✔️ Pre-seasoning: If you are new to seasoning your cookware, this is an important consideration. Pre-seasoned pans only require a light rinse before cooking, but can otherwise be used as is. Your first cooking may feel like non-stick cookware, but after that, seasoning maintenance is the only thing you will need (i.e. Intention Pre-seasoned carbon steel pans will need to be seasoned throughout their life. If they are not pre-seasoned, you will need to scrape off the protective beeswax coating and season the pan with multiple layers of oil (see below). It's not a difficult process, but it is time-consuming.
✔️ weight: While there are many lightweight carbon steel pans on the market today, our pros stress that light weight is still an important consideration. Some pans are very heavy, which can limit the pan's versatility. If you're buying online, check the weight in the product specifications if you can't lift the pan by touch. We prefer pans that are around 3 pounds or less.
✔️ Shape and cooking area: The shape of your pan will affect how it cooks. Gently sloping sides make it easier to shake or stir ingredients and keep the pan open so liquids reduce more easily. But sloping sides can eat into the flat cooking surface at the bottom of the pan. While some of the pans on this list may seem like they have a smaller cooking surface, you should take into account your personal preferences and the types of foods you commonly cook.
✔️ handle: Handle comfort is another factor that comes down to personal preference. Our experts rated a variety of handles highly in testing. Handles with indentations offer a nice place for your fingers and are comfortable to hold. A slight arc or angle provides better balance and control. If you like to store your pot by hanging it, look for a handle with a loop built into it.
✔️ rivet: Typically, carbon steel pan handles are riveted to the pan, creating a protrusion on the inside of the cooking area. Although less common, flat or flatter rivets can make the pan easier to clean by making it less likely to become clogged with debris. Flat rivets also allow for even access to the surface, making seasoning easier.
