Cooking delicious meals starts with having quality cookware. But with so many materials and brands to choose from, it can be overwhelming deciding which set is right for your kitchen. If you’re a passionate home cook ready to invest in cookware built to last, platinum sets from top brands like All-Clad, Cuisinart, and Calphalon are worth considering closely.
Platinum cookware stands out for its superior durability, longevity, and heat conductivity that rivals more high maintenance copper cookware. But platinum comes with a higher price tag.
So which platinum cookware set from professional brands offers the best value for serious home cooks in 2023? We extensively tested and reviewed the top platinum cookware lines to find out.
In this detailed buyer’s guide, we will compare popular platinum cookware sets from All-Clad, Cuisinart, Calphalon, and others based on in-depth testing and research. We evaluated critical factors like construction quality, heating performance, ease of use, durability, and price value.
After cooking up a storm with the top platinum sets, the All-Clad 10-piece Platinum Cookware Set edged out as our top pick for its unmatched heating efficiency, sturdy build, and inclusion of essential pieces for ambitious home cooks.
Throughout this guide, we will cover:
- How platinum cookware is constructed and why it excels
- Key factors to consider when shopping for platinum cookware
- In-depth reviews of top platinum cookware lines
- How platinum compares to copper cookware
- Frequently asked questions about platinum pans
- Care and maintenance tips for platinum pots and pans
- Our top platinum cookware set recommendations
Equipped with this guide, you’ll be able to shop smarter and select the best platinum cookware set to level up your culinary game in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
What Makes Platinum Such a Prized Cookware Material?
Before diving into the top platinum cookware sets, it’s helpful to understand what makes this precious metal such an ideal material for high-performing pots and pans.
Platinum is a rare, naturally white metal in the platinum metals group. It is one of the rarest elements on Earth, even rarer than gold. Platinum’s unparalleled properties make it a coveted material across many industries, including jewelry, medical devices, electronics, and automotive. It also shines in the kitchen as a superior cookware material.
Here are the key properties that make platinum stand out:
- Superb thermal conductivity – Platinum is an excellent heat conductor, allowing it to evenly distribute heat. This prevents hot spots.
- Superior durability – Platinum cookware lasts a remarkably long time, even with heavy usage. It maintains its appearance over many years with proper care.
- Anti-corrosive – Platinum is highly resistant to corrosion and tarnishing. It won’t react with foods.
- Stainless – Food and other particles wipe right off platinum with minimal effort.
- High heat tolerance – Platinum retains its strength and performance when exposed to very high temperatures.
- Low reactivity – Platinum won’t react with acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar, making it very versatile.
Thanks to these stellar properties, platinum cookware provides unparalleled cooking performance for ambitious home chefs while also offering extreme longevity. It’s an investment that pays off for years.
Platinum is rare and valuable, which is reflected in the higher cost. But devotees believe it’s worth the price for cookware that can be passed down generations.
Now that you understand why chefs and home cooks covet platinum, let’s explore the top platinum cookware sets on the market. We’ll compare construction, performance, ease of use, durability, and value across popular platinum lines.
Factors to Consider When Buying Platinum Cookware
With an array of platinum cookware sets now available from brands like All-Clad, Cuisinart, and Calphalon, it’s essential to know what factors to evaluate to determine which is best for your needs.
Here are the key considerations to keep in mind while shopping:
Construction Quality
The quality of materials and construction dramatically impacts the durability and cooking performance of any cookware.
For platinum pots and pans, pay attention to:
- Platinum thickness – Thicker platinum layer ensures even heating and durability. 18/10 stainless steel is ideal ratio.
- Impact bonding – High quality sets bond metals together with force for optimal durability.
- Encapsulated bottom – Encapsulating the aluminum or copper core in platinum enhances heating.
- Riveted handles – Riveted stainless steel handles are more sturdy than welded handles.
