Glass top stoves show an elegant and sleek design, making them a perfect addition to a modern kitchen. They’re also energy efficient, simple to clean, and generally equipped with high-tech features.
However, not every pot is suitable for this type of cooking top.
Indeed, using inadequate equipment can soon lead to scratches and damages to the surface. The best cookware for glass top stoves should allow efficient cooking while keeping the material intact.
With this in mind, here’s my selection of the best cookware for a glass top stove:
- All Clad D3 Cookware Set–Best Glass Top Stove Cookware Set
- Duxtop Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware—Best Affordable Stainless Steel
- T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Nonstick 12-Piece Set–Best Non-Stick
- Cooks Standard 10-Piece Multi-Ply Clad Cookware Set—Best with Aluminum
- Cuisinart Advantage Ceramica XT Cookware Set—Best Nonstick Cookware
- HOMI CHEF 10-Piece Nickel-Free Stainless Steel Cookware—Best Toxic-free Cookware
- Heritage Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set—Best for Quality
- ELO Skyline Stainless Steel Kitchen Induction Cookware—Best for Value
As you can see, I recommend the All Clad D3 Cookware set. If you want to shop around, you can also find it on Sukalde.
Contents
Types of Glass Top Stoves
Glass top stoves may all look the same to a novice’s eyes, but there’s three different types:
- Electric
- Induction
- Halogen
Which glass top stove you have is pretty important in terms of what cookware you choose. Not all cookware sets work on all stoves!
Electric Glass Top Stove
This type of glass top stove—also called radiant tops—heats a metal coil under the glass. The high temperature that emanates then transfers to the surface and cookware.
Although considered an older generation, they remain popular as they’re economical.
Some electric stoves aren’t smooth top at all but allow you to rest the pan directly on the coils.
Induction Glass Top Stove
Induction stoves also use electricity. But, unlike electric ones, the coil emits vibrations and a magnetic field, which transfers to the cooktop and pan.
For this reason, induction-compatible cookware sets should be magnetic. If you’re unsure if this is the case, place a magnet over the pan’s bottom. If it sticks, it’s induction-compatible.
Alternatively check out if the cookware has the induction compatible symbol (see above), or even if it just states that it is induction compatible.
This type of glass top stove generally allows excellent heat-conductivity. They’re also energy-efficient, as 90 percent of the heat is transferred directly from the stove top to the cooking surface of the pan. However, they come at a higher price-point.
Halogen Glass Top Stove
Halogen glass top stoves are less common and consist of a halogen lamp filled with iodine or bromine gas as the primary heat source.
Halogen stoves allow consistent but low heat. To generate higher temperatures, some models combine both halogen and coil heating elements.
What Is the Best Cookware for a Glass Top Stove?
Now you’re clued up about the different stovetops, here are key elements to consider when looking for the best pans for glass top stoves:
- Induction versus electric
- Material
- Non-scratchy
- Optimum heat transfer
- Non-toxic
Induction Versus Electric
First, determine which type of glass top stove you own or plan on purchasing. While some pots are suitable for all cooktops, the best cookware for electric glass top stoves aren’t always induction-compatible.
Material
Considering the pot’s materials should be your primary focus. They determine its heat-conductivity, weight, durability and its impact on the glass surface.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel makes the best type of cookware for glass top stoves, and almost all models include this material in one way or another. It’s durable, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight.
However, it comes in various grades, carrying different properties. To choose the best cookware, it’s important to know the difference between them.
For induction tops, the best stainless steel cookware for glass stoves should be ferritic and magnetic (a.k.a., ferromagnetic)—such as 304 (18/0), 409, 430, and 439.
When it comes to standard 18/10 steel, it seems to offer slightly weaker magnetic properties due to the higher nickel content.
Bear in mind that stainless steel has a general low heat conductivity, which is why it takes longer to heat. Therefore, blending it with other more conductive metals—such as metal or aluminum—can improve heating ability.
A favorite trick of manufacturers is to include a (ferritic) stainless steel disc in the layers of cookware. This turns makes any cookware induction compatible.
Aluminum
Heavy aluminum pans are also suitable for glass top stoves. They’re great for rapid heat transfer, and they warm quickly.
Titanium
Titanium is not as common as other materials, but it’s one of the best materials for glass stoves. When used in cookware sets, it’s typically combined with other metals to improve the pot strength while remaining lightweight.
You might also see titanium nonstick cookware, which is different. This cookware includes an aluminum body and a non-stick coating infused with titanium. Both types are acceptable for use on a glass stove, however.
Copper
Copper is one of the best thermal conductors but can leave residue behind. For this reason, though copper cookware can be incredibly beautiful, it’s best to use this material as an inner layer rather than an outer coating.
