Best Cookware Sets Under $100: Quality for Less in 2024

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Pots and pans are daily essentials that can transform our lives. It changes the way we cook giving us either a better or worse kitchen experience. However, oftentimes, getting the right cookware at an affordable price is tricky but not impossible. What should you look for when buying budget cookware sets? What are the best cookware sets under $100? I’ve made this simple-to-follow guide to help you out.

Should I buy a cookware set or individual pieces?

Cookware sets are often more affordable overall than buying individual pieces of cookware. Many consider buying a set especially if you’re planning on replacing your old kitchenware. Though there are pros to buying sets, there are also pitfalls to consider

If you plan on only buying a replacement then buying a set is unnecessary, but if you’re planning to fill your kitchen with new cookware, buying a set is generally more affordable than buying individual pieces.

Perks of buying cookware sets

It is simpler and more convenient to buy cookware sets.

  • You get freebies. Most cookware sets have free utensils or inserts included in the set.
  • Maintenance is simpler. If you buy a set, then you don’t have to worry about which pan is dishwasher safe and which one isn’t. All pieces in the set have the same maintenance requirement.
  • More affordable. Sets always come with a set price making it more affordable overall instead of building your own. 
  • Longer warranty. Sets often have a longer warranty than individual pieces. Most individual pieces only give you a couple of days for factory defects and replacements while sets may even have a lifetime warranty.
  • Gifting pots or pans. You can give pieces you’re not going to use as gifts.

Pitfalls of buying cookware sets

The main reason why you shouldn’t buy a cookware set is mostly because of your need. If you spend less time cooking, then you don’t need extra pieces you’re not going to use.

  • Unused pieces. When buying sets, you may not be able to use all of the cookware in that set.
  • Single type cookware. Buying a set doesn’t mean that you will have all the features you prefer to have in a single set or brand, some would prefer using pans with ceramic coating while going for pots made with cast iron or stainless steel. Many cooks would also want diverse cookware constructed from different materials.
  • Sets are expensive when using installment based payments. Sets have larger interests if you split the cost of your cookware and pay it over time.

Best Cookware Sets Under $100: Ceramic Collection

Pure ceramic cookware sets are very costly but we have a more affordable alternative in getting healthier and more aesthetically pleasing options.

GreenLife Ceramic Cookware Set

Set Includes:

  • 7 inches fry pan
  • 9 ½ inches fry pan
  • 1 quart saucepan
  • 2 quarts saucepan
  • 5 quarts with lid
  • 2.5 quarts sauté pan with lid
  • 7 inches stainless steel steamer
  • 4 kitchen utensils

Material:

Thanks to its ceramic cooking surface, the GreenLife Cookware package is 100% non-toxic and non-reactive kitchenware intended to be used frequently in the home kitchen. GreenLife is one of the pioneers of modern ceramic-coated pots and pans using a sand-derived surface which are compatible with all types of cooking ranges.

It ensures that the blended non-stick ceramic surface layered on top of recycled hard-anodized aluminum is scratch and warp-resistant. Known to be a specialist in using lead-free and cadmium-free ceramics, you’re sure to make healthy and uncontaminated meals every time. Not only that but you’re also doing the earth a favor with zero-emission cookware that help keep the air clean around us.

Performance:

This is one of the cookware sets that are suitable for glass top stoves and ovens at temperatures up to 350 degrees. Its aluminum body helps the pots and pans to heat up easily and uniformly while maintaining a stable heat throughout the pan. For both home and technical kitchens, this is a perfect package that allows you to make quick and easy meals with less mess.

This GreenLife set comes with tempered lids that allow you to easily check in on your food without having to raise the lid. Moreover, even after being subjected to intense heat, it has Bakelite handles that remain cool to the touch. On top of all that, this range of cookware is simply beautiful, bringing a splash of fabulous color and style to your kitchen cooktop.

PROS

  • Aesthetically beautiful
  • Induction stove compatible
  • Zero grease cooking

CONS

  • Useless when ceramic surface chips off

Overall

Without compromising the wellbeing of the consumers, this GreenLife Ceramic set provides both great function and design. Ideal for amateurs and people with busy schedules this simplifies the way we cook while lessening the burden of cleaning up.

