The Best Cookware for Glass Top Stoves in 2020

Glass top stoves offer a sleek, modern appearance and are easy and simple to clean and maintain. Because the burners are sealed underneath the glass cooking surface, this prevents challenging food stains getting in between tough to clean places (think: that pot of soup boiling over when you slip out for a moment to use the bathroom). The burners on glass stop stoves heat up faster than their electric counterparts and flat top stoves also cool down faster, making them a safer option with children around. 

Glass top stoves require cookware with specific features to ensure that the glass stove top does not get scratched or ruined. The best cookware for glass top stoves are made of stainless steel, heavy-weight aluminum, titanium, and copper, and you want to purchase pots and pans that are heavy enough not to slide around on your glass stove top (but not too heavy that they’re difficult to carry from the oven to the sink or table).

The pots and pans that you purchase should have flat bottoms so the entire bottom of the pan sits directly on the your glass top burners, which will help with heat transfer and even heat distribution. The pots and pans you choose should ideally be at least as large as the heated burner area for even heat distribution.

Materials that should not be used on glass top stoves are cast iron, stoneware, glass and ceramic cookware. These types of materials can easily scratch your glass stove top’s surface. Cast iron is specifically slow to absorb heat and once cast iron pots and pans are heated up, they retain high heat for long periods of time and can therefore overheat your glass stove top.

Other features you may want to consider when choosing cookware in general are being dishwasher safe for easy clean up and oven-safe if you tend to finish your cooking process in the oven. You may want to consider non-toxic cookware to ensure that the items you are cooking with are not only effective for the meals you cook for you and your family, but also safe to use and do not leach chemicals into your food. Stay-cool handles and lids that fit well and lock steam in are also ideal.

Read on to find out the best cookware for glass top stoves. We will offer a number of cookware sets made of various materials at differing price points so that you can choose the ideal option for your family.

Carry on reading or jump straight to our number #1 pick here.

What Should I Look for When Buying Cookware for Glass Top Stoves?

Criteria #1: Glass top stoves work best with cookware made from stainless steel, heavy-weight aluminum, or copper. There are other materials that can be used with glass top stoves, but these three have proven to work well.

Criteria #2: You want to look for cookware that will fit the exact diameter of the heated burner area on your glass top stove. If you can’t find an exact fit, within an inch of the burner area will be sufficient.

Criteria #3: For your glass top stove, you want a set that is on the heavier side to ensure that the cookware sits well on the burners and does not slide while cooking.

Here’s How We’ve Determined the Best Cookware for Glass Top Stoves

In researching the best cookware for glass top stoves, we looked at cookware made from materials like stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and copper as well as cookware that is durable, versatile, and can serve your family reliably for a long time.

We also took a look at other features that are specifically good for glass top stoves, as well as features that you generally want to look for when purchasing new cookware. We considered the weight of the cookware (heavy, but not too heavy), we featured some cookware that is non-stick, if that’s your preference, non-toxic options, and cookware that is oven and dishwasher safe.

We factored in that everyone has a different price point that they are able and willing to invest in new cookware, so we offer a number of cookware sets suitable for glass top stoves at various costs so you can purchase the best cookware for your family.

If you aren’t ready or don’t need to purchase an entirely new set for your glass top stove, you can jump to our “On a Budget?” section where we feature less expensive single products and a smaller set that are less of an investment yet still great for glass top stove cooking as well as being high quality and durable. We sought out trusted brands and chose cookware sets and pieces that have hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of positive reviews. 

#1: Calphalon Classic Non Stick Cookware (Best Value – All-Purpose)

This Calphalon Classic, non-stick set is made of hard anodized aluminum, has a dual-layer non-stick interior, is oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and has stay-cool stainless steel handles. This cookware set comes with frying pans, sauce pans, a sauté pan, and a stock pot which also feature pour spouts and straining lids.

