Why are frying pans so expensive?

  • By: Emma
  • Date: May 19, 2022
  • Time to read: 5 min.

Table of Contents

Why are frying pans so expensive?

The price of frying pans can range from $10 to over $100, but why are they so expensive? The higher-quality ones are more expensive, but there are some less costly options.

Frying pans are made up of different kinds of metal alloys, and typically the price varies with the type of metal used. Also, the frying pan design developed after rigorous testing and quality control procedures leads to a higher price tag. A better design and metal quality are two important factors that make a frying pan expensive.

Read more: How much does a golden frying pan cost tf2?

There are many different types of pans depending on your needs and cooking style. But, are expensive non stick pans worth it? The comparison between cheap vs expensive cookware can help you to decide the best one as per your need.

Most people prefer stainless steel or cast iron because they conduct heat evenly throughout the pan, which means food cooks faster and does not burn as quickly. This is the reason why stainless steel pans are more expensive than others.

Let’s see what the different frying pan options are and why they are so expensive.

Read more: How hot does a skillet get?

Why different types of frying pans are so expensive?

Now that you know why are frying pans so expensive let’s analyze it in detail.

Stainless steel frying pan

These are the best and most popular ones you need in your kitchen. Their price can range from 100 to 500 dollars depending on the material used and their size.

The most expensive ones are made with 18/10 stainless steel, considered cooking grade.

Read more: 9 reasons why shouldn’t you crowd the pan

Why so expensive?

Stainless steel frying pans are costly, indeed. But they are worth the price for a few reasons: their lightweight and durability.

Many steel pans come with lids. The heavy-duty glass lids are also essential to keep an eye on your food or add some liquid while it cooks. You can’t do that with cheap glass lids, which break easily.

In addition, stainless steel frying pans conduct heat better The remarkable thing about stainless steel pans is that they heat up quickly, so when you add your ingredients, they won’t burn or stick. They can also be used on any stove top.

Read more: Can you use an induction frying pan on a gas hob?

Copper frying pans

Have you ever thought about why are copper pans so expensive? It is basically due to the high price of the copper metal used in its making. A copper frying pan costs a minimum of $100. Most people don’t even know that a good copper frying pan costs more than $1000.

Why so expensive?

Copper frying pans are costly because of the copper itself. Copper is a unique, expensive metal. Moreover, the good thing about these is that even though they are expensive, they are also versatile.

Unlike stainless steel pans, they can be used on induction cookers which save you money down the road if you happen to own one. They conduct heat well and evenly throughout the pan. Thus, the price is justified.

Read more: Why do frying pans bow in the middle?

Ceramic frying pans

Although ceramic frying pans don’t have to be as expensive as copper or stainless steel ones, they will still cost you a penny. The minimum price of a ceramic frying pan is around $40.

Why are they so expensive?

Ceramic frying pans are more expensive because of the materials used. First, the ceramic material is scratch-resistant for easy use of any spatula or utensil you might have. So sellers know the benefits these pans can yield to customers. That’s why the prices are high.

These can also be used on induction cookers.

Cast iron frying pans

Cast iron pans are less costly than the previous ones because they are made with materials that come from the Earth.

Depending on size and brand, a cast-iron frying pan costs 40 to 500 dollars or more.

Why so expensive?

Like ceramic frying pans, cast-iron pans are very resistant to stains and scratches, which makes them quite popular. Surprisingly, these are super easy to clean. Not only this, but they are also oven safe.

Read more: Can you fly with a cast iron skillet?

Other factors that make frying pans expensive

Besides materials, many factors decide how costly a pan can be.

High-tech features

Some brands add high-tech features such as magnetic properties or induction compatibility for easier use on different stovetops.

Brand hype

Since frying pans are a commodity, sometimes just being a famous brand can increase the price of a product. This is all about marketing and trust from customers who prefer to pay more for the same effects as long as they come from a reliable brand.

Size and functionality

When there’s a slight difference in size or additional features such as a glass lid, the price can increase.

Aesthetic appeal

Most importantly, more expensive frying pans are usually designed with an aesthetic appeal to make them look sleek and modern.

Companies and sellers know what the chefs and moms are looking for. Everyone wants the cookware they use to look fancy at the same time as being highly functional.

Sales tax and shipping fees

Finally, the last factor determining whether a frying pan is expensive or cheap is sales tax and shipping fees. Some stores increase the price of their products to cover these extra costs, while others go the other way around by offering free shipping & handling for customers shopping out of state or outside U.S borders.

Video: How to choose the right pan for cooking?

Are expensive frying pans make a difference?

Absolutely yes. There is a vast difference between an expensive frying pan and a cheap one of the same quality.

They are more durable. The bonus here is that they can last forever if you take proper care of them. They do not corrode or rust as fast as the cheaper non-stick pans.

In addition, it’s often said that expensive ones have a better performance. Indeed, the expensive frying pans heat evenly and cook food faster which is a huge advantage.

Read more: When to cover the frying pan?

On average, how much should one spend on a frying pan?

The saying ”the more you spend, the better the frying pan” is not entirely true.

Spending a fortune on a frying pan makes no sense if you cook only occasionally and your current non-stick fry pan is working just fine for you.

If you think you are not a fried food lover, spend no more than $100 on a frying pan.

Read more: Can you use a frying pan on a bbq?

Conclusion

The article tried to answer the question, why are frying pans so expensive? To summarize, frying pans are expensive due to their durability, aesthetic value, public demand, and brand name. Still, spending your whole salary on one frying pan is not advised. So next time you are making a purchase, do not forget to consider your cooking needs and choose the pan that matches them.

Can you use margarine instead of butter for frying?

Previous Post

Can you use margarine instead of butter for frying?

Next Post

Why do frying pans bow in the middle?

Why do frying pans bow in the middle?