10 Best Carbon Steel Frying Pans 2026 in the United States

The Merten & Storck Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel 12" Frying Pan Skillet offers a great blend of cast iron performance and carbon steel lightness. One of its standout features is its lightweight design at 3.3 pounds, which makes it easier to handle compared to traditional cast iron pans. This frying pan heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring efficient cooking. The 12-inch size is versatile, suitable for various cooking tasks from searing to grilling, and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, including camping.

The pre-seasoned surface helps to develop a nonstick patina over time, which enhances its usability with repeated cooking. However, it is worth noting that it requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe, which may be less convenient for some users. The steel handle, while sturdy with its triple riveted design, can get quite hot, so using a protective mitt is advisable.

This pan is oven safe up to 600°F, making it highly versatile for searing and finishing dishes in the oven. It's also compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops. Despite these strengths, the necessity for ongoing seasoning and the weight, though lighter than cast iron, might still be considered heavy by some users. With a high customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 4,500 reviews, this frying pan is well-regarded for its performance and durability, making it a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile kitchen tool.

The Made In Cookware 10" Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a noteworthy option for both professional chefs and home cooks looking for a versatile and durable frying pan. One of its main strengths is its hybrid nature, combining the heat retention of cast iron with the quick heating and lightweight properties of stainless steel. This makes it suitable for a wide range of cooking styles, from stovetop to grill to open flame, and it's induction compatible as well. Its capacity to withstand temperatures up to 1200°F adds to its versatility and durability, promising long-lasting performance.

The pan's size—10.25" total diameter and 7.5" cooking surface—along with a depth of 2" makes it suitable for various cooking tasks like high-heat searing and grilling. However, at 3 pounds, it might be on the heavier side for some users, especially those who prefer a lighter pan for easier handling. The stainless steel handle is designed to stay cool, but its length (19” with handle) could make storage a bit challenging in smaller kitchens.

Though the pan comes pre-seasoned, developing its non-stick surface will require regular seasoning and care. Additionally, it’s not dishwasher safe, which means it requires hand washing, potentially adding to maintenance time. Crafted in Sweden from high-quality materials, this pan is built to last and is favored by many chefs worldwide. It ranks well among skillets due to its professional-grade construction and performance. However, if ease of maintenance and lightweight use are top priorities, this may not be the best choice.

The OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a versatile kitchen tool that comes pre-seasoned, so you can start cooking right away without the need for initial seasoning. This feature is convenient, especially for those who are new to using carbon steel pans. The pan is lightweight, weighing 4 pounds, which makes it easy to handle during cooking, yet it's durable enough to withstand high temperatures up to 660°F, making it suitable for both stovetop and oven use.

The 12-inch size is ideal for a variety of cooking tasks, from frying to searing to stir-frying, and the round shape ensures even cooking and heat distribution. One of the standout features is the removable silicone handle holder, which provides a comfortable and safe grip, but it also means you need to be cautious when removing it to avoid burns. The pan is compatible with all stovetops, including induction, which adds to its versatility.

However, it is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing to maintain its patina and performance, which might be a drawback for those who prefer low-maintenance cookware. Additionally, despite being metal utensil safe, some users might find that the pan requires regular maintenance to keep its non-stick properties. The OXO Obsidian offers a good balance of convenience, durability, and versatility, making it a solid choice for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs.