This article compares T-fal vs Farberware cookware.
I love cooking tasty, healthy meals for my family. But if I’m going to be cooking every night, having durable cookware is a must.
The only problem? A lot of cookware brands are quite expensive. Luckily, there are some affordable options out there. T-Fal and Farberware are two companies that manufacture affordable cookware.
Both cookware brands are great options for those home cooks that want to make delicious meals while staying within a budget.
Contents
At a Glance
My top choice is the T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized 17-Piece Set. It has the best value of the sets reviewed. Its superb performance and long-lasting durability, along with its ability to go in the oven, make it my first pick.
But this set does contain Teflon, which some people want to avoid. Or you might have your heart set on stainless steel cookware. There are several considerations.
But never fear. I’ve broken down the pros and cons of a variety of both T-fal and Farberware cookware sets.
Which of these products is right for you? Read on to find out.
T-Fal vs Farberware Cookware: Brand Overview
T-fal cookware has practically become synonymous with non-stick cookware. This cookware brand has been making non-stick pots and pans for 65 years.
You can easily find T-fal, with a presence in over 120 countries. Although T-fal sells a variety of kitchenwares, its non-stick cookware is still the prime offering.
Farberware, on the other hand, started with tin and copper cookware over 120 years ago. Since then, they’ve expanded their offerings. You can find Farberware cookware in box stores and online.
Just like T-fal, they offer a variety of kitchenwares at a similar, budget-friendly price point. Unlike T-fal, however, the Farberware brand is not associated with one particular cookware material (e.g., non-stick).
T-Fal vs Farberware Cookware: Product Reviews
Ceramic Cookware
Farberware Glide CopperSlide Ceramic Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
This Farberware cookware set includes the following 12 pieces:
- 1-quart (.95 liters) covered saucepan
- 2-quart (1.89 liters) covered saucepan
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with lid
- 8.5-inch (21.59 cm) deep frying pan
- 10-inch (25.4 cm) covered skillet
- Slotted spoon, slotted turner, and pasta fork
These Farberware pans feature an aluminum core with a copper-colored ceramic non-stick surface. It comes with glass lids and stay-cool plastic handles, and lid knobs.
This set is not compatible with induction cooktops, but it is dishwasher-safe. It’s lightweight, which is helpful for lifting. But that does make it more susceptible to damage and warping.
It’s a good idea to use these at a low or medium heat setting to protect the pan.
It is oven-safe up to 350°F (177°C), but the max temperature isn’t high enough for most oven dishes.
Let’s take a look at what the Manufacturer claims, (with the usual skepticism of course!):
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ceramic non-stick surface
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven safe (but only up to 350°F/177°C)
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Not safe for metal utensils
- Thinner pans; prone to damage
Farberware Glide Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan
For those that want an individual pan, Farberware also has this 4-quart (3.79 liters) deep frying pan. It has a diameter of 10 inches (25.4 cm), so it’s large enough to make one-pot meals.
This particular pan is also in the Glide series, but it’s not included in the 12-piece set.
Customers raved about the food release of this pan. They also liked the helper handle for easy lifting.
Some wished it had a higher maximum oven temperature, coming in at a cool 350°F (177°C).
One reviewer smartly assessed that this pan will probably perform better on an electric cooktop versus a gas stove. The thinner material makes it easier to burn food with a gas burner.
Pros
- Includes helper handle
- High sides
- Non-stick ceramic coating
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Limited oven use (safe up to 350°F/177°C)
- Thin
T-fal Initiatives Ceramic 14-Piece Cookware Set
T-fal also makes a ceramic non-stick cookware set. Let’s take a look at some of their claims about their ceramic cookware lines:
This 14-piece set comes in a striking blue or gold exterior and includes the following:
- 8.5-inch (21.59 cm) frying pan
- 10.5-inch (26.67 cm) frying pan
- 11-inch (27.94 cm) covered skillet
- 1-quart (.95 liters) covered saucepan
- 2-quart (1.89 liters) covered saucepan
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with lid
- 4 nylon cooking tools
As far as pieces, this T-fal set is almost identical to the 12-piece Farberware set, and the only difference is the T-fal cookware set includes an extra cooking tool and an additional frying pan.
These T-fal pots and pans feature a heavy-gauge aluminum core for even heat distribution. The gray ceramic non-stick cooking surface is PTFE-free (Teflon active ingredient). It’s designed to prevent sticking.
T-fal claims this cookware can handle surface temperatures up to 570°F (300°C), but that doesn’t mean oven temperatures. This set can only go up to 350°F (177°C) in the oven, just like the Farberware set.
