Best Copper Cookware

the fancy Copper cookware sitting on the kitchen table

Copper cookware is one of the most sought after cookware among many professional chefs and experienced home cooks in the world. This is mainly because of copper’s outstanding heat conductivity and adaptation to rapid temperature changes. This unique attribute makes copper cookware the ideal choice for precise cooking of delicate foods like fish, chocolate and sauces etc. 

Moreover, copper cookware looks aesthetically beautiful and attractive. A set of copper pans and pots on display will certainly bring a touch of style and warmth to any kitchen.

Despite the fact that copper cookware can be rather expensive and very hard to maintain, it is widely accepted that it is worth investing in a set of high quality copper cookware for any kitchen whether you are a professional chef or a dedicated home cook.

With so many types and features around the copper cookware, deciding on which set to buy is not an easy task. In order to help you choose the perfect copper cookware for your cooking needs, below I have reviewed the top 10 best copper cookware sets in the market.

Copper Cookware Sets Reviewed

*We select and review all products independently, based on our opinion and customer feedback. Some links on this page are affiliate links and if you make a purchase we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more info on our disclaimer page.

Top pick

1. Lagostina Martellata

- Base: copper w. aluminum core
- Interior: stainless steel
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.3

Best for frying

2. Copper Chef 9-Piece Set

- Base: aluminum w. stainless steel plate
- Interior: Cerami-Tech nonstick
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.0

Best budget

3. Shineuri Copper Infused Set

- Base: aluminum w. magnetized plate
- Interior: copper infused ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

8.6

Best high-end

4. Matfer Bourgeat 8-Piece Set

- Base: pure red copper
- Interior: stainless steel
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.1

Best complete kitchen set

5. Home Hero 23-Piece Set

- Base: aluminum w. induction plate
- Interior: copper ceramic nonstick
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

8.9

Great hammered copper set

6. Cuisinart Hammered Collection

- Base: copper w. aluminum core 
- Interior: stainless steel 
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.2

Great value

basic set

7. Concord 8-Piece Set

- Base: aluminium w. magnetic plate
- Interior: copper ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

8.4

Best ceramic

8. Gotham Steel 20-Piece Set

- Base material: hard anodized aluminum
- Interior: Ti-Cerama copper ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top

Our Rating

9.0

#9

9. BulbHead Red Copper

- Base material: aluminum
- Interior: copper-infused ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top

Our Rating

8.9

#10

10. Epicurious 11-Piece Set

- Base heavy-gauge aluminum w. steel plate
- Interior: nonstick
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.0

Top pick

1. Lagostina Martellata

- Base: copper w. aluminum core
- Interior: stainless steel
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.3

Best for frying

2. Copper Chef 9-Piece Set

- Base: aluminum w. stainless steel plate
- Interior: Cerami-Tech nonstick
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.0

Best budget

3. Shineuri Copper Infused Set

- Base: aluminum w. magnetized plate
- Interior: copper infused ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

8.6

Best high-end

4. Matfer Bourgeat 8-Piece Set

- Base: pure red copper
- Interior: stainless steel
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.1

Best complete kitchen set

5. Home Hero 23-Piece Set

- Base: aluminum w. induction plate
- Interior: copper ceramic nonstick
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

8.9

Great hammered copper set

6. Cuisinart Hammered Collection

- Base: copper w. aluminum core 
- Interior: stainless steel 
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.2

Great value basic set

7. Concord 8-Piece Set

- Base: aluminium w. magnetic plate
- Interior: copper ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

8.4

Best ceramic

8. Gotham Steel 20-Piece Set

- Base material: hard anodized aluminum
- Interior: Ti-Cerama copper ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top

Our Rating

9.0

#9

9. BulbHead Red Copper

- Base material: aluminum
- Interior: copper-infused ceramic
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top

Our Rating

8.9

#10

10. Epicurious 11-Piece Set

- Base heavy-gauge aluminum w. steel plate
- Interior: nonstick
- Cooktops: gas, electric, glass top, induction

Our Rating

9.0

Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Cookware Set

Design:

This 10-piece cookware set from Lagostina Martellata features a hammered stainless steel exterior in a stunning copper colour. They are beautifully designed with a lot of attention to detail which can definitely be proudly displayed in any kitchen. These pans and pots are built on a tri-ply construction with an aluminum core clad between two layers of stainless steel.

