Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless 11-Piece Set vs Circulon Symmetry 11-Piece Cookware Set

Buy the Circulon Symmetry if you want easy-release nonstick cooking and low-fat eggs and fish with less cleanup. Buy the Cuisinart Chef's Classic if you want bare stainless steel that can take metal utensils, sear at high heat and go from stovetop to oven without coating worries. The Cuisinart is oven safe to 500°F against 400°F for the Circulon, and its uncoated surface will not wear out the way any nonstick coating eventually does. The Circulon scores higher with owners (4.6 from 978 ratings versus 4.3 from 2,734), but its nonstick layer is the part that limits its life.

• Choose the Cuisinart Chef's Classic 77-11G if you sear, deglaze and roast at high heat, use metal utensils, or want a set that will not lose a coating over the years.
• Choose the Circulon Symmetry if you cook eggs, fish and sticky sauces often and want food to release without added oil and pans that wipe clean.