If you have an induction cooktop installed in your kitchen, but your pots and pans are still rusty and outdated, it’s time for a cookware upgrade. Now you want perfect cookware to complement your induction cooktop.
You might know the general rule of using pots and pans that have magnetic steel in them. But, other tricky terms like “multi-clad” and “hard-anodized” are adding tons of confusion. We’re here to help.
Below, we will tell you what is induction cookware and how to find the best induction pots and pans for your induction cooktop. We’ll also be reviewing the best induction cookware sets for 2024.
Page Contents
- 1 What is Induction Cookware?
- 2 Finding the Right Pots and Pans for Induction Cooking
- 3 The 6 Best Induction Cookware Sets for 2024 Reviews
- 3.1 1. Duxtop SSIB-17 Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set (Best Overall)
- 3.2 2. Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set (Runner-Up)
- 3.3 3. Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set (Top Rated)
- 3.4 4. T-fal C515SC Professional Nonstick Cookware Set (Best Value)
- 3.5 5. GreenPan Valencia Pro 100% Toxin-Free Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set (Best Budget)
- 3.6 6. All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set (Best High-End)
- 4 Conclusion
What is Induction Cookware?
Induction cooking is very different from conventional gas or electric cooking. The conventional cooktops heat pots through direct contact with the flame generated by flames or electrical heating elements.
On the other hand, induction cooktops do not produce heat. Instead, the copper wire beneath the ceramic surface generates an oscillating magnetic field. It causes the electrons to move, inducing an electric current that produces electric heating in the pot.
Nowadays, many chefs and home cooks prefer induction cooking because it is more energy-efficient, safer, and quicker than regular cooking.
Since they are high in demand, there is specific induction-ready cookwares designed to work with induction cooktops. These sets contain ferromagnetic materials, and they are either entirely made of iron or contain a layer of magnetic steel.
The presence of magnetic materials makes the cookware exclusively suitable for induction cooktops as the electrons in the material move to create heat in the pot.
Generally, induction cookware is safer and more efficient as it heats up quickly. Interestingly, the cooking surface remains almost cold, so there’s less risk of burning yourself except touching the hot pot.
Finding the Right Pots and Pans for Induction Cooking
Since induction cooking works differently than regular working, only induction-ready cookware works on an induction cooktop. So, how do you find the right pots and pans for induction cooking?
Much of stainless steel, cast iron, and enameled cookware are compatible with induction cooktops. However, there are exceptions, and it gets a little confusing when it comes to stainless steel. That is because it is made of various metals, and some might block the magnetic field of the cooktop.
Pots made of aluminum, copper, and glass will not work with induction cooktops unless they have a layer of magnetic metal at the bottom. Much of new cookware has this layer at the bottom, but old non-magnetic pans won’t work.
Once you know what to look for in induction appropriate pots and pans, the next thing to check is the nonstick capabilities. The nonstick induction cookware ranges are perfect for health-conscious cooks as it lets you prepare delicious meals without the extra oils or fats.
A nonstick surface also means that your fish and steak will slide out of the pan without leaving any stubborn remnants. Although the nonstick variety comes for all types of stoves, the nonstick induction cookware has a magnetized base for quicker heat transfer.
To avoid any chances of food sticking to your pans, you might want to consider nonstick and scratch-resistant cookware by well-known brands, so there are no chances of failure.
Lastly, the cookware has to be sized appropriately to cook a meal for two. But, you also need more pots to prepare a larger meal for events like Christmas and Thanksgiving. You should also consider if you want metal or glass lids on your pots, handles types, and other such variants.
The 6 Best Induction Cookware Sets for 2024 Reviews
If you want to hunt down the best cookware for the induction cooktop in your kitchen, we’re here to help. Here are the top six best induction cookware reviews for 2024.
1. Duxtop SSIB-17 Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set (Best Overall)
The Duxtop SSIB-17 Professional offers quantity with high-quality construction for excellent performance. The efficiency of the stainless steel induction cookware set comes from the innovative design and advanced technology used.
The commercial-grade stainless steel bodies are coupled with heavy-gauge aluminum. It is impact-bonded with the pots, which makes it desirable in any kitchen.
The choice of materials improves heat distribution inside the cookware, and the nonstick quality adds to the functionality. That means you can sear a steak just as quickly as simmering soups and sauces. Apart from that, the riveted handles and glass lids make the unit super convenient to use, while the anti-slip finish of the handles ensures maximum comfort.
The whole set is oven safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit. You can start cooking on your induction cooktop and finish off in the oven for restaurant-quality meals. You can even pop the pans in the fridge for long-term deep freezing.
One thing to keep in mind is that even though the vessels are nonstick, you have to season them to prevent food from sticking at the base.
Other than that, this set is hands-down, one of the highest-performing sets in the market today. The cookware is only low maintenance, so it will compensate for the price you’re paying.
2. Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set (Runner-Up)
If you are looking for unmatched construction and durability, look no more. The Anolon Nouvelle Copper has a hard-anodized construction, which is twice as hard as stainless steel. The stylish curved handles, easy-clean rivets, and premium nonstick interior make it ideal for induction cooktops.
This 11-piece cookware set has various pots and pans to perform a range of cooking tasks in the kitchen. The set has an induction-suitable copper base wrapped in two layers of aluminum or “tri-ply”, protected by stainless steel for optimal heat control.
Copper makes a good base for the vessels as it reacts fast to changing temperatures and distributes heat evenly. That means you can have evenly golden hotcakes every time.
