Farberware is one of those names instantly recognizable in American kitchens. With over 120 years of experience in the cookware industry, the company is often the first choice for first-time homes, entry-level kitchens, and budget-conscious buyers. But with the explosion of modern cookware brands offering everything from ceramic coatings to smart pans, the question arises: Can Farberware still survive in 2025—or will it rely solely on its reputation?
To find out, we tested several Farberware pieces under real-life cooking conditions. Below is our brutally honest review—what worked, what didn’t, and whether it’s still worth a place in your kitchen cupboard.
Founded in 1900, Farberware has built its reputation on affordability, functionality, and familiarity. Known for its classic stainless steel pots and pans, and later for its non-stick innovations, the brand has been a household staple for generations. It’s the kind of cookware you might inherit from your parents or grandparents—and that nostalgic reliability is part of its appeal.
But can this vintage appeal also be translated into modern performance?
Farberware offers a wide range of cookware and bakeware, including:
- Classic Series stainless steel cookware
- High-performance nonstick aluminum sets
- Farberware Glide CopperSlide ceramic cookware
- Hard-anodized aluminum collections
- Bakeware (muffin tins, baking sheets, roasting pans, etc.)
Most items are available at moderate prices, with complete sets often costing less than $100, making them very affordable.
We tested the Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set, the 10-Inch Copper Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan, and Classic Series Stainless Steel Saucepan. Here’s what we found:
Millennium Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
A Durable Starter Set for the Everyday Cook
If you're someone who cooks daily but doesn’t want to splurge on high-end brands, the Millennium 10-piece stainless steel set might strike a solid balance. The pots and pans are made with stainless steel that feels substantial, not flimsy. Thanks to the aluminum base, heat spreads evenly with minimal hot spots—great for searing meats or simmering sauces.
The handles stay surprisingly cool on the stovetop, and the tempered glass lids allow for easy monitoring without lifting. While they are dishwasher-safe, a quick hand wash helps maintain their shine longer. One caveat: the stainless surface isn’t nonstick, so you’ll want to use oil or butter to prevent food from sticking.
Ideal for: Beginner to intermediate home cooks who want reliable stainless steel without the luxury price tag.
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10-Inch Copper Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan
Budget-Friendly Pan That Punches Above Its Price
This 10-inch frying pan from Farberware’s Glide series has a copper-toned ceramic nonstick surface that looks as good as it performs. Eggs, pancakes, and sautéed veggies slide off easily without sticking, and you barely need oil. The ceramic coating is also PTFE- and PFOA-free, which appeals to health-conscious cooks.
It's lightweight, heats up quickly, and is super easy to clean. However, the nonstick coating may wear down over time if used with metal utensils or exposed to high heat regularly. For best results, stick with low to medium heat and soft silicone spatulas.
Ideal for: Quick breakfasts, light cooking, and those who prioritize easy cleanup.
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Classic Series Stainless Steel Saucepan
A Time-Tested Favorite for Small-Batch Cooking
Farberware’s Classic Series saucepan lives up to its name—it’s dependable, no-frills, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re reheating soup, boiling eggs, or making a small batch of pasta sauce, this little pan handles the job with ease.
Constructed with a thick aluminum core wrapped in stainless steel, it offers good heat conductivity for even cooking. The iconic phenolic handle stays cool, and the lid fits snugly to trap moisture. While it’s not fancy, it’s exactly what you need for daily, practical kitchen use.
Ideal for: Everyday cooking tasks that require precision and simplicity.
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- Heat distribution: Stainless steel pans performed well, with slight heat spots on the outer edges. The hard-anodized pans offered better consistency.
- Non-stick coating: The Glide Ceramic pan was initially impressive, but began to stick slightly after 3–4 weeks of daily use. The conventional non-stick coating was more durable.
- Oven suitability: Some collections are oven-safe up to 175°C, which is a limitation compared to modern brands that can withstand temperatures up to 260°C or higher.
- Ease of cleaning: Non-stick pans are easy to clean with warm soapy water. Stainless steel requires a bit more force, especially after searing meat.
- Dishwasher safe: Most parts are dishwasher safe, but we recommend hand washing to protect the surface.
- Construction: Lightweight, but feels a bit flimsy compared to newer brands like Caraway or HexClad.
- Durability: Coatings can wear off over time, and some customers report dents with frequent use.
Farberware typically offers standard shipping within the US, with delivery times of 3 to 7 business days. Express shipping is available for an additional charge. Shipping charges are generally waived for larger orders or during promotions.
The brand offers a 30-day return policy for unused or defective items. The condition is that the item is returned in its original packaging. Returns due to a manufacturer’s defect are generally covered.
Farberware offers a limited lifetime warranty on many of its cookware products. However, this warranty does not cover wear and tear, improper use, or damage caused by high heat or metal utensils. Always read the specific warranty terms before purchasing.
Farberware customer support can be reached via:
- Phone
- Email contact form
- Online FAQs and support articles
Support responds relatively quickly and warranty claims are generally processed without much effort.
Yes—if you know what you’re getting. Farberware remains a solid entry-level cookware brand, ideal for home cooks, students, and budget-conscious shoppers. While not intended for gourmet cooking or heavy-duty use, it offers decent performance for its price range.
If you’re looking for affordable cookware that does the job without the bells and whistles, Farberware is still a reliable choice in 2025. However, if you want more durable materials, better temperature control, or a more elegant aesthetic, you may want to look for brands in a higher price range.