Calphalon is a brand that was founded in 1963, and its founder, Ronald Kasperzak, is actually credited with inventing the hard anodized aluminum cookware that this set is made from. Anodized aluminum works well with glass top stoves because it distributes heat quickly and evenly and is great for those who want a non-stick product, unlike stainless steel, which can be easy to clean if you follow directions, but is not naturally non-stick.

This Calphalon Classic set is the best all purpose set for glass top stoves because, for the price you’re paying, you’re getting a comprehensive set of essential cookware that is constructed from hard anodized aluminum, and is durable and long-lasting. The fact that these pans are also non-stick is another bonus as food release and cleaning will be made easy.

Calphalon is a trusted company whose cookware sets are used by both home and professional chefs. This set will help to eliminate your need for additional cookware and kitchen utensils because the pots and pans feature measuring marks, straining covers, and pour spouts. This set is truly all-in-one.

With thousands of positive customer reviews, this Calphalon cookware glass-top friendly set is beloved because of its durability, high quality construction, versatility, and ease of use. Tons of customers noted that this cookware truly is non-stick and easy to clean, and the straining lids are super convenient. Multiple customers said that this set worked great on their glass top stoves. A few customers noted not to put these pots and pans into the dishwasher. They are not advertised as dishwasher safe and putting them into the dishwasher can negatively impact their non-stick properties.


#2: Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware (Best Splurge)

The Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set features cool grip handles secured with stainless steel rivets and self-basting, tight-fitting lids. (A self-basting lid is one that is specifically designed for that pot.) The lid has spikes or grooves on the inside that catch steam as it rises in the pot during cooking to create a moist environment for the food. These Cuisinart stainless steel pots are perfect for your glass top stove as well as being oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher safe.

The triple-ply construction of this cookware is a unique combination of a pure aluminum core bonded to a stainless steel interior and a brushed stainless exterior. Heat Surround technology means even heat distribution along the bottom and side walls of these pots, which means more thorough and efficient cooking. Premium stainless steel cookware does not react with food or alter natural flavors.

This Cuisinart set is the best splurge because it is definitely more expensive than other options, but that being said, stainless steel is ideal for glass top stoves, and the pieces should cover most of your cooking needs. Additionally, this cookware set can move from stovetop to oven and back and is great for heat conduction, due to its triple-ply construction.

Customers love that these stainless steel pans heat up quickly and evenly and are incredibly durable. One customer wrote, “I’ve been using these for 3 years now and they are as good as new.” Another customer wrote that this set makes cooking feel like more than just making something to eat, and gave him a drive to cook better, more delicious meals. Some customers shared complaints about food sticking to these pots, but many said that if you follow the directions and cook with and care for your stainless steel pots properly, you shouldn’t have a problem. This includes using proper (lower) cooking temperatures than you might be used to.

Reason #1 to Choose This Product

You have a higher budget and you specifically want to go with stainless steel. Stainless steel is versatile and works well with most stove tops. In terms of being good specifically for glass top stoves, it works well because it’s heavy enough to remain in place when you’re cooking, and it won’t scratch the glass surface.

Stainless steel is also extremely durable, you will have no problems with rusting or chipping. Stainless steel is easy to clean and non-reactive, meaning you can cook acidic foods in stainless steel pots without impacting the taste or leaching harmful chemicals into your food.

Reason #2 to Choose This Product

You care specifically that the cookware set you choose for your glass top stove is dishwasher safe. For some families, it’s necessary that their cookware purchases be dishwasher safe because washing dishes is not something they want to spend a lot of time doing. Stainless steel cookware is also low maintenance, so if you don’t want to have to spend too much time ensuring that your cookware remains in excellent shape, this cookware is a great choice.


#3: T-fal E765SC Ultimate Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware (Best Nontoxic Cookware)

The T-fal E765SC Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware is oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, dishwasher safe, and made of hard anodized aluminum. Hard anodized aluminum is great for even heat distribution and cooking your food evenly and thoroughly. This cookware has a strong protective layer that prevents against corrosion and scratching.

