Deciding on the right cookware can be a challenge. Knowing how quality cookware is a lasting investment, you need to weigh all your options before you make the purchase decision. With so many options available, finding the right brand can be challenging.
Among the top contenders are All-Clad, a household name with a legacy in stainless steel craftsmanship, and Made In, a direct-to-consumer brand that has rapidly gained a following for its quality and affordability.
Both brands offer high-performance cookware designed to elevate home cooking, but which one stands out?
This article closely examines the features, prices, and perks of the two brands to make the comparison easier so you can make the best decision for your needs and preferences.
Let’s begin!
Overview of All-Clad
All-Clad is a well-known name in the world of cookware, setting the standard for quality and performance. It is often the brand that others are compared to in cooking publications.
The founder, John Ulam, discovered that by layering different metals—like stainless steel with aluminum or copper—he could create cookware that heats quickly and evenly.
Stainless steel became the cooking surface of choice because it doesn’t react with food, while aluminum and copper layers help with fast, consistent heating. Since 1971, All-Clad has expanded its original stainless steel line to include nonstick, ceramic, and hard-anodised options, along with bakeware and kitchen accessories.
Made in the U.S., All-Clad remains a favorite for home cooks and chefs alike due to its lasting quality and American craftsmanship.
Overview of Made-In
Made-In launched in 2017. But its roots go back nearly a century in the restaurant supply business, bringing a wealth of experience. Founded by Jake Kalick and Chip Malt, the brand’s mission is to bring high-quality, restaurant-grade cookware into home kitchens.
It started as a direct-to-consumer company, and today, its products are available on Amazon and Walmart. Known for its award-winning stainless steel cookware, Made-In also offers a range of materials, including nonstick, carbon steel, enameled cast iron, and copper.
Crafted primarily in the U.S. and France, the brand partners with top artisans to ensure that every piece is made to last and is easy for home cooks to use.
If you are starting from scratch, you must go through a comprehensive comparison of the two brands.
Below, I’ve shared some insightful info about different aspects of both brands. Read, review, and invest carefully!
All-Clad Products & Features
All-Clad is a cookware veteran with several cookware collections. Each collection has unique materials, designs, construction, and salient features. Here is a quick glance at its most popular collections:
Copper Core
Features
Every piece of this line is hand-crafted in the US and features a 5-layer construction for top-notch performance.
- Made with five layers: stainless steel, aluminum, and a copper core from the base to the sides. This construction spreads heat quickly and evenly for precise cooking.
- The cooking surface is crafted from 18/10 stainless steel, which won’t react with food and is easy to keep clean.
- Handles are solid stainless steel, designed to stay cool on the stove and offer a comfortable grip.
- The cookware is held together with strong, corrosion-resistant rivets, making each piece durable and long-lasting.
The Copper Core collection can be used on different stoves, including induction. They are oven-safe, up toupto 600°F. I’d recommend hand-washing only to maintain the copper shining. An occasional polish keeps your pieces looking sharp and is set to act anytime!
Popular Products & Prices
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 10″ Fry Pan | $279.95 |
| 3-Quart Saucepan | $199.95 | |
| 12″ Fry Pan | Similar price range | |
| 2-Quart Saucepan | Similar price range | |
| Cookware Sets | 5-Piece Set | Approx. $799.95 |
| 14-Piece Set | Up to $2,199.95 |
TriPly (D3)
This is the best-seller of All-Clad’s collection due to its classic design and versatile usage.
- Tri-ply construction with stainless steel at both ends and aluminum or copper in the middle. This construction ensures even heat distribution.
- An 18/10 stainless steel cooking surface that doesn’t react with food and is easy to clean.
- Long handles are made from solid stainless steel and designed for comfort and to stay cool on the stove.
- A high-polished mirror finish on the outside.
The D3 collection is compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops, making it quite versatile. This range is known for its performance and durability. These factors appeal to home cooks and professionals alike, making them a best-selling range of the entire All-Clad collection.
