Skip to main content

Is HexClad Really Worth the Hype (and the Price)? Cookware Review

HexClad Cookware

When a cookware brand endorsed by Gordon Ramsay floods your Instagram feed and claims to combine the strength of stainless steel with the convenience of non-stick, you can’t help but be curious.

HexClad has established itself as the Rolls-Royce of frying pans, boasting hybrid technology, laser-engraved hexagons, and lifetime durability. But is it truly the kitchen revolution it promises—or just another overpriced trend riding the celebrity wave?

We tried HexClad in a real kitchen. After 30 days of searing, sautéing, stir-frying, and braising, here’s everything you need to know before you indulge.

🔍 What is HexClad, Really?

HexClad is a cookware brand that takes a different approach to nonstick. Instead of using conventional coatings that wear out quickly or all-stainless steel designs that require skill (and scrubbing), HexClad combines both with a proven hybrid technology.

🔧 The “Hybrid” Breakdown:

  • Stainless steel peaks for searing and browning

  • Nonstick valleys for easy release and cleanup

  • Laser-etched hexagon pattern to keep oils in place and reduce sticking

  • PFOA-free, oven safe up to 500°F, dishwasher-safe, and even metal utensil safe

HexClad markets itself as a pan that can do it all – and lasts a lifetime.

✅ Pros
  • Truly versatile: sears, simmers, scrambles, and more
  • Durable and metal-utensil safe
  • Easy to clean—burnt-on bits come off easily
  • Oven-safe up to 500°F
  • Compatible with all cooktops, including induction
  • Backed by Gordon Ramsay + a lifetime warranty
❌ Cons
  • Premium pricing—definitely an investment
  • Not as slick as traditional nonstick (but better for browning)
  • Requires seasoning to maximize nonstick effect
  • Slight learning curve if you’re used to traditional nonstick
  • Weight may feel heavy for some users
  • Aesthetic may not match all kitchens (industrial, modern look)

Add Your Heading Text Here

🔥 Hybrid Fry Pan, 12"
HexClad 12-inch Frying Pan
🔗 View Product 💰 Price: $179.00 📏 Size: 12" | Weight: 3.4 lbs 🔥 Oven Safe: Up to 500°F ⚙️ Cooktop Compatibility: All, including induction
View Product
The 12” frying pan is the flagship piece in HexClad’s lineup—and for good reason. It’s large enough to handle family dinners, and the hybrid surface really does walk the line between stainless steel searing and nonstick convenience.

We made everything from scrambled eggs to seared salmon and thick-cut ribeye—and everything turned out beautifully browned, cooked evenly, and (importantly) didn’t glue itself to the surface.
🍲7QT Hybrid Deep Sauté Pan/Chicken Fryer with Lid
7QT Hybrid Deep Sauté Pan Chicken Fryer with Lid
🔗 View Product 💰 Price: $229.00 📏 Size: 7 quarts | Weight: 2.7 lbs 🍜 Best For: Family meals, braises, one-pot wonders
View Product
If you’re cooking for a crowd—or just love one-pan meals—this is a powerhouse. With high walls and a wide surface, this sauté pan is equally at home doing slow braises, pasta tosses, or a giant stir-fry.

The lid seals in moisture, and the hybrid surface stands up to deglazing with metal utensils, cheese-heavy dishes, and thick sauces without losing its nonstick quality.
🫕Hybrid Saucepan with Lid, (1-Quart)
Hybrid Saucepan with Lid, (1-Quart)
🔗 View Product 💰 Price: $119 📏 Size: 1 qt 🍵 Best For: Melting butter, heating sauces, single servings
View Product
This is the unsung hero of the collection. Perfect for small jobs like melting chocolate, whipping up a béchamel, or heating up leftovers without the microwave.

It may not get the glory of the bigger pieces, but if you cook frequently, you’ll reach for it more than you think.
🫕Hybrid Stock Pot with Lid (10-Quart)
Hybrid Stock Pot with Lid (10-Quart)
🔗 View Product 💰 Price: $199 📏 Size: 10 qt 🍲 Best For: Stocks, soups, lobster boils, crowd-size stews
View Product
Now we’re talking serious capacity. If you’re the type who hosts holidays, makes homemade stock, or batch-cooks chili for the entire neighborhood, this pot is your new best friend.

The hybrid surface means you can brown meats first, deglaze, and simmer without transferring to a different pot. It’s also surprisingly easy to clean for something this massive.
🍽️ Hybrid Fry Pan Set with Lids, 6pc
Hybrid Fry Pan Set with Lids, 6pc
🔗 View Product 💰 Price: $399.99 🎁 Includes: 8", 10", 12" frying pans + 3 lids 🔥 Oven Safe: Up to 500°F
View Product
This set gives you all the frying power you’ll ever need. Whether you’re making eggs for one or a stir-fry for six, there's a size for every task. The inclusion of lids for each pan makes a big difference—you’ll use them more than you think (hello, oil splatter prevention).

