Calphalon vs Cuisinart Cookware: Which is Better? (2023)

Last Updated on May 23, 2023 by Lori Walker

Are you currently looking in the cookware market for some finest frying pans or just any cookware set but don’t know what brands to begin with?

Calphalon and Cuisinart are known for their high-quality cookware sets, which are a real value for your money. But if you need more help deciding which of these two brands you should buy, we got you!

We’ve made a detailed comparison of Calphalon vs Cuisinart by reviewing some critical aspects to help you determine which brand is the real deal.

Cuisinart & Calphalon Compared

Calphalon and Cuisinart are both reputable brands in the cookware industry, but in this comparison, Calphalon comes out as the winner.

While both brands offer a collection of cookware sets that are induction stovetop compatible and have an oven-safe temperature of 500 degrees F, Calphalon uses a high-quality hard-anodized aluminum base [1] that provides excellent heat retention and distribution.

This material and construction make their cookware more durable than Cuisinart over the long term.

Calphalon is slightly more expensive than Cuisinart, but its value is worth its price, especially in the long run.

Calphalon vs Cuisinart Comparison Table

Head-To-Head Battle

Oven-Safe Temperature (Degrees F)

Calphalon and Cuisinart non-stick collections are oven safe, with Calphalon ranging from 400 to 500 degrees F and Cuisinart from 350 to 500 degrees F.

“If “ifs” and “ands” were pots and pans, there’d be no work for tinkers’ hands”

Charles Kingsley, Priest, University Professor, Social Reformer, Historian, Novelist, and Poet

As for their stainless steel collections, the same range applies to Calphalon, while Cuisinart becomes consistent at 500 degrees F.

Base Material & Construction

Calphalon cookware sets, particularly non-stick collections, are known for their hard-anodized aluminum as the base material for construction.

On the other hand, while some Cuisinart cookware sets also use the same base material, other low-cost Cuisinart collections are made with standard aluminum.

Furthermore, these two cookware brands offer stainless steel cookware sets featuring full multi-clad construction. Choose their impact-bonded base if you’re looking for more affordable stainless steel cookware options.

Compatible With Induction

Calphalon and Cuisinart offer cookware that’s compatible with induction cooktops.

However, Calphalon only offers one collection in the non-stick category, Classic Ceramic. At the same time, two Cuisinart non-stick collections are induction cooktop ready, Ceramica XT Nonstick Cookware, and Elements® Pro Induction Nonstick.

All stainless steel cookware of both brands is compatible with induction cooktops, except for Cuisinart Copper Tri-Ply (stainless steel interior and aluminum core).

Lids & Handles

Most Calphalon non-stick sets feature tempered glass lids and cast iron stainless steel handles, except for Select by Calphalon Ceramic, which has an addition of silicone grip on the handle for heat resistance [2].

Their stainless steel cookware set also has tempered glass lids and cast iron stainless steel handles, with two Calphalon collections having a silicone grip handle.

Conversely, the Cuisinart cookware set typically features a glass lid or stainless steel lids and stainless steel or silicone handles.

Their stainless steel cookware set has glass or stainless steel lids and cast iron stainless steel, stainless steel, or silicone handles.

Finally, the handles for both brands are securely attached to the cookware with stainless steel rivets, allowing us a comfortable and safe grip.

Cooking Performance

The cooking performance between Calphalon vs Cuisinart cookware sets is similar regarding frying, boiling, or stewing.

Both Calphalon and Cuisinart’s non-stick collections are true to their name, as we never experienced any food sticking to their pan.

Their tri-ply cookware sets heat up faster [3] while having longer heat retention, particularly around the exterior.

They also have a faster, more even heat distribution which helped us improve the quality of the dishes we’ve cooked while reducing cooking time.

Cooking Surface

Calphalon typically features two to three layers of non-stick coating on their non-stick cookware collections other than ceramic.

On the other hand, Cuisinart usually features Eterna, Quantanium, water-based, and premium non-stick coating aside from ceramic.

Design

Generally, Calphalon cookware features a sleek and traditional design, with a black hard-anodized exterior, particularly for their non-stick sets.

