Buyer's Guide for New Cookware: Cook's Essentials Vs. Farberware Cookware

I think everyone has experienced buying cookware that was practically disposable. At least, I know I have. I spend a lot of time cooking and need cookware that will hold up to the abuse I put it through. Throughout the past few years, I have tried a few brands of cookware, but two of my favorite brands would have to be Farberware and Cook's Essentials. Both of these brands are very affordable and have survived my abuse to a certain extent. Obviously, I do have a favorite brand of cookware, but before I tell you which of these brands that is, let's look a little closer at each brand.

Cook's Essentials Cookware

I first discovered Cook's Essentials cookware about 10 years ago. My mother purchased a set of Cook's Essentials stainless steal cookware from QVC, which happens to be the only place you can purchase this cookware, and I immediately fell in love with it. But, what makes Cook's Essentials cookware so great? First of all, Cook's Essentials cookware is heavy. When your package arrives, you will be stunned at the weight of this cookware. It really is hard to believe that such affordable cookware would be so well made. The second thing you will notice about Cook's Essentials is that the advertising is completely true. Cook's Essentials cookware really is non-stick and it will hold up to the use of metal utensils. With Cook's Essentials cookware, you don't have to worry about searched for a plastic spatula as your grilled cheese begins to burn, just grab the metal one and flip. I have even used Cook's Essentials cookware to make baked beans. I just sauté the ingredients on the stovetop and then transfer the pot to a 350 degree oven. With other cookware, the beans would have stuck and been hard to clean, but with Cook's Essentials cookware, everything wipes out beautifully. For a 10 piece set of Cook's Essentials cookware, you can expect to pay around $110, which is unbelievable for the quality that you get. But, what about its competitor, how has Farberware cookware held up in my kitchen?

Farberware Cookware

I bought a small set of Farberware cookware just to have a few extra pieces of cookware available. I'll admit the price was what drew me to Farberware cookware. You can buy a 9 piece set of Farberware cookware at Walmart for only around $50. There are a few drawbacks though. Farberware cookware is lightweight, especially compared to Cook's Essentials cookware. One of my Farberware skillets is actually warped, because I dropped it. Another drawback is the fact that you can't use metal utensils in Farberware cookware. But, there are also good things about Farberware cookware. For example, Farberware cookware can also be transferred from the stovetop to the oven. Farberware cookware is also non-stick. But, which brand of cookware is the best?

While Farberware cookware offers a great price, it is really better suited for people who are just starting out or as an extra set of cookware. For people who are serious about cooking, like I am, you will want to choose Cook's Essentials. Cook's Essentials is made for more serious cooking. The heavyweight of Cook's Essentials gives an even heating that allows cooks to prepare meals with ease, while the lightweight of Farberware makes it easy to overcook and even burn meals. If you are still unsure about ordering something from a home shopping network, remember that QVC offers a 30-day money back guarantee. Also, Cook's Essentials cookware comes with a lifetime warranty, so if anything happens to your cookware, it will be replaced by QVC free of charge. This is another feature that Farberware does not offer.