NutriChef Excilon Nonstick Cookware

Set Includes:

  • 8 inches frying pan
  • 11 inches large frying pan
  • 1.7 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 3.6 quarts dutch oven with lid
  • 2.1 quarts stock pot with lid
  • 4 kitchen utensils

Material:

This NutriChef’s Excilon is a standard set featuring a hard-anodized aluminum base that allows equal distribution of heat up to the rim of the cookware. For fast flipping, washing, and safe cooking, this nonstick collection showcases a robust and long-lasting nonstick coating. It uses a blue diamond ceramic exterior which makes the pot more durable while promoting better transfer of heat.

This cookware set offers a fabulous exterior design giving you a pleasant collection to add to your kitchen. It comes with silicone hand grips to help keep the handle stay cool to the touch. 

Performance:

Not many ceramic-coated cookware can handle intense heat, The Nutrichef's pots and pans can handle up to 600 degrees making it a great set for baking and broiling and even long hours of cooking.

The design is not just to please your eyes. It’s a functional feature that improves heat retention and tolerance in your cookware. It also prevents warping or any form of distortion.

PROS

  • Easy handling
  • Induction stove compatible
  • Dishwasher safe

CONS

  • Metal utensils can easily scrape the cooking surface

Overall

This set is a must-have for those who wish to have stunning cookware that can handle complicated recipes over the gas stove or in the oven. This is one of the most lightweight yet durable sets you can find.

Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets Under $100

Stainless steel cookware is definitely among our favorite types of cookware, they are non-reactive and non-toxic making them highly in demand.

Cook N Home Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Set Includes:

  • 10 inches frying pan with lid
  • 1 quart saucepan with lid
  • 2 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 3 quarts casserole pan with lid
  • 5 quarts stock pot with lid

Material:

This cookware set features a full stainless steel body with a pure aluminum base that is magnetized to make it induction stove ready. It uses heavy-gauge stainless steel turning the cookware durable yet versatile allowing you to experiment on various recipes over the stove, in the oven, or even over an open fire. It can also withstand the constant use and pressure of a very active home cook.

All the cookware pieces have silicone handles fitted to accommodate different hand sizes while improving control and better handling. Since it is nonslip, you can easily take hold of your cookware even when wet.

Performance:

The quick heating and great heat distribution prevent burn spots giving you a great meal every time. The pots and pans can handle up to 400 degrees without the lid. Unfortunately, the tempered glass cannot be used inside the oven, or else it will start cracking. But the lids offer a great seal and have steam vents to prevent pressure from building up inside your cookware.

PROS

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Induction stove compatible
  • Dishwasher safe

CONS

  • Tempered glass lids are not oven safe

Overall

This set is definitely worth it. It has one of the best affordable pots and pans you can get that guarantees great performance, durability, and versatility. This cookware set is great for active cooks who love trying out different recipes. Since these pots and pans are extremely lightweight, you will never have a problem with moving around the kitchen when using this set.

Cooks Standard Cookware Set

Set Includes:

  • 10 inches frying pan
  • 1.5 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 3 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 6 quarts stock pot with lid
  • Universal steamer with lid

Material:

Crafted using a high heat induction-ready stainless steel, this cookware set offers the basics every kitchen needs. The body is made with solid steel giving you very durable cookware that will stay with you for years to come. The pots and pans all have a nonstick surface reducing the need for seasoning and also preventing any food from sticking to your cookware.

This set has a mirror polish giving you a stunning set of cookware. Each pot or pan is designed with a narrower base but a deeper height. The tapered ends make it easy for you to pour food out of you out of your pot or pan with less mess.

Performance:

You can easily appreciate the craftsmanship of this cookware because it can handle high heat intensity reaching up to 500 degrees and at 350 with the tempered lids on. The cookware easily heats up due to its aluminum disc base. It also doesn’t have cold spots which may result in uneven cooking of your food. 

The long thick handles form a groove for your fingers giving you a better grip and better means of moving your cookware around the kitchen. Since they are highly raised, you will barely find the need for a hot holder since the handles remain cool to the touch even at long hours of cooking.

