Cast iron vs nonstick pan: which one should you buy
Cast iron vs nonstick pan: nonstick is easier for eggs and fast meals, cast iron lasts for decades and sears well. Here is how to pick for your kitchen.
Manon Lambert3 min read
Verdict: if you can only have one, take nonstick if you cook eggs and quick meals, and cast iron if you like searing and do not mind a bit of care. Most kitchens end up wanting both.
Which wins on
| Factor | Cast iron | Nonstick |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $ to $$ | $ to $$ |
| Lifespan | Decades with care | A few years |
| Eggs | Fine once seasoned | Best |
| Searing | Best | Good, not hot |
| Oven | Yes | Check the limit |
| Weight | Heavy | Light |
| Care | Dry, oil, no soak | Gentle tools, hand wash |
| Acidic food | Can strip seasoning | Fine |
Cost per use
These are examples, not quotes.
| Pan | Price | Years | Uses | Cost per use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nonstick | $25 | 3 | 450 | about $0.06 |
| Cast iron | $30 | 20 | 3,000 | about $0.01 |
Cast iron wins on long run cost if you keep it up. But a nonstick pan that you use daily is still very cheap per meal. See cost per use.
Pick nonstick if
- You cook eggs, pancakes or fish often.
- You want a light pan you can lift with one hand.
- You do not want to think about seasoning.
Pick cast iron if
- You like browned steak, burgers and crispy potatoes.
- You want a pan that goes from stove to oven.
- You do not mind a heavy handle.
Rule that matters most: nonstick is for low to medium heat, cast iron is for high heat. Match the pan to the heat you use.
Care rules
Nonstick: use wood, silicone or nylon tools. Do not use sprays that leave a film. Do not heat it empty. Makers often say to keep heat low to medium. Replace it when the coating flakes. If the maker says the pan is not for high heat, follow that.
Cast iron: wash with hot water and a brush, dry right away and rub on a thin layer of oil. If it rusts, scrub and re-season it.
Caution
If a nonstick pan is scratched or peeling, stop using it. Birds are very sensitive to fumes from overheated nonstick coatings, so keep pet birds out of the kitchen when you cook with one. Follow the maker's heat limits.
For a longer plan, our page on three pans instead of a set shows how to build a kitchen on three pieces.
Quick questions
Is cast iron better than nonstick?
It lasts longer and sears better. Nonstick is easier for eggs and cleanup.
Is cast iron hard to care for?
It takes a few habits: dry it, add a thin coat of oil and avoid long soaks.
How long does a nonstick pan last?
Typically a few years with gentle use. Replace it when the coating wears.
Can I use metal tools on a cast iron pan?
Yes. Cast iron handles metal better than nonstick does.
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