One of the most popular choices for enamel cookware is classic white enamel cookware.  Its timeless and clean look makes it a versatile choice for any kitchen.  The smooth, shiny surface of white enamel basins not only looks elegant but is also easy to clean and maintain.

Cooking meat, fish, and vegetables on a cast iron pan have a rustic beauty all its own. The sear marks added flavor to the dish and the natural smoking of the seasoned pan adds excitement to using a cast-iron skillet. This makes the skillet pan a must-have pan for each aspiring chef. They are also exceptionally long-lasting, lasting for many years.

“There are a few things to consider when you’re buying cookware, including how you cook, durability, and price,” says Lance Nitahara, an assistant professor at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, N.Y. “On the low end of the price scale are nonstick and cast iron; copper is on the high end. But each does a different thing.”

Below, you’ll find advice on how to choose the right frying pan for how you cook, plus highlights of top-performing pans from CR’s tests, listed alphabetically and not by rank. You can see how all the pans we test perform in our frying pan ratings and learn more about the different types of pans in our cookware buying guide.

A good choice, especially for heavily used cookware, is a tri-ply or five-ply combination of stainless steel and aluminum (or hard-anodized aluminum). Stainless steel provides a durable surface, providing excellent heat retention and safety. Interior layers of aluminum ensure even heat distribution. All these work together to create the ideal cooking base, whether you’re using a skillet or sauté pan.