From the most basic to professional kitchen setup, at least one nonstick pan is a necessity. I don’t think it would be possible to make eggs, sear fish, or make pancakes that don’t tear off the pan. Even with their bad rap from a group of people, nonstick pans are essential in any kitchen.
Nonstick doesn’t take up a beating as much as stainless steel, the coating wears off after a while, is not dishwasher safe, and is not for high-temperature cooking. However, this does not mean there is no exceptional quality nonstick cookware out there.
Oster and Circulon cookware represent some of the best nonstick cookware money can buy. These are capable of atoning for most of the deficiencies of other generic nonstick pans and pots. But between Oster vs Circulon, which one makes the best choice for you?
HISTORY OF OSTER VS CIRCULON
Both Oster and Circulon cookware share a rich history in the United States. Oster trades under the Sunbeam and Oster consumer brands recognize through all generations. The company makes a wide variety of accessories through four different product lines. There are outdoor products, household products, specialty products, and an international products division.
The company emerged after the parent company Allegheny went bankrupt in 1989. Prior to this merger, the two operated independently until being hit by the 1981-82 recession. The Oster brand known for some of the best cookware was named after John Oster Sr. He is the one who started the John Oster Manufacturing Company in Wisconsin around 1924.
On the other hand, Circulon is a world-renowned manufacturer of hard-anodized aluminum cookware sets. This material results in cookware that is durable, strong, and has excellent heat distribution. Their products are tailored at hastening the cooking process for a healthy and delicious meal.
Circulon as a brand was created in 1984 by Meyer Corporation as purely nonstick cooking wear. Other brands produced by the same company include Anolon, NapaStyle, SilverStone, Prestige, as well as BonJour. The parent company is based in Hong Kong while the distributors are spread across the globe. The largest distributor is located in Vallejo, California.
COMPARISON OF OSTER VS CIRCULON PRODUCTS
In terms of materials of construction, both brands are fairly similar. Although Circulon majors in the manufacture of hard-anodized aluminum nonstick cookware sets, it still has stainless steel brands. The same applies to Oster. It has both nonstick aluminum sets alongside a couple of stainless steel products. Usually, the aim is to appeal to both sets of customers.
Price-wise, Circulon products are premium quality, hence costlier when compared on a like-for-like basis. So, if you are looking for high-end costly products, then your best bet would be Circulon. Otherwise, for affordable, yet high-quality cookware, especially for beginner cooks, then you should opt for Oster cookware pans and pots.
REVIEWS OF THE BEST OSTER COOKWARE SET
OSTER HERSTAL STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE SET
The Herstal cookware set is an ideal choice for those looking for versatile cooking ware. First, the set is compatible with most of the stovetops, with the exception of induction tops. All the pieces have a helping handle, making for easy handling while you are preparing a meal. For impressive heat distribution, the design uses 2.5mm thick aluminum.
Although the sets are safe for dishwashers, it is best to wash them by hand if you want them to last you long. This set is a colorful one, blending in smoothly with your kitchen décor. Moreover, the set contains 2 saucepans, a Dutch oven, 2 fry pans, a square grill pan, and a sauté pan. All pieces except the grill pan have lids for locking in flavors as you cook.
OSTER DERRICK COOKWARE SET
Most stainless steel is costly to acquire. So, as much as you would want to enjoy the benefits they come with, you may not be able to afford one. However, Oster cookware avails this stainless steel set in a 7 pieces package that is reasonably priced. The polished stainless steel exterior features a satin finish for an impressive look.
The pans have an encapsulated bottom consisting of an aluminum core, to enhance heat distribution. Such types of cookware are mostly expensive. Heavy-gauge stainless steel handles stay cool while on stovetops. Since they are stainless steel, this set is induction-ready. Tempered glass lids ease food monitoring.
OSTER 124952 COOKWARE SET METALLIC RED
This 10 piece cookware set is constructed from aluminum. It is one of the bestselling Oster brands of cookware. With excellent heat distribution, the set is perfect for all types of cooking, ranging from simmering to searing. A long-lasting nonstick coating complements the durable aluminum design.
Ergonomic handles provide a sturdy grip on the pans and pots. At the same time, the handles are heat resistant, for even more confident handling. Handwashing is recommended for the set. Besides saucepans and Dutch ovens, there are also high-quality utensils in the package. There is a spoon and slotted turner in addition to the frying pan.
REVIEWS OF THE BEST CIRCULON COOKWARE SET
CIRCULON ACCLAIM HARD-ANODIZED ALUMINUM COOKWARE POTS AND PANS SET, 13 PIECE
If you prefer the Circulon brand of cookware set, then this one would be a great buy. It is premium cookware set free of PFOA and associated risks. Moreover, the sets are totally safe to be used by metallic utensils because of the triple nonstick coating layer. Therefore, the set assures you of a long-lasting quick food release with minimal cleaning afterward.
The durable hard-anodized aluminum construction provides a heat transfer media that’s good at the task. Hence, there exist no hot spots that burn food. Moreover, the set is oven safe up to 4000F. Handles are double riveted to the pans. In addition, the saucepans and skillets have additional rings on the handle for convenient hanging.
CIRCULON 87526 SYMMETRY HARD ANODIZED NONSTICK COOKWARE POTS AND PANS SET
This 11 piece cookware set features hard-anodized aluminum construction. This is the signature material that most Circulon cookware sets are known for. As a result, metallic utensils have no tangible effect on panning functionality. Since the material is heavy gauge, the pans last for long, just as the coating.
The pans have a nonstick coating consisting of raised circles on the bottom. This eases your cleaning task afterward. Included in the package are saucepans, stockpots, frying pans, and sauté pans. Each of these is supplied with its lids.
CIRCULON GENESIS NONSTICK COOKWARE POTS AND PANS SET
For a truly colorful kitchen addition, the red Circulon Genesis cookware set would be an ideal choice. Just like the others, the set components are made from hard-anodized aluminum for even heating. The exteriors are made from stylish porcelain. As a result, the exterior stays resistant to stains for ease of cleaning.
Glass lids lock in heat and flavors. This feature makes for an easier way of monitoring cooking progress. Raised circles on the bottom of the pans give them the nonstick property. Moreover, the glass is shatter-resistant. The sets withstand heated oven temperatures of up to 5000F.
CONCLUSION
If you are a professional and seasoned chef looking for premium quality cookware sets, then I would suggest you buy the Circulon brand. They are eye-catchy, made from high-quality hard aluminum, and have exteriors that resist stains while ensuring impeccable heat distribution. As a result, they cost more than their Oster counterparts.
On the other hand, if you are just setting out to learn a few tricks of the trade, then Oster products would be the best buy. They won’t cost you much, hence you can do all the learning possible on them. Still, despite their low costs, I think they are of reasonable quality as testified by those who have used them, albeit a hand full.
