OXO vs Cuisinel: Skillets Compared by Specs
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This OXO vs cuisinel skillet comparison focuses on two distinct cooking tools. Both skillets are pre-seasoned and include silicone handle holders for safer handling. The main difference lies in their construction and size. OXO offers a lightweight carbon steel pan, while Cuisinel provides a heavy cast iron skillet with a glass lid. You should choose based on whether you prefer quick heating or heat retention.
Key differences
| Aspect | OXO Obsidian 8-Inch Carbon Steel Skillet | Cuisinel 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid |
|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Carbon steel | Cast iron |
| Pan Diameter | 8 inches | 12 inches |
| Included Accessories | Silicone handle holder | Glass lid and silicone handle holder |
| Oven Safe | Up to 660°F | Oven-Safe |
| Weight | Not listed | 11.3 pounds |
| Dishwasher Safe | Hand wash only | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose OXO Obsidian 8-Inch Carbon Steel Skillet if
- You need a lightweight pan for quick searing and stir-frying.
- You prefer an 8-inch skillet for single servings or smaller sides.
- You want a pan that heats up rapidly on all stovetops, including induction.
Choose Cuisinel 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid if
- You require a large 12-inch surface for cooking bigger meals.
- You value the included glass lid for braising or keeping food warm.
- You prefer the heavy heat retention of solid cast iron construction.
Verdict: Choose the OXO skillet if you prioritize lightweight maneuverability and fast heating in a compact size. Pick the Cuisinel skillet if you need a larger cooking surface and the versatility of a included lid. Both are pre-seasoned and compatible with induction cooktops.
OXO vs Cuisinel Skillet Specs
Body Material
The OXO skillet is built from carbon steel, a material known for being lightweight yet durable. This construction allows the pan to heat up quickly and respond fast to temperature changes. In contrast, the Cuisinel skillet uses solid cast iron. Cast iron is significantly heavier and retains heat longer, making it ideal for steady, even cooking. The OXO model weighs much less, which makes it easier to handle for quick tasks like stir-frying. The Cuisinel option provides the traditional heat retention associated with cast iron, suitable for searing and baking.
Pan Diameter
Size is a major factor when choosing a skillet. The OXO Obsidian skillet has an eight-inch diameter, making it a compact option perfect for cooking one or two servings. It fits easily on smaller burners and stores in tighter spaces. The Cuisinel skillet offers a twelve-inch diameter, providing a much larger cooking surface. This size is better for larger families or when cooking bigger cuts of meat. The extra space allows for more flexibility in arranging food. If you need a pan for everyday single servings, the OXO is the practical choice. For bulk cooking, the Cuisinel offers more utility.
Oven Compatibility
Both skillets are designed to withstand high heat in the oven, but they have different limits. The OXO carbon steel skillet is oven safe up to 660°F. This high tolerance allows for intense searing or finishing dishes in the oven without worrying about damage. The Cuisinel cast iron skillet is also listed as oven safe, though the specific maximum temperature is not provided in the data. Cast iron generally handles high heat well. However, the OXO’s explicit 660°F rating gives you a clear benchmark for high-heat cooking. This makes the OXO slightly more predictable for extreme temperature tasks.
Included Accessories
What comes in the box differs between the two brands. The OXO skillet includes a removable silicone handle holder to protect your hand from heat. It does not include a lid. The Cuisinel skillet comes with both a silicone handle holder and a tempered glass lid. The lid adds versatility, allowing you to steam vegetables, braise meats, or keep food warm. This makes the Cuisinel set a more complete package for various cooking methods. If you often cook dishes that require covering, the Cuisinel’s inclusion of the glass lid is a significant advantage over the lidless OXO option.
Weight and Handling
Handling ease depends on the weight of the pan. The OXO carbon steel skillet is notably lightweight, measuring ten inches in length and five inches in width. This lightness makes it easy to toss food or move the pan around the kitchen. The Cuisinel cast iron skillet is much heavier, weighing 11.3 pounds. While this weight helps with heat retention, it can be difficult to lift, especially when full of food. The OXO is better for users who prioritize ease of movement. The Cuisinel is better for those who do not mind the extra weight for superior heat stability.
Which skillet matches your cooking needs
You cook for one person in a small kitchen
The OXO skillet is an 8-inch pan made from lightweight carbon steel. It measures 10 inches in length and fits easily into compact storage spaces. You can use it on induction cooktops and heat it in the oven up to 660°F. The removable silicone sleeve adds safety without adding bulk, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals.
You need a large pan for family dinners
The Cuisinel skillet offers a 12-inch cooking surface made from solid cast iron. It weighs 11.3 pounds and includes a tempered glass lid. This larger size allows you to cook more food at once. The cast iron construction retains heat well for searing and braising. It works on all stovetops, including induction, and provides consistent heat distribution.
You want a versatile pan for multiple methods
This Cuisinel skillet supports frying, baking, grilling, broiling, and sautéing. The pre-seasoned cast iron surface is durable and handles high heat effectively. The included glass lid helps with braising and steaming. You get a complete cooking setup with the silicone handle holder. The 12-inch diameter provides ample space for various cooking techniques in one vessel.
The products compared
OXO Obsidian 8-Inch Carbon Steel Skillet
Best for: Induction cooking and high-heat searing
- Pan Diameter
- 8"
- Body Material
- Carbon steel
- Cooking Surface
- Pre-seasoned
- Oven Safe
- Yes, up to 660°F
- Dishwasher Safe
- Hand wash only
- Cooktop Compatibility
- Induction
View on Amazon: OXO Obsidian 8-Inch Carbon Steel Skillet Affiliate link
This OXO Obsidian skillet is an 8-inch carbon steel pan designed for quick heating and even cooking. It comes pre-seasoned, allowing you to start cooking immediately without initial maintenance. The pan is compatible with all stovetops, including induction, and is oven safe up to 660°F. It features a removable silicone handle holder for safe handling. You should choose this if you prefer a lightweight, durable pan that handles high heat well.