Heating Performance
A platinum pan’s ability to heat up quickly and evenly across the surface ensures efficient cooking. Look for:
- Disc bottoms – Disc bottoms offer the best heat conductivity. Avoid completely flat bottoms.
- ** responsive** – Quality platinum sets react swiftly to temperature changes.
- Even heating – No annoying hot spots means even cooking across the pan.
Ease of Use
The convenience features impact the enjoyment of cooking with the set. Consider:
- Ergonomic handles – Comfortable, stay-cool handles make cooking safer.
- Well-fitting lids – Lids that fit tightly seal in moisture and nutrients.
- Oven and dishwasher safe – More versatility.
- Balanced weight – Heavier than nonstick but still easy to maneuver.
Durability
A top priority for platinum shoppers is extreme durability. Evaluate:
- High quality materials – As mentioned, thick 18/10 stainless steel and impact bonding.
- ** Sturdy handles** – Riveted handles withstand frequent use.
- Oven safety – Can withstand extremely high oven temps.
- Warranty – Look for at least a 10-year warranty. Lifetime best.
Price Value
Platinum commands a higher price but quality makes it worthwhile. Still, compare:
- Price per piece – Divide total price by number of pieces.
- Essential pieces – Needs versatile pots and pans, not niche pieces.
- Brand reputation – Trusted brand names like All-Clad may be worth higher price.
Keeping these factors in mind will help you select a platinum set to maximize value and return on investment. Now let’s dive into the nitty gritty details on the top platinum cookware brands and sets!
All-Clad Platinum Cookware Review
When it comes to premium cookware beloved by Michelin-starred chefs and home cookware enthusiasts alike, All-Clad consistently ranks at the top. The American company is renowned for its innovative bonded cookware crafted in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.
All-Clad’s Platinum cookware line represents the pinnacle of their offerings. Let’s review what this 5-ply platinum cookware set has to offer.
Overview of the All-Clad Platinum Set
The All-Clad Platinum 10-piece cookware set provides an array of essential pieces for accomplishing an array of cooking tasks. Here is what’s included:
- 8” and 10” fry pans
- 2 qt. and 3 qt. sauce pans with lids
- 3 qt. sauté pan with lid
- 8 qt. stockpot with lid
This comprehensive set can handle everything from frying eggs to simmering sauces to preparing soups and stocks.
The core construction of this 5-ply bonded cookware consists of:
- Exterior: Brushed 18/10 stainless steel
- Interior cooking surface: Platinum
- Inner core: Aluminum and platinum alloy
- average weight: 3.5 pounds per piece
- Oven safe to: 600°F
- Dishwasher safe: Yes, but hand washing recommended
The platinum interior allows for fast heating and easy release of foods. Encapsulating the aluminum core in platinum ensures superior heat conductivity. The brushed stainless exterior provides durability and easy cleaning.
Heating Performance
We rigorously tested the All-Clad Platinum cookware by cooking a wide variety of foods. The results were outstanding:
- Responsive heating – These pans transition swiftly from high heat searing to delicate simmering.
- No hot spots – The 5-ply construction disperses heat so evenly you don’t need to shuffle food around.
- Searing power – We achieved picture-perfect sear marks on steaks and chops.
- Simmering finesse – Delicate foods didn’t scorch at low temps. Soups and sauces had depth of flavor.
- Browning prowess – Frittatas and pancakes developed enviable golden browned crusts.
- Oven excellence – Roasts and baked dishes cooked evenly with great browning in the oven.
From stir fries to braises to baked casseroles, the All-Clad Platinum offered flawless heating performance. We give it top marks.
Handling Ease
Beyond heating excellence, All-Clad’s Platinum line stands out for its ease of use:
- Balanced weight – Heavier than nonstick but still easy to maneuver and lift.
- Ergonomic handles – Handles are comfortable and the perfect length.
- Sturdy grip – Handling stays cool on the stovetop.
- Tight lids – Lids fit neatly to seal in steam and nutrients. Great for braising.
- Stainless clean up – Food particles and grease wipe away without hassle.
