Some people believe there is little difference between the two, while others disagree. Their similarities and differences are evident. The only significant distinction between skillets and pots is that skillets are deeper. They are typically at least 2 inches deeper (including the lid) than frying pans.

What Is A Frying Pan?

Non-stick pans have some form of an interior coating such as Teflon or PTFE which prevents food from sticking during cooking. They're best for foods like pancakes, eggs, fish, or crepes which require low or medium heat and little or no oil. This makes them ideal for weight management because you can use them to cook low-fat food.

In order to achieve the balance of perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky interior without sticking, fish should be prepared in a pan with superior temperature control and retention. Our 5-ply Stainless Clad base distributes heat evenly and effectively, promising flaky fillets and crispy skin without running the risk of overcooking.

Bread Baking: Dutch ovens are favored for baking artisanal bread due to their ability to create a steamy environment that results in a crispy crust and a soft interior.

Again, these cookware measurements are taken at the top, so the flat cooking area of a skillet will be a few inches below its listed size. (Note: If cooking on a glass-top stove, the skillet’s curved sides won’t come in contact with the heat source.) 

For purchasing guidance, please read our review of the best stainless steel skillets and our sauté pan round-up. But whichever pan you choose, there are a few things to keep in mind while shopping.

    When using a cast iron griddle plate, it's important to properly maintain it to ensure its longevity and performance.  Clean the griddle with hot water and a scrub brush after each use, avoiding soap, which can remove seasonings from the griddle.  Dry the cast iron griddle plate thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

Induction frying pans are designed specifically for use with induction cooktops. They have a magnetic base that heats up quickly and evenly, making them ideal for high-heat cooking and delicate dishes. However, they are limited in compatibility with cooktops and may not be suitable for all types of cooking.

While often overlooked, the handle of a frypan is one of its most crucial components. Once you’ve decided on the size and material of your frypan, make sure to take note of the handle on the products you’ve shortlisted. Look for a handle that’s strong and will remain cool when cooking on a stovetop. Wider handles are more beneficial for cooking since they allow for better control, especially when you’re preparing food that needs to be tossed. Lastly, stainless steel handles are ideal for low heat conductivity since they can tolerate higher temperatures than plastic or silicone handles.

Which leads us to a similarity they both have; a flat cooking surface.