The Induction Range Cookware Set: Revolutionizing Your Culinary Journey

Induction cooktops use magnets to generate heat and are safe, precise, and efficient. Induction-compatible cookware must have a ferromagnetic base, which works with an induction burner's electromagnetic coil. This means that the cookware must be made of a magnetic metal. Cast iron, carbon steel, and some stainless steel are naturally magnetic. Even ceramic, copper, and aluminum cookware can be made induction-compatible with a magnetic plate bonded to its base. However, this type of cookware may not heat up as well or quickly.

Stainless steel sets

If you're looking for a stainless steel cookware set to use on your induction hob, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, ensure that the base of the cookware is ferromagnetic—you can check this by seeing if a magnet sticks to it. Stainless steel is usually a safe bet, but some types have too much aluminium to work on an induction hob.

All-Clad D3 10- or 14-Piece Set

This set is lightweight, with flared edges and comfortable handles. It heats evenly and includes a wide range of shapes and sizes. The lids are tight-fitting and interchangeable, and each pot and pan is oven-safe up to 600°F. However, the lid handles can overheat.

Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro 12-Piece Set

This set offers high performance at a great value. It includes everything you need to cook a meal, with comfortable handles and a nice balance when holding the pan. The triple-ply construction means the pans are conductive but not too heavy.

Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10- or 12-Piece Set

This set includes some larger-sized pots and pans at a great price. The tri-ply construction provides even heating, and the wide handles are comfortable to hold. However, if you're looking for small saucepans, this isn't the one for you.

Misen 9-Piece Set

This set includes a 3-quart saucier, which is great for stirring and whisking. The pieces are also dishwasher-safe.

Made In 10-Piece Set

Made In's 10- and 12-inch stainless steel skillets were preferred over All-Clad and Le Creuset during testing due to their more reasonable price point.

Hybrid sets

Hybrid cookware sets are a great option for those who want the benefits of both stainless steel and non-stick cookware. These sets typically feature a stainless steel base with a non-stick coating, providing durability, easy cleaning, and even heating. Here are some options for hybrid cookware sets for induction ranges:

Hexclad Hybrid Perfect Pots & Pans Set (12-piece)

This set offers high-temperature prowess, reliability, and versatility. It is suitable for high-temperature cooking and is oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, and metal-utensil-safe. However, it may have drawbacks such as frequent staining after high-temperature cooking and bulkier, heavier handles.

All-Clad HA1 Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Set

This hard-anodized nonstick cookware set contains everything needed to cook a great meal. While it may not have the hybrid properties of combining stainless steel and non-stick, it is a fantastic option for those seeking non-stick cookware.

Made In 7-Piece The Non-Stick Set

This set features a diamond-infused ceramic coating, providing a sturdy guard against metal utensils. The 5-ply stainless steel construction and internal non-stick coating make these pans tough and safe at higher temperatures up to 500°F. The set includes a fry pan, saucepan, sauté pan, and stock pot, providing a good variety for different cooking needs.

Nonstick sets

Nonstick cookware is typically made with a non-magnetic aluminium base, which is incompatible with induction cooktops. However, some nonstick sets are designed with a magnetic base, making them suitable for induction cooking. Here are some of the best nonstick sets for induction range cooktops:

All-Clad HA1 Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Set

This set includes everything you need for cooking a fantastic meal. It features a hard-anodized nonstick coating and is dishwasher-safe, although hand washing is recommended. The set includes 8- and 10-inch frying pans, 2.5- and 3.5-quart saucepans with lids, a 4-quart sauté pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid.

T-fal Professional Nonstick Pots and Pans

This induction-safe nonstick set is budget-friendly and includes a variety of useful pieces, such as a steamer insert. The set has a nonstick interior with a Thermo-Spot indicator that changes colour when the pots are preheated. It includes a 3-quart saucepan, an 8-inch frying pan, and other sized pans. The pots are oven-safe up to 400°F, and the lids can handle temperatures up to 350°F.

OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set

The OXO set is constructed from hard-anodized aluminium and features a durable ceramic coating. It includes a range of sizes, such as a 10-inch fry pan, a 2.3-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and a 5.2-quart casserole with a lid. The set is oven-safe up to 600°F and dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended for the nonstick coating.

Made In Non-Stick Frying Pan Set

The Made In set features a unique 5-ply construction with an induction-compatible steel exterior and a triple-layer aluminium core. The nonstick coating is PFOA-free and is proven to be more durable than other brands. The set includes a 12, 10, or 8-inch frying pan, or you can purchase a 6-piece set that includes a frying pan, saucepan, stock pot, and sauté pan.

