Who said you have to spend a fortune to find a high-quality kitchen set? In truth, you can find an affordable set that would deliver outstanding performance in the kitchen.
This article will guide you on how you can get the best cookware set under $100. On top of that, we will provide a buying guide pointing out the factors to consider before you settle on a particular set.
These factors include:
- The construction
- The handles
- Heat distribution
- Non-stick coating, among others
Let’s start with the different cookware sets that we have reviewed.
Table of Contents
- Top Cookware Sets Below $100 – Comparison Chart
- Review of The 13 Best Cookware Sets Under $100
- 1. T-fal Signature Non-Stick 12-piece Cookware Set
- 2. Cuisinart 77-7 Chef’s Classic Stainless-Steel Cookware Set
- 3. BulbHead 10824 Copper-Infused Non-Stick Cookware Set
- 4. Dealz Frenzy 8-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set
- 5. Cook N Home Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 6. GreenLife Soft Grip 16-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set
- 7. Cuisinart Ceramica XT Cookware Set
- 8. Cook N Home 15Pc Non-Stick Cookware Set
- 9. Cook N Home 10Pc Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 10. Granite stone 10Pc Cookware Set
- 11. Cook N Home 10Pc Ceramic Coating Cookware Set
- 12. Vremi Black Non-Stick Cookware Set
- 13. Gourmet Chef Induction-Ready Cookware Set
- The Buying Guide
- FAQs On Budget Cookware
- Our Top Pick
- Wrapping It Up
Top Cookware Sets Below $100 – Comparison Chart
In this section, you will find some of the popular cookware sets under 100bucks. Take your time and read through the list. See if you can find the set that suits your preferences.
Review of The 13 Best Cookware Sets Under $100
1. T-fal Signature Non-Stick 12-piece Cookware Set
The first affordable cookware set on our list is the T-fal Signature set, a 12-piece set with everything you need. Our brief review aims to show you why we consider this to be the finest cookware setbelow $100.
Features And Benefits
This is a 12-piece set comprising of 7.75″ and 11″ fry pans, 5.5-quart covered Dutch oven, 10.25″ griddle, 1-quart, and 2-quart covered saucepans, spoon, slotted spatula and ladle.
An outstanding feature of the non-stick cookware is the effective heat distribution. So, the issue of heat spots and sticking will not trouble you at all.
The other thing is the scratch-resistance and durability plus works well with metal utensils. On top of that, the items are dishwasher safe and, therefore, effortless to clean.
Lastly, the set comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Ergonomic handles
- Non-toxic construction
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not very durable
2. Cuisinart 77-7 Chef’s Classic Stainless-Steel Cookware Set
For close to three decades, Cuisinart has been producing high-quality kitchenware made from the best materials to serve you for the longest time. Check out our review and see whether the 77-7 Chef’s Classic set is worth investing in.
Features And Benefits
With this 7-piece set, you should be more than ready to prepare any dish, including oatmeal and soup, comfortably. The set includes saucepans, an open skillet, an 8-quart stockpot. All the items come with lids.
The first feature to discuss is the aluminum encapsulated base which heats up fast plus allows for even heat distribution along the bottom of the pots and pans.
On top of that, the set is versatile, and you can use it under a broiler, on a stovetop, and is oven-safe up to 500-degree F.
We liked the cooking surface, which is designed to be healthy and does not react with the food that you are preparing. As for the lids, they fit tightly to seal in the food’s flavors and nutrients.
Finally, there is the cool-grip handle that allows for the comfortable lifting of the kitchenware.
Pros
- Tight-fitting lids
- Drip-free pouring due to tapered rims
- Cool-to-touch handle
Cons
- A bit hard to clean
3. BulbHead 10824 Copper-Infused Non-Stick Cookware Set
Another budget-friendly kitchenware set that you should consider investing in is the BulbHead 10824 non-stick cookware set. As you shall see in our brief review, this set would give you full value for your money.
Features And Benefits
This 10-piece set includes an 8″ frying pan, a 10″ frying pan, a 1.5-quart saucepan, a 2.5-quart saucepot, a 6-quart saucepot, and an aluminum steamer insert. The 10″ frying pan and all the sauce pots come with glass lids that allow you to monitor how your dish is coming up.
