes it more impervious to nicks and scratches.
However, the non-stick system is by DuPont, the manufacturer of Teflon. In theory, Teflon is safe if used correctly and not overheated, but some people prefer to avoid it.
Watch to learn more about Circulon’s non-stick system:
Circulon Story – Cookware – Circulon
Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: <a href=”https://youtube.com/watch?v=LFkVAtV6F2Q” title=”Circulon Story – Cookware – Circulon” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Circulon Story – Cookware – Circulon (https://youtube.com/watch?v=LFkVAtV6F2Q)</a>
While the manufacturer claims these Circulon pans are dishwasher-safe, I would stick to washing them by hand. Circulon also claims this cookware is metal utensil safe. Some customers back up this claim. My recommendation: Stick to wooden and silicone utensils. Why risk it?
This Circulon non-stick cookware is safe for induction cooktops, electric and gas stoves. It is also oven-safe for temperatures up to 400°F (204°F).
Users praised the heat distribution and the non-stick quality of this Circulon cookware. Several had success with a variety of dishes.
One reviewer mentioned the 5-quart (4.73 liters) sauté pan was nice to have. When sauté pans are large enough, they can handle cooking family-sized dishes. This one fits the bill.
This Circulon cookware set does not include a Dutch oven, but I’m okay with that. I typically prefer enamel cast iron Dutch ovens over those with non-stick coatings.
The only complaints? Some reported the non-stick coating peeling or flaking after a while. You’ll want to treat these pans with care. Avoid nesting them, if possible. Also, there is no lid for the skillets. While many sets don’t include lids for frying pans, it’s nice to have them.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Straining glass lids
- Even heat distribution
- Rubberized stainless steel handles
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven-safe up to 400°F (204°C)
Cons
- No lids for skillets
- Some reports of non-stick peeling
- Not made for nesting
- Non-stick is made from Teflon
Calphalon Classic Oil-Infused Ceramic Cookware, 11-Piece
Calphalon products are lauded by professional chefs and home cooks, alike. These Calphalon Classic pots come in a dark gray color and feature an infused anodized aluminum construction.
Watch how Calphalon makes their pans:
The Making of a Pan | Calphalon
Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: <a href=”https://youtube.com/watch?v=0qaWqu-V9SI” title=”The Making of a Pan | Calphalon” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>The Making of a Pan | Calphalon (https://youtube.com/watch?v=0qaWqu-V9SI)</a>
The hard-anodized aluminum is coated with an oil-infused ceramic. The manufacturer claims this oil-infused coating gives cooks the ability to cook without needing oil or butter.
This 11-piece set includes:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
- 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan
- 1.5-quart (1.42 liter) covered saucepan
- 2.5-quart (2.37 liter) covered saucepan
- 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with cover
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with cover
- 12-inch (30.48 cm) round griddle pan
This Calphalon cookware has stainless steel handles that stay cool to the touch. This set can stand heat and oven temperatures up to 450°F (232°C), giving it versatility. The lids are tempered glass and vented. They also have stay-cool stainless steel lid handles.
The ceramic coating is PTFE-free. (PTFE is the main component of Teflon.) But there were some reports of food sticking to the pans. One user recommended preheating the pan before cooking to help prevent food from sticking.
Pros
- Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
- Transparent glass lids
- Attractive dark gray color
- Stay-cool stainless steel handles
- PTFE(Teflon)-free
Cons
- Not safe for induction cooktops
- Several reports of food sticking & staining
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Not safe for metal utensils
Side-by-Side Comparison
Performance
Both the Calphalon products and Circulon cookware have good reviews in terms of performance. The hard-anodized aluminum construction performs well. Just remember to keep the heat at a low to medium temperature. This type of cookware can’t handle the heat that stainless steel cookware can.
Winner: Draw
Versatility
Both Calphalon and Circulon sets are oven-safe. The Calphalon pots and pans are safe for oven temperatures up to 450°F (232°C), while the Circulon cookware is only safe for temps up to 400°F (204°C).
These cookware sets are compatible with electric and gas stovetops. Only the Circulon is safe for an induction cooktop, however.
Winner: Circulon
Non-stick Quality
Both cookware sets are non-stick, but their materials are different. The Calphalon’s ceramic coating is PTFE-free (i.e. Teflon-free), but there are several reports of sticking. The Circulon non-stick coating seems to hold up better.
On the other hand, there are some reports of peeling from the Circulon non-stick. In my experience, this can be avoided by handwashing and metal utensils, but it isn’t as durable as Calphalon.
Circulon does use a form of Teflon, so some users may have health concerns.
So Calphalon just edges a win here. Its non-stick is not quite as slippery, but if used right it’s healthy, durable and works.
Winner: Calphalon
Cleaning
Is this cookware dishwasher-safe? The Circulon cookware is, but the Calphalon cookware is not. However, I would recommend hand washing either set to preserve the hard-anodized non-stick.
So which cookware brand is easier to clean? I would go with the Circulon. The grooved rings on the cookware interior help release food easily.
Winner: Circulon
Lids
Both sets feature tempered glass lids. The Circulon pots and pans have straining lids, which are great for draining pasta water and other cooking liquids. For that reason, I give the edge to Circulon in this category.
Winner: Circulon
Price
Circulon and Calphalon products are higher-quality, so you’ll pay more for these sets than the cheap non-stick pans at a box store. But these sets are similar in cost. There’s no clear winner for this category – it’s a draw.
Winner: Draw
Alternatives
T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set, 12-piece
From T-fal comes this 12-piece hard-anodized aluminum set. It features the signature T-fal thermo spot indicator, which turns red when the pan is preheated. This set is safe for gas, halogen, and electric stovetops, but not induction.
This set includes the following: 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan, 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan, 1-quart (.95 liter) saucepan with lid, 2-quart (1.89 liter) saucepan with lid, 3-quart (2.84 liter) saucepan with lid, 5-quart (4.73 liter) Dutch oven with lid, spoon & spatula.
T-fal claims this set is dishwasher-safe, but several users had issues with peeling and flaking after running through the dishwasher. I would hand-wash these to be safe.
Pros
- Thermo spot indicator
- Less expensive than other cookware sets
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Contains PTFE (Teflon)
All-Clad Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set, 10-Piece
All-Clad is the luxury cookware brand of the cookware industry. This 10-piece set comes in a gray stainless look.
This cookware set includes the following: 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan, 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan, 2.5-quart (2.37 liters) saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart (3.31 liters) saucepan with lid, 4-quart (3.79 liters) sauté with lid, and 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with lid.
The All-Clad set is steel-based cookware, making it safe for induction cooking. It has a non-stick surface with a hard-anodized aluminum core. It’s oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C), and it can go in the dishwasher, although the manufacturer recommends hand-washing.
This non-stick cookware set is top-quality, but you’ll pay a top price for it. Be prepared to spend significantly more on this set than on the others listed.
Pros
- Stainless steel base, safe for induction
- Oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C)
- One of the saucepans has a helper handle
Cons
- Significantly more expensive
- Contains PTFE (Teflon)
If you are interested in reading more, I’ve actually done a head to head comparison of All Clad and Calphalon.
Or, if All Clad really tickles your fancy, non-stick isn’t the only cookware they offer. I actually prefer All Clad for its stainless steel cookware: check out my All Clad Stainless Steel Copper Core review, where you can read about amazing cooking performance.
The Last Word: Circulon vs. Calphalon cookware
If you want the best quality and value, I’d go with the Circulon Premier Professional non-stick cookware set. This is a complete, high-performing set that should last for years.
On the other hand, if you want Teflon-free non-stick cookware, then I suggest the Calphalon Classic cookware set.
It can be difficult to find high quality cookware that lasts and is easy to use. Handles of even the fanciest pans can feel flimsy or melt from the heat. Lids sometimes slip out of place, and so many models aren’t effective at keeping in the heat.
Calphalon Stainless Steel cookware is one of those high quality products that claims to deal with these issues. So, does it?
Let’s find out!
We’re going to look at the following models in this Calphalon stainless steel cookware review:
- Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 13-Piece Cookware Set
- Calphalon 11 Piece Tri-Ply Cookware Set
- Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 8-Piece Cookware Set
If you just want to jump to the chase: If you are looking for a high quality tri ply stainless steel cookware set that lasts, then you can’t go far wrong with Calphalon.
Read on to find out why, and some of the excellent alternatives on offer.
- 1 Things to Consider Before Buying a Tri Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 1.1 What is Tri Ply?
- 1.2 Safety
- 1.3 Quality
- 1.4 Efficiency
- 2 Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware Review
- 3 Features and Benefits of Calphalon 13-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware
- 3.1 Elegant Look
- 3.2 High Performance
- 3.3 Consistent Heating
- 3.4 Durable
- 3.5 Ease of Maintenance
- 3.6 Versatility
- 3.7 Well Designed
- 3.8 Best Value
- 4 Alternatives
- 4.1 All Clad D3 Tri-Ply Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set
- 4.2 Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
- 4.3 Tramontina Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad 12-Piece Cookware Set
- 5 Calphalon Tri Ply Review – The Verdict
Things to Consider Before Buying a Tri Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Before you invest in tri ply stainless steel cookware, you may want to consider the following factors:
What is Tri Ply?
Tri ply simply means three layers. Tri ply stainless steel normally has an outer stainless steel layer, a middle aluminum or copper layer and an inner stainless steel layer.
I like to think of it as a stainless steel sandwich!
This combines the durability and non reactivity of stainless steel, with heating efficiency of copper or aluminum.
It potentially means getting the best of both worlds. That’s why these products, when done correctly, are considered high quality.
Safety
Now you know what tri ply means, you might be asking yourself: “Is tri ply stainless steel safe?”
Let’s take a little detour and look at alternatives first.
Some nonstick cookware sets may contain chemicals such as PTFE (the active ingredient in Teflon) or types of polyfluoroalkyl substances. Generally, these products should be safe if treated correctly, yet if mistreated there can be problems. PTFE is known to harm pet birds if overheated, for example.
These materials may also be bad for the environment.
For that reason many people like to avoid PTFE.
I, myself, do use PTFE non-stick sometimes (like for cooking eggs!) I would say that it doesn’t last as long as other cookware, such as stainless steel, and is quicker to damage. Another reason to consider stainless steel.
Fortunately, tri ply stainless steel pans are free from toxic ingredients. As explained above, tri ply contains three layers of metal (two sheets of stainless steel and one sheet of aluminum or copper in between). Since the copper and aluminum are contained by the stainless steel there’s no chance of them leaching into your food.
What’s more, this type of cookware won’t emit toxic gases when heated.
Even better, Calphalon tri-ply stainless steel cookware is oven safe and resistant to high temperatures.
There will be no hazards when you place them in the dishwasher, either. The handles are firmly attached, so you won’t be at risk when moving the pans around the kitchen—especially when they’re full of boiling water.
Quality
No matter how you take care of your kitchenware, there will always be a time when you’re in a rush to cook dinner and accidentally drop your pot. The worst part of this scenario is when you lift your newly-bought cookware off the ground and see it’s twisted, cracked or broken.
The good news is, you’re unlikely to experience this disappointment when investing in high-quality tri-ply stainless steel cookware. With superb yield strength (ability to resist deformation), stainless steel is among the world’s hardest metals.
Efficiency
If a pot fails to disperse the heat, then what’s it good for?
Of course, you can keep stirring the food to avoid burned or uncooked results. But sometimes, this just isn’t possible—maybe you’re busy with other house chores, or perhaps the ingredients will go mushy if you stir too many times.
That’s why you need a pot with good heat conductivity.
When comparing tri ply vs stainless steel cookware this is one of the points that stands out. Stainless steel, on its own, is not one of the greatest materials for cookware. Poor conductivity can easily lead to hotspots and burnt food.
Fortunately, the second layer of tri ply stainless steel is usually aluminum, which distributes heat well.
Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware Review
Calphalon stainless steel cookware is a great solution that provides a big bundle of pots and pans for every home chef. It features a robust stainless steel body, durable add-ons, and high-performance material.
The cookware comes with stainless steel handles that won’t melt, glass covers for better visibility and a high-sheen finish for a classic appearance.
There is a wide range of Calphalon stainless steel cookware, so here I will to focus on the 13-piece set.
Pros
- Durable
- Oven-safe
- Dishwasher-safe
- Easy to use
- Simplistic design
- Needs minimal heat
- Induction Compatible
Cons
- Some lines are hard to clean
- Small, narrow handles
- Needs preheating to avoid food sticking
Features and Benefits of Calphalon 13-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware
Elegant Look
When I say this set has a lovely appearance, I don’t mean there aren’t more attractive options out there. But what makes these Calphalon pots appealing is their simple and timeless design.
