Mauviel Non-Copper Cookware: A Detailed Review

About Mauviel

Mauviel, a renowned French cookware company established in 1830 by Ernest Mauviel, is commonly referred to as "Mauviel 1830" to commemorate its founding year. Situated in the picturesque town of Villedieu-les-Poêles in Normandy, France, which translates to "God's city of the pans" in English, Mauviel operates as a family-owned business. 

While the town is renowned for its skilled copper and tin smiths, Mauviel also produces a range of cookware including clad stainless, carbon steel, and nonstick options. Valerie Gilbert has been at the helm of the company since 2006, representing the seventh generation of the Mauviel family to lead the business. 

With a rich heritage and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, Mauviel has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the world's premier cookware manufacturers, synonymous with exceptional quality.

How Does Mauviel Clad Stainless Compare to All-Clad?

In the reviews below, we thoroughly compare the Mauviel lines with All-Clad D3 and D5. Here's the summary:

• Mauviel M'Steel has a nearly identical configuration to All-Clad D3 and D5, resulting in almost identical heating performance.
• Mauviel M'Elite, which features a hammered exterior, is also very similar in configuration to D3 and D5.
• Mauviel M'Urban is thinner than All-Clad D3 and contains approximately 25% less aluminum. As a result, it does not offer the same performance as All-Clad, and we do not recommend it.

How Does Mauviel Aluminum Nonstick Compare to Other Brands?

The Mauviel M'Stone line, made of anodized aluminum, offers a superior nonstick experience. With a 3.5mm thick aluminum base, it surpasses the thickness of other high-end lines like All-Clad HA1 and Anolon Nouvelle Copper, which measure around 3mm. Despite this, the HA1 and Nouvelle Copper pans are priced considerably lower than the M'Stone pans.

The M'Stone pans feature the Eclipse PTFE coating, known for its exceptional durability. With proper care, this coating can last for several years.

Considering the significant environmental impact of the PTFE cookware industry, we generally discourage the purchase of nonstick cookware. However, if you insist on having nonstick cookware, the Mauviel M'Stone brand is an excellent choice due to its exceptional quality.

How Does Mauviel Carbon Steel Compare to Other Brands?

Carbon steel pans are relatively consistent across brands, unlike stainless steel which offers a wide range of variations and quality levels. The most important factor to consider, which greatly impacts cooking performance, is the thickness or gauge of the pans.

Typically, carbon steel pans range from 1-3.5mm in thickness, with the majority falling around 2mm. The Mauviel M'Steel, for example, measures 2mm or "14 gauge," which is a versatile thickness that provides excellent heat retention while still being easy to handle.

On the other hand, a thicker gauge pan like the Matfer-Bourgeat, which is approximately 3.2mm thick, offers even better heat retention but is heavier and more difficult to maneuver.

Ultimately, the choice of pan should align with your cooking style. The Mauviel pan is of exceptional quality and highly recommended, although it does come with a higher price tag compared to other carbon steel pans, including those from other French brands. If it fits within your budget, you will undoubtedly appreciate its performance. However, there are other brands available at a lower price point that are likely just as good. For more information on different brands and where to find them, please refer to the review below.

What to Look for When Buying Cookware

When evaluating cookware, we take into consideration the following factors:

1. Heating properties: We assess how quickly and evenly the cookware heats up, as well as its ability to retain heat effectively.

2. Durability: We examine how well the cookware withstands regular use and if it is built to last.

3. Stability/Safety: Our focus is on the cookware's safety features, ensuring that the cooking surface does not react with food or release any harmful toxins.

4. Design and Usability: We evaluate the cookware's user-friendliness and ease of cleaning. Additionally, we consider its aesthetic appeal.

5. Value: We consider whether the cookware aligns with various budget ranges and if it is a worthwhile investment.

For more comprehensive guidance on purchasing cookware, we have dedicated articles that delve into specific aspects:

- Stainless Steel Cookware Sets: A Detailed Buying Guide (provides detailed information on stainless steel, cladding, heating core, and cookware design).

