If you’ve ever stood in the cookware aisle feeling stuck between two big names, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too—wondering if flashy new pans are better than the classics. That’s how I ended up deep in the All Clad vs HexClad debate.
As someone who cooks daily, I’ve tested both brands across many meals. I’ve seared, simmered, scrambled, and scorched enough to know what works in real life—not just in ads.
In this review, I’ll break down what each brand does well, where they fall short, and what surprised me most. You’ll get the real story, not the marketing fluff.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
All Clad Review
I’ve been using All-Clad cookware daily for over two years, and it’s become a solid part of my kitchen routine.
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What I Like
I’ve been cooking with All-Clad for a while now, and here’s what truly stands out to me.
Even heat every time – All-Clad cookware heats up fast and stays steady. I can sear salmon on one pan and simmer sauce in another without a single hot spot. It makes timing dishes much easier.
The stainless finish is a breeze to clean – A quick soak and swipe, and it’s clean. Even after a busy dinner, I don’t dread the cleanup.
It feels solid and balanced in hand – I love how the pans have weight without being too heavy. They feel dependable when I’m flipping or stirring.
Looks that impress – The shiny steel and smooth lines make it feel like pro-grade gear. Guests notice, and honestly, it feels good cooking with something this beautiful.
Long-term investment – I’ve spent money on cheaper pans before, but they warped or scratched. With All-Clad, I don’t worry. It feels like it’ll last for decades.
Great for all cooktops – I’ve used it on gas and induction, and it never misses a beat. That flexibility is super handy if I ever change stoves.
What Could Be Better
I’ve used these pans for everyday cooking, and while I love them, a few things could improve.
The handles can get uncomfortable – Especially on bigger pans, the thin metal handles dig into my hand. A small silicone grip could make a big difference.
They’re not cheap – The price can make you pause. But I see it more like a long-term kitchen upgrade than a quick buy.
You need to learn a bit – If you’re used to nonstick, there’s a small learning curve. But once you get the hang of using oil and managing heat, it’s worth it.
Not dishwasher’s best friend – While technically dishwasher-safe, I’ve noticed they keep their shine better with hand washing. It’s a small extra effort I’m willing to make.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been using All-Clad cookware for over two years, from everyday eggs to weekend family meals. It’s become a trusted part of my kitchen life.
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Design
The sleek, mirror-polished look adds class to my kitchen. It’s not just about looks, though. The riveted handles and flared rims show real thought. Pouring soup doesn’t drip down the side. Even when friends visit, they ask about my pans—there’s something timeless and confident in the way they’re built.
Performance
All-Clad heats up fast and stays steady. That means no burned edges or raw centers. I can brown chicken evenly and simmer curry without fuss. What impressed me most was how much control I have over the heat. It responds quickly when I turn the knob. Cooking feels less like guessing and more like real skill.
Build Quality
Every piece feels crafted, not just made. The lids fit snug, the pans sit flat, and nothing warps—even after high heat. I’ve dropped one before (oops), and it held up without bending. That told me this stuff isn’t just hype. It’s built for cooks who show up daily. If you care about cookware that grows with you, All-Clad is a strong bet.
HexClad Review
I’ve been using HexClad pans almost daily for over two years. I bought into the hybrid hype—and surprisingly, it lived up to most of it. Here’s my full take, from what I love to where it could be a bit better.
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What I Like
These are the things that really stood out to me and made cooking more enjoyable.
Searing is amazing – I can get that golden, crispy crust on chicken or steak just like I used to with stainless steel. It feels pro-level.
Easy to clean (after a few tries) – Once I figured out the trick—medium heat and a good deglaze—cleanup became much easier than my old stainless pans.
Handles both eggs and steak – I don’t need a separate non-stick for eggs anymore. It’s not magic, but when preheated right, it works like a charm.
Safe with metal utensils – No more worrying about scratches from a spoon or spatula. That’s a relief after ruining several non-sticks in the past.
Oven-safe and dishwasher-safe – I’ve used it to finish dishes in the oven many times. And when I’m feeling lazy, I toss it in the dishwasher.
Beautiful and unique look – The hex pattern really stands out. Guests always ask about it when they see it on my stove.
What Could Be Better
Even though I enjoy using HexClad, there are a few small things I think could be improved.
Needs preheating and patience – If I rush and toss in food too early, it can stick. It took me some practice to get the timing right.
Heavier than standard non-stick – It’s not back-breaking, but the weight can surprise you if you’re used to super light pans.
Price is on the high side – It’s not a budget brand. But with proper care, I see it as a long-term investment.
Not as slick as Teflon – It works well, but don’t expect eggs to float like they do in a brand-new non-stick. A little technique goes a long way.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been using HexClad cookware in my kitchen for over two years now. I’ve cooked everything from scrambled eggs to seared pork chops and even slow-simmered sauces. Here’s how it held up over time.
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Design
What caught my eye first was the unique hex pattern. It’s not just for looks—it’s functional. The raised stainless steel “peaks” protect the non-stick “valleys.” That means it sears like stainless but still releases food better. The brushed exterior has held up well, and I love that it doesn’t stain easily. It’s a design that actually makes me want to leave the pan out on the stove.
Performance
This is where HexClad surprised me the most. I expected it to be “decent,” but it quickly became my daily go-to. It handles a wide range of heat and is perfect for searing, sautéing, or even making fond (those tasty brown bits left in the pan). Deglazing after a good sear adds a whole new level to sauces. It also does well with eggs, cheese, and other “sticky” foods once you learn how it likes to be heated. That balance of power and control is rare in cookware.