Calphalon stainless steel cookware boasts a brushed stainless steel exterior [4] which hides the visibility of scratches or fingerprints on the cookware.

The most admirable features of the Calphalon classic collections are the measuring marks, pouring spots, and straining lids—making the cooking process more manageable and convenient.

Cuisinart cookware has a modern design but with a focus on elegance. The design varies depending on which collection, but all are made to stand out.

Cuisinart stainless steel cookware has a polished finish that gives it a mirror and sophisticated look. The only drawback is that the scratches or fingerprints are apparent.

Both cookware brands are functional and aesthetically pleasing, but Cuisinart cookware is your best choice if you want more design options.

Durability

Most Calphalon non-stick sets use hard-anodized aluminum construction, providing excellent heat distribution and ensuring that the hard-anodized cookware is durable and long-lasting.

In contrast, only a few Cuisinart cookware have hard-anodized aluminum bases. Their reputation for durability makes up for their stainless steel variation.

However, when we started comparing the stainless steel pans of Calphalon with the Cuisinart model, we noticed that Calphalon’s has a thicker layer than Cuisinart’s.

Thus, if you’re highly concerned about longevity, buy Calphalon cookware, specifically their Premier collections, which can last longer than Calphalon Classic collections, as they claimed.

Warranty

In fairness, both Cuisinart and Calphalon offer limited lifetime warranties on their cookware.

You can contact their customer service to claim a warranty and present proof of purchase. If their product is proven defective, they will repair or replace it at their discretion.

However, like all warranties, it does not cover damage caused by misuse or neglect, so be wary of that before issuing a warranty claim.

Common Complaints

Some of the most common complaints Calphalon receive is that the coating of their non-stick cookware quickly wears off, and their stainless steel handles sometimes get hot during cooking.

We’ve also heard and seen some complaints that Calphalon classic pots and fry pans are easily warped, while others claim that their Calphalon cookware was delivered already warped in the box.

“Calphalon vs Cuisinart: a choice of culinary partner that can elevate your cooking game with style, quality, and innovation.”

– Leonelli Bakery

As for their competition, there was a complaint about the coating of Cuisinart non-stick cookware peeling off easily and looking like a very cheap product.

Some complained about their stainless steel cooking surface stains quickly, while others raised concerns about food sticks too quickly.

Unique Feature

Aside from Calphalon Classic and Classic Ceramic collections’ measuring marks, Calphalon Signature and Williams-Sonoma Elite have textured surfaces for searing.

If you want non-stick cookware with extra coating layers for scratch resistance, Calphalon Contemporary is your ideal product. If you prefer aesthetics, Calphalon Tri-Ply has a brushed stainless steel finish.

On the other hand, Cuisinart Multiclad Pro features even heating and drip-free flared rims, and their Contour Hard Anodized boasts elegant contoured stainless steel handles.

If you’re looking for low-cost Cuisinart cookware, stainless steel Chef’s Classic features a cool grip handle, while their Professional Series™ has glass lids to retain moisture.

Price

While it depends on the collection, Calphalon cookware is generally slightly more expensive than Cuisinart cookware.

However, both brands offer different price points, so customers within a strict budget can still avail of their products.

FAQs

On A Final Note

Both Calphalon and Cuisinart offer high-quality cookware options. Still, in the battle between Calphalon vs Cuisinart, Calphalon is known for its durable, non-stick surfaces and sleek designs, while Cuisinart is recognized for its affordability and versatility.

The choice between Calphalon vs Cuisinart will depend on personal preferences and needs. Consider factors such as budget, cooking style, and frequency of use when making your decision.

References:

1. https://www.thespruceeats.com/anodized-cookware-construction-1907920
2. https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-silicone-4164214
3. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-pan/
4. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/difference-between-brushed-and-polished-stainless-steel/

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Lori Walker

Lori is a self-taught baker and former owner of a successful bakery. She shares her love for baking through her blog, featuring delicious recipes, baking tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at running a bakery. You can speak with her directly at [email protected].

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