This unique feature provides the optimal heat conduction throughout the entire pans and pots while the copper exterior reacts instantly to changes in heat which make this cookware perfect for fast boiling or cooking delicate sauces or precise recipes. The whole set includes all the essential pieces for everyday use and is ideal for large families.

Materials:

The pans and pots in this set are made of a heat-radiating aluminium core wedged between the stainless steel and premium copper exterior. Lagostina Martellata uses the highest grade 18/10 stainless steel in this cookware to provide extra strength and stability. Topped with cast stainless steel lids and handles, this cookware set are built to last for a lifetime of delicious meals.

The cast stainless handles are also riveted for a firm and comfortable grip while cooking.  The lids are tight fitting to seal in moisture and flavour of the food. Balance designed and flared edges also make it easy and safe to lift and pour out liquids when needed. This high quality polished cookware is oven- and broiler-safe and also compatible with gas and electrics stovetops except induction top.

Usability:

Featuring a tri-ply construction, this cookware is excellent on heat conduction which makes it the perfect choice for searing and precise cooking to bring out the best flavours of ingredients. 

The high grade stainless steel surface is non-reactive and naturally non-stick, which means you will get quick food release with less oil needed. However this non-stick feature is not as effective as ceramic or other coating. You do need to soak the pieces in warm water before scrubbing them in order to get rid of the stains or spotting.

Although this cookware set is dishwasher safe and metal utensil safe, it is recommended that you hand wash these pieces and use nylon scrubs to avoid tarnish and scratches. In order for this cookware set to last and perform to its best ability, it is very crucial that you look after them carefully according to the instruction. This cookware set comes with a limited lifetime warranty to its customers.

The set contains:

  • 8-inch skillet
  • 10-inch skillet
  • 2-quart saucepan with lid
  • 3-quart saucepan with lid
  • 3-quart deep saute pan with lid
  • 6-quart stockpot with lid

Pros

  • Beautiful design with a hammered finish
  • Excellent heat conduction
  • Extremely durable
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • The copper colour fades over time
  • Lids are not transparent
  • Needs more effort in cleaning and maintenance

Copper Chef 9-Piece Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set

Design:

Featuring Copper Chef’s signature rustic red copper color and a shining smooth finish, this cookware set looks very attractive on display and will definitely complement any kitchen. All the pots and pans from this set are around in shape and are super lightweight. They come in various sizes, which make it convenient for both small or large families.

Materials:

This cookware set is made from high quality copper with a stainless steel induction plate built in to enhance rapid and even heat distribution from edge to edge. So no need to worry about hot spots. 

Compared to most  other cookware, the pieces in this set can withstand much higher temperature, up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven. They are also compatible with all stove tops including gas, electric, ceramic and induction.

The interior of these pans and pots are coated with Copper Chef’s advanced cerami-tech nonstick ceramic. This coating is free from PTFE & PFOA and provides instant food release and eliminates the need for added fats or oils in cooking. The handles are coated with stainless steel and riveted for a comfortable and secure grip. The lids are made from scratch-resistant tempered glass.

Usability:

Although this cookware set is dishwasher safe, it is highly recommended that you handwash them in mild soapy water with a soft sponge. Its ceramic coating is not metal utensil safe. The stainless steel handles can get hot when on the stovetop, so always remember to use potholders.

