T-fal vs All-Clad: Ultimate and HA1 hard-anodized nonstick sets compared

Both sets have six pans and four glass lids. T-fal’s Ultimate 12-piece adds a spoon and a spatula to reach its count and holds 8- and 10-inch fry pans, 1-, 2- and 3-quart saucepans and a 5-quart Dutch oven. All-Clad’s HA1 Expert 10-piece holds 8- and 10-inch skillets, 2.5- and 3.5-quart saucepans, a 4-quart sauté pan and an 8-quart stockpot.

So All-Clad’s pots are bigger: a pound of pasta wants about 4 quarts of water in a 6-quart or larger pot, and only All-Clad’s 8-quart stockpot gives you that; T-fal’s biggest pot is its 5-quart Dutch oven. T-fal has the smaller saucepans, which suit one or two people. T-fal weighs the whole set at 14.55 lb, All-Clad at 21.52 lb.

All-Clad says the HA1 works on any stovetop, induction included. T-fal says the Ultimate works on every stovetop except induction. In the oven, All-Clad allows 500°F and T-fal 400°F; both stop the glass lids at 350°F. All-Clad says to keep the HA1 out from under the broiler; T-fal doesn’t mention the broiler.

Both makers call their sets dishwasher safe and then recommend washing by hand. T-fal gives the reason, that strong detergents harm aluminum. Both coatings are PTFE nonstick, and both makers recommend silicone, nylon, plastic or wooden utensils rather than metal.

Both are made in China and carry a limited lifetime warranty. T-fal’s own shop says it can’t ship the Ultimate set to Colorado, Maine or Minnesota.

Choose All-Clad HA1 if you cook on induction, finish dishes in a hot oven or cook in big batches. Choose T-fal Ultimate for a lighter set with small saucepans on a gas, electric or glass-top stove.