This set includes frying pans, saucepans, a Dutch oven, and utensils. Each piece of cookware has a thermo spot indicator which is a ring that turns red to show when the pans are perfectly preheated and ready for ingredients to be added. These pots and pans come with vented, tempered glass lids which allow you to see the food you’re cooking as well as trap moisture in for great results.

This T-fal cookware set is the best non-toxic set because it is PFOA, lead, and cadmium free. T-fal guarantees safe, non-toxic coatings that are good for you and the environment. T-fal uses something called PTFE for the coatings of their non-stick pans, which is an inert material that is non-toxic, even when ingested, and does not react in any way with water, food, or domestic cleaning products. PTFE is also used in medical procedures. It’s used in pacemakers, the coating of artificial limbs, and artery transplants, which should give you peace of mind knowing that this product is not a health risk.

Customers love that T-fal’s set is durable, that the handles are covered in a soft grip material that stays cool when cooking, and that these pans are truly non-stick. One customer wrote that after 4 months of use, this set gets a “10” in every category. “They clean up like a dream” and heat quickly. Some customers noted that their pans did get scratched, and a number of people said that one of the lids arrived dented.


#4: Cook N Home Non Stick Soft Handle Cookware (Best Low Cost)

Cook N Home’s Non-Stick Soft Handle Cookware Set is made of heavy gauge aluminum that provides even heat conduction, comes with tempered glass lids with a steam vent, and have a non-stick coating that makes for easy food release and simple cleanup. This set comes with multiple saucepans, a casserole dish, a dutch oven stockpot, two frying pans, and 5 nylon utensils.

Cook N Home’s cookware is the best low cost option because it’s less than half the price of many competing sets and still provides a durable product for your glass top stove. Heavy weight aluminum cookware is one of the recommended materials to use on a glass top stove because it conducts heat faster than other metals and cooks evenly. These products are not induction compatible and not safe to put in the oven. They work well on gas, electric, ceramic, and glass. These products are also dishwasher safe.

Customers love that Cook N Home’s cookware is easy to clean, truly nonstick, the handles don’t overheat, and the price is great. Multiple customers noted that these pots and pans are great for college students and small families. One customer wrote that she uses these pots and pans “at least three times a day” for her family, and they help her make delicious meals and are “wonderful cookware.” Some customers noted that the nylon utensils are low quality and not to put these items in the dishwasher if you want the non-stick property to last.


#5: T-fal Signature Advancend Non-Stick Cookware (Best Titanium)

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This T-fal Signature Titanium Advancend Non-Stick Cookware Set includes T-fal’s thermo spot heat indicator which shows when the pans are properly preheated and ready for food to be added. The titanium reinforced nonstick interior is great for your glass top stove and means that this set is durable.

The items in this set feature pouring edges for dripless serving and measuring marks inside the pots to save time and effort. They also come with vented, tempered glass lids which maintain visibility as well as trap heat and moisture for ideal cooking results. With this set comes a fridge lid for one of the saucepans to make storing leftovers easier. This cookware set is oven and dishwasher safe.

This T-fal set is the best titanium cookware set for glass top stoves because of all of its features and competitive price. Titanium cookware can be pricey, but for less than $100, you are getting a comprehensive set that should cover most of your culinary needs. Titanium works very well on glass top stoves, the metal does not leach into your food, and titanium is non-toxic, stable, resistant to acid degradation, and will not affect the taste of your food.

Customers have been impressed with this cookware set for its durability, nonstick coating, and the ability to know when the pans are perfectly preheated. A number of customers noted that you’re really getting your money’s worth with this set, as there is a good-sized pan for various cooking needs. They noted that the lids are interchangeable from pots to skillets and that the bottom of these pots are smooth, making them perfect for flat, glass stove tops. A number of customers did say that after using this cookware a number of times, the nonstick coating began to wear off, and the color on the pots started to peel.


