Recently, ceramic cookware has become more popular. Most people know that ceramic is healthier than nonstick because Teflon contains PFOA and PFE, a toxic chemical used in nonstick coating. Due to these concerns, ceramic is advertised as a safe alternative to Teflon. It is also advertised as healthy because it needs less oil and fat and is better for the environment; some are even advertised as recyclable. Ceramic offers the benefits of nonstick without the dangers. It comes in two types, pure ceramic and coated ceramic.
Pure ceramic sets are more expensive, because fewer companies sell it. It is more involved in manufacturing, it is cast from a mould, dipped in a glaze and fired. (This is why ceramic cookware is recommended to take low to medium heat.) You can expect to pay upwards of $250, maybe $280-499, although there is a 16-piece Xtrema for $649 on their website. But they are quality cookware, and a good quality piece of pure pottery can last 50 years if taken care of. You will know the pure ceramic because it does not have metal handles or glass tops.
Ceramic-coated sets can be a bit more expensive than nonstick sets, but the price is manageable and not too far off the mark. Prices for these types of cookware can vary by manufacturer, and there are many brands of parts and sets that you can buy on a budget. However, it is better to buy one that will do the job. Are you buying parts or sets? Would it be better to buy one or very good quality, or spend more and get the set? Prices vary depending on the quantity and quality of the pottery. You can expect to pay between $75 and $250 for a game.
An important consideration in cost is warranty and durability. Is there a guarantee? How long is the warranty? Will I really take care of it or will it need to be replaced in a couple of years? Care isn’t the first thing on a buyer’s mind, but it will definitely make that tray last. Pure ceramics can last 50 years if taken care of. Some brands of ceramic-coated cookware offer 10 years, some 2 years, and some none. Look for the ones that do. However, this really shouldn’t be a deal breaker, although it helps, because there may be warranty exclusions. For example, ceramic is dishwasher safe, but the warranty may not include dishwasher damage. That means damage from other pots and pans or dishes clicking together, usually.
Quality is the key to buy. The highest-rated ceramic-coated cookware sets for ease of use and cost are Greenpan and Cuisinart, with WearEver in third place. Your lowest average price of a good game will be $140. The highest-rated pure ceramic cookware sets are Xtreme, with one set costing between $288 and $439. Don’t be afraid to spend money on good cookware, but remember that you get what you pay for.