Which set is better for a family with young kids?

The Zak Designs set is aimed at children and its melamine plates survive drops better. But it has only two plates and cannot go in the microwave, so most families end up buying the Gibson set for meals and the Zak plates as a kid extra.

Can I microwave the Zak Designs plates?

No. Zak Designs says do not microwave the melamine-bamboo plates. The Gibson porcelain set is microwave-ready.

Is the Gibson set worth the extra money?

Yes for a household of four. For $38.80 you get 16 pieces including bowls and mugs, versus two plates for $14.82. Per piece, the Gibson set is far cheaper.

The Gibson porcelain is chip and scratch resistant, so it holds its finish longer in normal use. Melamine plates like the Zak set can scratch and stain with heavy use, though they resist breaking when dropped.

Do both sets go in the dishwasher?

Yes. Both are dishwasher safe. Only the Gibson set is also microwave safe.

How many people does each set serve?

The Zak set serves 2 with two 8-inch plates. The Gibson set serves 4 with dinner plates, salad plates, bowls and 12-ounce mugs.

Zak Designs Spidey Melamine Plate Set vs Gibson Home Zen 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

Buy the Gibson Home Zen Buffet set for a household of four that wants plates, bowls and mugs that go in the microwave and dishwasher. Buy the Zak Designs set only if a young child wants a two-piece Spidey plate set and you never need to microwave it. The Zak set is $14.82 at Amazon as of November 6, 2026; the Gibson 16-piece set is $38.80 at Amazon as of the same date.

Today the Zak Designs Spidey Melamine Plate Set costs $23.98 less at its best price.

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