Pros

• Browned steak evenly
• Maintained a steady simmer
• Comes with detailed owner's manual
• Pans are broiler safe
• Lids are oven safe up to 500F
• Dishwasher safe

The Sur La Table Tri-Ply Stainless Steel set excelled at browning strip steaks, but was justmediocre at other cooking tasks. However, we loved that the pans can be run under the broiler, which is useful for browning off frittatas. You can also put these pieces in the dishwasher, although they can develop pesky stains that will require hand scrubbing to clean.

How We Tested: The Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab tested 72 cookware lines. We looked at how evenly skillets distributed heat on gas and electric ranges, and how well they browned steaks. We also looked at how well saucepans maintained a steady simmer and resisted scorching sauce. For nonstick cookware, we tested how well surfaces released eggs and pancakes, and how easy they were to clean. We also evaluated how easy all cookware was to use, including whether handles became hot to the touch, and whether each piece is oven or dishwasher safe.