Stainless steel never gets old-fashioned. This cookware has sleek lines with shiny exteriors that fit into any decor.
The Calphalon 13 piece set (Reviewed)
High Performance
When I was researching tri ply stainless steel cookware reviews, I could see Calphalon stood out as classically stylish—just the way the manufacturer puts it. But then I thought, “What about the performance?”
It seems the majority of customers share the view that the Calphalon stainless steel cookware magnifies your cooking experience.
For one thing, you should have fewer problems with food sticking while using this set because the satin-finished interior is stick-resistant. Let me be clear – stainless steel isn’t non-stick and never will be. Yet, as long as you keep your cookware clean and preheat the pots before you apply the oil, you shouldn’t have much trouble.
The second factor that adds to its optimum performance is retaining steam, food nutrients and flavors. These utensils have tempered glass lids that fit the pans very firmly. So, they can trap food aromas, heat and moisture in.
Besides, the glass lids mean you don’t need to lift the cover to see how your food is coming along. This way, you can preserve more heat and moisture inside the pot.
Consistent Heating
While aluminum works well in distributing the heat, it falls short on thermal retention. On the other hand, stainless steel can retain heat but fails to spread it evenly.
Spreading heat is important to help prevent hotspots and burnt food. You want the whole pan the same temperature.
Heat retention also helps with this as it stops the pan from cooling quickly on contact with food.
Luckily, this Calphalon cookware set integrates the best of both worlds.
It comes with two stainless steel layers wrapped around a core layer of hard-coated aluminum. This layer spreads all along the bottom and side surfaces of the utensils. So, it delivers consistent heating for your cooking ingredients.
You’ll appreciate this heat conductivity because you can cook your meals with almost half the heat you typically use. If you’re cautious about living expenses, you might notice a small saving here.
What’s more, the heating rate near the edges will always be the same as the middle part. The pots will never brown the center and leave the outer part uncooked—an upsetting scenario that plays out too often in the kitchen.
The most exciting part is that the heat expands everywhere except the handles. You won’t need a glove or towel to grab these pots, no matter the heat.
Durable
As I mentioned above, the Calphalon tri ply stainless steel cookware consists of three sturdy layers, of which the inner and outer ones are stainless steel.
Generally, stainless steel is resistant against scratches and damage—as well as being safe to cook with. So, whether you accidentally drop them on the ground or scratch your silverware on their surface, they won’t lose their shiny appearance.
The interior surface is also coated with a non-porous finish, making it more durable against abrasive ingredients. I would still be careful not to scratch it and ruin the satin finish. No metal utensils and careful nothing touches the interior when in the dishwasher – or you may find it becoming more sticky over time.
The Calphalon 11 piece set
The other parts are also far from fragile. The long handles are tightly joined to the pan so that they shouldn’t come loose. The tempered glass lids can resist up to 232°C (450°F). And the outer rims of the lids are made of stainless steel.
Once you register your purchase, you’ll also get a lifetime warranty for each of the 13 pieces. According to the “Use and Care” warranty policy, unless the damage results from misuse, the manufacturer promises to replace or refund your purchase.
The entire set weighs around 25 pounds (11kg), which is also indicative of its high-quality material, though might be a little heavy for some. Being safe for the dishwasher, oven and broiler are other factors that prove the versatility and quality.
Ease of Maintenance
Calphalon stainless steel reviews by customers suggest this cookware requires minimal maintenance.
Stainless steel cookware is typically easy to clean. All you usually need is to soak them in warm water, then use a mild detergent with a soft brush to wipe the dirt off.
To remove any discoloration, you can also wash your pots with a little vinegar or lemon juice. So there’s no need to buy any special or expensive cleaners.
Since the pots and pans are dishwasher-safe, the easier option is to put them in the dishwasher. But if you want them to last longer, I recommend you hand-wash.
If you do use the dishwasher, make sure that nothing can touch the inside of the pan. This could ruin the satin finish.
Versatility
The 13-piece cookware collection includes a variety of pot sizes, which means you can address all your cooking requirements with a single set.
The omelet pans, for example, come in three different dimensions. You’ll also get two different sizes of saucepans, which is handy.
If your kids can’t agree on breakfast, for example, having three pans allows you to cook several “orders” simultaneously. One batch of pancakes and two sunny-side-up fried eggs coming up!