- The Best Induction Cookware: Get Out of the Kitchen Faster (covers topics such as cladding, stainless steel versus cast iron, heating performance, design and usability, and more. While it focuses on induction cookware, the information applies to all types of cookware).

- The Best Stainless Cookware Set for Every Budget (discusses cladding, steel quality, heating capabilities, and compares stainless steel to other types of cookware, including nonstick, copper, and coated cast iron).

Please refer to these articles for a more in-depth understanding of cookware selection.

Review: Mauviel M'Cook

Basics

• 2.6mm thick 5-ply clad stainless (s-a-a-a-s)
• Polished stainless exterior
• Induction compatible
• Oversized cast stainless handles
• Some pieces avail. w/bronze (M'CookB) or cast iron handles (M'Cook Iron) on the Mauviel site
• Grooved pouring rims on all pieces
• Full range of open stock and sets available
• Oven safe up to 680F
• Dishwasher safe
• Stainless lids, w/glass lids available
• Domed lids (extra lids are not domed)
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Made in France.

 

M'Cook, the premium line of clad stainless cookware from Mauviel, offers exceptional quality. With its 5-ply construction, including 3 internal layers of aluminum, M'Cook ensures optimal performance in the kitchen. Makers carefully select different aluminum alloys to ensure a strong bond with the stainless steel and to enhance heat conductivity.

At a thickness of 2.6mm, M'Cook matches the thickness of All-Clad D3. However, there is a slight difference in the aluminum layer thickness, with All-Clad D3 having a 1.7mm layer compared to M'Cook's 1.6mm layer. This small variation in stainless steel wall thickness affects the heating performance of M'Cook. If you prioritize responsiveness, the extra steel may slightly impair performance. On the other hand, if heat retention is your priority, the stainless steel walls of M'Cook enhance performance.

Interestingly, the slightly thicker stainless steel layers in M'Cook make it perform almost identically to All-Clad D5. All-Clad claims that the internal layer of stainless steel in D5 slows responsiveness and makes the cookware more forgiving for novice cooks and those using induction cooktops. However, we may not necessarily agree with this claim. For a detailed discussion on D5 performance, refer to our article comparing All-Clad D5 and Demeyere Industry 5.

Nevertheless, the difference between M'Cook and other lines is extremely small and may not be noticeable to most cooks. In practical terms, M'Cook may heat slightly slower than D3 but possibly more evenly, although the difference is so subtle that it is unlikely to be noticeable.

In conclusion, if you are a fan of All-Clad D3 or D5, you will also appreciate the quality and performance of Mauviel M'Cook. Prices are similar across the lines, so we recommend choosing the line that offers the best deal or appeals to your aesthetic preferences.

Sets

M'Cook is available in various set options and open stock. If you prefer bronze or cast iron handles, you will need to purchase them from the Mauviel website.

All the pieces come with domed lids, unless you decide to buy separate lids. These separate lids are flat and are offered in stainless steel and glass.

The 5-piece set on Amazon is priced at around $330 and includes a 9.5-inch skillet, a 1.9-quart saucepan with lid, and a 3.4-quart sauté pan with lid.

On the other hand, the 8-piece set on Amazon costs approximately $700 and consists of an 8-inch nonstick skillet, a 10-inch stainless steel skillet, a 2-quart saucepan with lid, a 3.5-quart saucepan with lid, and a 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid.

If you visit the Mauviel website, you will find the stainless handle set available in 5, 9, and 12-piece options, as shown in the picture above, priced at around $1000. Additionally, they offer a 5-piece and a 9-piece M'CookB set with bronze handles, priced at approximately $400 and $660 respectively.

As for sets with iron handles, we have not come across any at the moment. However, it is advisable to check the Mauviel site periodically as this may change. They do have some open stock pieces available.