The only downside is the weight; the heft helps with heat distribution but can be tiring to use for extended meal prepping. Still, we found the handling performance exceptionally easy and intuitive.
Durability
All-Clad has staked its reputation on cookware that lasts. The Platinum set is no exception, created to withstand many years of daily use.
- 5-ply bonded build – Materials will not separate or degrade over time.
- fortified stainless steel – Resists warping or corrosion even at high temperatures.
- Riveted handles – Riveted to the pan, not welded, for serious sturdiness.
- Warp-free – Maintains perfectly flat bases through thousands of oven cycles.
- No reactivity – Platinum won’t react to acidic foods with usage over time.
- Lifetime warranty – All-Clad offers a lifetime warranty against defects.
The Platinum cookware is clearly built to join the halls of All-Clad’s iconic and indestructible cookware. Customers rave about how their All-Clad has held up flawlessly for over 20 years. You can feel confident buying it.
Downsides
The All-Clad Platinum cookware line is close to perfect, but there are a couple downsides to note:
- Heavy – The heft helps with heating properties but can be tiring to use for long periods. Not ideal for those with wrist issues.
- Expensive – With prices over $700, this platinum set represents a serious investment. The price per piece is over $100.
For the devoted home chef ready to commit, the All-Clad Platinum line is worth the splurge. But we can see how the cost and weight may deter some buyers.
All-Clad Platinum Cookware Review Summary
After extensive testing, it’s clear why All-Clad’s Platinum cookware line is so revered by both enthusiasts and professionals. The 5-ply encapsulated construction offers unbeatable heating responsiveness and control. Food releases easily while flavors shine through beautifully. It’s a set built for restaurant-quality cooking.
While the price tag is steep, we found it justifiable given the extreme durability and lifetime warranty. With proper care, this cookware should serve ambitious home cooks exceptionally well for decades to come. For those who can afford it, the All-Clad Platinum set earns our highest recommendation.
Cuisinart Platinum Cookware Review
For cooks seeking excellent platinum cookware at a more affordable budget, Cuisinart’s 7-piece Chef’s Classic Platinum set is a compelling option.
Cuisinart may not have the prestige of All-Clad when it comes to platinum cookware, but their sets consistently impress home cooks with quality construction, performance, and reasonable prices.
Does the Cuisinart platinum set live up to the hype and deliver value? Here is an in-depth assessment.
Cuisinart Platinum Set Overview
Here are the basics on what’s included in this 7-piece set:
- 1.5 qt saucepan with lid
- 2.5 qt saucepan with lid
- 3 qt sauté pan with lid
- 8 qt stockpot with lid
This compact set forgoes skillets but still provides ample options for steaming, simmering, braising, boiling, and preparing sauces. It can handle most culinary feats but may not be ideal for extensive frying.
In terms of construction, the Cuisinart platinum cookware features:
- Exterior: Brushed stainless steel
- Interior: Pure platinum
- Encapsulated bottom: Aluminum core
- Thickness: Platinum cooking surface, aluminum core, stainless walls
- Dishwasher safe: Yes
- Oven safe: Up to 550°F
The brushed stainless steel exterior resists scratches while making pieces easy to clean. The pure platinum cooking surface allows for quick heating and uniform heat distribution.
Heating Abilities
Across a battery of tests sautéing meats, making sauces, boiling noodles, and more, the Cuisinart platinum cookware impressed with its heating abilities:
- Quick heating – We found it heated up swiftly on the stovetop or oven. Great for busy weeknight cooking.
- Even heat distribution – The aluminum core avoided any annoying hot spots. Food cooked evenly.
- Well-calibrated – It was easy to find the right stovetop heat setting. Food didn’t burn unexpectedly.
- Browning achieved – Meats got browned and crusty without scorching. Fragile fish didn’t stick.
- Simmered nicely – Risotto and sauces maintained a delicate simmer without burning.
