Updated: August 7, 2025 • Reading time ≈11 min.
1. Three good reasons to switch to cast iron, 5-ply stainless steel or copper in 2025
🔥 Sear & simmer like a chef : the thermal inertia of cast iron and the reactivity of copper guarantee even cooking & a caramelized crust.
⚡ Energy saving : A thick bottom or 5-ply body reduces heat loss – turn down the heat, your food will still cook.
♻️ Sustainable investment : lifetime guarantee on several French brands, recyclable and repairable materials.
2. The 6 criteria to compare before buying
| Criteria | Why is this crucial? | Our landmark |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Impact broadcast & maintenance | Enameled cast iron / 5-ply stainless steel / 1.8 mm copper |
| Capacity / diameter | Number of servings | ≈ 0.75 L per guest |
| Light compatibility | Induction, oven, BBQ… | All heat sources + 250°C |
| Weight & ergonomics | Ease of use | < 7 kg wide handle |
| Coating / enamel | Health & Anti-adhesion | PFOA-free, matte black interior or 18/10 stainless steel |
| Guarantee | Sustainability Index | 10 years minimum |
3. Detailed comparison of the best utensils 2025
Staub Round Cocotte 28 cm – 6.7 L 9.3 / 10
- Matte black enamelled cast iron, suitable for all heat sources + oven 250°C
- Large handles & steel knob, dishwasher safe
- 6-8 servings, weight 6.9 kg
Technical characteristics
| Volume | 6.7 L |
|---|---|
| Int. diameter | 28 cm (bottom 23.7 cm) |
| Weight | 6.9 kg |
| Origin | France – Merville (Alsace) |
Le Creuset Oval Casserole 29 cm – 4.7 L 9.2 / 10
- Smooth sand interior enamel, easy to clean
- Fitted lid, stainless steel knob 260°C
- 4-6 parts, induction & BBQ compatible
Technical characteristics
| Volume | 4.7 L |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 37 × 23.7 × 16.7 cm |
| Weight | 4,675 kg |
| Origin | France – Fresnoy-le-Grand |
Staub Oval Cocotte 29 cm – 4.25 L 9.0 / 10
- Matte black enamelled cast iron, studded lid
- Weight 5.6 kg – lighter than the round version
- All hobs + oven
Staub Chistera Sauteuse 28 cm – 3.7 L 8.8 / 10
- Low height 12.6 cm: fits in small ovens
- Scratch-resistant matte black enamel
- Large handles, oven 250°C
Mauviel M'Cook 24 cm Frying Pan – 5-ply Stainless Steel 8.6 / 10
- Cold cast riveted stainless steel frame
- All hobs + oven 300°C
- Weight ≈ 1.1 kg
De Buyer Carbone Plus 22 cm Pan 8.5 / 10
- 2.5 mm raw carbon steel - seasoning required
- All hobs including induction & oven 230°C
- 0 coating, 100% recyclable
De Buyer Inocuivre 20 cm Frying Pan – 90% Copper 8.4 / 10
- 90% copper, 10% 304 stainless steel interior
- All hobs except induction
- Mirror polished table service
Tefal Ingenio Natural On – Set of 3 saucepans + handle 8.0 / 10
- Mineralia⁺ coating without PFOA
- Induction & oven 250°C (without handle)
- Capacities: 1.5 • 2.1 • 3 L
4. Methodology & rating system
Our notes combine:
- 🏋️♀️ Capacity to weight ratio (25%)
- ⚡ Diffusion & thermal inertia (25%)
- 🛠️ Versatility & fire compatibility (20%)
- 👩🍳 Cooking results (20%) – tests of beef bourguignon, casserole bread, salmon pan-fry
- 💬 User reviews (10%) – 18,000 aggregated reviews
5. Maintenance & recommended accessories
🧽 Enameled cast iron : let cool, warm water + soft sponge. Avoid thermal shock.
🧴 Stainless steel & copper : Inobrill paste or clay stone to revive the shine.
🔪 Useful accessories : cork trivet, high-temperature silicone spatula, 500°F cast iron gloves.
6. Quick summary table
| Model | Material | Volume/Capacity | Weight | Rating /10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Staub Round 28 cm | Enameled cast iron | 6.7 L | 6.9 kg | 9.3 |
| Le Creuset Oval 29 cm | Enameled cast iron | 4.7 L | 4.7 kg | 9.2 |
| Staub Oval 29 cm | Enameled cast iron | 4.25 L | 5.6 kg | 9.0 |
| Staub Sauteuse 28 cm | Enameled cast iron | 3.7 L | 5.4 kg | 8.8 |
| Mauviel M'Cook 24 cm | 5-ply stainless steel | 1.8 L | 1.1 kg | 8.6 |
| De Buyer Carbon 22 cm | Carbon steel | — | 1.2 kg | 8.5 |
| De Buyer Inocuivre 20 cm | Copper 90% | — | 1.1 kg | 8.4 |
| Tefal Ingenio set | Alu + Mineralia⁺ | 1.5 / 2.1 / 3 L | — | 8.0 |
7. Quick FAQ
Enameled cast iron or stainless steel: which to choose?
Cast iron retains heat – ideal for simmering. 5-ply stainless steel reacts quickly – perfect for searing and deglazing.
How to prevent cast iron from sticking?
Preheat for 5 minutes over low heat, add fat, and gradually increase.
Will the copper turn black?
Yes, this is normal. A monthly polish with a special paste restores the mirror-like shine.
8. Verdict & Next Steps
🔸 Large tables : Staub Round 28 cm .
🔸 Roasts & whole fish : Staub Oval .
🔸 Handling & warranty : Le Creuset Signature .
🔸 High temp seizures : De Buyer Carbone Plus .
🔸 Urban space saving : Tefal Ingenio .
➡️ Also download our free ebook “15 Timeless French Stews”.
