Cooking, for millions of us across the world, is an integral part of our everyday lives. From breakfasts to late-night snacks we spent a significant amount of time in our kitchens. When working with unsuitable cookware this cooking adventures can easily turn into a nightmare especially if you own a delicate glass stove that could easily get harmed. Because when you are cooking on a brand new shiny glass top stove, not just any type of cookware will do. Beyond their charming looks and undeniable advantages it has some troublesome characteristics, also choosing a new cookware set suitable for your stove can be quite tricky and time-consuming considering all the terms you may not even heard before. For this reason, we are here to guide you through your best choice.
We have ranked the best pots and pans set for glass stove tops and summarized their most outstanding qualifications in the comparison table below. You'll meet the reviews of each individual product and our extended buying guide that helps to find your best.
A Quick Comparison Table
Image | Product | Features |
|
---|---|---|---|
BEST OVERALL Duxtop Professional | |||
BEST RUNNER-UP Calphalon Simply | |||
BEST BUDGET Amazon Basics | |||
BEST DESIGN Rachael Ray | |||
BEST STARTER Cook N Home Stay Cool Handle Set |
Why do glass stoves require special cookware?
Pots and pans suitable for a glass stove typically have a heavy bottom. The reason they are so heavy on the bottom is to remain stable on the surface and conserve energy. They should have a smooth underside so that they won't scratch or break the glass cooktop with regular use.
Using these pots and pans will ensure that you have no trouble cleaning the surface of your glass cooktop. They will not leave soot or scratches that make it difficult to clean the surface of the glass cooktop.
DID YOU KNOW?
This technology is not entirely a new approach. Ceramic glass cooktops came out to solve the problem of cleaning burned food and grease from burners on the stove when they entered the market in the 1970s. Tempered glass built-in gas cooktops were introduced a few years later, allowing cooks to see burners over the exterior.
What to Look for in a Glass Stove Cookware?
The Material of Pots and Pans
First of all, you have to look for the material the cookware is made from. You need a material that won’t damage the glass tops which are already prone to cracking. Materials such as titanium, stainless steel, carbon steel, pure copper and anodized aluminium are considered good for the glass top stoves.
The heat retention properties of parts, however, is another important thing to consider that most people don't know about. Glass cooktops have built-in sensors that identify when their surface gets too hot and act to turn it off. A cookware that retains a lot of heat, such as a cast iron pot, will transfer some of that heat back to the stove and cause it to automatically shut down to prevent damage to stove components.
We have analyzed different types of materials including iron, titanium, aluminum and stainless steel and we will explain why we have chosen them and how it contributes to the quality of the set in each review down below.
Size
The heaviness of the pans is also another crucial factor for you to consider. A heavyweight pan might be tempting with its heat conductivity skills. Nonetheless, try to avoid that kind of pans as they can easily damage your glass top stove.
Please also make sure your pieces match the burner markings in your kitchen. Heat is transferred most efficiently when the bottom of the pan is similar to the outline of the burner. A good criterion is that the size of the cookware does not exceed the burner markings by more than one inch. If the skillet is oversized and extends beyond the burner by more than an inch, you can expect to have cold spots in the cooking process.
If you want to save space also in your cabinet or fridge, you can also consider buying a set of frying pans with removable handles. Many sets come in a compact storage box or pan carrier for easy and efficient storage.
Bottom Shape
Pieces with uneven bottoms can damage the glass of your range. Heavy flat bottom cookware will ensure heat is properly transferred and evenly distributed, while increasing efficiency and decreasing cook time.
Another key requirement you should keep in mind while looking for the best cookware for your delicate glass stove is the surface. The cookware set you will choose is better to have a smooth, flat bottom that will cover the needed places on the stove because these kinds of stoves only heat the parts they interact so if they don’t fit, your meals will suffer from colder and hotter spots.
Our Top 10 Reviews
#1 Best Overall - DUXTOP SSIB-17 Professional Induction Cookware Set
This cookware set is the greatest choice for the ones in need of versatility, the set comprises a wide range of pots, pans and utensils and from the very first start, it makes you think that this set is made to last. The set is built by using stainless steel which is durable and resistant to even the toughest conditions, making it perfect for heavy-duty.
Top Pick
Duxtop Professional 17-Piece Stainless Steel Induction Pots and Pans Set Impact-bonded Technology
The attractive combination of high-quality materials and exclusive technology made this frying pan set durable, modern and strong.