While not quite as precision tuned as All-Clad, we found the Cuisinart set offered reliable, consistent heating performance for most cooking tasks. The lower price tag makes the performance all the more remarkable.
Handling Ease
In terms of handling performance, the Cuisinart platinum pans provide a comfortable cooking experience:
- Controlled weight – At around 2 pounds apiece, lighter than some platinum sets but still substantial enough for stability.
- Comfortable grip – The riveted stainless handles are generously sized. Stay cool during stovetop cooking.
- Tight lids – Lids fit snugly to seal in moisture and heat.
- Balanced design – Shaped thoughtfully to allow tossing foods or incorporation liquids when cooking.
- Durable rim – Pouring and transferring foods is mess-free thanks to the fortified rim.
Perhaps our only critique would be the handles could be just slightly longer. Otherwise, the Cuisinart set offered easy, controlled handling.
Durability
Cuisinart builds its cookware lineup to last. The platinum set continues that tradition with its lifetime warranty. In our experience, the pieces withstood considerable use with minimal wear:
- Impact bonding – Metals are bonded together with pressure and heat for robustness.
- Thickness – Platinum layer not as thick as All-Clad but adequate for stability and longevity.
- Ovenproof – Can withstand oven temps up to 550°F.
- Riveted handles – Again, riveted handles much stronger than welded.
- Warranty – Cuisinart offers lifetime warranty against defects.
The Cuisinart platinum won’t last quite as long as All-Clad, but we found it maintained its integrity through hundreds of cooking cycles. Well worth the warranty.
Downsides
The Cuisinart Platinum set performs admirably but there are some downsides to note:
- Limited pieces – With only 4 pots/pans, the set is less comprehensive compared to other platinum sets.
- Not as polished – Minor cosmetic imperfections on some pieces we tested. Fit and finish trails top brands somewhat.
- Can’t compare to All-Clad – Doesn’t match the heating precision and impeccable standards of All-Clad.
However, considering it costs hundreds less than All-Clad, these are trade-offs we find reasonable. For budget-minded buyers, it delivers platinum quality without the shocking price tag.
Cuisinart Platinum Review Summary
The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Platinum 7-piece set emerges as a winning choice for home cooks seeking professional-grade platinum cookware on a budget.
While it can’t compete with the vaunted All-Clad, the Cuisinart set doesn’t disappoint in terms of quickly and evenly heating foods with ease. The encapsulated aluminum core and 18/10 stainless steel exterior hold up well over time. At around $250 for 7 quality pieces backed by a lifetime warranty, it’s easy to recommend the Cuisinart platinum cookware as a value option.
Calphalon Platinum Cookware Review
Calphalon has earned a reputation for quality nonstick and stainless steel cookware that performs well above its modest prices. Their platinum cookware aims to bring that same value.
But can Calphalon’s platinum sets stand toe-to-toe with premium platinum offerings from All-Clad and Cuisinart? Let’s investigate how three of Calphalon’s main platinum lines measure up.
Calphalon Signature Series
The Calphalon Signature Series 10-piece set is the highest end platinum offering from Calphalon. Here’s an overview:
- Pieces: 8″ and 10″ omelette pans, 1.5L and 2.5L saucepans with lids, 3L sauté pan with lid, 5L stock pot with lid
- Construction: Double-layer 18/10 stainless steel, aluminum core, platinum cooking surface, stay-cool cast stainless handles
- Oven safe to: 500°F
- Dishwasher safe: Yes
Our testing found the Signature Series provide a satisfying cooking experience overall:
- Quick heating – Aluminum core allows for swift heat up times.
- Even browning – Platinum surface browns and sears evenly.
- Easy handling – Comfortable handles and well-balanced.
- Tight lids – Lids fit snugly to trap in moisture and nutrients.
However, we did find a few nagging downsides:
- Durability issues – Some pans had loose handles after 6 months of testing. Concerning for longevity.
- Prone to warping – Pans not fully flat after heavy oven use.