The set contains:

  • 5.8-quart casserole pan with 10-inch glass lid
  • 2.8-quart Sauce pan with glass lid
  • 1-quart sauce pan
  • 10-inch round fry pan
  • 8-inch round fry pan
  • 9 x 3.5-inch round fry basket
  • 9-inch round steamer tray cooking pans

Pros

  • Easy to clean
  • Reasonably priced
  • Superior heat conduction
  • Attractive design

Cons

  • Non-stick feature wears off quickly
  • Not metal utensil safe

Shineuri 10-Piece Copper Infused Ceramic Cookware Set

Design:

Designed in the USA by veterans in both blacksmith and culinary worlds, this cookware set from Shinerui offers the perfect combination of quality and functionality. Its unique and innovative Real Copper Stimulation

Technology (RCS-Tech) is developed to enhance the best features of copper cookware and improve the disadvantage of it, as a result you will thoroughly enjoy your cooking experience with the extraordinary performance of this cookware set in the kitchen. This 10 piece set features a smooth shinning finish on the exterior. It is also sold in 14, 19 and 23 piece variants and available in dark copper and dark brown colour.

Materials:

The core of these pots and pans is made of high-quality copper. Together with the RCS-Tech from Shineuri, this cookware set offers even more effective and uniform heat conduction. The interior is  finished with a non-stick coating which is free from PFOA and PTFE.  You can use this cookware set on all stovetops and up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven (glass lids up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit). All of the handles are manufactured with stainless steel for a study and firm grip.

Usability:

This cookware set is super lightweight and very easy to lift. Due to its non-stick coating, less oil or fat is required for your cooking. Cleaning is effortless with its quick release of food. 

You can also easily put it in the dishwasher. To avoid scratching the coating, it is recommended that you use nylon or wooden utensils for cooking.

To take full advantage of the excellent heat distribution from its RCS-tech, you should always cook with low to medium heat setting. Also, remember to use oven mittens when handling the cookware as the stainless steel handles can get very hot in the oven.

The set contains:

  • 1.5-quart sauce pan with lid
  • 2.5-quart sauce pan with lid
  • 8-inch Fry pan with lid
  • 6-quart stockpot with lid
  • A stainless steel steamer

Pros

  • Super Lightweight
  • Fast and even heat distribution
  • Chemical free non-stick coating

Cons

  • Handles can get hot
  • Not metal-utensil safe

Matfer Bourgeat 8-Piece Copper Cookware Set

Design:

Manufactured in Longny, France, the family owned Matfer Bourgeat has been producing one of the finest copper cookware and kitchen tools for the culinary world for over two centuries.

This premium quality 8-piece copper set is the perfect cookware for both home and professional chefs to unlock creativity and take their skills up a notch in any kitchen.With an eye-catching exterior design and a beautiful copper colour, this cookware set showcases the sophisticated French craftsmanship and will definitely add a touch of elegance and class to your kitchen display.

Materials:

This cookware set is made out of 2.5 mm pure red copper, which is the optimal thickness for copper to perform its best heat conduction and to withstand heavy daily use. Lined with 0.10 mm polished stainless steel on the interior, it means that the lining will not interfere with the taste of food during cooking, and will not wear well over time easily either which adds extra durability to this cookware.

The handles are made of thick cast iron and are riveted to provide an artisan look and a firm grip at the same time. This cookware set can be used on all hobs except induction and is not dishwasher safe. However, each piece can be easily washed with warm soapy water and polished with a soft cloth after use.

Usability:

The combination of stainless steel, copper, and cast iron makes this cookware set ultimately irresistible if you can afford it! It is extremely efficient and durable, and easy to use and maintain. With its superior heat conduction, your food will be cooked much faster and more evenly! 

So there is no need to pre heat at all which will save you lot of time in the kitchen. Lined with durable stainless steel, it means that you can use any type of utensil or scrubber without the fear of damaging the lining. 

The heavy-duty riveted handles make it very easy and safe to maneuver in a busy kitchen. There are also straight overturned edges along the top of each piece to avoid messy drips and spills when pouring.