Apart from that, the stainless steel lids fit nicely on the pans to lock in all the flavor. The Nouvelle also has efficient food-releasing capabilities with easy-clean flat rivets for effortless cleaning. The only con is that the set is not dishwasher safe, so that you will have to hand wash the pots each time.
However, people looking for nonstick induction cookware will appreciate the black nonstick interior that lets food glide off without any remnants. The set is also oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Although it falls in the mid-price range, it looks and performs like a high-end set that will cost you twice as much.
3. Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set (Top Rated)
If the previous sets are too modish for your taste, the Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro is a classic stainless steel cookware set for you. Despite the few minor design flaws, it offers incredible performance at an affordable price.
The Multiclad Pro line has a stainless steel construction with classic lines for a traditional approach to cookware. The bright metal fits perfectly in any kitchen setting, and the design hides any fingerprints that make steel look dull. A strip of mirror polish at the rim adds a touch of style to the overall sophisticated design.
The set does not only look good, but it also performs exceptionally well. The tri-ply construction enables even heat distribution and maximum heat retention inside the pots, eliminating any hot spots. While the pot gets hot, the steel handles stay cool for you to maintain a comfortable grip.
One minor flaw that bugged us was the size of the loop handles on the lids. While they add to the look, you can’t fit all your fingers through the loops on the smaller lids. That just means you will need potholders close to you.
The pans are also oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which is suitable for most uses. One thing to note is that these pieces do not have a nonstick coating, which means you can stack them up without worrying about scratching off any layer.
This set is the best induction cookware for starters and those looking to upgrade their old kitchenware. However, if you like nonstick cookware, this might not be for you.
4. T-fal C515SC Professional Nonstick Cookware Set (Best Value)
If you are looking for induction cookware sets to try out almost everything in your recipe book, the T-fal Professional might be your best option. It features durable construction at a very reasonable price so you will get great value for money.
This set is well-matched with almost every cooking surface and your induction cooktop too. The pots and pans have a high-quality aluminum construction with high, straight sides, making them ideal for cooking, boiling, and reheating. Each piece has a balanced metal bottom for even heat distribution.
But wait, there’s more.
T-fal features The Heat Mastery System for perfectly cooked meals every time. The system comprises of a long-lasting nonstick coating, an even heat base, and patented Thermo-Spot technology.
Every pot has a hard Titanium reinforced interior, which is scratch-resistant and toxin-free. That means it can withstand tough cooking jobs without any extra effort or wasteful mess.
The red indicator in the pans let you know when they reach the right temperature for perfect, even cooking. It might look like an extra feature, but it will save you the guesswork by indicating when the vessel is properly preheated.
Additionally, the riveted handles stay cool for secure handling, no matter how long the pots stay on the stove. Even during longer cooking tasks, the vented lids trap enough moisture to leave your meals flavorful but not soggy. The set is oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
One major downside to this set in that the nonstick coating might wear off after some time. However, if you are not a fan of nonstick coating, it shouldn’t bother you.
5. GreenPan Valencia Pro 100% Toxin-Free Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set (Best Budget)
The GreenPan Valencia Pro is built with hard anodized material for durability and scratch resistance. This ceramic cookware has a greener footprint with GreenPan’s signature healthy ceramic nonstick coating, free of harmful fumes.
The interior has Thermolon, which prevents the food from sticking to the pot while withstanding various cooking utensils, including metal cooking spoons. However, the ceramic coatings only last for some time, especially if you are hard on your cookware.
On the bright side, the light gray interior will help you keep an eye on any staining signs while the dark exterior helps hide any scratches or stain from heat. The pieces also have straight sides that give the set a traditional look. Plus, the set is oven safe up to 600 degrees, which is enough for most users.
Although each piece has stainless steel handles that stay cool during cooking, the lid handles may get warm if exposed to heat for too long. Other than that, the glass lids are pretty neat, and they help you keep an eye on the food inside without opening the pots too frequently.
6. All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set (Best High-End)
The All-Clad D5 is an exquisite, functional, and durable induction cookware set with a timeless appeal to it. It features a five-ply bonded construction with altering stainless steel and aluminum layers for even heating, heat retention, and zero food wrapping.
The exterior and bottom of the All-Clad cookware set made of brushed stainless steel, which is resistant to stains and fingerprints. A combination of brushed and mirror polish gives it a bright and modern look.
The interior has a starburst finish, which prevents the food from sticking to the base to ensure professional-level results. However, keep in mind that the set doesn’t have an actual nonstick surface.
Each pot has polished stainless steel lids and handles riveted to the sides for extra durability and better grip. That means they conduct heat more slowly and stay cooler during cooking. Some pieces also have side loop handles that make it easier to transfer dishes from the cooktop to the table.
With the alternating layers of metal, the pots are not lightweight. Instead, they feel sturdy in the hands. They are also oven safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
One minor flaw is the lids’ material. Glass lids are generally more convenient to keep a check on the food, whereas the steel lids have to be opened again and again.
Although All-Clad is a high-end brand with hefty price tags, this set will be a well-worth investment. Plus, the All-Clad’s limited lifetime warranty gives you all the more reason to consider it.
Conclusion
Before you shop for a new induction cookware set, make sure you know what type of pots and pans you are looking for. Whether you go for a nonstick set with glass lids or classic stainless cookware, focus on the design and minor details to make all the difference on the cooktop.
We hope our induction cookware reviews will help you find the best cookware for induction cooktop in your kitchen and save you the buyer’s remorse.