For smaller households or those who are looking for a more low-budget option, there’s also an 8-piece set and a 10-piece set available.
The Calphalon 8 piece set
The 8-piece collection includes two omelet pans (one 8-inch and one 10-inch), two 5-quart saucepans with lids, and a 6-quart stockpot with a separate lid.
The 11-piece set, on the other hand, contains two omelet pans with (one with cover), two saucepans with covers (1.5-qt and 2.5-qt), one sauté pan with a cover, and a 8-qt. Dutch oven that also comes with a lid.
Well Designed
Calphalon’s attention to detail is excellent. I particularly like how they’ve used the three layers:
- The outer stainless steel layer is magnetic stainless steel. This makes the set induction compatible (not all stainless steel is!)
- The middle layer is aluminum. In a sign of a quality set of pans, the aluminum extends around the sides as well as the base.
- The inner layer is a satin finish stainless steel. Stainless steel isn’t non-stick and never will be, but the satin finish really helps stop food sticking. This makes clean up easier.
Best Value
Whether you want to cook pan-fried salmon for lunch or some clam chowder for supper, this cookware collection is everything you need. Also, since they’re resistant to distortion and abrasion, you’re likely to have them for years to come, which is great when you consider the price.
Alternatives
All Clad D3 Tri-Ply Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set
Just like Calphalon tri ply, this collection of pots and pans offers the beauty of stainless steel along with the heat conductivity of aluminum.
All Clad is renowned for its high quality products – with high prices to go with the quality. Expect the All Clad set ot last even longer than the Calphalon if you treat it right.
This set consists of two frying pans in two sizes (8-inch and 10-inch), plus two saucepans with separate tops for each. It also has a 3-quart sauté pan and an 8-quart stockpot, each of which comes with a separate cover.
Here’s a short comparison between the two sets:
- Both have three layers of durable metals
- Both are oven-safe and dishwasher-safe
- Both have securely fixed handles, but Calphalon handles stay cooler
- All Clad has better thermal resistance than Calphalon
- Both are suitable for all hob types
- Both have a lifetime warranty
- All Clad is pricier but higher quality
In case I’ve piqued your interest here: I’ve written a more in depth comparison of All Clad and Calphalon.
Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
This 12-piece stainless steel cookware set includes two saucepans with 1.5 and 3-quart capacities. It also has two cap-free skillets in different sizes with two saute pans, one covered stockpot, and a steamer insert.
There are also 10-piece sets available.
Here’s a comparison between the Calphalon 13-piece and this alternative:
- Both are compatible with induction cooktops
- Cuisinart handles get hotter than Calphalon handles
- Both have tightfitting lids
- Cuisinart has a drip-free pouring feature, but Calphalon doesn’t
- Cuisinart has better thermal resistance
- Cuisinart 12-piece comes with a steamer insert with lid
- Calphalon has glass lids while Cuisinart comes with steel lids
Tramontina Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad 12-Piece Cookware Set
With this cooking set, you’ll get three covered saucepans, two frying pans, one stockpot with a lid, and a deep sauté pan with a capacity of 5 quarts. Like the Calphalon, there are also 8-piece and 10-piece sets available.
Here’s a comparison between the Calphalon 13-piece and this alternative:
- Both have tri ply construction and distribute even heat
- Both are dishwasher and oven-safe
- Cool-to-touch, easy-to-grip, riveted handles on both sets
- Tramontina has a mirror-polished exterior, Calphalon has a brushed exterior
- You can use both on induction cooktops
- Tramontina has stainless steel lids while Calphalon has glass lids
If you like Tramontina, I review more Tramontina cookware here.
Calphalon Tri Ply Review – The Verdict
Calphalon offers a great tri ply cookware set that combines the advantages of stainless steel and aluminum.
Yet their competitors also offer great cookware so do consider if one ticks more boxes than Calphalon.
All the cookware here is tri ply. This has the advantages of heat efficiency, heat retention and a mostly non reactive surface (unless you have a nickel sensitivity).
The downside is that stainless steel just isn’t non-stick. Calphalon do a good job of alleviating some of the clean up pain with their satin interior finish. If you preheat the pans and add oil, you will probably be OK. It’s a question of convenience vs durability (and possible health). That’s up to you.
If you are still looking for a high quality tri ply stainless steel cookware set that lasts, then you can’t go far wrong with Calphalon.
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