Yet don’t use it as the innermost layer as it can be toxic. Ideally the copper should be sandwiched between two other layers.
Copper also has poor or no magnetic properties, so copper cookware should include a magnetic stainless steel layer or disc to be induction-compatible.
Cast Iron
Although cast iron is fantastic for thermal conductivity and searing meat, its sandy surface can scratch the surface. It’s also heavy, and dragging it over a glass stove will ruin the glass. Ask me how I know.
If a cast iron pan is a must-have for your cooking needs, make sure it comes with a high-quality enamel coating. Check out my enamel cookware set guide for some suggestions.
You could also place a baking sheet under the pan to prevent damage. Make sure the baking sheet can take the heat, though! If you must use cast iron with out a coating or barrier, be gentle and always lift the pan. Never drag a cast iron pan across a glass stove!
Glass
It is best to avoid glass cookware altogether since it has poor heat transfer, although it is one of the safest types of cookware.
If you have an induction stovetop–forget about glass cookware sets. For gas and electric, some glass cookware can be used very carefully. (If you have a gas stove, check out my review of the best cookware for gas cooktops.)
I prefer to use glass bakeware in the oven rather than cookware on the stovetop.
Non-Scratchy
To avoid damaging your glass top stoves, here are some key features to consider for your cookware:
- Smooth surface and edges: Prevents scrapes and chips
- Appropriate weight: The cookware should be heavy enough for optimum heat transfer, yet you should also be able to lift it effortlessly
- Depth: Deep pots prevent the contents from boiling over onto the stove
Optimum Heat Transfer
For the best cooking results, the pan should allow even heat distribution by featuring a flat bottom.
Plus, large-diameter models provide better contact with the heating source.
Non-Toxic
Heat can release toxic or metallic compounds, leaking in our food, entering our bodies. For instance, PTFE and PFOS are usually used to make non-adhesive surfaces. However, the best nonstick cookware for glass top stoves shouldn’t include them as they cause health concerns.
Also, stainless steel contains nickel—usually 10 percent. For some, nickel can cause dermatitis and other allergies. If you’re nickel-sensitive, choose a product made with nickel-free steel. Japanese 21/0 stainless steel is a great choice if you can find it.
Having said that, it’s hard to find 21/0 stainless steel. Most products contain 18/10 or 18/0 stainless steel. 18/0 steel is also nickel free so can be a great choice.
18/10 stainless steel, the most common type, is perfectly safe but does have a higher nickel content.
Other Features
The above features are the most important, but there’s other things I like to take into account as well:
- Number of pieces
- Lids
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven and freezer compatible
- Stay-cool grip handle
- Warranty
Reviews of the Best Glass Top Stove Cookware
After a thorough evaluation and assessment, I’ve gathered the best cookware for glass top stoves.
Note that all of these have flat and smooth bottoms:
All Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Cookware Set—Best Overall Glass Top Stove Cookware Set
The All Clad D3 Stainless Cookware Set is manufactured by a brand well-known for its high-quality products. The 10-piece set includes the following:
- 8-inch (20 cm) frying pan
- 10-inch (25 cm) frying pan
- 3-quart (2.8 liters) sauté pan with a lid
- 2-quart (1.9 liters) sauce pan with a lid
- 3-quart (2.8 liters) sauce pan with a lid
- 8-quart (7.6 liters) stockpot with a lid
These All Clad pots and pans are tri ply; this means they have exterior layers of stainless steel and an inner layer of hard anodized aluminum.
Customers agree that this All Clad stainless steel cookware set is high-performing and has even heat distribution.
As this stainless steel set doesn’t have a nonstick coating, some owners find it difficult to clean properly because food sticks easily. Fortunately, the stainless steel pots and pans are dishwasher-safe.
This cookware set is induction compatible, oven-safe to 600°F (316°C) and will work well on any glass cooktop.
You should know that these pans can discolor with use. They aren’t show pans–they are cooking instruments.
These All Clad pots and pans comes with stainless steel lids, meaning you can’t see through the lid to keep an eye on your food. This makes the lids more durable, but less convenient
This All Clad cookware set is undoubtedly a premium set for a serious home cook or chef.
Pros
- High Quality
- Good Cooking Performance
- Oven-safe to 600°F (316°C)
- Can’t
Cons
- Pricey
- Can’t see through lid
- Stainless still is harder to clean
This cookware set is pricey and can be out of stock sometimes. It can be worth checking it out with other vendors.
Duxtop Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware—Best Affordable Stainless Steel Glass Stove Cookware
This cookware set is my top choice for glass top stove cookware. Firstly, it has a high-quality aluminum bottom sandwiched between a magnetic stainless steel exterior, and an 18/10 food grade stainless steel cooking surface. This allows for excellent heat conductivity, magnetic properties, food safety and longevity.