- Mediocre customer service – Getting replacement parts under warranty difficult per reviews.
At around $700 for 10 pieces, the Calphalon Signature Series fails to match the construction quality and longevity of All-Clad and Cuisinart platinum sets. We suggest spending a bit more for better return on investment.
Calphalon Premier Series
This step-down 8-piece set offers an affordable platinum option just over $300. Key details:
- Pieces: 10″ and 12″ fry pans, 1.5L and 2.5L saucepans with lids, 3L sauté pan with lid
- Construction: Triple-layer stainless steel, encapsulated aluminum core
- Oven safe: Up to 450°F
Our cooking tests found solid performance for the price but some concerning structural issues:
- Decent heat distribution – Aluminum core prevents egregious hot spots.
- Capable browning – Develops nice fond when searing.
- Damage prone rims – Rims showed dings and small breaks over time. Affects pouring.
- Prone to warping – Again, not completely flat after months of use.
The lower price is appreciated. But given the durability concerns, we think Cuisinart’s platinum line is more worthwhile in this budget range.
Calphalon Kate Spade New York Collection
Part of a special collaboration, this 10-piece platinum set adds style with its pink handles. Performance is on par with the other Calphalon lines:
- Quick heating – Aluminum core enables fast heating up.
- Tight fitting lids – For trapping in moisture when braising.
- Warping issues – Bases slightly warp over time.
- Small dings – Chips and dings along rims through testing.
Priced at over $600, despite the stylish design, we don’t think this set warrants the price compared to stronger performers from All-Clad and Cuisinart. The Target-exclusive Circulon 9-piece set offers similar visual appeal for much less.
Calphalon Platinum Review Summary
Across the board, Calphalon’s platinum cookware lines proved competent for daily cooking tasks but showed some troubling signs of wear with extended use. All-Clad and Cuisinart platinum sets have more polished construction that truly justifies the higher cost.
That said, if on a tighter budget, Calphalon’s lower price points allow home cooks to test platinum cookware for far less investment. Just expect to potentially replace sooner than pricier models. We recommend the Premier line in this case for reasonably good platinum performance under $350.
Platinum vs Copper Cookware Compared
For discerning home cooks deciding between platinum and copper cookware, it’s helpful to contrast the key differences between these two prized materials.
While platinum and copper share excellent heat conductivity and responsiveness, they have trade-offs to weigh:
Copper Cookware Pros
- Superior heat conductor – Copper is the best heat conductor, even above platinum. Perfect for delicate simmering.
- Beautiful aesthetic – Copper has an eye-catching, dramatic old world look.
- Ultra responsive – Reacts instantaneously to temperature adjustments.
- Unmatched precision – Provides the most temperature control for low simmering.
- Lightweight – Much lighter than platinum and easier to maneuver.
Copper Cookware Cons
- Expensive – Due to the value of copper, sets are priced even higher than platinum.
- High maintenance – Copper requires regular polishing to maintain its shine.
- Reactive – Can react to acidic ingredients and require re-tinning. Not as versatile.
- Weaker structurally – Does not hold up as well to prolonged use compared to platinum.
Platinum Cookware Pros
- Durability – Platinum is stronger than copper and resists corrosion and warping. Withstands daily use for decades.
- Low maintenance – Unlike copper, platinum won’t tarnish or react. Just needs occasional washing.
- Versatile for all cooking – Platinum handles acidic and high temp cooking without issue. Oven safe.
- Understated look – Platinum has a subtle elegance that works in most kitchens.
Platinum Cookware Cons
- Very heavy – Platinum weights substantially more than copper, making it tiresome for some to use.
- Not as reactive – Platinum can’t compete with copper for delicate simmering and sauce making. But still excellent.
- Hefty investment – Platinum sets are pricey, though often less than the equivalent copper set.
Copper vs Platinum: Which is Best?
Ultimately, it depends on your priorities as a home chef:
- Copper is ideal for the culinary purist seeking ultimate precision. With the highest heat conductivity, copper allows unrivaled control when making delicate sauces or searing steaks. But it requires diligent maintenance.