The pans are constructed out of copper-infused ceramic material for proper heat conduction and even food cooking. Besides that, the pans are oven-safe up to 500F.
The non-stick pans are PFOA, and PFTE free plus are scratch-resistant when used with most utensils.
Lastly, the pans are easy to clean, and you may use your hands or the dishwasher.
Pros
- Made of tough material
- Easy to clean
- Clear glass lids
Cons
- Metal handles get too hot
4. Dealz Frenzy 8-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set
This is another fantastic cookware set to think about. It features an 11″ casserole, 11″ deep frying pan, 11″ aluminum steamer, 9.4″ frying pan, 9.4″ grill pan, and a 7.1″ saucepan.
Let’s see what this set has for us.
Features And Benefits
We shall start with the multi-layer non-stick interior that allows for low-fat cooking and easy cleanup. Then, the soft long wooden handles remain cool for longer for comfortable handling.
Next, the non-stick coating is APEO, Lead, PFOA, and Cadmium-free to ensure your food does not get contaminated with any potentially toxic substances.
Another thing is the multi-layer bottom that makes the pan compatible with all cooktops. On top of that, this base allows for even heat distribution for splendid results in the kitchen.
We shall conclude with the ease of cleaning, whereby you could opt for hand-scrubbing or tossing the set in the dishwasher.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- High-quality tempered glass lid
- Cool-touch wooden handle
Cons
- Not oven-safe
5. Cook N Home Stainless Steel Cookware Set
If you wonder whether the Cook N Home stainless steel cookware set is worth your money, take your time and read our brief review on the product.
Features And Benefits
This 12-piece cookware set includes a 1.5-quart saucepan, 1.5 and 2-quart casserole pans, a 10″ frying pan, a 3-quart casserole pot, and a 5.5-quart stockpot.
All the items have tempered glass lids with vents for releasing steam, plus you can monitor the food without removing the cover.
The pans’ construction from stainless steel and an aluminum disc helps enhance their heat-conduction, so ‘hotspots’ will not disturb you.
Then, the frying pans’ deep walls trap moisture and minimize evaporation, unlike those with lower walls. Let’s also touch on the riveted handles which have an impressive lifespan.
We liked the pans’ universal compatibility, and they can work on glass, gas, ceramic, electric, and conductive hobs.
Lastly, clean the pans is a breeze, and all you need is a sponge and hot soapy water.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Compatible with all hobs
- Even heat conduction
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
6. GreenLife Soft Grip 16-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set
The GreenLife Soft Grip 16Pc set includes a 4” mini frypan, a 7” open frypan, 9.5” open frypan, one and 2QT covered saucepans, 5QT covered stockpot, and a 7″ stainless steel steamer.
Let’s look at the individual features in-depth.
Features And Benefits
The first thing about this cookware set is the health-conscious construction whereby the non-stick ceramic is without PFOA, PFAS, Cadmium, or lead. So, at no point will toxic substances be released into your food.
When we go to the body, it is made out of sturdy aluminum, an outstanding heat conductor. This means that you will use less energy for cooking.
The ergonomic cool-touch handle is another thing to talk about as it keeps you safe and comfortable as you prepare your meal.
Lastly, the set is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Pros
- Non-toxic coating
- Ergonomic handle
- Ergonomic handle
Cons
- Short lifespan
7. Cuisinart Ceramica XT Cookware Set
Cuisinart makes it to our list once again, and this time it is the Ceramica XT cookware set. Before you decide to invest in the set, take your time, and read what we have written about it.
Features And Benefits
We liked the titanium-reinforced ceramic non-stick interior that is PTFE, PFOS, and PFOA-free to make it safe for your health. On top of that, the interior will not discolor or stain even under extremely high temperatures.
Then, the tempered glass lids allow you to monitor the food without uncovering them. On top of that, they have a tight fit to seal in the flavors and nutrients fully.
You are sure to appreciate the silicone handles which are riveted for maximum sturdiness and durability. Additionally, they remain cool on the stovetop.