Popular Products & Prices
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 8.5-inch Skillet | Approximately $89.99 |
| 10.5-inch Skillet | Around $99.99 | |
| 3-quart Sauté Pan with Lid | $250 | |
| 3-quart Saucepan with Lid | About $119.99 | |
| 6-quart Stockpot with Lid | Typically $335 | |
| Cookware Sets | 5-piece Cookware Set | Regularly $535, often $399.9 |
D5
The D5 collection, with its 5-ply bonded construction, is one of its kind. The steel core makes heat transfer slower but more evenly than other ranges.
- A special 5-ply design runs throughout the pan, made of layers of stainless steel and aluminum.
- The inside is polished 18/10 stainless steel that doesn’t react with food.
- The riveted handles stay cool, and the pans have flared rims for easy pouring.
- The outside has a shiny, brushed stainless steel finish that doesn’t show fingerprints.
- It also features a high-polished mirror finish on the exterior.
This multi-layer design stops warping and helps heat spread evenly. The frying pans have three layers of PFOA-free nonstick coating, which makes food slide off easily and cleanup simple. While they are safe for the oven, it’s best not to wash them in the dishwasher since that could damage the steel.
Popular Products & Prices
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 10-inch Fry Pan | Approximately $129.99 |
| 12-inch Fry Pan | Around $169.99 | |
| 3-Quart Saucepan with Lid | About $159.99 | |
| 6-Quart Stockpot with Lid | Priced at $399.99 | |
| 3-Quart Sauté Pan | Typically $249.99 | |
| 2-Quart Saucepan | Approximately $119.99 | |
| Cookware Sets | 5-Piece Set | About $599.99 |
| 10-Piece Set | Around $999.99 |
Graphite Core (G5)
This is the latest and fastest-heating range by All-Clad. The key factor behind its success is a graphite disc at the bottom, surrounded by an aluminum core. This design allows consistent heating from the center to the edges, ensuring even cooking.
- Five layers of materials ensure even heating.
- The cooking surface is made of 18/10 stainless steel, which is easy to clean and won’t react with food.
- The long handles are made from solid stainless steel and are designed for comfort and staying cool while cooking.
- A graphite core offers quick and even heating, providing the benefits of a five-layer pan while being lighter like a three-layer pan.
The lightweight design makes it easier to toss and flip the food. The exclusive range is worth every penny!
Products & Price Ranges
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 8” Frying Pan | $109.95 |
| 10″ Fry Pan | $129.95 | |
| 3 Qt Sauté Pan | $169.95 | |
| 2 Qt Saucepan | $159.95 | |
| 5 Qt Dutch Oven | $249.95 | |
| Cookware Sets | 10-Piece Set (includes various pans and lids) | $1,299.95 |
| 8-Piece Set | $899.95 |
All-Clad: Warranty & Refund Policy
All of the listed All-Clad collections have a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty covers any defects in materials and craftsmanship when used typically. It gives buyers confidence that their cookware is well-made.
For returns, the rules can differ based on the store. Many retailers allow returns within 30 to 45 days. To get a full refund, the items usually need to be unused or only gently used, and they should be in their original packaging.
Made-In Products & Features
Since its launch, Made-In has quickly proven that it is here to stay. Big-shot celebrities like Grant Achatz and Tom Colicchio endorse the brand for its quality. Check out its collections below:
Non-Stick Collection
The quality of this cookware set is outstanding. The pots and pans have a nice weight, indicating they are not a cheap purchase.
- The handles feel comfortable in your grip, and the cookware heats up evenly and cleans easily.
- It features a high-performance Teflon layer that prevents sticking.
- The clad construction keeps the pots and pans in excellent shape.
- It works on all stovetops and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees.
This set excels in cooking. It offers exceptional heat distribution, even on an electric stove. Plus, the nonstick surface makes cleanup a breeze. There may be minor wear over time, but it doesn’t impact the cooking ability.
