As someone who’s spent quite a bit of time in the kitchen, I’ve tried and tested multiple cookware brands. Today, I’m going to share my personal experience comparing Scanpan and HexClad, two cookware brands that are often pitted against each other for their high quality, non-stick performance, and sleek designs. Both brands promise durability, ease of use, and excellent cooking results, but they each have their own unique features. I’m excited to share the details with you, so let’s dive into my personal comparison of these two.
1. Brand Overview
Before we start comparing, let’s take a quick look at what Scanpan and HexClad are all about:
Scanpan:
- History: Scanpan is a Danish brand that has been around for over 60 years. They are known for their commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative non-stick technology. Scanpan cookware is designed for both home cooks and professional chefs, and their products are often praised for their non-toxic and environmentally friendly materials.
- Material: Scanpan uses a unique ceramic-titanium non-stick surface which is durable, scratch-resistant, and free from harmful chemicals like PFOA and PFOS.
- Cookware Line: Scanpan offers a wide variety of products, including skillets, sauté pans, saucepans, and Dutch ovens, all featuring their signature non-stick surface.
HexClad:
- History: HexClad is a relatively newer brand, founded in 2008, but it has quickly gained a reputation for innovation in cookware design. Their key feature is the hybrid non-stick surface which combines the benefits of both stainless steel and non-stick.
- Material: HexClad cookware features a unique stainless steel base with a non-stick coating. It’s designed with a patented hexagonal pattern, providing a durable, long-lasting surface that allows for both searing and easy food release.
- Cookware Line: HexClad offers a range of cookware, from frying pans to wok pans and saucepans. Their products are suitable for use on all stovetops, including induction.
2. Design and Build Quality
In my experience, both Scanpan and HexClad offer excellent build quality, but their designs differ significantly.
Scanpan:
- Ergonomics: Scanpan’s handles are designed for comfort and are often heat-resistant, making it easier to handle the cookware while cooking. They also offer a classic, timeless design that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Weight: Scanpan tends to be heavier, which gives a feeling of sturdiness, especially when cooking at high temperatures.
HexClad:
- Ergonomics: HexClad cookware features a unique design with a hexagonal pattern on the cooking surface, which helps improve heat distribution. The handles are also heat-resistant, and they offer a comfortable grip.
- Weight: HexClad pans are generally lighter than Scanpan, which I found to be an advantage for day-to-day cooking. The lighter weight doesn’t compromise the quality or durability, though.
Personal Take: I’ve found that the heavier Scanpan cookware feels more robust and luxurious, while HexClad’s lightweight design makes it more user-friendly for quick everyday cooking.
3. Non-Stick Performance
One of the most important factors in choosing cookware for me is the non-stick performance. Let’s break down how each brand fares in this area:
Scanpan:
- Non-stick Surface: Scanpan uses a ceramic-titanium coating, which I’ve found to be excellent for creating non-stick cooking experiences. I can cook eggs, pancakes, and even fish without worrying about sticking.
- Durability: I’ve used Scanpan for over a year, and the non-stick surface still works great. It’s resistant to scratches, even with metal utensils (although I still prefer using wood or silicone to keep things in top shape).
- Cleaning: Cleaning Scanpan is super easy—food tends to slide right off, and a quick wipe or rinse is all it takes.
HexClad:
- Non-stick Surface: HexClad’s hybrid design is a game-changer. The non-stick surface works well, but the stainless steel allows for browning and searing in a way that traditional non-stick pans can’t. I love that I can get a crispy texture on my food without sticking.
- Durability: I’ve been impressed by how long the HexClad non-stick surface holds up. I’ve used it for several months now, and it’s still in great condition without any signs of wear or degradation.
- Cleaning: Like Scanpan, cleaning HexClad is simple. The surface resists staining, and food generally slides off with minimal effort.
Personal Take: Both brands have fantastic non-stick performance, but HexClad’s hybrid surface offers a unique balance between non-stick convenience and the ability to sear and brown food.
4. Cooking Performance
Now, let’s talk about how these pans perform when it comes to actual cooking.
Scanpan:
- Heat Distribution: Scanpan cookware heats evenly, which is crucial for making sure everything cooks uniformly. I’ve used it to make everything from delicate sauces to searing meat, and I’ve noticed great results.
- Cooking Time: The heavy-duty construction allows for consistent heat retention, which can sometimes reduce cooking time. That’s been a big win for me, especially when I’m in a hurry.
HexClad:
- Heat Distribution: HexClad’s hybrid design allows for excellent heat retention, and the stainless steel core ensures quick and even heating. I’ve found that it’s excellent for searing steaks and stir-frying, as the heat is distributed quickly across the pan.
- Cooking Time: Like Scanpan, HexClad’s heat retention is impressive, but the lighter weight makes it quicker to heat up.
Personal Take: Both pans are great for cooking, but HexClad’s faster heat-up time gives it an edge when I’m in a rush.
5. Durability and Longevity
Scanpan:
- Scratch Resistance: Scanpan’s ceramic-titanium non-stick coating is extremely durable. After months of use, I haven’t noticed any scratches or signs of wear.
- Longevity: As I mentioned earlier, Scanpan’s cookware can last for years with proper care. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of daily cooking.
HexClad:
- Scratch Resistance: HexClad cookware is also very durable. Its hybrid surface, with its unique stainless steel and non-stick combination, resists scratching, even when used with metal utensils.
- Longevity: HexClad is designed to last a long time, and I’ve personally used it for several months without any noticeable degradation in performance.
Personal Take: Both brands offer excellent durability, but Scanpan might have a slight edge when it comes to long-term non-stick performance. However, HexClad’s innovative design offers its own form of durability with the stainless steel core.
6. Price and Value for Money
Scanpan:
- Price Range: Scanpan tends to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. You’re paying for quality, and I believe it’s worth the investment, especially if you cook regularly.
- Value for Money: Given the longevity and performance of Scanpan, I feel that it’s a good value for anyone who wants reliable cookware that will last.
HexClad:
- Price Range: HexClad cookware is similarly priced, though it can be a bit more expensive than some traditional non-stick options. However, it offers a unique design and functionality, which justifies the price.
- Value for Money: For me, HexClad offers great value because of its versatile cooking performance and unique hybrid non-stick surface.
Personal Take: Both brands are a bit pricey, but for the performance and durability they offer, I find both Scanpan and HexClad to be excellent value for money.
7. Pros and Cons: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Scanpan | HexClad |
|---|---|---|
| Non-stick Performance | Excellent, durable ceramic-titanium coating | Hybrid surface for non-stick and searing |
| Durability | Very durable, resistant to scratches | Highly durable, scratch-resistant |
| Cooking Performance | Even heat distribution, good for all cooking styles | Quick heat-up, excellent for searing and stir-frying |
| Price | Higher price, but long-lasting | Similar price, but offers unique features |
| Cleaning | Easy to clean, food slides off | Easy to clean, resistant to staining |
8. Conclusion: Which One is Right for You?
After using both Scanpan and HexClad, I can confidently say that both brands have their strengths, and the choice comes down to your personal needs in the kitchen.
- If you’re looking for a more traditional non-stick experience, with excellent heat retention and easy cleaning, Scanpan is a great option.
- If you want versatility, especially for searing and browning food with a non-stick finish, HexClad might be the better choice.
In my opinion, both brands are worth the investment, and it’s really about what fits your cooking style and preferences.
I hope this comparison helped you make an informed decision. If you’ve tried either of these brands, feel free to share your experience in the comments below!