You can’t use this T-fal set with induction stoves, but you can use it on all other stove types. These pans are also dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
Overall, customers were pleased with this T-fal cookware, but they consistently mentioned how easy it is to scratch these pots.
Pros
- Attractive color options
- Dishwasher-safe
- Lightweight
- Ceramic nonstick coating
- Oven-safe (but only up to 350°F/177°C)
Cons
- Easy to scratch
- Not metal utensil safe
- Not induction compatible
T-fal Specialty Ceramic 5-Quart Jumbo Cooker
This specialty ceramic deep pan has a capacity of 5 quarts (4.73 liters), making it great for family-sized meals. It features the same aluminum construction and ceramic nonstick coating as the set.
Like the set, however, this piece has the T-fal Thermo-Spot heat indicator, which turns red to alert you that the pan is sufficiently preheated. The helper handle helps when lifting the pan, and the vented glass lid allows you to monitor food while cooking.
Unfortunately, several customers complained of a raised center. The uneven cooking surface caused all the food and oil to slide to the edges and cook unevenly.
Pros
- Helper handle
- Vented glass lids
Cons
- Easy to scratch
- Raised center, uneven cooking
Ceramic Cookware Verdict: T-fal Initiatives 14-Piece Set
Commonalities
- PTFE-Free (Teflon-Free) ceramic non-stick
- Oven-safe to 350°F (177°C)
- Aluminum Core
Differences
- Outside the oven, T-Fal can withstand temperatures up to 570°F (300°C), useful for braising. (Farberware only goes to 350°F (177°C)).
- T-Fal has an extra cooking implement and an extra fry pan.
- T-Fal has two color options, Farberware one
- The T-Fal interior is white, Farberware’s is copper-colored
- T-Fal has a Thermospot to help tell when the pan is preheated
While the Farberware and T-fal ceramic cookware sets are similar in features and cooking performance, I give a slight edge to the T-fal set. The color options and the additional 11-inch (27.94 cm) skillet put it over the top for me.
I would also choose the set over either of the individual pans. The reviews are better, and you get more bang for your buck.
Stainless Steel Cookware
Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece
In addition to ceramic cookware, Farberware also has a line of stainless steel cookware. Here’s what Farbeware have to say about this cookware:
The stainless steel set includes the following pieces:
- 1-quart (.95 liters) & 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepans with lid
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10.5-inch (26.67 cm) frying pans
- 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with lid
- 3-quart (2.84 liters) covered sauté pan
Unlike the ceramic set, these stainless steel pans are oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C). It also is compatible with induction stovetops.
The base consists of an aluminum disc encapsulated by stainless steel. This tri-ply feature helps these pots and pans heat quickly and distribute heat evenly.
The lids are see-through for monitoring food while cooking, and the riveted stainless steel handles provide extra durability.
These stainless steel pots and pans are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
Pros
- Tri-ply base
- Oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C)
- Dishwasher-safe
- Safe for metal utensils
Cons
- Not non-stick
- More expensive
T-fal Stainless Steel 13-Piece Cookware Set
You normally wouldn’t associate the T-fal brand with stainless steel pans, but this 13-piece set is exactly that. These stainless steel pans include the following pieces:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10.5-inch (26.67 cm) fry pans
- 12-inch (30.48 cm) covered fry pan
- 1-quart (.95 liters) & 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepans with lid
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with lid
- Stainless steel steamer insert
This T-fal tri-ply cookware set has a stainless steel construction with a multi-layer base of aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
Aluminum and copper are highly conductive metals, which helps these pans heat quickly and evenly. The stainless steel makes this set extra durable while providing superb heat retention.
The stainless steel interior is non-reactive, so cooking acidic foods is not a problem. The tempered glass lids trap heat and moisture inside.
This T-fal tri-ply bottom set is also induction compatible and oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C). Cleaning is as simple as putting this cookware in the dishwasher.
Users had issues with this set’s performance, however. Additionally, several people complained about a sticker on the bottom of the pan. This sticker was extremely difficult to remove, as well.
Pros
- Multilayer base including aluminum and copper
- Oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C)
- Dishwasher-safe
- Safe for metal utensils
Cons
- Not non-stick
- Reports of stickers on the bottom
- More expensive
Stainless Steel Verdict: Farberware Millennium 10-Piece Set
Commonalities
- Stainless Steel cooking surface
- Dishwasher and metal utensil safe
- Oven safe to 500°F (260°C)
- Multi-layer bases for better heating performance, but sides are just stainless steel
Differences
- T-Fal has a multilayer base including steel, copper, and aluminum; Farberware is Tri-Ply aluminum sandwiched by steel
- T-Fal is usually pricier than Farberware
- Users are more comfortable with Farberware’s performance vs T-Fal.