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 8-inch Frying Pan | $119 |
| 10-inch Frying Pan | $129 | |
| 12-inch Frying Pan | $149 | |
| 2-quart Saucepan | $159 | |
| 3-quart Saucier | $179 | |
| 5-quart Saucier | $199 | |
| 3.5-quart Saute Pan | $179 | |
| 8-quart Stock Pot | $259 | |
| Cookware Sets | 3-Piece Frying Pan Set | $349 |
| 10-Piece Cookware Set | $599 | |
| 12-Piece Cookware Set | $749 |
Stainless Steel Collection
This range by Made-In is known for its quality design, durability, and versatility. They focused their energy on producing versatile pans. You won’t find gimmicky or redundant pieces here.
- The 5-ply construction of stainless steel and aluminum provides even heating and good heat retention
- The non-reactive 18/10 stainless steel interior prevents food flavor changes and is easy to clean
- Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
- Handles stay cool and are shaped for a comfortable grip
- Safe for oven use up to 800°F; dishwasher-safe (hand washing recommended to keep its shine)
This collection aims to provide professional-level cookware that is accessible for home use. It has a durable construction lasts for years and meets everyday cooking needs.
Product Types & Prices
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 10″ Fry Pan | $119 |
| 12″ Fry Pan | $139 | |
| 2-Quart Saucepan | $129 | |
| 3-Quart Sauté Pan | $189 | |
| 8-Quart Stock Pot | $249 | |
| Cookware Sets | 3-Piece Set | $269 |
| 6-Piece Set | $529 | |
| 10-Piece Set | $779 | |
| 13-Piece Set | $1,049 |
Copper
Copper cookware is becoming less common in today’s kitchens. While you might have seen beautiful images of copper production in Villedieu-les-Poêles, France, or spotted it in specialty cookware shops, chances are you haven’t used it for cooking. The Made-In copper collection reintroduces this material, encouraging its users to awaken the chef in them!
- A copper core surrounded by stainless steel offers excellent heat conductivity and precise temperature control.
- Copper ensures even heat distribution, perfect for delicate sauces and dishes.
- Oven-safe up to 800°F, suitable for various cooking methods.
- The stainless steel interior is easy to clean and resists food reactions.
With its polished copper look, this cookware adds a professional touch to any kitchen. When cared for properly, it can last for years without asking for occasional fixtures.
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 9” Frying Pan | 479 |
| 10” Frying Pan | $89 | |
| 12” Frying Pan | $109 | |
| 12” Steel Wok | $129 | |
| Cookware Sets | Carbon Sous Set (Includes a 12″ Frying Pan, 12″ Wok, and a Roasting Pan.) | $339 |
Enameled Cast Iron
This slick and low-maintenance range by Made-In is indeed a spectacular launch. Its excellent heat retention and superior quality make it stand out among others.
- Made from quality cast iron, which holds and distributes heat evenly. It is perfect for searing, browning, and steady cooking.
- Each piece is pre-seasoned, creating a naturally nonstick surface that improves with use and makes food release easier.
- Works on all stovetops, including induction, and can go from stovetop to oven, ideal for baking, roasting, and braising.
- Features ergonomic handles for comfortable lifting and moving, even with heavier dishes.
- Built to withstand high heat and frequent use, ensuring durability and a long lifespan in any kitchen.
Always preheat your cast-iron cookware for about five to six minutes before use. If you skip this step, food may stick, regardless of the interior finish. Don’t forget to use butter or oil, as omitting them can lead to sticking issues.
Product Types & Prices
| Product Type | Description | Prices |
| Individual Pieces | 10.5-Inch Skillet | $99 |
| 6-Quart Dutch Oven | $249 | |
| 3.5-Quart Round Dutch Oven | $159 | |
| 12-Inch Skillet | $129 | |
| Cookware Sets | 5-Piece Set | $299 |
| 3-Piece Set | $179 |
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is a combination of carbon and iron. This collection is known for its responsive heat retention and natural non-stick surface.