Impact-bonded Technology with Duxtop
In addition to all the benefits coming from the stainless steel base of the set, the game changer point comes from its impact bonding technology, which means it uses friction to form a bond between the base of the pots, pans and the heating system. This makes it versatile enough to use on all types of heating, including gas, electric, infrared, ceramic and induction stoves.
The surface of the pans, as a disadvantage of stainless steel, is relatively prone to sticking especially when used cooking chicken and eggs. That’s why it would be better for you to oil inside of the pots before starting to cook.
All the elements of the set are oven safe up to 550 degrees which are a hard-find. Moreover while being dishwasher safe it is also freezer safe too which makes it perfect for storing food.
Perfect to Cook Evenly
No one can deny the importance of heating to provide a proper smell and taste to food. The manufacturer uses the impact bonding technique in the Duxtop Secura SSIB17 cookware set. A layer of aluminum (Al) is included in each plate. After removing the air, it is constantly expanding between 2 flawless steel plates. Distribute the heat throughout the bottom of the skillet after collecting it from the bottom of the pan. It also helps spread the temperature quickly. This method cooks food without problems and avoids creating a hot spot at the bottom of the pan.
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#2 Best Non-Stick - CALPHALON 10-Piece Set
One of the most preferred brand Calphalon’s Simply set possesses the customary hard anodized aluminium core which enables the surfaces to be heated evenly without any colder or hotter spots.
Runner-Up
Calphalon Simply Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
Calphalon cookware features an anodized aluminum finish, which allows you to clean up even tougher stains in no time.
The cookware set also contains 2 layers of non-stick coating which means you won't require oiling or buttering before cooking and that makes your meals and you healthier in the long run. In addition to its stylish looks, the handles are double - riveted and each of them has a grip pad made from silicone, meaning they are safer and easier to carry and surely they are oven safe too. When we come to cleaning, a sponge and some water will do for you but it’s not dishwasher safe and colour can be washed off with strong chemicals so you must clean with caution.
It’s suitable for all cooking styles and can be used on gas, electric, electric coil, ceramic, and halogen stovetops but unfortunately, it’s not induction compatible so you can’t use it on your induction type glass top stove.
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#3 Best Cheap - Amazon Basics
It’s one of the most affordable sets you can buy without lacking much quality. This amazon set will definitely meet your expectations if you are looking for cookware which is both affordable and can do their job. It will let you cook whatever you need to and serve as great starter cookware but of course, it has some drawbacks due to its lower price. Despite their solid looks, they are relatively thin so unlike the thick, sturdy cookwares these ones don’t distribute the heat evenly. On the bright side, this means they are easy to carry and store.
Budget Pick
Amazon Basics Non-Stick Pots and Pans 8-Piece Cookware Set
If you have a limited space in your kitchen, Amazon Basics Set will cover your essential needs for a less amount.
It’s one of the most affordable sets you can buy without lacking much quality. This amazon set will definitely meet your expectations if you are looking for cookware which is both affordable and can do their job. It will let you cook whatever you need to and serve as great starter cookware but of course, it has some drawbacks due to its lower price. Despite their solid looks, they are relatively thin so unlike the thick, sturdy cookware; these ones don’t distribute the heat evenly. On the bright side, this means they are easy to carry and store.
It’s Teflon coated so you should be a bit more careful working with them as none of us wants the coating to flake off. So don’t use metal utensils with this cookware too. We would also recommend that you only wash the pan with a soft side of the sponge as the set is not dishwasher safe.
Adjusting the temperature with this set is also an issue because when overheated Teflon starts emitting chemicals by which you could end up catching Teflon flu.
It also cant be used with an oven and induction type glass top stoves.
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#4 Best Design - Rachael Ray 12 Piece Cucina Nonstick Cookware Set
Coming in rustic colors and a contemporary style this good-looking set by Rachel Ray will enhance your kitchen just by being there. In fact, these elegant pots and pans are actually more than their looks. It has a really solid body that makes it adequately durable for years to come. Moreover, it comes with a life-long guarantee.
Cool Look
Rachael Ray Cucina 12 Piece Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, Sea Salt Gray
Espresso color offers a stylish pastel look. But also designed durable thanks to the original enameled material.
Attentively engineered with a hard enamel porcelain exterior, combined with PFOA free aluminium this cookware guarantees both fast and even heating and that also means its chemical safe. Each piece of the set is easy to use and wash which makes them perfect for daily use. Some cookware can burn or discolour when it’s used like this, but not the Rachael Ray Cucina Porcelain Enamel Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set. It works really fine with glass top stoves and ovens up to 400 degrees.
