Which is better for searing steak?

Both sear well because cast iron holds heat. The Smithey's polished surface releases food more easily once seasoned, but the Victoria's larger 12-inch surface fits a bigger steak.

Is the Smithey worth the extra money?

If you cook with cast iron daily and want a smooth surface and heirloom build, yes. If you want a basic skillet for occasional use, the Victoria does the same core job for much less.

Both are solid cast iron and can last generations with hand washing and light oiling. The Smithey's polished finish is the main difference, not durability.

Can I use either on induction?

Yes. The Smithey lists gas, electric, induction, and fire. The Victoria lists gas and induction.

Which is easier to clean?

The Smithey's smooth surface wipes clean more easily once seasoned. Both are hand wash only and need drying and a thin coat of oil.

Which has a bigger cooking surface?

The Victoria's 12-inch diameter gives more usable surface than the Smithey's 10-inch cooking surface, even though both are called 12-inch skillets.

Smithey No. 12 Cast Iron Skillet vs Victoria 12-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet

Buy the Smithey No. 12 if you want a polished, smooth-surface skillet you will keep for decades and don't mind paying for it. Buy the Victoria 12-inch if you want a solid 12-inch cast iron skillet for far less. The Smithey's best new price is $210.00 at Drayton Hall Preservation Trust as of November 5, 2026; no new price was given for the Victoria.

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