The details: These pans solve the frustration of food sticking, and they require little oil for cooking. Plus they’re lightweight, easy to clean, and affordable. But they can’t take the high heat of a cast-iron or stainless steel frying pan. “You’re not going to get much of a sear in a nonstick pan,” says Cindy Fisher, who conducted Consumer Reports’ cookware tests.

And they don’t last as long as cast-iron, stainless, or copper frying pans. “Nonstick is going to wear out the fastest,” Nitahara says. “The nonstick coating is fragile, and once you scratch it, it’s hard to flip an egg.”

In our tests of nonstick pans, we cook four eggs in quick succession. An excellent rating means all four eggs easily slid out of the pan. A poor rating indicates that some egg residue was left behind. To test nonstick durability, we rub the pan with steel wool for 2,000 strokes or until the coating has worn through.

Is a skillet better than a frying pan? Which one should I choose?

 Cast iron cookware has been a staple in the kitchen for centuries, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its durability and versatility.  Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice cook, investing in cast iron cookware is a decision that can enhance your cooking experience.  When considering purchasing cast iron cookware, it's important to understand the different types available and their prices to make an informed decision.

    When using a cast iron griddle plate, it's important to properly maintain it to ensure its longevity and performance.  Clean the griddle with hot water and a scrub brush after each use, avoiding soap, which can remove seasonings from the griddle.  Dry the cast iron griddle plate thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

How to clean: scrub with a plastic brush, which won't scratch. Before cooking, rub 1/2 teaspoon oil inside to safeguard the nonstick surface.