DID YOU KNOW?
The enameled pots are made of cast iron or steel and covered with porcelain enamel to give them a smooth non-stick surface. The porcelain top is made from natural clay baked and glazed to make them strong and durable.
Most user-reported issues of the product are due to its color washing off. Even though it doesn’t indicate it’s not dishwasher safe, customers putting their pans into the dishwasher have reported that indeed it’s not suitable for the dishwasher. So it will be a better option to clean it only by using hand.
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#5 Best Starter - Cook N Home 15-Piece Nonstick
This is also one of the best choices if you are on a budget and in need of cookware that will do its job. With its really low price, expecting more from this set would be quite unrealistic but even with its humble features and fragility, it can please a kitchen newbie for enough amount of time.
Great Start
Cook N Home 15-Piece Nonstick Stay Cool Handle Cookware Set, Black
This starter set is a complete A-to-Z collection of pans, pots and utensils.
It doesn’t work with induction type stoves and ovens at any degree. It has a nonstick coating but it’s not PFOA free so in the long run, it can be dangerous. The description of the product also suggests that the set features stay-cool handles but the criticism made by the customers are mainly about the handles’ overheating.
To be honest, there is not much to say about this set but reviews based upon the user experiences we can say if you are in a place in your life that you must first check the price tag or you are purchasing for your careless college kid you will be satisfied with the outcome and your wallet won’t get hurt. But if you are serious about cooking and value your glass top stove we would recommend some higher quality ones.Pros:
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#6 Top Durability - T-Fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized 12 Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
T-Fal sets, known for their durability still continue to please their customers with this hard anodized nonstick set. Every piece of the set features a riveted silicon handle, non-stick interior and Thermo Spot indicator which makes your timing perfect and your meals chef like. The good quality hard-anodized aluminium, used in the cookware set is the key to its sturdiness. Consumers confirm that despite rough use these pans do not distort or warp so they will look brand new even after extended use.
Best Durable
T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Dishwasher Safe Cookware Set, Black
You'll feel like it'll last for several generations.
The handles of the pots and pans do not get hot either. Users confirm that there is no heat transference to handles and they are oven safe up to 400 degrees. But unfortunately, this cookware set is suitable neither for induction type stoves nor for the broiler.
The distinguishing feature of the set Thermo spot indicator, keeps you updated about the readiness of your pan and meal but many long term users of the set have reported issues regarding their indicator. This set also easy to clean though many cookware promotes that they are dishwasher safe, get scratches when put in the machine but this set is not like any other so you can put your pans into your dishwasher without worrying. In addition, it has a lifelong guarantee but with your T-Fal, you basically don’t need any warranties as your set is more likely to surpass a human lifespan.
If you really like the T-Fall cookware set and your glass top stove is an induction range one we can recommend you the professional version of same series which is basically the less sturdy and induction compatible version of hard-anodized one.
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#7 Best Classic - Calphalon Classic 10 Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
Then another set of the premium brand, Calphalon classic is almost built the same way as the other Calphalon set in our list. The exterior of this cookware is coated with hard anodized aluminium which spreads all the way into the interior parts. Like other hard anodized sets, this one is a good conductor of heat too. It’s doubled non-stick feature makes a cover for internal parts of the pans but the bad news is Even with the use of plastic utensils, there is a tendency to get scratches on the non-stick coating too.
Also Great
Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece Nonstick Cookware Set with No-Boil-Over Inserts
Calphalon offers a more budget version of the previous set with the name classic.
One of the things that makes this set distinguishable from the other Calphalon cookware set is no-boil over insert technology. Thanks to this feature you don’t have to worry about hassles of spill-cleanups and untidy cooktops Moreover, with the extremely convenient centre opening you can stir your meal without being compelled to open the lids.
Along with glass top stoves, it is compatible with various other cooktops, including halogen stovetops and ovens. In addition to the other, this model also can stand up to 450 degrees in an oven. The set is not dishwasher safe. While washing by hand is the only option, you had better stay off using hot water because some user reports have shown that using hot water may lead to the coating peeling off.
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#8 High Satisfaction - MICHELANGELO Copper 12-Piece Ultra Nonstick
Renowned by its copper cookwares German brand Michelangelo has been serving to the kitchen enthusiasts for years and this set is also no exception. Having a ceramic copper on your cookware means that it does not allow food to stick to its surface, but more importantly, it also prevents any chemical reactions when food is heated where non-copper coatings in non-stick cookware are usually made of inorganic materials, which are mostly silicon and oxygen.
