Comparison BergHOFF Manhattan 1100069 vs BergHOFF Ron 3900031

The size of a pan is indicated by its diameter ( for round pans) or width ( for square pans). For sets containing objects of different sizes, values for all objects are given in this paragraph.

The volume of the pan directly depends on the size (see below). At the same time, it is also determined by depth; In fact, this means that dishes with the same capacity can vary in size. In such cases, when choosing, it is worth considering that a wider pan heats up faster and more evenly, but requires a larger burner. Actually, the size of the pan should not be less than the size of the burner; this is especially important if you plan to use the dishes on an electric stove.

The smallest pans, sold individually, are 16 cm or less in size, in the largest this figure can exceed 25 cm. As for sets, their sizes can be quite varied: in the smallest sets, the diameter of the largest pan is less than 20 cm(although other types of dishes can be larger), in the largest sets, the size is the same 20 cm(or even more) has the smallest pan.

— Compatibility with Induction. Compatibility of a pot with induction-type electric heaters. Such heaters have specific requirements for cookware — in particular, the bottom must be flat and made of certain metals; therefore, it is best to use pots initially designed for induction.

— Dishwasher Safe. The ability to wash the pot in a dishwasher. Not all cookware is compatible with such machines due to size, material characteristics, etc.; therefore, if you plan to wash the pot in a dishwasher, it's worth ensuring compatibility separately.

— Oven Safe. The possibility of using the pot for cooking dishes in the oven — baking, simmering, etc. The main requirement in this case is resistance to high temperatures. Accordingly, pots with this feature should have metal handles (or removable handles if the handles are made of less heat-resistant materials). Non-stick coating is not a barrier to oven use, although some types require caution; see "Coating" for more details.

— Lid with Thermometer. The availability of a lid with an integrated sensor displaying the temperature inside the pot. Such a sensor facilitates monitoring the degree of product heating inside and, accordingly, helps adjust the cooking mode accurately. Drawbacks include incompatibility of such lids with ovens and, frequ...ently, dishwashers (see above). The price of pots with a thermometer increases accordingly. Note that if this function is not standardly provided, a corresponding size lid can be purchased separately.

— Rain Effect Lid. A special lid design that promotes uniform moisture distribution during cooking. It is equipped with indentations or grooves that collect condensed steam and cause it to drip back into the pot, creating a "rain" effect. This process helps keep dishes juicy, preventing them from drying out, and improves stewing by evenly distributing heat and moisture. This effect is particularly useful when cooking large pieces of meat, such as goose, as it contributes to tenderness and rich flavor.

— Spice Funnel. The presence of a spice funnel in the standard pot lid. This funnel is usually located in the center of the lid and combined with the handle. Its purpose is the even delivery of liquid seasonings (vinegar, wine, oil, etc.) into the dish being cooked: the liquid is poured into the funnel, from which it gradually drips into the pot through a small opening. Additionally, many such handle-funnels have a dual-purpose — their shape allows the lid to be placed handle down and used as a stand for hot dishes.

— Steam Vent. The presence of a steam vent in the pot lid. High steam pressure is good in pressure cookers (see "Type"), but under normal conditions, it is not always desirable, as it can lead to foam formation and product "overflow," with all the corresponding inconveniences — like stove contamination, or even extinguished gas. To avoid this, it's necessary to slightly open the lid, shifting it from the center of the pot. However, this creates another danger — the lid lies unsecured and may slip due to a misplaced position. A steam vent eliminates both inconveniences: the lid can securely remain in its designated place, yet excess pressure will still be released.

— Pouring Spout. The presence of a specific feature in the pot's design that facilitates the pouring of liquid from it. The term "spout" is quite conditional — typically, it refers to a spout or groove on the upper edge of the pot. Such a groove directs and narrows the flow of liquid, which is very useful when pouring into another container, especially if the container has a narrow neck (for example, when pouring freshly brewed compote into a bottle). In more advanced versions, there is a unique lid design: in the part of the lid opposite the spout, there are holes or a grid installed. This allows the lid to act as a strainer, letting liquid out of the pot while retaining other contents inside.

— Multi-layered Bottom. The presence of a multi-layered bottom in the pot's design. This feature is most often used in stainless steel models, occasionally in aluminium ones (see "Material"). Such a bottom usually consists of three layers: the outer and inner layers from the pot's primary material, with an intermediate layer made of another substance with higher thermal conductivity and capacity (e.g., copper). As a result, significantly faster and more even heating is ensured, and such cookware also cools down more slowly than single-layered ones.

— Capacity Scale. A special scale applied inside the pot, allowing a certain degree of accuracy in determining the volume of the contents. This feature is especially useful for those who like to cook in exact accordance with recipes.

— Removable Handles. The ability to detach the handle(s) from the pot. This feature has two main purposes. Firstly, it makes the cookware more compact, which is useful for storage and transportation. Secondly, this option is often crucial for using the cookware in an oven (see above): a long handle might simply not fit, and some materials (see "Handles") are not designed for oven use.

The material of the lid supplied as standard with the pan.

— Metal. Metal covers are characterized primarily by strength and reliability. In addition, metal is practically the only option for pressure cookers (see "Type"), as the lids of such pans are subjected to considerable stress. Most often, metal lids are made from the same material as the pan itself (see "Material"). The main disadvantage of this option is opacity: you can check the condition of the product in the pan only by opening the lid. Yes, and to a “hard” washing (abrasive powders, metal brushes), such covers are quite sensitive — scratches may appear.

— Cast iron. Lids made of cast iron are mainly used in pans made of the same material (see "Material"). They have all the characteristic features of metal lids (see above), except that they are heavier and somewhat more brittle; however, it is still quite difficult to damage cast iron.

— Glass. The main advantage of glass lids over metal and cast iron lids is transparency — due to this, you can observe the state of the product in the pan without removing the lid. Of course, such a cover is prone to fogging and getting dirty, which interferes with the view, but anyway it is better than with a completely opaque material. In addition, dishes with glass lids have a rather stylish appearance, and the lids themselves are often equipped...with handles made of Bakelite or other heat-insulating material, which allows you to remove them with your bare hands and not be afraid of burns. Yes, and "hard" cleaning glass transfers without problems. Its main disadvantage is increased fragility — such a cover can crack from a relatively mild impact. However, this disadvantage is partly compensated by the large thickness of the glass.

— Ceramics. Such lids are used exclusively with pans of the same material; for more information about the properties of ceramics, see "Material".

Some pans may come with additional lids made of different materials. For example, a pressure cooker may come with a glass lid — it is not suitable for regular use with high pressure inside, but will be convenient when used as a classic pot.

Also note that pot lids are sold separately and usually have standard diameters. So if for one reason or another you are not satisfied with the complete cover or it is not in the set, there is almost always an opportunity to buy another one.