In addition, this 10-piece cookware comes with extra-deep pots; even the saucepan has a 1.6-quart capacity. This product also includes transparent glass lids for safe and easy cooking, combining the anti-spill design well.
Reviewers love how fast-food cooks in this set, making their time more efficient. This is due to the heavy bottoms allowing even heat distribution, but also providing durability and sturdiness.
Users also report that this set works perfectly with induction top stoves. You can even use them in the oven up to 288°C (550°F). Just keep in mind that the lids can only withstand up to 204°C (400°F).
The versatility of these pans, combined with their ease of use makes the useful for home cook and professional chef alike.
Pros
- Induction-compatible
- Pots include measuring marks
- 10 pieces with glass lids
- Combines aluminum and stainless steel
- Thick, heat efficient, bottoms
- Oven and freezer compatible
- Dishwasher safe
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Included boiler and steam baskets
- Stay-cool handles
- Designed to prevent spills
Cons
- Takes long to boil water and other liquid-based dishes
- Some users wished it came in a larger set
- Stainless steel can be harder to clean up
T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Nonstick 12-Piece Set (Best Non-Stick Cookware Set for Glass Stoves)
This T-Fal set really works the materials it uses hard. It has a magnetic steel layer to ensure it is induction compatible, meanwhile the body itself is made of durable hard anodized Aluminum.
The hard-anodized nonstick surface helps make set dishwasher-safe. This is helpful, and in my experience you can put T-fal in the dishwasher if you are careful: don’t let the cooking surface touch anything else, or be able to touch something if it moves.
Yet I’ve found, from experience, that the dishwasher can shorten the life of any non-stick cookware. So you are better off handwashing, if possible.
There are reports of the nonstick layer burning on a high heat. As with all Teflon non-stick you need to keep the heat below 500 °F (260 °C ). That’s on the stove, in the oven, I would go lower: these pans are advertised as oven-safe to 400 °F (204 °C ), and only 350 °F (177 °C ) with the lids.
If you’re happy with nonstick then this set could be a decent choice. It’s durable, long lasting (for nonstick) and convenient. Bonus! T-fal also makes a great double burner griddle that’s great for glass-top stoves. Read more about the best double burner griddles if you need one for your glass cooktop.
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Durable Hard anodized Aluminum body and exterior
- Thermospot tells you when the pan is preheated
- Dishwasher-safe, in theory
Cons:
- The handle might get too hot
- Contains Teflon if that concerns you
- Quite light and flimsy feeling
Cooks Standard 10-Piece Multi-Ply Clad Cookware Set—Best Cookware set With Aluminum
While other products contain aluminum over the base, this model includes it throughout the entire pot. This allows optimum conductivity from the bottom up.
Further, a stainless steel coating covers the aluminum inner layer—both cooking surface and exterior. It makes this set sturdy and corrosion-resistant, but it also gives it a sleek and elegant look.
Also, the handles combine an airflow technology and a convenient V-shape. These features keep them cool, preventing burns while maintaining a good grip.
On the other hand, some users reported that food sticks and cleaning the pans can be challenging.
Pros
- Induction-compatible
- 10 pieces with lids
- Suitable for ovens up to 260°C (500°F)
- Dishwasher safe
- Combines aluminum and stainless steel throughout
- V-shaped handles for ease of use
- Handles with airflow technology
- Users are happy with the quality received for the reasonable price-point
Cons
- Can be difficult to clean for some reviewers
- Treat with care – prone to pitting / corrosion if left damp
- Some users reported discoloration
Cuisinart Advantage Ceramica XT Cookware Set—Best Ceramic Cookware Cookware Set
If you’re struggling with food sticking to pots and pans, this cookware set might be something to look at.
Of note is the ceramic layer reinforced with titanium covering each pot. This prevents food from sticking to it while increasing durability.
Although nonstick, this set doesn’t contain PTFE or PFOS compounds, so you can cook effortlessly and worry-free with this set.
Besides the inner nonstick layer, the pots include an aluminum inner core and a protective metallic finish. With these, you shouldn’t experience any hot spots but have an even heat distribution, instead.
Nevertheless, this 11-piece cookware set remains at one of the lowest price-points. Just keep in mind that it isn’t compatible with induction stoves.
Pros
- Nonstick
- 11 pieces cookware
- Free from PTFE and PFOS
- Contains aluminum and a protective outer layer
- Even heat distribution
- Compatible with electric, gas, glass-ceramic, and halogen stovetops
- Oven safe up to 177°C (350°F).