Other notable features include the drip-free pouring, oven safe up to 350F, freezer safe, and a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Toxin-free
- Fantastic heat distribution
- Has a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
8. Cook N Home 15Pc Non-Stick Cookware Set
This is another affordable cookware set that anyone would appreciate having in their kitchen. Even with the low pricing, there are a lot of benefits that you can get from this set.
Let’s see what they are.
Features And Benefits
In this set, you will get 1 and 2 qt saucepans, 3qt casserole, 5qt Dutch oven stockpot, 8″ fry pan, 10″ fry pan, and 5-piece nylon utensils.
The set is constructed from thick gauge aluminum for even heat conduction and ensures there are no hot spots.
If you are wondering what the importance of the non-stick coating is, it is to ensure that the food release and cleanup process is relatively easy.
The handles are comfortable and remain cool-to-touch while the tempered glass lids allow for convenient viewing of the food as it cooks.
Lastly, the set is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Tempered glass lids
- Dishwasher safe
- Cool-to-touch handles
Cons
- Not compatible with induction stovetops
9. Cook N Home 10Pc Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Cook N Home is a reputable cookware set brand whose items rarely disappoint. In this review, we will discuss the 10Pc set so that you can decide whether or not to invest in it.
Features And Benefits
This set is constructed out of 18-10 stainless steel and has layered aluminum discs in the bottom to allow for even heat distribution. Then, there are the riveted handles for durability and give you a comfortable time carrying the cookware.
The next thing is the mirror polishing inside and out to give the set an incredible look and allow for easy cleaning.
We cannot forget the tempered glass lids with steam vent to easily view the food throughout the cooking process.
Lastly, the set is dishwasher safe for fast cleanup.
Pros
- Attractive appearance
- Even heat distribution
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Not oven safe
10. Granite stone 10Pc Cookware Set
With the Granite stone cookware set, you can say goodbye to kitchenware that often stick and warp as you go about using them. Let us see what this fantastic set is all about.
Features And Benefits
First and foremost is the high-grade pressed aluminum interior and the triple granite layer exterior that gives the cookware impressive durability. Pressed aluminum is a fantastic heat conductor plus distributes the heat evenly for outstanding results.
Have we mentioned that the cookware is oven safe up to 500F to make it ideal for baking? Besides that, the cookware is PFOA-free so that you do not get any toxins in your food.
The other aspect is the cool-touch handles that eliminate any danger or discomfort brought about by extremely heated up handles.
Lastly, the set is dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup.
Pros
- Built to last
- Dishwasher safe
- Cool-touch handles
Cons
- Pans are too small
11. Cook N Home 10Pc Ceramic Coating Cookware Set
The outstanding aspect of this cookware set by Cook N Home is the non-stick ceramic coating that is non-toxic and allows for easy food release. So, the cleanup process should be relatively easy.
But that is not all.
Features And Benefits
This set features 1 and 2qt saucepans, 3qt casserole, 5qt Dutch oven, and 8 and 9-Inch frypans. The cookware is made out of thick gauge aluminum to heat the food evenly and prevent hotspots.
Next are the tempered glass lids for convenient viewing of the food as it cooks. Additionally, the set has comfortable handles that remain cool-to-touch throughout the food-preparation process.
The ceramic coating is also toxin-free and does not have PFOA, PTFE, Cadmium, and lead. This helps in maintaining the healthy aspect of the set.
Lastly, the set works on gas, glass, ceramic, and halogen.
Pros
- Non-slip handle
- Toxin-free ceramic coating
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not oven safe
12. Vremi Black Non-Stick Cookware Set
If you are looking for the perfect cookware set to take with you to a camping trip, the Vremi set would be a reasonable pick. All the items in the set are designed to be lightweight and, therefore, ideal for travel.
Let’s see what the set has for us.
Features And Benefits
This is a 15-piece set comprising four pots, two pans, four glass pot lids, and five cooking utensils. Note that all the pans, pots, and cooking utensils are non-stick.
All the items are made of food-grade and non-toxic materials for healthy cooking. The vented glass lid covers allow you to view the food without letting the much-needed steam to escape.
Also, the lids have easy-to-grasp knobs so that when the time comes, their removal would be quite straightforward.
The pans are oven-safe up to 300F to allow for broader application with impressive results. Then, the cooking utensils are BPA-free and are warp and scratch-resistant.
