Choosing between the Black Cube and HexClad fry pans can feel tricky. Both promise hybrid cooking and durability, but each brings unique strengths. I’ve spent time testing both, so I’ll share what sets each one apart.
Black Cube stands out with its scratch-resistant texture, while HexClad offers impressive heat control. Each pan has something to offer, depending on your cooking style. In this review, I’ll break down the highlights and a few downsides of each. Let’s dive in and help you find the best fit for your kitchen needs!
Table of Contents
Black Cube Fry Pan Review
The Black Cube Fry Pan offers a unique twist on nonstick cookware by blending durable stainless steel with a nonstick surface. It’s the kind of pan that seems designed to be versatile, making cooking and cleanup easier while still allowing for high-heat browning and searing.
What I Like
- Unique Hybrid Surface: The pan combines stainless steel with a recessed nonstick coating, giving me a great balance. I get the crisp browning of stainless steel without the usual sticky cleanup.
- Fast, Even Heating: This pan heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, which is a huge plus for searing meat and stir-frying veggies.
- Metal Utensil Friendly: I don’t have to tiptoe around with delicate utensils—metal spatulas are safe here.
- Dishwasher-Safe: After a big cooking session, tossing it in the dishwasher is a relief, especially since it’s also scratch-resistant.
What Could Be Better
- Sticky Spots on Delicate Foods: When I tried cooking eggs without oil, I had a bit of sticking. If you’re expecting the slide-off-ease of a traditional nonstick pan, this hybrid design takes a little getting used to.
- Extra Cleaning Effort: The raised stainless steel texture can hold onto food bits, so I often find myself giving it a quick scrub even after dishwashing.
- Discoloration: The raised parts have darkened a bit over time. It doesn’t impact the cooking, but I know some folks prefer a spotless look.
My Personal Frying Experience
Cooking with the Black Cube Fry Pan has been a pleasant surprise. When I first got it, I was honestly a bit skeptical about whether it could really combine the benefits of stainless steel with nonstick. After a few tests with meats and veggies, I was impressed. The browning is fantastic—like cast iron but without the heavy weight and hassle of seasoning. For searing steak or browning chicken, this pan is incredible; the crispy edges and deep flavor are spot on.
With eggs, though, I learned it’s not a typical nonstick. I got my best results when adding a little butter or oil, which made cleanup easier too. For me, it’s the perfect “browning pan.” I don’t mind adding a little fat, and I love the flavor it brings to my food. Honestly, it’s not my go-to for every meal, but it’s amazing for dishes that need that extra caramelization and crispiness.
Recommendation
I’d recommend the Black Cube Fry Pan for home cooks who want a reliable, durable pan that’s great for high-heat cooking and browning. If you’re comfortable using a bit of oil or butter and want a pan that can handle a range of tasks (from stovetop to oven), it’s a fantastic option.
However, if your focus is low-fat or oil-free cooking, or if you want a truly effortless nonstick, this might not be the best choice for you. For me, it’s become a staple for dishes that benefit from that satisfying browning while still being easier to clean than my cast iron. The Black Cube Fry Pan is perfect for those who enjoy cooking with a bit of flair and want cookware that keeps up!
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HexClad Frying Pan Review
HexClad’s hybrid frying pan blends stainless steel and nonstick, creating a pan that’s durable yet easy to use. I was excited to try it out, and it definitely brings something unique to the table.
What I Like
- Hybrid Construction: The tri-ply build—stainless steel around an aluminum core with nonstick peaks—is both sturdy and functional. It feels like the best of all worlds.
- Safe for Metal Utensils: The etched hexagon design lets me use my metal spatula without worry, which is a big plus for me since I’m always switching between utensils.
- Quick, Even Heating: The aluminum core heats up quickly and evenly, so food cooks consistently without hot spots.
- Oven and Dishwasher Safe: This pan easily transitions from stovetop to oven (up to 500°F) and cleans up well in the dishwasher. It’s perfect for recipes that start on the stove and finish in the oven.
- Lifetime Warranty: The warranty adds peace of mind, especially for a premium product.