The set contains:

  • 11-inch heavy sauté pan with lid
  • 7 1/8-inch saucepan with lid
  • 9 ½ inch casserole dish with lid
  • 9 ½ flared sauté pan with lid

Pros

  • Premium quality material
  • Highly efficient and uniform heat conduction
  • Extremely durable
  • Beautiful design/look
  • Cast iron riveted handles

Cons

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Not induction compatible
  • Skillet is not included in the set
  • Expensive

Home Hero 23-Piece Copper Ceramic Cookware & Bakeware Set

Design:

This complete 23-piece non-stick cookware from Home Hero will offer you endless possibilities with cooking and baking in the kitchen! Apart from a great variety of copper cookware and bakeware, it also comes with extra pan protectors and scrapers, and cleaning sponges to help you maintain the cookware. All of these pieces are made of durable materials so they feel super sturdy in the hands.  Finished with a smooth copper exterior, they will definitely make your kitchen look modern and stylish.

Materials:

The construction of this cookware set is heavy duty, featuring a 2.8mm thick combination of layers of aluminum, copper, and ceramic. As a result, it provides excellent heat performance and will not warp or chip easily.

The non-stick ceramic coating not only makes cooking much easier, but also offers an improved protection of the pieces and make them even more durable.

The handles are sturdy and ergonomically riveted so they stay cool during cooking. The lids are made of tempered glass and have steam vents.

Usability:

All the pieces in this cookware set are oven safe apart from the egg pan. They can be used on all stove tops including induction. Although they are dishwasher safe, handwash is recommended to prolong its lifespan. With the ceramic coating, you can use less oil for cooking on the pans and cleaning will be quick and easy but you will need to be cautious and avoid using metal utensils as the coating can start to chip or flake off.

The set contains:

  • 8.5-inch fry pan
  • 10.25-inch fry pan with lid
  • 1.5-quart saucepan
  • 2.5-quart saucepan
  • 5.5-inch egg pan (non-induction)
  • 4.8-quart deep fry and steamer rack
  • 9.5-inch grill pan
  • 9.5-inch square pan
  • 5-quart casserole pan plus steamer
  • 17.7-inch tray with a grid
  • 15.4-inch baking tray
  • 6-inch muffin tray
  • 1.9-inch deep tray
  • 9-inch round tray
  • 3 x pan protector
  • 2 x cleaning sponges
  • 2 x scrapers

Pros

  • Highly versatile set with various pieces
  • Heavy duty material with non-stick coating
  • Easy to maintain and clean
  • Compatible with all stovetops

Cons

  • Ceramic coating can wear off if not cautious

Cuisinart 9-Piece Hammered Copper Cookware Set

Design:

This 9-piece cookware set from Cuisinart is beautifully designed with an elegant hammered exterior. The timeless red copper colour in a textured finish makes the whole set look very exquisite and eye-catching in the kitchen. These pans and pots are medium weight and so feel solid and sturdy in hands. They come in a great variety of sizes in this set which is perfect for different cooking needs.

Materials:

Cuisinart uses high quality materials for its cookware, so these pots and pans are built to last for many years. With the triple-ply construction of aluminum core wedged between a stainless steel interior and copper exterior, this cookware set provides the optimal heat conduction. The lids and handles are both made of solid stainless steel. The lids are tightfitting to lock all of those fantastic flavours and nutrition. The handles are riveted for a secure grip and designed to stay cool on the stovetop while cooking.

Usability:

Thanks to the triple-ply construction and the heat surround technology from Cuisinart, this cookware set allows for superior heat conduction and precise temperature control so your food will be cooked fast and to perfection without any uneven heating or accidental hot spots. This cookware set is compatible with all stovetops except the induction and is oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Cuisinart also provides lifetime warranty on this set.

The set contains:

  • 1-quart open pour saucier
  • 3-quart saucepan with lid
  • 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid
  • 4-quart casserole pot with lid
  • 6-quart stockpot with lid

Pros

  • Beautiful hammered copper exterior
  • High quality durable material
  • Efficient and uniform heat distribution
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Food sticks to the surface
  • Lids are not vented
  • Not induction compatible

Concord 8-Piece Ceramic Copper Set

Design:

This 8-piece cookware set from Concord features a bright red copper colour in a beautiful smooth finish. The whole set has a decent weight to it so they feel strong and sturdy in the hands.  All the pieces in this set are designed with more depth including the frying pan which allows more food to be accommodated for bigger families and less chance of spilling during cooking.