Please note that the exact set configurations may vary depending on where you make your purchase. For the widest range of options, we recommend visiting the Mauviel website.

Using the Cookware

M'Cook exhibits exceptional heating performance, comparable to that of All-Clad tri-ply or 5-ply cookware. It heats up rapidly and evenly, while also retaining heat effectively (although we suggest using cast iron or heavy carbon steel for searing steaks). This cookware is incredibly versatile and of excellent quality, making it ideal for daily use, just like any other top-notch clad stainless steel cookware.

Similar to other stainless steel options, the surface of M'Cook may be slightly sticky and require some effort when cleaning. However, we do not consider this to be a drawback in most cases, as those sticky bits in the pan can be transformed into a delectable sauce with the addition of a little wine or broth (which we highly recommend trying after searing your proteins). Once you deglaze the pan with your preferred liquid, you not only achieve a flavorful sauce but also make the cleaning process easier. It's a win-win situation.

The skillet boasts an excellent shape, providing a generous flat cooking surface. Additionally, the grooved rims on all the pieces are a delightful feature that is not commonly found (unlike All-Clad D3 saucepans, which lack this feature).

M'Cook cookware is lightweight and easy to handle. However, the handle may require some adjustment for those accustomed to the handles of most clad stainless steel cookware. It is longer and has a thin, flat shape. Nevertheless, this is not a significant drawback, especially considering that many individuals dislike the handle of All-Clad cookware (which we happen to appreciate). Some individuals with smaller hands may find this handle a bit challenging to stabilize the pan, although its cast stainless steel construction provides a slightly rough texture that enhances grip, making it less slippery than it appears.

We did not test the pans in the dishwasher, but we recommend hand washing for all high-quality cookware. However, if you prefer to use a dishwasher, rest assured that all M'Cook pieces are dishwasher safe, including the nonstick skillet.

Overall, these clad stainless steel pans from M'Cook are impressive in terms of quality. They are slightly heavier than All-Clad D3, likely due to the longer handle and slightly increased amount of stainless steel. However, just like their performance, this difference is hardly noticeable.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Well built, durable cookware
• Heating performance nearly identical to All-Clad
• Cast stainless handles
• Lightweight
• Induction compatible
• Dishwasher safe.

Cons

• The flat handle can be hard to grip
• Sizing is in inches diameter, so you have to be careful to get the right size
• Expensive.

Recommendation for Mauviel M'Cook Clad Stainless Steel Cookware

The Mauviel M'Cook cookware offers a high-quality option that closely resembles the configuration and performance of All-Clad D3 or D5. Prices are comparable, with some M'Cook pieces/sets priced lower and others higher than All-Clad D3. 

Our advice is simple: if you lean towards M'Cook over All-Clad D3 or D5, go for it. If you prefer All-Clad, then go ahead with that choice. Both brands offer such similar performance and quality that you can't make a wrong decision with either.

Review: Mauviel M'Elite Stainless Cookware

Basics

• 2.6mm thick 5-ply s-a-a-a-s layers
• Hammered stainless steel exterior
• Cast stainless handles
• Domed stainless lids
• Induction compatible
• Splayed sauté (sauciér), cocottes, paella, and rondeaus only
• Oven safe to 680F
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Made in France.

The M'Elite collection is essentially the M'Cook collection but with a stylish hammered finish. While the configuration remains the same, the M'Elite line offers sauciérs (referred to as "splayed sauté pans" by Mauviel), cocottes, paella pans, and rondeaus (all shown above).

These pieces are considered specialty items and are not available in sets. The M'Elite line is best viewed as supplementary pieces to complement your existing M'Cook set (or any other clad stainless steel collection).

It is unclear why Mauviel opted to alter the design (and name) of some of the specialty pieces from the M'Cook line. Nevertheless, the collections do complement each other nicely.