What Could Be Better
- Partial Nonstick: While the pan is nonstick, it’s not like Teflon or ceramic. I found eggs needed a bit of oil to glide freely, which may take getting used to if you’re expecting full nonstick.
- Slightly Heavy: The pan has some weight to it, so if you’re used to lighter cookware, it might feel bulky.
- PTFE Coating: HexClad uses PTFE in their nonstick layer, which may be a drawback for those avoiding nonstick chemicals. Transparency around this would’ve been helpful.
My Personal Frying Experience
The first thing I cooked in this pan was a steak, and I was genuinely impressed. The pan heated up fast, and the sear it created was restaurant-quality. Using a metal spoon to baste the steak was no problem, and even after several uses, the surface looks flawless—no scratches or marks from my utensils. That’s a big deal for me, as I’m always cautious about scratching my pans!
When it came to eggs, I initially expected it to be fully nonstick, like ceramic, so I was a bit surprised they stuck slightly. But once I added a touch of oil, they cooked perfectly. After adjusting, I appreciated the balance between durability and nonstick performance. This isn’t your super-slick Teflon pan, but it’s tough enough to use daily, which is a trade-off I’m happy with.
Finally, I’ve loved the versatility. I can sear meat, sauté veggies, and even roast chicken in the oven—all in one pan. For someone who doesn’t want a kitchen full of specialized cookware, this multi-tasker is a game-changer. The weight was a slight adjustment, but it’s actually a plus when it comes to stability on the stovetop.
Recommendation
The HexClad Frying Pan is perfect for anyone who wants a versatile, high-quality pan that handles everything from quick breakfasts to hearty dinners. If you enjoy cooking with metal utensils or need a pan that can go from stove to oven seamlessly, this one is worth the investment.
However, if you’re looking for a super-light pan or a fully nonstick option, HexClad may not be the best fit. For me, though, it’s been a fantastic addition to my kitchen, and I genuinely look forward to using it daily!
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Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan Comparison
Here’s a look at how the Black Cube and HexClad fry pans stack up against each other. I’ve used both for a range of cooking tasks, and each has its perks depending on what you’re after in a hybrid pan. Let’s compare them by heat distribution, material, comfort, non-stick quality, durability, and overall performance.
Heat Distribution: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
Both pans heat evenly, but HexClad warms up faster thanks to its aluminum core, while Black Cube’s stainless steel core takes a bit longer. If you’re like me and often cook in a rush, HexClad’s quick heating can be a real game-changer.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Heat Distribution | Even, but takes slightly longer to heat | Quick and even with aluminum core |
| Heat Retention | Retains heat for steady cooking | Great for high-heat adjustments |
| Ideal Use | Medium-heat, consistent cooking | High-heat with responsive adjustments |
Winner: HexClad Fry Pan – ideal for quick, responsive heat.
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Pan Material: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
The material impacts cooking performance and durability. Black Cube’s textured stainless is great for scratch resistance, while HexClad combines aluminum and steel for durability and smooth heat flow. I found HexClad’s mix offers a lighter feel, which is helpful when moving it around the stove.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Core Material | Stainless steel core | Aluminum core, steel layers |
| Nonstick Layer | Textured stainless for scratch-resistance | PTFE-based coating for durability |
| Durability | Highly scratch-resistant | Durable, but requires some care |
Winner: Tie – both are durable but suited for different needs.
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Handle Comfort: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
Handle comfort is surprisingly important, especially when flipping or searing. HexClad’s handle has a slightly better grip and stays cool longer than Black Cube’s, which gets warm faster.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Handle Design | Stainless steel with riveted grip | Ergonomic with textured grip |
| Weight Distribution | Balanced but slightly heavy | Well-balanced and lighter feel |
| Comfort | Comfortable, but can get warm | Stays cool longer |
Winner: HexClad Fry Pan – more comfortable and stays cool.