Materials:

The core of these pans and pots are made of aluminium and they are coated with high grade ceramic and red copper. This unique “copperamic" technology makes this cookware naturally non-stick and healthy and eco-friendly too. The coating is PTFE and PFOA free so it is completely safe to use.

It is also designed to be more non stick and long-lasting than traditional coating.The riveted handles are coated with polished stainless steel for a firm  grip and an ever-cool touch while cooking. The pans and pots also come with glass lids for an easy monitor of your cooking.

Usability:

With the non-stick coating, less oil or fat will be required for your cooking. Cleaning is also effortless thanks to the quick release feature. However this cookware is not metal utensils safe.

You should also avoid using harsh or abrasive scorers as it might damage the coating. The pans and pots are designed with an easy pour rim edge to provide great comfort and avoid spillage while transferring the food between cookware.

This cookware set is highly versatile as it is oven safe and compatible with all stove tops including induction. You can also put them in the dishwasher.

The set contains:

  • 1.5-quart saucepan with lid
  • 4.0-quart saucepan with lid
  • 8.5-quart Dutch oven with lid
  • Frying pan with lid

Pros

  • “Copperamic” non-stick coating
  • Easy to clean
  • Induction compatible

Cons

  • Not metal utensil safe
  • Coating starts to peel off over time
  • Prone to scratches

Gotham Steel 20-Piece Ceramic Copper Cookware Set

Design:

This Gotham Steel 20-piece set is a complete “kitchen in a box”. Coming with a 10-piece cookware set, 5-piece bakeware set, a square shallow pan and a deep square pan set, you have everything you need to take on any culinary tasks in the kitchen. This versatile set features a beautiful red copper colour inside. The outside finish comes in blue, graphite and red 3 different colours. Its lightweight but study design also offers a comfortable cooking experience.

Materials:

This cookware set combines non-stick ceramic with super strong titanium as its surface finish, which makes it scratch proof and ultra-durable. The inside of pots and pans is coated with copper to provide efficient and even heat conduction. The materials contain no toxin and are completely PTFE, PFOA and PFOS free. This set can be used on all stoves except induction.

Usability:

With various pieces in this set, it is super convenient and less time consuming to cook in the kitchen. Thanks to the non-stick feature of the surface, little oil or butter is needed for cooking and it is extremely easy to clean after, even with burnt spots. This set is dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use with metal utensils on the surface without worrying about scratching it. Moreover, Gotham steel cookware is backed by a 10 year limited warranty.

The set contains:

  • Cookie sheet
  • Brownie pan
  • Square baking pan
  • Loaf pan
  • Round baking pan
  • 8.5-inch fry pan
  • 10.25-inch fry pan with lid
  • Stainless steel steamer rack with clip stands
  • 5-quart stock pot with lid
  • Stainless steel steamer rack
  • 1.5-quart sauce pan with lid
  • 2.5-quart sauce pan with lid
  • 9.5-inch square shallow pan
  • 9.5-inch deep square pan
  • Mesh deep fry basket

Pros

  • Non-stick chemical-free coating
  • Highly versatile with various pieces
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Copper coating comes off over time
  • Not induction compatible

BulbHead Red Copper 10-Piece Ceramic Nonstick Set

Design:

This 10-piece cookware set from BulbHead features a smooth red copper interior and is finished with a beautiful dark red exterior. They look elegant and classic in the kitchen. Each piece in the set feels very lightweight. Various pans and pots of different sizes are included in this set to meet all your cooking and kitchen needs.

Materials:

Each pot and pan is featured with a strong copper-infused ceramic coating which create a non-stick and scratch resistant cooking surface. The coating material is completely PFOA and PTFE free so you can cook without worrying about harmful chemicals leaking into your food.