All-Clad HA1 Non-Stick Set

The All-Clad HA1 set is a well-rounded option, featuring a thick hard-anodized aluminium body and a multi-layer PFOA-free nonstick coating. It has a steel induction plate for strength and compatibility with all cooktops. The set includes a range of sizes, is dishwasher-safe, and is oven-safe up to 500°F.

Value sets

When it comes to value sets, there are a few options that offer a good balance of quality and affordability. Here are some recommendations for induction range cookware value sets:

Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set

This set offers excellent performance, especially when searing and browning. It is made from stainless steel with an aluminium core, allowing for the magnetism necessary for induction. The handles are riveted for durability and designed for comfort during long cooking sessions. While some may find the pots unbalanced, the set offers a great combination of essentials for your kitchen. It is dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended.

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro set is a great option for those seeking performance and value. The pans heat quickly and retain heat well, making them ideal for searing and sauteing. The high sides prevent splatter, although they can make it a bit difficult to see into the pan. The set is dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended for easier cleanup.

Tramontina 10-Piece Stainless-Steel Cookware Set

If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Tramontina 10-piece set offers a great balance of quality and price. The pots and pans feature a three-layer construction of stainless steel and an aluminium core, ensuring even heating and induction compatibility. This set includes a range of essential pieces, such as fry pans, saucepans, a braiser, and a stockpot. While the set is dishwasher-safe, some scrubbing by hand may be needed for tougher stains.

GreenPan Valencia Pro Ceramic Nonstick 11-Piece Cookware Set

For those who prefer ceramic cookware, the GreenPan Valencia Pro set is a great option. It features a magnetic base for induction cooktops and is PFOA- and PFAS-free. The lightweight pots and pans can withstand high temperatures, and the stainless steel handles stay cool during cooking. While ceramic nonstick cookware tends to wear faster, this set includes protectors to help prevent scratching during storage.

Goldilocks Cookware Set Plus

If you're looking for a fully-clad tri-ply set, the Goldilocks Cookware Set Plus offers excellent value. This set performed better than any other set in its price range, with even heating across all pieces. It includes a good range of sizes, including a 12-inch skillet, which is a rare find in cookware sets. While the pieces are slightly heavier than some other options, this set offers a great balance of quality and affordability.

Upgrade sets

If you're looking to upgrade your cookware set for an induction hob, you'll want to invest in a high-quality set that will tick all the boxes in terms of size, durability, and performance. Here are some options to consider:

Hestan NanoBond Titanium Ultimate Set, 10-Piece

This top-tier set offers excellent performance, including even heating, steady simmering, and impressive durability. The pans are also easy to work with. The set includes two skillets (8.5-inch and 11-inch), two saucepans with lids (1.5-quart and 3-quart), a sauté pan with a lid (3.5-quart), and a stockpot with a lid (8-quart). The Hestan NanoBond Titanium set is dishwasher-safe and can withstand heat up to 1050°F.

All-Clad D5 Stainless Brushed 5-Ply Bonded Cookware Set, 10-Piece

This set from All-Clad is a top-of-the-line choice and is definitely worth the investment. The 5-ply construction gives the pieces a substantial weight, and they stand up well to heavy use. The set includes an 8-inch frying pan, a 10-inch frying pan, a 1.5-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid. All the pans are oven-safe up to 600°F and can even go under the broiler.

Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set

The Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad set offers excellent performance, durability, and design. The pieces are made from 18/10 stainless steel with an aluminum core, which allows for the magnetism necessary for induction. The handles are riveted for durability and are ergonomically designed for comfort during long cooking sessions. The set includes an 8-inch frying pan, a 10-inch frying pan, a 1.5-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid. The pieces are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended.

All-Clad D3 Stainless Everyday, 10 Piece Pots and Pans Cookware Set

This set checks the boxes for size, durability, and performance. It has a lightweight design, flared edges, and comfortable handles. The set includes an 8.5-inch and 10.5-inch skillet, 1.5-quart and 3.5-quart saucepans with lids, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and a 6-quart stockpot with a lid. The lids are interchangeable, and the pots and pans are oven-safe up to 600°F.

Caraway Ceramic Cookware Set, 8-Piece

The Caraway Ceramic Cookware Set offers durable construction and easy maintenance. The pieces are made of ceramic-coated aluminum, free of PTFE, cadmium, and lead, with securely riveted stainless steel handles. The set includes a 10-inch frying pan, a 3-quart saucepan with a lid, a 4.5-quart sauté pan with a lid, a 6.5-inch Dutch oven with a lid, a storage rack, and a lid holder. The pans are oven-safe up to 550°F, and while hand-washing is recommended, they are also dishwasher-safe.

Frequently asked questions