- Freezer safe
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Reviewers recommend hand-washing only
- Some users wished that the nonstick feature were more durable
- Not induction compatible
Homi Chef 10-Piece Nickel-Free Stainless Steel Cookware—Best Glass Cooktop Toxic-Free Pots and Pans
This product might be of interest if you’re looking for a toxic-free cookware cookware.
It doesn’t contain nickel or a non-stick layer. With high-temperatures, the latter can leak or peel, making its way into your food.
As for the materials, you’ll find aluminum together 18/0 and 21/0 stainless steel, which are magnetic and nickel-free. In addition, there is a copper disc in the bottom of each pan. This increases heat conductivity for an optimum cooking experience. It’s also a very subtle attractive look.
Note that it also has a visually attractive outer layer, but while its coating should prevent scratches, some users reported discoloration.
Pros
- Induction-compatible
- 10 pieces
- Elegant and classic design
- Non-toxic
- Extra heat-conductivity through copper layer
- Polished surface
- Energy-efficient
- Oven-compatible up to 204°C (400°F)
- Stay-cool handles
- Edges prevent drips when pouring
- One month full-refund trial period
Cons
- As ever with stainless steel, pots can be challenging to clean
- Some users wished for a more shallow saucepan
- Reports of discoloration
Heritage Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set—Best Pots and Pans with Titanium
The materials, details, design and quality of this cookware set make it one of the most durable products.
For instance, this product includes a combination of metals for optimum results. The use of 439 stainless steel gives this set strong magnetic properties, while the aluminum layer enhances heat transfer.
The addition of 316Ti stainless steel—with titanium—provides the cookware set with increased longevity. It also makes the set five to 10 times more resistant to metal-leaking and corrosion.
Also, the company uses skilled American craftship and offers 40 years of experience in cookware manufacturing. You’ll even benefit from a lifetime warranty to keep you worry-free.
Reviewers appreciate the superior caliber of the pots and pans. However, this cookware set is much more expensive than competitors, so won’t suit all budgets. Get this set if you absolutely must have a top-quality set that will last – irrespective of price.
Pros
- Induction-compatible
- 10 pieces
- Durable materials
- Contains stainless steel, titanium and aluminum
- Increased corrosion resistance
- Simple to clean
- Stay-cool handle
- Lifetime warranty
- Made in the US
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Doesn’t discolor or peel
Cons
- Some user wished the lids were see-through
- Doesn’t come with a steamer
- Very Pricey
ELO Skyline Stainless Steel Kitchen Induction Cookware—Best Pots and Pans for Value
This 10-piece cookware set is the most economical option since it has the lowest price-point without trading quality for affordability—his German manufacturer comes with 80 years of experience making high-quality cookware.
It also provides an even heat distribution throughout the flat and smooth platforms. Plus, an extra polished coating makes it safe to use on delicate surfaces, especially glass.
Users particularly like the transparent lids, which come with a stainless steel rim to ensure they fit tightly. They also have a steam hole to let excess steam escape. Just don’t forget to use mitts to handle the pots as this cookware set doesn’t come with stay-cool handles.
Finally, this product is oven and dishwasher safe for added convenience and versatility. Besides, it comes with a 1-year warranty if doubts remain.
Pros
- Induction-compatible
- Includes 10 pieces
- Transparent lids
- Cost-efficient
- German-made
- Tight-fitting lid
- Ergonomic handles
- Dishwasher and oven safe
- Polished finish to prevent glass stove damage
Cons
- Water can get trapped in the metal handles after washing
- Only contains stainless steel – not as efficient for heating
FAQ
What pans should not be used on a glass top stove?
Avoid pots and pans with rough surfaces that could scratch the glass top stove, this means cast iron cookware and stoneware in particular.
Be cautious with heavy cookware, like enameled cast iron, as dropping it on the glass top stove could crack it.
If you must use cast iron cookware on a glass top induction stove, consider placing parchment paper between the cast iron and the glass stove. This only works for induction, not electric, as the stove transfers the heat directly to the cast iron cooking surface.
You could also consider carbon steel; it’s very similar to cast iron but lighter and smoother. This means carbon steel pans can work well on a glass stovetop.
Summary
Keeping your new glass cooktop immaculate and scratch-free requires some precautions but isn’t impossible. Selecting the best cookware for glass top stoves should keep you cooking at peace.
The All Clad D3 Cookware Set is the overall winner as it combines three layers of highly performant metals. Aluminum is durable and extremely conductive, allowing excellent heat transfer. The outer stainless steel is strongly magnetic and suitable for all stoves, even induction cooktops, while the inner stainless steel layer is food-safe.
Plus, users appreciate that it doesn’t damage delicate cooktops and has a versatile use. When taken off the glass stove, you can place it inside an oven or in a freezer. And, when it’s time for a thorough clean, it’s also dishwasher-safe.