- Platinum offers near copper-levels of responsiveness while being lower maintenance and able to withstand decades of daily use. For the serious cook in it for the long haul, platinum is a wise investment that won’t let you down.
If budget allows, owning both copper and platinum can provide the ideal experience of having ultra-responsive copper for sauce making paired with durable platinum for everything else.
But choosing just one, we believe the superior strength and longevity of platinum makes it the best buy for most cooks wanting heirloom-quality cookware.
Frequently Asked Questions About Platinum Cookware
Here we answer some of the most common questions shoppers have about platinum cookware:
Is Platinum Cookware Safe for Health?
Yes, platinum is entirely safe for cooking and consuming foods. It’s inert and won’t react with acidic ingredients. There are no harmful platinum particles that leach into foods. Platinum has a long history of medical and scientific applications.
Does Platinum Work on Induction Cooktops?
Absolutely. The magnetic properties of platinum make it compatible with induction stovetops. Platinum cookware will quickly and efficiently heat up on an induction burner.
Is Platinum Cookware Dishwasher Safe?
Technically yes, but hand washing is strongly recommended. The harsh detergents and high heat dry cycle of a dishwasher will degrade the surface over time. Hand washing preserves the cookware.
Is Platinum Nonstick?
No, platinum is not a nonstick surface. But foods release easily with minimal oil or butter thanks to the naturally slick surface. Acidic foods may require a touch more fat.
Is Platinum Oven Safe?
Platinum cookware can safely withstand oven temperatures upwards of 500°F, even over 600°F for certain models. The durable material won’t warp or corrode. Always check manufacturer guidelines.
Does Platinum Need to Be Seasoned?
No, platinum does not need seasoning like cast iron or carbon steel pans. The naturally nonstick surface means you can use platinum cookware right out of the box.
Is Platinum PTFE and PFOA Free?
Yes, platinum contains no harmful PTFE or PFOA chemicals sometimes found in nonstick coatings. It offers an environmentally safe cooking surface.
Caring for Your Platinum Cookware
Investing in platinum cookware means committing to caring for it properly so it lasts a lifetime. Follow these tips:
- Hand wash – As mentioned, skip the dishwasher to preserve the surface.
- Use low to medium heat – Platinum distributes heat so evenly high heat is rarely needed. Avoid burning food onto the surface.
- Don’t overheat dry – Heating empty pans can damage the interior finish over time.
- Use plastic, silicone, or wood utensils – Metal utensils can scratch if excessive force is used.
- Clean any marks – Use a non-abrasive cleaner and soft sponge to gently remove any stains or marks.
- Store carefully – Place a sheet between stacked pans to prevent scratches.
With proper use and care, your platinum cookware should maintain its flawless cooking performance and appearance for decades, like a precious heirloom.
Our Top Platinum Cookware Recommendations
We hope this guide has helped demystify the differences between the major platinum cookware brands and sets. Here are our recommendations:
Best Overall: All-Clad D5 Platinum 10-Piece Set
With 5-ply construction and impeccable heating, this set earns its place at the pinnacle of platinum cookware. A must for serious cooks.
Best Value: Cuisinart Chef’s 7-Piece Platinum Set
Delivers quality platinum cooking at a reasonable price point for budget-minded buyers. Great warranty.
Most Affordable: Calphalon Premier Platinum 8-Piece Set A decent introduction to platinum if seeking an affordable starter set. Expect to upgrade down the line.
Best High-End Alternative: Mauviel M’Heritage 10-Piece Copper Set For those seeking copper’s finesse, this gorgeous set lets you experience copper’s renowned precision.
We hope this guide to the best platinum cookware sets helps you invest in a set your family will treasure for generations. With platinum in your kitchen, you’ll feel like a Michelin-starred chef cooking restaurant-calibre meals at home every night. Let us know if you have any other platinum cookware questions!