Using the Cookware

As previously mentioned regarding the M'Cook line, which is nearly identical to the M'Elite except for the hammered finish, these pans exhibit almost identical performance to All-Clad D3 or D5. They heat up quickly and evenly, making them excellent for everyday cooking.

All the M'Elite pieces feature short handles, which is standard for this type of cookware. The handles are spacious, comfortable, and easy to grip.

The M'Elite pieces are undeniably stunning, but due to their specialized design, it is advisable to only purchase them if you have a specific use in mind. However, if you prefer two short handles over one long handle, you can opt for the splayed sauté pan instead of the M'Cook sauciér. It's worth noting that the large splayed sauté pan, measuring 9.4 inches, can hold 3 quarts, while the smaller one can hold 1.5 quarts. These sizes are standard for a sauciér or saucepan but may be considered small for other purposes.

Furthermore, it's important to be mindful of the sizing when purchasing Mauviel cookware. Mauviel provides pot sizes in inches diameter, whereas Americans typically use volume measurements such as quarts or liters for pans other than skillets. Therefore, it is crucial to read the product descriptions carefully and ensure that you are selecting the desired size. For instance, a pot labeled as 6.3 inches is not equivalent to 6.3 quarts but rather just 1.7 liters, which is relatively small. Some Amazon pages may include both volume and diameter measurements, but this information may not be available on the Mauviel website.

Additionally, it's worth noting that M'Elite cookware comes with a hefty price tag. For instance, the 7.9-inch (3.2L) cocotte is priced at approximately $265. At these prices, you may consider investing in a Le Creuset Dutch oven, which is better suited for braising.

Nevertheless, if you are captivated by the beauty of M'Elite cookware, purchasing it will likely be a decision you won't regret.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• High quality
• Polished stainless, hammered exterior
• Heating properties nearly identical to All-Clad
• Short handles are roomy and comfortable
• Lightweight
• Induction compatible
• Dishwasher safe.

Cons

• Available only in 4 specialty pieces (sauciér, paella pan, cocotte, rondeau)
• Sizing is in inches diameter, so you have to be careful to get the right size
• Expensive.

Recommendation

The M'Elite collection from Mauviel is a stunning addition to the M'Cook range. It is exclusively available in specialty pieces such as the sauciér, cocotte, rondeau, and paella pan, and is not offered in complete sets. Just like the M'Cook line, the M'Elite delivers exceptional performance that is comparable to All-Clad D3 or D5, ensuring rapid and uniform heating.

If you appreciate its aesthetic appeal, investing in the M'Elite will not disappoint you. Not only is it visually pleasing, but it is also highly durable, guaranteeing its longevity for many decades to come.

Review: Mauviel M'Urban Tri-Ply Stainless Cookware

Basics

• Tri-ply clad stainless (s-a-s)
• 2mm thick; 64% aluminum, 36% stainless steel (1.3mm aluminum, 0.7mm stainless steel)
• Brushed stainless exterior
• Induction compatible
• Stainless lids (flat)
• Cast stainless handles
• Oven safe to 680F
• Grooved lip
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Made in France.

M'Urban, the tri-ply line of clad stainless by Mauviel, differs significantly from the M'Cook. With a thickness of only 2mm and a 1.3mm layer of aluminum, it contains approximately 25% less aluminum compared to M'Cook or All-Clad D3.

This disparity is quite notable. While M'Urban is undoubtedly an exquisite and well-crafted cookware collection, it is not simply a brushed version of M'Cook. It is thinner, contains less aluminum, and consequently, its performance is compromised.

Interestingly, one would assume that this cost-effective configuration would result in lower prices. However, the prices of M'Urban are relatively high considering what you receive, being only 5-10% less expensive than M'Cook. If the line were appropriately priced, we could recommend purchasing an M'Urban stock pot, as it doesn't require exceptional heat conductivity. Unfortunately, the line's cost is almost on par with M'Cook. In this case, it would be more sensible to opt for a budget-friendly brand of clad stainless steel cookware such as Tramontina or Cuisinart.