On a Budget? Try These:

#1 Budget: Duxtop Whole-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3 Quart Saucepan

This Duxtop Whole-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3 Quart Saucepan is a great option for your glass top stove. As we’ve learned, stainless steel is an excellent material to use on glass top stoves, and this saucepan is tri-ply, meaning it’s designed with two layers of stainless steel and an aluminum core for great heat conductivity. This pan comes with a stay-cool handle and drip-free lid. This saucepan is dishwasher and freezer safe for food storage, as well as oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

With hundreds of 5-star reviews, customers love that this pan is a nice size and weight, cleans super easily, and is good for everything from sauces to soup to oatmeal. This saucepan heats uniformly, the lid locks in all of the steam which makes it great for those soups that require simmering on low heat for a long time, and the bottom of the pot is flat, making is a great choice for glass stove tops. A number of customers noted that this pot is quite heavy, and the handles do get hot when the pan is heated.


#2 Budget: Cuisinart 722-24 Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 10-Inch Open Skillet

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If you don’t need an entirely new set of cookware for your glass top stove and are looking to replace one pot, this Cuisinart 722-24 Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 10-inch open skillet is a great option for your glass top stove. The flat-bottom aluminum encapsulated base heats quickly and evenly, and the solid stainless steel riveted handle stays cool on the stove top. Stainless steel is one of the best cookware for glass top stoves as it does not discolor, react with food, or alter flavors, so it’s a great option for all of your cooking needs. The rim of this pan is tapered for drip-free pouring, and it’s dishwasher safe.

Customers love that this Cuisinart skillet is versatile, working great for frying, sautéing, and cooking food evenly on your glass top stove. One customer wrote that she bought this skillet specifically for her glass top stove and it “hit the nail on the head.” The size of this skillet fit perfectly on her large burner, and its flat bottom puts it in direct contact with the glass top, which is exactly what you want. Customers really liked that this skillet is easy to clean, food sticking is not an issue, and the no-drip edge “works fabulously.”


#3 Budget: Utopia Kitchen Non-Stick 3-piece Frying Pan Set

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This Utopia Kitchen Non-Stick, 3-Piece Frying Pan Set is made from professional grade aluminum. The induction bottom of these pans makes them suitable for various types of stovetops, including a glass top stove, and ensure even heat distribution across the entire surface of the pans, making frying, browning, searing, and heating easier.

These pans have a double-coated nonstick interior allowing for easy clean up and are PFOA, lead, and cadmium free. The handles are strongly fixed to the pans, making them wobble-free. To maintain these pans, you should let them cool down before washing and wash them in warm soapy water. Additionally, nonstick cookware performs at its peak when using slightly lower cooking temperatures than you might normally be used to.

Customers love that the bottom of these pans are made with heavy aluminum, that they heat evenly, and are a breeze to clean. They also noted that these pans are a great value for the money. One customer wrote, “when they say non-stick, they mean non-stick!” Some customers noted that after using these pans for a while, the nonstick coating began to come off. Others noted that in general, these pans show wear and tear after a few months of use.


Verdict: Your Best Cookware for Glass Top Stoves 

If you want the best value for money, pick Calphalon Classic’s 10-piece nonstick cookware set.

If you specifically would like a non-toxic, eco-friendly set, choose T-fal’s E765SC Ultimate Hard Anodized Non-Stick 12-piece Cookware Set.

If you want to keep the spend under $60, pick Cook N Home’s 15-Piece Non-Stick Stay Cool Handle Cookware Set.

Choosing the right cookware for glass top stoves requires considering a number of factors, including material, weight, and a cookware set that fits your stovetop well. In addition, you might want to consider whether the product or set you are purchasing is dishwasher and/or oven safe, non-toxic, and non-stick or easy to clean. You also need to know the limits of your budget in order to find high quality, versatile, and long-lasting cookware for your glass top stove within that budget.

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