Non-Stick Quality: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
Black Cube’s non-stick layer is great with a textured design but requires a bit of oil. HexClad, on the other hand, releases food effortlessly even with minimal oil, which makes cooking delicate foods a breeze.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Non-Stick Level | Textured non-stick, needs oil | Enhanced non-stick with PTFE |
| Metal Safe | Safe for metal utensils | Safe for metal utensils |
| Food Release | Needs some oil | Smooth release with minimal oil |
Winner: HexClad Fry Pan – easier food release, less need for oil.
Durability: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
Both pans are built to last. Black Cube’s surface is highly scratch-resistant, so it’s great if you often use metal utensils. HexClad is also durable but needs a bit more care.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Scratch Resistance | Extremely scratch-resistant | Scratch-resistant, with some care needed |
| Coating Durability | Long-lasting textured coating | Durable PTFE layer |
| Expected Lifespan | High durability for everyday use | Long-lasting with good care |
Winner: Black Cube Fry Pan – very scratch-resistant.
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Performance: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
When it comes to overall cooking performance, HexClad pulls ahead with its versatility in handling high heat. Black Cube’s steady, even heat is also impressive for regular tasks.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Best For | Medium heat and steady cooking | High-heat searing and versatile tasks |
| Cooking Versatility | Great for everyday use | Excellent for high-heat cooking |
| Response to Heat | Even heating, takes time | Quick heating, easy adjustments |
Winner: HexClad Fry Pan – versatile for high-heat performance.
Ease of Use: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
HexClad’s faster heat and cool handle make it easier to handle, especially for quick cooking tasks. Black Cube is sturdy, though it requires a bit more patience with heating.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Heat Control | Consistent but slow heating | Quick to heat, easy to adjust |
| Weight | Slightly heavy | Lightweight, well-balanced |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher safe, easy to clean | Dishwasher safe, easy to maintain |
Winner: HexClad Fry Pan – easier to control and quicker to heat.
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Value for Money: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
In terms of price, Black Cube offers good quality at a lower price, making it a better choice if you want value without breaking the bank. HexClad’s premium design makes it worth the investment if versatility is a priority.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Premium pricing |
| Long-Term Investment | Durable and affordable | Premium quality, long-lasting |
| Warranty | Standard limited warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Winner: Black Cube Fry Pan – great value for its price.
Read More: HexClad vs Stainless Steel
Overall: Black Cube vs HexClad Fry Pan
Both pans are strong contenders, but HexClad shines for those who love quick, versatile cooking with high-heat flexibility. Black Cube offers excellent durability at a more budget-friendly price.
| Feature | Black Cube Fry Pan | HexClad Fry Pan |
| Best For | Everyday, budget-conscious cooking | Versatile cooking with high-heat capability |
| Unique Advantage | Durable and affordable | Fast heating, comfortable design |
| Overall Winner | Budget-friendly choice | Versatile, premium investment |
Overall Winner: HexClad Fry Pan – best for versatility, high-heat cooking, and long-term quality.
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FAQ for Black Cube vs Hexclad
What are the main differences between Black Cube and HexClad pans?
Black Cube pans have a scratch-resistant stainless-steel surface, while HexClad pans combine stainless steel with a non-stick layer for better heat control. Both pans are hybrid, but HexClad’s design offers improved non-stick cooking.
Is HexClad better for non-stick cooking than Black Cube?
Yes, HexClad pans provide a stronger non-stick layer compared to Black Cube. This helps with cooking delicate foods and reduces the need for extra oils or butter.
Can I use metal utensils on Black Cube and HexClad pans?
Yes, both pans are metal utensil-safe due to their durable surfaces. However, using softer utensils may still help prolong the non-stick layer and appearance.
Are Black Cube and HexClad pans oven-safe?
Yes, both Black Cube and HexClad pans are oven-safe up to 500°F. This makes them versatile for recipes that require stove-to-oven cooking.
Which pan is easier to clean, Black Cube or HexClad?
HexClad pans are slightly easier to clean because of their advanced non-stick layer. Black Cube pans may require a bit more effort for sticky foods but are dishwasher-safe.
Which pan heats up faster, Black Cube or HexClad?
HexClad pans heat up fast and evenly because of their layered design. This makes it easier to control the temperature, especially for high-heat cooking.