Using the Cookware

In terms of cookware usage, there isn't much to discuss. It possesses the benefits of sturdy stainless steel, but its aluminum layer is insufficiently thick to ensure uniform heating. Due to its thinness, it heats up rapidly but unevenly, and it also loses heat quickly due to the lack of mass for proper heat retention.

The M'Urban cookware is lightweight, making it easy to handle and work with. However, it lacks an adequate amount of aluminum to achieve even heating. As a result, the skillet develops hot spots that persist over time, necessitating frequent stirring to prevent burnt areas.

On the positive side, the stainless steel exterior is both durable and stable, ensuring it does not react with food. Additionally, it is dishwasher safe, adding convenience to the cleaning process.

The handles of the M'Urban cookware resemble those of the M'Cook line, being thin and flat. While we personally prefer rounder handles for a more secure grip, individuals with smaller hands may find these handles particularly appealing.

Overall, the M'Urban cookware is visually appealing and well-crafted, giving it a luxurious feel when held. This is likely why it has garnered numerous positive reviews. However, it fails to deliver the expected performance given its price range.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Durable and well-made
• Lightweight
• Induction compatible
• Dishwasher safe.

Cons

• Aluminum layer only 1.3mm--too thin to heat evenly (a very big con)
• Sizing is in inches diameter, so you have to be careful to get the right size
• Expensive.

Recommendation

We advise against purchasing M'Urban cookware due to its subpar performance compared to M'Cook, M'Elite, and other All-Clad lines. Furthermore, the prices are similar to M'Cook, making it an unwise investment. Consider opting for brands like Tramontina or Cuisinart, which offer better performance and come with lifetime warranties, all at a more affordable price point.

Review: Mauviel M'Stone Anodized Nonstick Skillets

Basics

• 3.5mm anodized aluminum base
• Eclipse (PTFE) nonstick coating (3 layers)
• Induction compatible
• Available only as skillets and crepe pans
• Cast stainless handle
• Oven safe to 500F
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Made in France.

The M'Stone pan is a high-quality cookware option that offers exceptional heating and heat retention. Unlike many nonstick pans that are 3mm thick, the M'Stone pan stands out with its 3.5mm layer of anodized aluminum, which significantly improves its heating performance.

While some sources may claim that these pans are PTFE-free, it is important to note that they do contain PTFE. This misconception may be due to the language barrier, as these pans are of French origin. The brand name of the PTFE used in these pans is Eclipse, known for its durability and long-lasting nonstick coating.

The M'Stone pan comes at a higher price point, with the 9.5-inch pan priced at around $76 on Amazon. The 8-inch pan is slightly cheaper, but the 9.5-inch pan offers the best value. Despite the higher cost, users rave about the pan's heavy and luxurious feel, as well as its excellent nonstick performance. If you are looking for a top-notch nonstick pan, the M'Stone is definitely worth considering.

While we have come across sites that sell M'Stone pots and pans, it seems that they are not readily available in the US or on Mauviel's American website. However, this may change in the future, so it is advisable to check the Mauviel site for any updates if you are interested in purchasing them.

It is important to note that we generally do not recommend nonstick cookware, especially those with PTFE coatings. Instead, we suggest alternatives such as carbon steel or cast iron, which offer excellent nonstick properties when used correctly. Even clad stainless steel can provide a fairly nonstick cooking surface. We mention the M'Stone pan because it is part of Mauviel's product lineup, but we strongly encourage opting for the M'Steel carbon steel skillet for your "nonstick" needs, as reviewed below. The PTFE cookware industry has introduced harmful chemicals into the environment, and we believe it is crucial to prioritize eco-friendly options. For more information on the dangers of PFOA, please refer to our article titled "What Is PFOA?".

