Is the HexClad Hybrid Pan Worth It?
Based on tests by America's Test Kitchen (Aug 2026). How we score
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Amazon prices as of Sep 29, 9:38 PM EDT (details)
Why
America's Test Kitchen rated the HexClad "Not Recommended": it "wasn't truly nonstick; eggs stuck to it," because the uncoated steel hexagons interrupt the nonstick surface. If you want a nonstick pan, ATK's Best Buy from T-fal does the job better at about a quarter of the price.
HexClad warranty: Lifetime, defects only (HexClad-sold pans)
Estimated cost per year of use
How we estimate lifespan
- HexClad, ~5 yrs: Our estimate. The nonstick coating is consumable; one long-term owner documented peeling after a year of daily use (The Cookware Critic).
- T-fal, ~3 yrs: Our estimate. Conventional nonstick coatings wear out and are typically replaced every few years.
- GreenPan, ~3 yrs: Our estimate. Ceramic nonstick coatings wear out; this one passed America's Test Kitchen's coating-durability test.
Cheaper alternatives, scored against the HexClad
Experience Nonstick Fry Pan, 12.5"
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
America's Test Kitchen's Best Buy nonstick skillet: "a spacious and slippery surface," induction-compatible and very lightweight, with positive marks for nonstick ability and durability. One flaw: the cooking surface is slightly domed, so oil runs to the edges.
| Criterion | HexClad | T-fal |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Durability | 2/3 | 2.5/3 |
| Ease of use | 2.5/3 | 2/3 |
| Nonstick ability | 1/3 | 3/3 |
From America's Test Kitchen: The Best Nonstick Skillets (updated Jan. 29, 2026)
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Nonstick Skillets (updated Jan. 29, 2026)
Valencia Pro Ceramic Nonstick 12" Frying Pan
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
America's Test Kitchen's top ceramic nonstick skillet: "one of only three pans to pass our test of nonstick coating durability." It runs a little hotter than ATK's favorite regular nonstick pan, so you may need to turn the heat down.
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Ceramic Nonstick Skillets (updated Aug. 25, 2026)
Common questions
Are HexClad pans actually nonstick?
Not fully, according to America's Test Kitchen: eggs stuck, and frittata slices didn't release cleanly even with oil, because the nonstick coating is interrupted by uncoated steel hexagons.
Is HexClad oven safe?
HexClad lists its pans as oven-safe up to 900°F (lids lower), dishwasher-friendly and metal-utensil safe.
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Nonstick Skillets (updated Jan. 29, 2026), The Cookware Critic: HexClad vs All-Clad (owner-review roundup, updated Aug. 15, 2026), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