Great for Multipurpose
MICHELANGELO Copper Nonstick 12 Piece, Ultra Nonstick Kitchen Cookware Sets with Ceramic Titanium Coating
Michalengelo follows the motto of "customer is always right". Trust is a great plus.
This set also features titanium cores and it has none PTFA, PFOA, lead and cadmium in the copper ceramic layer and that means even though your set seems lightweight it is indeed very strong and durable. Moreover, not having those chemicals on your coating leads to your meals and indirectly you, being healthier.
Beyond all these advantages the cookware still has some game-changers. Unlike the other ones on our list, this set is compatible with all cooktops so including induction. So if you use an induction range glass top stove it is the cookware will please your needs. It can also work with ovens. Besides, unlike some others, it is indeed dishwasher safe but still, it is better to wash your pots and pans by hand.
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#9 Shiny Look - Cuisinart MCP-12N 12-Piece Cookware
Basically, this is the set you need when you decide to take your kitchen game into a next level This set is made from stainless steel with an aluminium core, making them induction compatible. The long metal handles are also steel so they will stay cool enough to touch even you cook for a long time. On the other hand, the side handles can get hot if they are positioned near another burner but still, it’s not a real game-changer as the set comes with a cool-grip feature. Through a unique riveting system, this cool-grip ensures that you will always have a secure hand on your cookware while you work at the glass top stove.
Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
If you like pots shining on your stove, this set makes it.
Unlike many sets, the lids of this one are also stainless steel but of course, it is quite lighter than those of the pans. Stainless steel has an excellent heat transfer so cooking with it can be hard and different to some new users of the stainless steel. You shouldn’t heat your pans over high heat and this could take some time to get used to but not being obliged to high heat and still getting excellent outcomes is really great. These pans are oven-safe to 500 degrees, which is more than enough for most uses, and they’re also broiler safe. Stainless steel is also one of the best materials to use on a top glass stove as it is less prone to warping or denting.
Most users claim that it is really good for heavy use meaning it can undertake many culinary adventures throughout many years but not having a non-stick coating can make cleaning harder. It is really sturdy but thanks to its delicate shape it doesn’t harm your fragile glass top stove. It’s also both dishwasher and induction range safe. So we can say it acts up to its price and reputation.
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#10 Best Budget Performance - Cuisinart MCP-12N 12-Piece Cookware
As the name of the brand suggests, this set is perfect for people who think healthy cooking is a priority. Namely, it contains everything you might need to prepare a healthy meal and non-toxic non-stick coating allows you to use very little or no oil. The set is built with aluminium construction and the main concern with aluminium is the fact that it can react with certain foods, but these pots and pans have a coating on the inside and on the outside that makes them legitimate for safe cooking. As aluminium is a lightweight material and ceramic is used in the interior, most complaints made by the customers are about the sturdiness of the pans and pots. The handles also said to has a soft grip but the main problem with the handles is you should be extra careful with them because they are inclined to come off.
Rich Collection
MICHELANGELO Copper Nonstick 12 Piece, Ultra Nonstick Kitchen Cookware Sets with Ceramic Titanium Coating
Cheap pick is only great when you get a performance way more than the average.
Another issue of the product is it does not perform well with high temperatures. The exterior can lose its colour because of open flames and high heat settings. Moreover, it does not comply with metal and nylon utensils. While the former scratches the bottom the latter might melt with the high temperatures.
As for the cleaning and stove compatibility, it’s not as easy to clean as the others because of the ceramic coating it possesses, it is dishwasher safe but hand washing is highly suggested. Up to 350 degrees it can be used with the oven. It is also compatible with glass top, electric, gas stoves.
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Conclusion
Whether you're a newbie or a gourmet chef, you probably agree that a cooking stove is crucial to running a kitchen. Assess your cooking needs, budget, and kitchen style before you go in search of the perfect range and stove. It is also important that you know the basics about the different types of stoves, their characteristics, and up and downs of each one.
In the last few years, the popularity of the glass top stoves has risen dramatically and seems like it will continue that way. With their elegant designs, excellent heat distributions and cleaning convenience, not choosing a glass top stove can be regarded as a foolish act. Though with all their grace and beauty, they need care as much.
We have tried to show you the most convenient and customer-friendly options in the market. But after all, you should consider your cooking patterns, specific expectations from the cookware and your budget then you will be able to enjoy your glass top stove as the way it’s meant to be.
See you soon!