Using the Cookware

Although we typically prefer cookware that is not nonstick, we must acknowledge that M'Stone is an exceptional product (if you have a preference for this type of cookware). It heats up quickly and evenly, thanks to its thick layer of aluminum, and it also retains heat effectively. Without a doubt, it is one of the finest nonstick pans we have ever used, living up to Mauviel's renowned reputation for producing high-quality items.

Despite its substantial base, this pan is surprisingly lightweight. It feels sturdy and well-balanced when held in your hand. The handle, like all Mauviel handles, is slightly thin, but it functions well on this lightweight pan. Additionally, the cast stainless handle complements the anodized aluminum beautifully.

The magnetic stainless base allows this pan to be used on induction cooktops and also helps to balance out the weight of the pan against the relatively heavy stainless handle.

If you are searching for nonstick cookware of exceptional quality, it is difficult to find a better pan than this one. The Eclipse coating is one of the most durable PTFE coatings available in the market. We cannot guarantee its longevity, as no PTFE coating has a stellar reputation for lasting, but with proper care (such as using low heat, avoiding metal utensils, and hand washing), this pan could potentially last for several years.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Durable and well-made anodized aluminum base
• Thick 3.5mm aluminum base for even heating and great heat retention
• Eclipse PTFE coating very durable
• Induction compatible.
• Could last several years if used and cared for properly.

Cons

• Expensive
• PTFE coating is terrible for the environment and humans.

Recommendation

Mauviel M'Stone offers high-quality nonstick cookware, albeit at a premium price. Despite our reservations about nonstick cookware due to environmental concerns, this brand stands out as one of the top choices available for those seeking a nonstick option.

Review: Mauviel M'Steel Carbon Steel Skillets

Basics

• 2mm thick carbon steel (14 gauge)
• Treated with beeswax to prevent rusting (must be removed before first use/seasoning)
• Must be seasoned before use
• Riveted stainless handle
• Oven safe to 680F
• Available in skillet, crepe pan, sauciér, paella pan, and wok (no sets)
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Made in France.

Mauviel M'Steel embraces its French heritage more than any other Mauviel collection, except for their copper line. For centuries, the French have relied on carbon steel pans, also known as "black steel," "blue steel," "black carbon," and "black tin." These pans excel in cooking skillets, crepes, and woks due to their exceptional heat retention. Similar to cast iron, carbon steel develops a natural nonstick surface, known as a patina, with use. While it may not be as slippery as Teflon, it comes remarkably close, making it a preferable choice over nonstick pans due to its lack of environmental concerns associated with PTFE.

In addition to its cooking performance, carbon steel is highly durable and cost-effective. With a modest initial investment, you can own a pan that can be passed down through generations.

Carbon steel shares more similarities with cast iron than stainless steel in terms of composition. We delve into a detailed comparison between the two in our article "Carbon Steel Vs. Stainless Steel: Which Is Better for Cookware?". Carbon steel can be likened to a thinner and lighter version of cast iron. While it may heat up slowly and somewhat unevenly, it retains heat exceptionally well once it reaches the desired temperature. Furthermore, it can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for searing at intense heat levels.

Many individuals prefer carbon steel over cast iron due to its lighter weight and ease of handling.

Regardless of the price, all carbon steel pans offer similar heating performance since they are made from the same material. However, the thickness, or gauge, of the pans may vary across different brands, resulting in differences in weight and maneuverability.

The thickness of carbon steel pans can vary from 1-3.5mm, and it is an important factor to consider before making a purchase. Thinner pans are easier to handle but may not retain heat as effectively, whereas thicker pans are heavier and more challenging to maneuver but offer better heat retention. The ideal thickness depends on your specific needs and preferences. 

For instance, the Mauviel M'Steel skillets have a thickness of 2mm (14 gauge), which is a versatile option suitable for various cooking tasks. Other M'Steel pans may have different thicknesses, with the wok being thinner to ensure it remains lightweight. Despite its smaller diameter of 11.8 inches, the M'Steel wok serves as a practical chef's pan/essential pan, although it may be considered small for a traditional wok. 