The ceramic non-stick coating is bonded to aluminum so heat is distributed evenly and efficiently while cooking. You can use this cookware set in all cooktops except the induction. This cookware set is oven safe up to 500-degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to transfer food from stovetop to oven instantly.

The lids are made from tempered glass with metal handles and steam vent. However, they are not oven safe and the metal handles can become hot, so always use with caution.

Usability:

Thanks to the non-stick coating, little oil or butter is required for cooking to allow healthier homemade meals! Also, with its quick release of food, cleaning is effortless without any scrapping or scrubbing. 

For light cooking, you can just wipe down the surface with a cloth. The coating is not metal utensil safe and abrasive scorers should be avoided too.

Although this Red Copper cookware set is dishwasher safe, hand washing with a mild detergent and warm water is highly recommended. To ensure you get the most out of your Red Copper cookware set, an initial seasoning is required prior to use. Occasional seasoning of each pan and pot is also required for maintenance and optimal performance.

The set contains:

  • 8-inch fry pan
  • 10-inch fry pan with lid
  • 1.5-quart sauce pot with lid
  • 2.5-quart sauce pot with lid
  • 6-quart sauce pot with lid
  • Aluminum steamer insert

Pros

  • Fast and even heat distribution
  • Non-stick and PFOA and PFTE free coating
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Lids not oven safe
  • Non-stick feature wears off over time
  • Not suitable for induction cooktop

Epicurious 11-Piece Copper Cookware Set

Design:

This 11-piece cookware from Epicurious comes in a beautiful-looking bright copper colour, which will undoubtably add a modern glamour to your kitchen. The pans and pots are designed with a unique round shape that is both convenient and visually stylish. With the heavy-gauge aluminium construction, the pieces in this cookware feel sturdy and slightly on the heavy side.

Materials:

The pans and pots in this cookware set is made from heavy-gauge aluminum with impact-bonded stainless steel base and finished with a copper exterior. The triple-layered non-stick aluminium coating  offers ultra-durability.

Each cookware piece is fitted with double riveted silicone handles which are always cool and safe to touch. The lids are made of tempered glass which are shatter-resistant and allows you to monitor cooking without opening the cover. This cookware is suitable for use on all stove types, including induction. It is also dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Usability:

Because of the heavy-gauge aluminium core, this cookware set delivers a faster initial heat up, plus an efficient and even heat distribution on all heat sources. The stainless steel impact-bonding also enhances the rapid heating and at the same time protects the pans and pots from knocks and warping.

The hard anodised aluminium coating has extreme resistance to chemical reaction and corrosion as well as low friction, so they are very safe to use. Due to its properties, this cookware set is scratch-resistant and ultra durable.

The non-stick feature offers a quick food release and makes this cookware easy to clean. You can also use metal utensil on them without worrying about scratching the coating. However, caution must be taken in handling and cleaning the cookware to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The cookware set also come with a limited lifetime warranty.

The set contains:

  • 8-inch open fry pan
  • 1.5-quart saucepan with lid
  • 10-inch open fry pan
  • 2.5-quart saucepan with lid
  • 4-quart sauté pan with lid
  • 8-quart. stock pot with lid
  • Universal stainless steel steamer insert

Pros

  • Suitable for all cooktops
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Metal utensil safe non-stick coating
  • Sturdy materials with ultra-durability

Cons

  • Extra heavy
  • Copper finish wears off easily

FAQ

What are the benefits of copper cookware?

One of the main benefits of copper cookware is its excellent heat conduction. As a metal, copper conducts heat five times better than iron and even twenty times better than stainless steel. Therefore, copper cookware heats up more quickly compared to most other cookware.

As a result your food will be cooked more efficiently and evenly with less energy. The instant responsiveness to heat makes copper cookware the perfect choice for delicate and precise cooking. Copper cookware is also one of the most elegant looking cookware you can have. The beautiful copper colour either in hammered or smooth finish will undoubtably add an unique look and a classic touch to any kitchen.

What should I look for when buying a copper pan?