Pros
- Pre-seasoned carbon steel surface for immediate use
- Oven safe up to 660°F for high-heat versatility
- Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
- Removable silicone handle holder for safe grip
Cons
- 8-inch diameter is smaller than the 12-inch alternative
- Requires hand washing to preserve the patina
- Silicone handle holder is an accessory, not built-in
Good fit if
- You need a pan that works on induction cooktops
- You want a pre-seasoned pan for convenience
- You prefer a lightweight skillet for easy handling
Skip if
- You need a large pan for family-sized meals
- You prefer a dishwasher-safe cookware option
- You want a permanent handle without accessories
Verdict: OXO Obsidian 8" Carbon Steel Skillet is a practical choice for cooks who value induction compatibility and high-heat oven performance in a compact, pre-seasoned format.
Cuisinel 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid
Best for: large batch cooking on induction or grills
- Pan Diameter
- 12"
- Body Material
- Cast iron
- Cooking Surface
- Pre-seasoned
- Cooktop Compatibility
- Induction
- Material Feature
- PFOA-Free, Pre-Seasoned
- Recommended Use
- Grilling
View on Amazon: Cuisinel 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid Affiliate link
This Cuisinel skillet is a 12-inch cast iron pan with a pre-seasoned surface. It weighs 11.3 pounds and measures 17 inches in length. The set includes a tempered glass lid and a silicone handle holder to reduce heat transfer. It works on stovetops, grills, and induction cooktops. You can use it for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing. It is oven-safe.
Pros
- 12-inch diameter provides ample cooking space
- Pre-seasoned cast iron surface for even heat distribution
- Includes tempered glass lid and silicone handle holder
- Compatible with induction cooktops, grills, and stovetops
Cons
- Heavy at 11.3 pounds
- Long handle extends to 17 inches, requiring more counter space
- No non-stick coating beyond the initial seasoning
Good fit if
- You want a large 12-inch pan for family meals
- You cook on induction stovetops or grills
- You prefer oven-safe cookware with included accessories
Skip if
- You need lightweight pans for easy handling
- You have limited counter space for long handles
- You prefer non-stick surfaces that do not require seasoning
Verdict: Cuisinel 12" Cast Iron Skillet with Lid is a sturdy option for cooks who need a large, versatile pan for high-heat methods. It suits those who do not mind the weight and want a complete set with a lid and handle protector.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | OXO Obsidian 8-Inch Carbon Steel Skillet | Cuisinel 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid |
|---|---|---|
| Pan Diameter | 8" | 12" |
| Body Material | Carbon steel | Cast iron |
| Cooking Surface | Pre-seasoned | Pre-seasoned |
| Oven Safe | Yes, up to 660°F | not stated |
| Dishwasher Safe | Hand wash only | not stated |
| Material | not stated | Cast Iron |
| Cooktop Compatibility | Induction | Induction |
| Material Feature | Pre-Seasoned | PFOA-Free, Pre-Seasoned |
| Oven Compatibility | Oven-Safe | not stated |
| Color | Black | Long Handle |
| Recommended Use | not stated | Grilling |
| Lid Type | not stated | Glass Lid |
| Dimensions | 10 × 5 × 4 inches | 17 × 12 × 3 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 11.3 pounds |
| Size | 8" Frying Pan Skillet | 12" |
| Model | CC005099-001 | Cast Iron Skillet with Lid - 12"-Inch |
Frequently asked questions
Is the OXO skillet compatible with induction cooktops?
Yes, the OXO Obsidian skillet is explicitly listed as induction-compatible. This feature allows you to use it on modern glass-top ranges that require magnetic cookware. It also features a pre-seasoned surface, which helps with food release right out of the box.
What is the weight difference between these two pans?
The Cuisinel skillet is significantly heavier, weighing 11.3 pounds. The OXO model does not list a specific weight, but its carbon steel construction is designed to be lighter than cast iron. This makes the OXO easier to lift and maneuver for one-handed tasks.
Does the Cuisinel skillet come with a lid?
Yes, the Cuisinel 12-inch model includes a glass lid. This adds versatility for steaming or braising. The OXO skillet does not mention a lid in its specifications, so you would need to purchase one separately if you need that functionality.
Which skillet is better for searing steaks?
Both pans are suitable for high-heat searing. The OXO is best for induction cooking and high-heat performance in a compact size. The Cuisinel is also rated for high-heat methods and offers a larger 12-inch surface area, allowing you to sear larger cuts of meat at once.
Are these skillets safe to use in the oven?
Both the OXO and Cuisinel skillets are oven-safe. You can transfer them from the stovetop to the oven for finishing dishes. The OXO has a silicone handle holder for added protection, while the Cuisinel features a long handle design for safe handling during oven use.
What are the dimensions of the OXO skillet?
The OXO Obsidian skillet measures 8 inches in diameter. Its overall dimensions are 10 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 4 inches in height. This compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens or for cooking single servings efficiently.
Is the Cuisinel skillet pre-seasoned?
Yes, the Cuisinel cast iron skillet is pre-seasoned and PFOA-free. This preparation helps create a natural non-stick surface and protects the metal from rust. You can start cooking immediately, though building up the seasoning layer over time will improve its performance.