It is worth noting that the M'Steel wok is priced slightly higher at around $115 compared to other carbon steel woks on the market. However, its size and versatility make it a worthwhile investment.

Using the Cookware

We put the 11-inch skillet (priced at approximately $80) to the test. Upon arrival, the pan was coated in beeswax, a common practice for unseasoned carbon steel to prevent rust during transportation. Prior to use, we had to remove the beeswax and season the pan accordingly. To remove the beeswax, we dipped the pan in multiple rinses of hot water, keeping in mind not to let it go down the drain. Following the instructions, we seasoned the pan by covering the bottom with avocado oil and allowing it to heat up and smoke for several minutes. We only performed this process once before trying out the pan.

To our surprise, the pan successfully fried an egg in butter without any sticking issues, indicating that it was seasoned effectively. This was a pleasant surprise as many sources suggest repeating the seasoning process multiple times before using the pan. However, with the Mauviel skillet, easy seasoning instructions were included, eliminating the need for multiple attempts.

The skillet performed exceptionally well, producing great eggs, fried potatoes, and providing a nice sear on steaks. Additionally, the smooth surface was easy to clean. Unlike nonstick pans, it is possible to use abrasive cleaners like Barkeeper's Friend or scrubby pads if necessary.

Weighing approximately 4 pounds, the 11-inch skillet is slightly heavier than the All-Clad D3 12-inch skillet by about a pound. However, it is still manageable and much easier to handle compared to a cast iron pan of similar size.

In terms of price, the Mauviel skillet is higher priced at $80 compared to other carbon steel brands we have tested. For instance, the Lodge 12-inch carbon steel pan, also 14 gauge (2mm), is priced at around $45. This significant price difference raises the question of what sets the Mauviel apart from the Lodge. It is worth noting that Lodge is an American brand while Mauviel is French.

Alternatively, the Matfer-Bourgeat carbon steel pan is another option that is priced lower than the Mauviel and features a welded handle, eliminating the need to clean around rivets, which is a favorable aspect. The Matfer-Bourgeat is a thicker pan, measuring approximately 3.2mm (10 gauge).

The Matfer-Bourgeat carbon steel pan is another great option that comes at a lower cost compared to the Mauviel. It features a welded handle instead of rivets, making it easier to clean. This pan is thicker at around 3.2mm (10 gauge). For those looking for alternatives, there are equally good choices available such as the wok, crepe, and paella pans. We suggest investing in a sauciér made of copper or high-quality clad stainless steel for better heat responsiveness.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Durable and well-made
• 14 gauge (2mm) thickness is easy to handle yet thick enough to retain heat
• Easy to season
• Induction compatible
• Will last for decades.

Cons

• Expensive for carbon steel.

Recommendation

The Mauviel M'Steel offers excellent quality as a carbon steel pan, while the Lodge provides a similar experience at a more affordable price point. Investing in the Mauviel pan is worth it if it fits within your budget. For a thicker option, consider the Matfer-Bourgeat pan mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

Mauviel offers a variety of cookware lines, all of which are known for their high quality. Among our favorites are the M'Cook and M'Elite clad stainless lines, which provide excellent performance. However, we do not recommend the M'Urban line due to its thin construction, which compromises its heating capabilities. Another standout option is the M'Steel carbon steel, particularly for skillets, although it is priced higher compared to other brands of similar quality. If you're looking for top-notch nonstick cookware, the M'Stone is an excellent choice, albeit expensive and not environmentally friendly. Instead, we suggest opting for carbon steel or cast iron cookware, which offer a "semi-nonstick" experience. 

Lastly, Mauviel is renowned for their stunning copper cookware, which you can learn more about in our comprehensive Mauviel Copper Cookware Review. 

Thank you for your interest!