PROS

  • Stunning modern design
  • High heat tolerance
  • Dishwasher safe

CONS

  • Staining potential

Overall

This full metal cookware is made with heavy gauge stainless still giving your maximum performance and durability. It also promotes better handling allowing you to easily move around your kitchen which makes it one of the best cookware sets for electric coil stoves to have.

Best Nonstick Cookware Sets Under $100

Nonstick cooking surfaces offer superb cooking and easy cleaning making them a favorite for amateurs.

Ecolution Artistry Nonstick Cookware Set

Set Includes:

  • 9.5 inches frying pan
  • 11 inches frying pan
  • 1.5 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 3 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 5 quarts dutch oven with lid

Material:

Providing you with exceptionally durable pieces, this set is made with a strong hard-anodized aluminum body. The interior features a revolutionized nonstick surface assuring you of great low-fat cooking.

The cooking surfaces showcase the use of Hydrolon, a modern nonstick surface that is water-based and ecologically safer than other types of nonstick interior. This is non-toxic and free from dangerous chemicals which gives you a healthier alternative to cooking on a nonstick pot or pan.

The pots and pans are designed with handles completely wrapped in silicone preventing them from heating up. The set also has a stunning metallic exterior featuring different colors to choose from giving you a beautiful selection to add to your kitchen. The handles have double rivets to provide extra support for your cookware.

Performance:

Handling temperature of up to 350 degrees, this cookware set comes with a highly stain and scratch-resistant surface that makes sure that you can easily whip up simple meals with ease. These pots and pans are quite durable too thus giving you almost a lifetime of service in your kitchen. What’s even better is that it is zero emission assuring you of a completely healthy cooking experience.

All the pieces in this cookware have tapered rims for no-mess pouring and food transfer. The pan for this set has a lip creating an ideal pan for sauces on top of low grease frying and sauteing.

PROS

  • Heat Indicator for Amateur cooks
  • Stunning metallic design
  • Long handle for better grip

CONS

  • Lids are not oven safe

Overall

Ecolution is a brand that really delivers cookware that offers superb cooking performance. Ideal for professional home cooks or amateurs looking for budget cookware sets that will last for decades.

Cuisinart Nonstick Cookware Set

Set Includes:

  • 1 quart saucepan with lid
  • 2 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 3 quarts saucepan with lid
  • 3 quarts sauté pan with lid
  • 6 quarts sauce pot with lid
  • 10 inches skillet

Material:

It's a breeze to cook any kind of food using this Cuisinart cookware set. Each pot and pan is built with improved average heat retention at 400 degrees. This cookware offers optimum efficiency with its full hard-anodized aluminum body and seamless nonstick surface.

The handles are also made with a stainless steel core wrapped with a rubberized silicone grip. The improved grip provides gentle comfort on your hands that don’t cause any abrasions on your palms especially if you often spend time cooking.

Performance:

This is a superior set that definitely sticks to its promises of fast and even heating throughout the pans. They are compatible with most stovetops except induction cooktops. See "Best cookware for induction cooktops" for more information about induction cookware. However, these pots and pans can be used over your grill and open-pit fires giving you the versatility you need for outdoor cooking.

The single pan in this set has a flared rim to prevent messy food transfers. The pots are deep-set perfect for simmering stew and boiling soup. The cooking efficiency of this set is definitely unmatched, especially for budget cookware under 300.

PROS

  • Stunning design
  • Straight edges perfect for stewing and boiling
  • Tempered glass can handle high heat cooking

CONS

  • Not dishwasher and induction stove ready

Overall

Cuisinart never fails to offer its consumers a superb nonstick cookware that offers optimum efficiency. This set is definitely a great choice for professional home cooks and beginners. From making simple meals to creating a masterpiece dish, it’s easy for anyone to knock each dish out of the park.

The Verdict

Finding affordable cookware is not that hard but looking for one that really offers great quality and durability is hard. This list of six of the best cookware sets under 100 dollars is definitely worth putting in our shortlist. They offer long-lasting durability, superior cooking performance, and stunning designs giving you the perfect set that should belong in your kitchen.