Pros: Non reactive, Heavy , Durable, Dishwasher Safe, Inexpensive for basic ranges.
Cons: Poor Heat Distribution, Food and Heat sometimes mark it.
Copper
Pros: Great heat distribution so cooks food evenly.
Cons: Reactive to food(avoid cooking incopper directly if possible), Not suitable for the Dishwasher(goes dull and eventually black), Expensive.
Aluminium
Pros: Excellent Heat Conductor, light in weight, relative cheap.
Cons: Reacts to food, Quite soft and can be scratched easily. See Anodised Aluminium.
Anodised Aluminium
Pros: Excellent Heat Conductor, Durable, (far more so than plain Aluminium), Easy to Clean.
Cons: Not Dishwasher Safe, Silver anodising can be damaged by abrasive cleaners, Hard anodised is the toughest.
Cast Iron
Pros: Heat Distribution even(but slow so take your time with it), Retains Heat very well, Naturally Non Stick.
Cons: Heat Conduction Slow(don’t use it if youre in a hurry), Heavy(for saucepans & Frys in particular, try before you buy), Rusts if left in a damp environment or on the draining board.
Cast Iron Enamelled
Pros: Heat Distribution Even (if Slow), Retains heat Very well, Durable Coating doesn’t react to food acids or heat, Dishwasher Safe, Easy to clean Looks a million dollars!
Cons: Very Heavy(try before you buy partic with Saucepans and Frys). Enamel can chip(Le Creuset & Staub are very chip resistant).
Carbon Steel
Pros: Durable, Heat Distribution ok if thick enough, used in many professional kitchens, Wipes Clean with Kitchen Towel.
Cons: Rusts (especially when new),Not Dishwasher Safe, Must be Seasoned, Hand Wash Only, Rusts if left in a damp environment or on the draining board especially when new.
