Staub 7-Quart Round Dutch Oven vs Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven 7 qt

Both are 7-quart-class enameled cast iron ovens that go on any cooktop and into a 500°F oven. The Staub is the better braiser and the better-looking piece: its matte-black interior browns and caramelizes more aggressively, and its spiked lid bastes food as it cooks. The Lodge holds slightly more, weighs about 20 pounds, and comes with six pot protectors, so it suits anyone feeding a crowd or stacking pots in a cabinet. Owners rate the Staub higher (4.9 vs 4.6), but the Lodge is the more forgiving first enameled oven.

• Choose the Staub if you braise and brown often, want a lid that bastes for you, and care how the pot looks on the table.
• Choose the Lodge if you want the larger capacity, loop handles that are easier to grip with mitts, and pot protectors included.