There are a number of factors to be considered before investing in a copper pan. Firstly, the thickness of copper is one important indicator that affects the quality and performance of a pan. The optimal  thickness of a copper pan should be between 2.5mm and 3mm. Any thicker, it will lose copper's rapid response to heat; any thinner, it will perform poorly with heat and will not last. 

man is holding a big pan

Secondly, what copper is lined with is another main consideration to keep in mind when buying a copper pan. As copper is reactive with acidic foods, most copper cookware in the market is lined with either tin or stainless steel. Tin coating bonds naturally well with copper. It does not only provide a non-stick surface, but also enhances the conductivity of the cookware.

However, tin lining has a low meting point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit and tends to wears out over time. On the other hand, stainless steel lining maintains a smooth and shiny finish, and does not rust, oxidize, tarnish or get scratched easily. Although it has to be bonded mechanically with copper and cancels out the non-stick feature and heat conductivity of copper to a certain extent, it is still the most popular metal configuration when it comes to copper cookware because of its ultimate convenience and durability.

Is Copper Cookware Safe to Use?

Copper cookware is 100% safe to cook in as long as it is lined with another, non-reactive metal and most copper cookware in the market is (either with tin or stainless steel). Copper itself is a toxic metal and it is reactive to acids like vinegar or tomatoes which can leach copper into the food.

copper cookware material

Therefore, it is very important that when the coating of copper cookware becomes scratched or starts to break down from general wear and tear, you either throw the cookware away or send it to a place where they can restore the lining for safe use.

Are copper pans better than stainless steel?

Both copper and stainless steel are popular materials for modern cookware. While neither copper nor stainless steel is particularly budget-friendly, which one of them is better is totally subjective. Choosing which to buy depends on your cooking needs and style, personal preferences, budget and etc. Below is a brief comparison between copper and stainless steel cookware.

Cell

Copper cookware

Stainless Steel cookware

Heat conductivity

Rapid and even heat conductivity; reacts quickly to changes temperature.

Less rapid and even heat conductivity which can result in hotspots and uneven cooking.

Durability 

Generally durable if cared for properly, but the coating/lining tends to wear off and needs re-lining over time.

Stainless steel is a very durable material that is resistant to warp, bends and cracks and  can stands up to regular use for years. However it is susceptible to moisture-induced rusts.

Safety

Although copper itself is reactive to acids, most copper cookware is lined with either tin or stainless steel so it is 100% safe to use.

Copper cookware prevents the intrusion of bacterial into food as copper has a natural antibacterial attribute.

Stainless steel is a non-reactive material, so it does not infuse acidic foods with a metallic taste, but actually preserves their flavor.

Maintenance

Copper cookware requires high maintenance and regular polishing to retain its beautiful appearance and optimal performance;

Most are not dishwashable.

All stainless steel cookwares are dishwashable;

Frequent scrubbing is needed due to its sticking issue and occurrence of hotspots.

Price

Can be very expensive

Less expensive

Copper cookware

Stainless Steel cookware

Heat conductivity

Rapid and even heat conductivity; reacts quickly to changes temperature.

Less rapid and even heat conductivity which can result in hotspots and uneven cooking.

Durability 

Generally durable if cared for properly, but the coating/lining tends to wear off and needs re-lining over time.

Stainless steel is a very durable material that is resistant to warp, bends and cracks and  can stands up to regular use for years. However it is susceptible to moisture-induced rusts.

Safety

Although copper itself is reactive to acids, most copper cookware is lined with either tin or stainless steel so it is 100% safe to use.

Copper cookware prevents the intrusion of bacterial into food as copper has a natural antibacterial attribute.

Stainless steel is a non-reactive material, so it does not infuse acidic foods with a metallic taste, but actually preserves their flavor.

Maintenance

Copper cookware requires high maintenance and regular polishing to retain its beautiful appearance and optimal performance;

Most are not dishwashable.

All stainless steel cookwares are dishwashable;

Frequent scrubbing is needed due to its sticking issue and occurrence of hotspots.

Price

Can be very expensive

Less expensive

Tammy Kennedy
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