Enameled cast iron that needs no seasoning, resists acidic foods, and cleans easily, with a slick surface and easy-to-grip handles. It is the most expensive option, cannot be restored if damaged, and is not safe over an open flame.
An affordable, durable American-made cast iron skillet that heats evenly and sears, bakes, and releases food well. Its rough surface can stick and needs more upkeep, and the handle is shorter than others.
A low-cost cast iron skillet with a long, comfortable handle, wide pour spouts, and strong heat retention. It is heavy and lacks a helper handle, and its surface can be rough enough to hinder egg release.
A light, thin-walled 10-inch skillet with a smooth matte surface that takes seasoning well and is easy to maneuver. It lacks pour spouts, so oil tends to dribble down the side when pouring, and the small helper handle is hard to grip.
A lightweight, triple-seasoned cast iron skillet that heats evenly, retains heat well, and sears effectively. The handle is uncomfortable to hold, with sharp edges that dig into hands, and the pour spouts are small.
An octagonal cast iron skillet with multiple pouring points, a smooth surface, and a spring-wrapped handle that stays cooler. It sears steak and bakes well, but the round handle can rotate in the hand, the coil is hard to clean around, and it isn't pre-seasoned.
Thick, durable cast iron with excellent heat retention that stays flat and releases food despite a rough surface, and it sears and browns well. It is the heaviest tested, its short handle gets hot, and heating is only mediocre.
A cast iron skillet with a detachable handle that suits oven and outdoor cooking and gives strong searing. Its shallow sides limit deep frying and sautéing, and it is heavy and can mark induction hobs.
A polished cast iron skillet with a smooth surface, excellent heat retention, a comfortable flat handle, large pour spouts, and a heat ring for stability. It is relatively heavy at 5.8 pounds, and its factory seasoning is light and can look blotchy at first.
A smooth, polished vintage-style cast iron skillet with excellent egg release, a long handle, flared pouring rim, and a generous helper handle. It is heavier than some testers preferred, and the handle edges can dig into the hand.