Best cook set overall:
T-fal E765SH Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Set
Staff Pick
Besides looking good together, you’ll also enjoy how the hard-anodized aluminum constructive of these pans retains heat well. It also resists scratching and acid from food better than other sets on the market. The red dot in the center is T-fal’s thermospot, which shows you when the pan is evenly heated, so there’s no more wondering if you’ll get the perfect sear on your protein.
$99 at Amazon
Best designed cook set:
Rachael Ray 87641 Cucina Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Set
Bring a little Rachael Ray into your home, and cooking, with this cute 12 pc set. Available with blue, orange, or red handles, this set from will make a subtle statement on your stovetop. Plus, they’re oven safe to 400F and look suitable for serving on your table.
$119 at Amazon
Best value cookware:
AmazonBasics 15 Piece Nonstick Set
If you want to add a few nonstick pieces to your kitchen, but want to keep the price low, Amazon’s collection is a great choice. The utensils are included in this set, so you’re ready to cook anything on your stovetop right out of the box. The vented lids are also a nice touch to prevent steam burns.
$50 at Amazon
Best high-temp cookware:
Cuisinart 66-17N Chef’s Classic NonStick 17 Piece Set
Unlike most nonstick pans, these are safe up to 500F in your oven, and the lids can resist up to 350F. This will prevent you from reaching for the aluminum foil as often for your baked dishes. When you’re ready to serve, the rims are designed to prevent drips when you’re pouring out sauces or soups. Less waste and less clean-up, it’s a win-win.
$150 at Amazon
Best starter cook set:
Farberware 21926 High Performance Nonstick 17 Piece Set
Help someone start their kitchen collection with this set from Farberware. It has everything you need for everyday cooking and baking tasks, even the utensils. The lids are shatter resistant and vented, and the pans can go into the oven up to 350F.
$80 at Amazon
Best induction cookware:
T-fal C515SC Professional Nonstick Set, Induction Base
Get the performance of T-Fal cookware with the added benefit of being able to use it on an induction cooktop due to a reactive metal base. The thermospot indicator that tells you when your pan is thoroughly heated also works on this version. For a quick meal at breakfast time, the 1 Egg Wonder pan is sure to be a hit.
$100 at Amazon
Best copper cookware:
BulbHead (10824) Red Copper Ceramic Nonstick 10 Piece Set
Ceramic infused with copper provides a nonstick surface that is safe all the way to 500F so that you can put your stovetop dishes directly into the oven! These are perfect for browning the tops of dishes like macaroni and cheese or roasted veggies, and even look sharp on your dining table. They also come with a lifetime replacement guarantee.
$80 at Amazon