Build Quality
You can feel the quality the moment you pick it up. The weight gives it a solid, premium feel—without being too heavy to handle. The layered construction (stainless, aluminum, stainless) helps with even heat distribution. I’ve dropped it once (accidentally, of course) and there wasn’t even a dent. No warping, no peeling. And unlike many “non-stick” pans, this one still performs after two years. That says a lot.
All Clad vs Hexclad : Details Comparison
I’ve been testing out both All-Clad and HexClad for months in my home kitchen. After searing, simmering, and sautéing, I’ve gathered some real-world insights. Here’s a friendly breakdown to help you decide which cookware suits you better.
Material: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad uses fully clad stainless steel with aluminum cores. HexClad blends stainless steel with a laser-etched nonstick layer and aluminum core.
| Brand | Material Type |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Fully clad stainless steel + aluminum core |
| HexClad | Stainless steel + nonstick hybrid + aluminum |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Design: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad looks classic and professional. HexClad has a modern, high-tech appearance with its laser pattern.
| Brand | Design Style |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Classic, polished |
| HexClad | Modern, patterned |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 9/10
Oven Safety: All Clad vs Hexclad
Both can handle high heat, but All-Clad often goes up to 600°F while HexClad is usually safe to 500°F.
| Brand | Max Oven Temp |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Up to 600°F |
| HexClad | Up to 500°F |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Where It’s Made: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad is made in the USA. HexClad is designed in the US but made in China.
| Brand | Manufacturing Origin |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Made in USA |
| HexClad | Made in China |
Rating : All-Clad: 10/10 | HexClad: 7/10
Metal Utensils: All Clad vs Hexclad
HexClad is designed for metal utensils. All-Clad recommends wooden or silicone tools to protect the finish.
| Brand | Metal Utensil Safe? |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Not Recommended |
| HexClad | Yes |
Rating : All-Clad: 7/10 | HexClad: 9/10
Heat Conduction: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad heats fast and evenly thanks to its bonded layers. HexClad is solid, but not as quick.
| Brand | Heating Speed |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Very fast, even |
| HexClad | Fast, but slower |
Rating : All-Clad: 10/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Heat Retention: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad holds heat longer, great for consistent cooking. HexClad does well but cools faster.
| Brand | Heat Holding Ability |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Excellent |
| HexClad | Good |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Cooking Test Results: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad gave better sears and fond. HexClad was easier to clean but formed less crust.
| Brand | Cooking Quality |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Deep sear, rich fond |
| HexClad | Easy release, lighter sear |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Cooking Time: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad shaved off a few minutes during most tests. HexClad took slightly longer to heat up.
| Brand | Average Cook Time |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Shorter |
| HexClad | Slightly longer |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Cooking Surface: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad is smooth stainless steel. HexClad’s etched surface is textured but still feels slick.
| Brand | Surface Feel |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Smooth, polished |
| HexClad | Textured, nonstick feel |
Rating : All-Clad: 8/10 | HexClad: 9/10
Cooking Performance: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad excels in precision. HexClad is easier for everyday meals and clean-up.
| Brand | Overall Performance |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | High-end control |
| HexClad | User-friendly |
Rating : All-Clad: 9/10 | HexClad: 9/10
Handle Feature: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad handles stay cool but can dig into the hand. HexClad’s are rounder and more comfortable.
| Brand | Handle Comfort |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Stay-cool, sharp edges |
| HexClad | Rounded, comfy grip |
Rating : All-Clad: 8/10 | HexClad: 9/10
Non-Stick Coating: All Clad vs Hexclad
HexClad’s hybrid nonstick is great for eggs and sticky foods. All-Clad needs oil or butter.
| Brand | Non-Stick Performance |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Requires oil/butter |
| HexClad | Food releases easily |
Rating : All-Clad: 7/10 | HexClad: 9/10
Company History: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad has a rich history since the 1970s. HexClad is newer but gaining attention fast.
| Brand | Company Start Year |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | 1971 |
| HexClad | 2016 |
Rating : All-Clad: 10/10 | HexClad: 8/10
Downside: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad can be hard to clean. HexClad’s surface can fade over time.
| Brand | Common Complaint |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | Sticking, tough cleanup |
| HexClad | Coating wears with use |
Rating : All-Clad: 7/10 | HexClad: 7/10
Price: All Clad vs Hexclad
All-Clad costs more upfront. HexClad is mid-range but still premium.
| Brand | Price Range (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| All-Clad | $120 – $200+ |
| HexClad | $100 – $180 |
Rating : All-Clad: 7/10 | HexClad: 8/10
In the all clad vs hexclad debate, it really depends on what you want. If you enjoy traditional cooking with full control, All-Clad is worth it. If you want easier clean-up and modern style, HexClad is a fun and useful upgrade.
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FAQ: All Clad vs HexClad
1. Is HexClad better than All-Clad for everyday cooking?
That depends on your style. HexClad offers nonstick ease, while All-Clad gives pro-level searing. Learn more about how they compare in real kitchens.
2. What are the disadvantages of HexClad cookware?
HexClad can be pricey and isn’t as great for browning as pure stainless. It’s good—but not perfect. Learn more about its real-world performance.
3. Is All-Clad cookware worth the price?
Yes, if you value long-term quality and great cooking results. All-Clad is built to last. Learn more about what makes it stand out.
4. Does HexClad use Teflon or ceramic coating?
HexClad blends stainless steel with a nonstick layer that includes PTFE—not ceramic. It’s safe but not fully Teflon-free. Learn more about the materials.
5. What is the best stainless steel cookware brand today?
All-Clad still holds the crown for many chefs. Its build and heat control are hard to beat. Learn more about why pros trust it.