- Lighter than cast iron but just as sturdy, carbon steel heats up fast for quick, efficient cooking
- With seasoning, it forms a natural nonstick layer over time, which is great for low-fat cooking
- Safe for high-heat use on any stovetop, including induction and ovens
- Designed for various cooking methods like sautéing, roasting, and baking
- Though not dishwasher-safe, it is easy to clean, and seasoning keeps enhancing the nonstick surface and durability
This collection is the ultimate favorite of those who wish to get traditional cookware. The manageable pans and multiple options make it a popular choice.
Product Types & Prices
| Product Type | Description | Price |
| Individual Pieces | 8”-12” Fry Pans | $79 – $99 |
| 12” Steel Wok | $99 | |
| Steel Griddle | $99 | |
| Roasting Pan | $129 | |
| Cookware Sets | 10″ Fry Pan & 12″ Griddle | $179 |
| Wok, 10″ & 12″ Fry Pans, Roaster | $297 |
Made-In: Warranty & Refund Policy
Made-In offers a lifetime warranty on their cookware. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. You can contact their customer service for assistance if you find a defect.
As for returns, Made-In provides a 30-day return window. Items must be unused and in their original packaging to qualify for a refund. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, initiate the return within this timeframe to get your money back. For detailed information, you can visit their official website.
Which Is Better?
The debate of All-Clad vs. Made-In is common in culinary circles. It is understood that picking the right tools and properly using cookware is essential for flavorful outcomes.
Here is a concise table comparing All-Clad and Made-In cookware based on various factors, including specific instances where one brand may have an advantage over the other:
| Feature | All-Clad | Made-In |
| Reputation | Well-respected since the 1970s. It has established itself as an industry leader. | Innovative startup since 2016; disrupts market by offering direct-to-consumer pricing. |
| Product Offerings | Multiple collections with unique features. | Five types of cookware (5-ply stainless steel, carbon steel, non-stick, copper, enameled cast iron), but only one version each. |
| Construction and Materials | Offers 2-ply to 5-ply construction with various cores, including carbon steel. | 5-ply construction with triple-layer aluminum core; carbon steel offered. |
| Design | Brushed, polished, or copper exteriors; U-shaped handles. | Chic brushed exterior; flat handles and larger lid grips for ease. |
| Heat Test Results | Heats evenly; slower heat retention than Made-In. | Heats up slightly faster and retains heat longer. |
| Cooking Performance | Excellent cooking results; well-cooked meats. | Similar cooking performance; heats faster, but results are comparable |
| Manufacturing Locations | Made in Canonsburg, PA, using U.S. materials. | Partners with family-owned businesses in the U.S., France, and Italy. |
| Oven-Safe Temperatures | Up to 600°F for stainless steel; 500°F for non-stick. | Up to 800°F for stainless steel; and 1200°F for carbon steel. |
| Cooktop Compatibility | Compatible with all except the Essentials collection. | Compatible with all cooktops, including induction. |
| Price | Generally more expensive due to brand prestige. | More affordable; sells directly to consumers to cut costs. |
Specific advantages include All-Clad’s diverse product offerings and a long-standing reputation for quality. In contrast, Made-In stands out with better heat retention and higher oven-safe temperatures, making it suitable for high-heat cooking. Moreover, Made-In’s direct-to-consumer model offers significant savings compared to All-Clad’s retail prices.
Insider’s Insight
When wondering about All-Clad vs. Made-In, know that each brand has high-quality products for home cooking. If you want timeless craftsmanship and a legacy that dates back decades, All-Clad might be your best choice. But if you crave innovation without breaking the bank, consider investing in Made-In pieces that challenge the status quo. Each brand has its strengths, catering to different cooking styles and budgets.
The final choice boils down to what feels right in your kitchen!
*Note: The prices mentioned in this article may vary according to retailer policies and ongoing discounts.
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