Also, the cooking utensils have ergonomic handles and a hanging hole for convenient storage and organization.
Lastly, the set requires simple handwashing after use.
Pros
- Lightweight set
- Great non-stick coating
- Glass lid covers
Cons
- Pans have no lids
13. Gourmet Chef Induction-Ready Cookware Set
The last item on our list is the 7-piece cookware set, which is one of the best cookware sets you may ever find in the market. The outstanding aspect of it is that it is safe for use on an induction top, which many cookware sets lack.
Our review will attempt to explain what this set is all about.
Features And Benefits
This 7-piece set includes 1 and 3qt saucepan, a 5qt casserole, and a 10″ fry pan. The pots and pans have a non-stick surface so that food does not stick to the bottom for easy cleanup.
This cookware set has sturdy aluminum construction for durability and to ensure efficient heat conduction and distribution. Besides that, they have oven-safe silicone handles up to 350F.
The other bit is the glass lid that allows you to monitor the food without letting the steam escape.
You are sure to like how easy it is to maintain this set, with the only requirement being warm water and a sponge for cleaning purposes.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Has 100% money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not all the items work on the induction plate
The Buying Guide
There are a wide variety of cookware sets in the markets, and all of them have something different to offer. So, to narrow down your search, you need to pay attention to several factors.
We have broken down these factors for you.
1. The Construction
The construction determines how long your kitchen set is going to be useful to you. So, ensure that the set you intend to invest in is made out of sturdy materials that would keep the items together for the longest time possible.
On top of that, the materials ought to withstand extremely high temperatures so that your food does not get burnt easily.
2. The Handles
If the handles get too hot as you cook, you may end up burning your hands. Therefore, check out for handles that remain cool-to-touch even under extremely high temperatures. Additionally, the handles should be soft-grip for your comfort as you cook.
Another thing about handles is the presence of holes that would allow for organized storage of the kitchenware.
3. Heat Distribution
An even distribution by the cookware is key to delivering a properly cooked meal quickly. Keep in mind that this feature depends on the material used in the cookware’s construction.
4. Non-Stick Coating
This type of coating ensures that food does not get stuck at the pan or pot’s bottom. This helps in minimizing food wastage and also makes the cleanup process afterward to be much easier.
FAQs On Budget Cookware
We thought it wise to include some of the queries that we faced during our research on quality cookware sets priced under $100. They should help boost your knowledge of this topic.
Q: Why are glass lids liked so much?
A: Glass lids allow you to monitor the food without lifting them, leading to steam escaping from the pot. Locking in the steam tends to hasten the cooking speed.
Q: What makes non-stick cookware be so highly rated?
A: With non-stick cookware, you do not have to use so much oil as there is no food sticking at the bottom. So, it is the best option for you if you are a health-conscious individual.
Besides the health aspect, such cookware requires less maintenance due to their ease of cleaning them.
Q: What determines the size of the cookware set that I should buy?
A: It all depends on your family’s size or the number of guests you are expecting over. For instance, if you are in a family of four, two frying pans, two saucepans (all of different sizes), and a stockpot would be enough to cater for everyone.
Q: Which are some of the best cookware brands?
A: When shopping for cookware, the most important thing to consider is the brand name. Some brands have a culture of excellence and you can always count on them. In our view, as far as this question goes, the 5 top brands are:
- T-Fal
- Le Creuset
- Abbio
- Cuisinart
- Bialetti
Other reputable brands include Calphalon, All-Clad, and Greenlife to mention but a few.
Our Top Pick
In the end, we selected T-fal Signature Non-Stick 12-piece Cookware Set as the best low-budget cookware set overall. It is a 12-piece set, implying that it has all the items to cater to your different kitchen needs.
Besides the cookware being well-made, the set comes with a lifetime warranty to give you peace of mind as you use the product.
Wrapping It Up
We hope our article has convinced you that you can get a high-quality cookware set without breaking the bank. Take your time to check out the items on the list that we have reviewed, hoping that your ideal item is on the list.
After reading the buying guide, nothing should stop you from finding the perfect cookware set as you know the specific aspects you are looking for.