Best Copper Inspired-Look: Gotham Steel Hammered Copper Collection

Let’s talk copper pots and pans.

Traditional copper pans typically have two layers: an outside layer of copper and an inside layer of tin for the cooking surface. Others may have a steel surface.

What most folks love about copper is the look. As a cooking surface, tin-lined copper has its drawbacks—it can’t be used with high heat (cast iron is better for searing steaks). And copper is notoriously difficult to care for . . . not to mention the price! Copper pot and pan sets are often imported from France or Italy and can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

What if you want the look of copper without the expense or the fuss?

There are two basic alternatives:

• Copper-inspired cookware. These metal pans are actually made with titanium, but finished on the outside in a hammered pattern that makes them look like copper. Inside, you get a non-stick cooking surface and an easier to care for pan. 

• Copper-colored nonstick cookware. These pans are coated with a copper-colored ceramic coating. Sometimes the exterior is also made to look like traditional copper pans. 

We will recommend several options in this article in both categories, and an actual copper pots and pans set if you have the bank account.

For the best copper-inspired cookware, we’d recommend a reader favorite: Gotham Steel Hammered Copper Collection. We like how easy it is to work with . . . and it looks sharp to boot.

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Easy to wash.

• Nice lids.

• Works with induction cooktops.

• Oven safe up to 500 degrees.

• Non-stick.

• Sturdy construction.

• No PFOA, PFOS, cadmium or lead.

What Needs Work

• Best for low and medium heat cooking. Food can stick at higher heat.

• Coating can show signs of wear over time.

Best Copper-Colored Non-Stick: Gotham Steel 20 Piece Pots & Pans Set

We were impressed with the value here—a 20-piece set, coated in copper-colored ceramic. 

Unlike the previous set, this group drops the hammered look and goes with a more traditional black aluminum exterior. Another major difference: this set can’t be used on induction cooktops.

What We Liked

• Affordable.

• Easy to clean.

• Work well.

• Oven safe up to 500 degrees.

• Includes items like a steamer and fry basket.

What Needs Work

• Can’t be used on induction cooktops.

• Surface can scratch easily.

Best Budget-Friendly: Copper Check Non-Stick Cookware Set

Yes, copper pots and pans sets can get very pricey. If you like the look but are on a tighter budget, we like Copper Check’s Non-Stick Cookware set. Yes, this is copper-colored ceramic cookware—you get the look of copper without the hassle or expense.

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Easy to clean.

• Heat evenly.

• Square pan is a favorite in the set.

• Affordable 12-piece set.

• Includes recipe book.

• Non-stick coating.

• PTFR and PFOA free.

What Needs Work

• Handles can get hot.

• Scratches easily if you aren’t careful.

Best Actual Copper Cookware Set: Logostina Martellata Hammered Copper 18/10 Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Yes, this set is made from real copper—not copper-colored ceramic or aluminum that is made to look like copper!

We loved the construction of this set—tri-ply with aluminum core between stainless steel (for the cooking surface) and a copper outer layer.

What We Liked

• Looks amazing!

• Easy to use.

• Handles don’t get hot.

• Even heat.

What Needs Work

• Pricey.

• Not dishwasher-safe.

• Cooking surface is NOT non-stick.

• Copper exterior requires a good amount of care to keep them shiny.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money. 

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!