All three pans offer the same laser-etched hybrid surface, metal utensil safety, and easy cleanup. It’s the most cost-effective way to get into HexClad without splurging on the full suite.

🍳 How It Performs: The Honest Truth

🔥
Searing Power
Rating: 9/10
This is where HexClad shines. The stainless-steel ridges get hot fast and retain heat like a pro, producing a satisfying crust on meats and vegetables.
“The steak came out with a restaurant-level sear. I didn’t expect that from a pan with nonstick capabilities.”
🍳
Eggs and Delicate Foods
Rating: 7.5/10
While not as slippery as Teflon, the nonstick valleys worked well with a little oil or butter. You’ll need to season the pan slightly (they recommend it) and cook at a moderate temperature for best results.
Tip: Don’t expect Teflon glide, but do expect better flavor and browning.
🧼
Ease of Cleaning
Rating: 8/10
Cleanup was surprisingly easy. Bits of fond lifted right off with a quick soak and wipe. It’s dishwasher-safe, but we rarely needed it. Even burnt bits from high-heat stir-fries came off without a fight.
🪓
Durability & Scratch Resistance
Rating: 10/10
We used metal spatulas, forks, and tongs with zero scratching. These pans are clearly built to endure years of abuse.
Bonus: The handles stay cool on the stove, and the construction feels solid without being too heavy.

🗣️ Real Customer Reviews (That Match Our Experience)

“It’s the first pan I actually enjoy cleaning.”
— Mara J. Verified Buyer
“My scrambled eggs don’t stick anymore, but my steak sears like it’s on cast iron.”
— Liam P. Verified Buyer
“Pricey but worth it. I tossed my other pans after a week with HexClad.”
— Amira H. Verified Buyer

💵 Is HexClad Worth the Price?

Let’s talk about the cost. The 30 cm frying pan alone costs around $179, and the 6-piece set costs almost $532. That’s a considerable investment in cookware—but here’s the deal:

If you’re the type of cook who values performance, durability, and ease of use, HexClad can replace most of your existing pans. You don’t need separate nonstick, stainless steel, and cast iron options.

While it’s not the cheapest option, it could be the wisest investment in the long run if you want cookware that lasts, looks good, and is suitable for everything from breakfast to braised dishes.

📦 Shipping, Returns & Warranty — What to Expect When You Order from HexClad

Ordering high-quality cookware online raises a few additional questions: How quickly will it be delivered? Can I return it if it’s not right for me? What if something goes wrong? HexClad seems to have thought of everything and offers customer-friendly policies that give you peace of mind when purchasing.

🚚 Shipping: Fast, Free & Reliable

HexClad offers free shipping on all US orders over $150 (which, let’s face it, applies to almost every pan or set). Orders typically ship within 1-3 business days, and delivery typically takes 3-7 days, depending on your location.

  • Free shipping on orders $150+

  • 🚀 Expedited options available at checkout (for an extra fee)

  • 🌍 International shipping is available to select countries with calculated rates

Your order will be well packaged—with protective layers and elegant branding—and each item will arrive in recyclable, eco-conscious packaging that still feels premium.

You’ll get tracking info emailed the moment it ships.

🔁 Returns: Risk-Free Trial Period

One of HexClad’s biggest advantages is its 30-day return policy. You can cook with the pan, test it thoroughly, and if you don’t like it, return it for a full refund.

Here’s the overview:

  • 🕒 30-day return policy from the date of delivery
  • 🧼 Used items can still be returned—even if they’ve come into contact with eggs or steak.
  • 💳 Full refund (minus original shipping costs for orders under $150)
  • 📩 Start the process via the online returns portal or customer service.
This policy is not just for unused items in pristine packaging. It’s truly try-it-and-decide.

🛡️ Lifetime Warranty: Yes, They Mean It

Perhaps the boldest part of HexClad’s customer promise is its lifetime warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for the entire life of the product. This means that if your pan warps, breaks, or loses its hybrid coating due to a factory defect, it will be replaced.

  • 🛠️ Covers manufacturing defects, welding defects, grip issues, and more.
  • 📸 You will likely need to send a photo of the problem.
  • 📨 Replacements are usually quick and easy.
  • 🚫 Damage caused by improper use (e.g., overheating, drops, or deep scratches) is not covered.
In our experience, HexClad’s support team was fast, friendly, and eager to make things right.

🧠 Final Verdict: Hype-Worthy or Just Hype?

HexClad delivers on most of its promises. It’s not magic, but it’s an impressive fusion of technology, design, and function.

  • It won’t replace a conventional non-stick pan for extra-tender eggs unless you follow the seasoning and heat instructions.
  • But it will replace your stainless steel pan, most of your non-stick pans, and even some of your cast iron pans.

And unlike most pans you’ve owned before, HexClad actually seems to be designed to last a lifetime.