The Farberware stainless steel cookware set has better performance and reviews than the T-fal. This one is a clear winner.
Non-stick Cookware
T-fal Excite ProGlide Nonstick Cookware Set, 14-Piece
In addition to their other cookware sets, the T-fal Excite set is a line of non-stick cookware. It comes in three attractive colors. Even though it includes 14 pieces, it only has eight pieces of actual cookware. It includes:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10.25-inch (26.04 cm) skillets
- 1-quart (.95 liters) & 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepans with lid
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with lid
- 5 measuring spoons & attachable strainer
T-fal Excite line features the Thermo-spot indicator to let you know when the pan is hot. It also has vented lids and ergonomic handles.
The aluminum construction helps it heat quickly. The non-stick coating includes Teflon, however.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven-safe (but only up to 350°F/177°C)
- Thermo-spot indicator
Cons
- Not metal utensil safe
- Not induction safe
- Contains Teflon
Farberware Millennium Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 12 Piece
The Farberware Millennium Cookware sets do not only include stainless steel cookware models. This non-stick cookware set has the following 12 pieces:
- 6-quart (5.68 liters) stockpot with lid
- 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with lid
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10.25-inch (26.04 cm) frying pans
- 1-quart (.95 liters) & 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepans with lid
- Slotted Turner, Slotted Spoon
The non-stick coating releases food easily, but this coating does include Teflon. Farberware claims these pots and pans are safe for metal utensils. I would use caution, though.
The stainless steel handles are dual-riveted and padded with silicone to stay cool. This set is technically oven-safe, but only up to 350°F (177°C). They’re also not suitable for induction cooktops.
Pros
- Non-stick coating
- Safe for oven (only to 350°F/177°C)
- Stay-cool handles
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Not induction compatible
- Contains Teflon
T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Nonstick 17-Piece Cookware Set
Let’s see what T-Fal has to say about their Titanium cookware:
This T-fal Ultimate set is the monster of cookware collections, including a whopping 17 pieces. It comes with:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10.25-inch (26.04 cm) skillets
- 11.5-inch (29.21 cm) covered skillet
- 10.25-inch (26.04 cm) square griddle
- 1-quart (.95 liters), 2-quart (1.89 liters), & 3-quart (2.84 liters) covered saucepans
- 3.5-quart (3.31 liters) deep sauté with lid
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with lid
- Steamer insert
- 1 egg wonder fry pan
I’m generally not a fan of novelty add-ons, but I like the one egg fry pan. It’s a utilitarian piece that most people could use on a semi-regular basis.
The titanium-reinforced non-stick coating and the hard-anodized aluminum construction provide long-lasting durability. T-Fal topped my list of the best Titanium cookware and is one of the top cookware sets for electric stoves.
These T-fal pans have the Thermo-spot indicator, and the lids are see-through for easy monitoring.
Pros
- Titanium-reinforced non-stick
- Hard-anodized construction
- Oven-usable up to 400°F (204°C)
- Thermo-spot
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Contains Teflon
Non-Stick Verdict: T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Set
Commonalities
- All three cookware sets contain Teflon
- None are induction compatible
Differences
- T-Fal sets are nominally dishwasher-safe and Farberware isn’t, however I advise handwashing as much as possible for non-stick.
- T-Fal Excite and Farberware are oven-safe to 350°F/177°C, whereas T-Fal Hard Anodized is oven safe to 400°F (204°C).
- The T-Fal sets have the Thermospot to tell when the pan is the right temperature for adding food.
- T-Fal hard anodized is in theory the most durable since it uses hard-anodized aluminum and titanium-reinforced non-stick
The T-fal hard-anodized cookware set has better reviews, more durability, and more versatility vs Farberware Millennium Non-stick.
Farberware vs T-fal Cookware: Which one is better?
In general, you’ll get more durability and slightly better performance from T-fal vs. Farberware. My top pick is the T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized 17-Piece Set. It’s affordable, can handle higher oven temps, and is extra durable.
If you want stainless steel, go with Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel Cookware. It has better reviews and performance than the T-fal stainless set.
Finally for a high-quality, Teflon-free, ceramic cookware set, I recommend T-Fal Initiatives.