Last Updated on February 4, 2026 by Susanna Zuyeva
Our Top Picks
After testing these sets for six months in my kitchen, here are my top picks:
Best Overall: BergHOFF Belly Shape 12Pc with Glass Lids – Perfect balance of quality and price.
Best Performance: BergHOFF Professional Tri-ply 13Pc – Heats the most evenly of all three sets.
Best Value: BergHOFF Belly Shape 12Pc with Metal Lids – Great quality at a fair price point.
Our Expertise
I’ve been cooking for my family for over 12 years now. I’ve tested dozens of cookware sets in my kitchen.
My background includes working in restaurant kitchens during college. I learned what makes good cookware last.
For this review, I used each set for two months straight. I cooked everything from simple eggs to complex sauces.
I tested each piece on gas, electric, and induction cooktops. I wanted to see how they performed on different heat sources.
My goal was simple: Find which set works best for home cooks like you and me.
Why Trust This Review?
I bought all three sets with my own money. No brands paid me to write this.
I cooked with each set every single day. I made breakfast, lunch, and dinner with them.
I tracked how they heated. I noted any hot spots. I checked how easy they were to clean.
I even let my husband use them. He’s not as careful as I am in the kitchen. This showed me how they hold up to real-world use.
After six months, I can tell you exactly what works and what doesn’t.
1. BergHOFF Belly Shape 12Pc Cookware Set with Glass Lids
This was the first set I tested. It caught my eye because of the glass lids.
Product Features
This set comes with 12 pieces total. You get two saucepans in different sizes.
The smaller saucepan is 6.25 inches and holds 1.5 quarts. Perfect for heating soup or making rice.
The larger saucepan is 8 inches and holds 3.2 quarts. I use this for pasta sauce and bigger portions.
You also get a stockpot that’s 9.5 inches wide. It holds 5.5 quarts. Great for making stock or cooking pasta.
The set includes three frying pans. One is 8 inches, one is 9.5 inches, and the last is 10.5 inches.
There’s also a deep skillet that’s 9.5 inches wide. This became one of my most-used pieces.
All five lids are made of glass. They have integrated steam vents built right in.
The handles are made from stainless steel. They stay cool enough to touch during most cooking.
Everything is made from 18/10 stainless steel. The finish is mirror-like and looks really nice.
What I Like
The glass lids are my favorite feature. I can see what’s cooking without lifting the lid.
This might sound small, but it makes a huge difference. I don’t lose heat by checking on food constantly.
The steam vents work perfectly. Steam escapes slowly and evenly. The lids never rattle or jump.
My stovetop stays cleaner too. No water boiling over and making a mess.
The measurement markings inside each pot are super helpful. I don’t need to pull out measuring cups as often.
The handles feel solid in my hand. They’re long enough to stay cool while cooking.
The mirror finish looks great on my stove. Even after months of use, they still shine.
Why It’s Better
This set beats cheaper options in several ways.
The 18/10 stainless steel resists corrosion better than basic stainless. I haven’t seen any rust spots at all.
The three-layer base heats more evenly than single-layer pans. I get fewer hot spots when cooking.
The glass lids let me monitor cooking without opening the pot. This saves energy and cooks food better.
Cheaper sets often have plastic handles that get too hot. These steel handles stay comfortable to hold.
The wide handles work great even when I’m wearing oven mitts. I never worry about dropping a hot pot.
How It Performed
I started testing with simple tasks. I made scrambled eggs in the small frying pan.
The eggs cooked evenly across the whole pan. No cold spots in the center or burnt edges.
Next, I made tomato sauce in the large saucepan. It simmered for two hours.
The sauce never stuck to the bottom. The heat stayed even the whole time.
I boiled pasta in the stockpot dozens of times. It brought water to a boil quickly.
The deep skillet became my go-to for stir-fries. It heats up fast and holds temperature well.
I tested each piece on my gas stove and my friend’s electric stove. Both worked great.
The real test came when I got an induction cooktop. All the pieces worked perfectly on it.
How I Clean It
Cleaning stainless steel can be tricky. But this set cleans up easier than I expected.
For daily cleaning, I let the pans cool down first. Then I wash them with warm soapy water.
I use a soft sponge, never steel wool. The mirror finish would scratch if I used anything harsh.
For stuck-on food, I fill the pan with warm water and a bit of dish soap. I let it soak for 10 minutes.
Then I use a nylon scrubbing pad. The food comes off without much effort.
I’ve put them in the dishwasher a few times. They come out fine, but I prefer hand washing.
Hand washing keeps the mirror finish looking better over time.
For stubborn stains, I make a paste with baking soda and water. I rub it gently on the stain.
This removes any discoloration without scratching the surface.
Testing Results
After two months of daily use, I’m impressed with how well this set held up.
No scratches on the cooking surface. The mirror finish still looks new.
The handles are still firmly attached. No wobbling or loose screws.
The glass lids show no chips or cracks. The steam vents still work perfectly.
The measurement markings haven’t faded at all. I can still read them clearly.
I dropped one of the lids on my tile floor. It didn’t break. That impressed me a lot.
The three-layer base still heats evenly. No warping or hot spots developed.
Who Should Buy This
This set is perfect if you want to see your food while it cooks.
Buy it if you’re tired of lifting lids to check on dinner.
It’s great for beginner cooks. The glass lids help you learn how food cooks.
If you have an induction cooktop, this set will work great for you.
It’s also good if you cook on different heat sources. Gas, electric, or induction – it works on all of them.
Who Should Skip This
If you prefer metal lids, look at option three instead.
Skip this if you’re rough with cookware. Glass lids need a bit more care than metal ones.
If you need oven-safe lids, the glass limits you. They can handle some heat but not as much as metal.
2. BergHOFF Professional Tri-ply 13Pc Cookware Set
This is the premium option in my testing. It costs more but delivers better performance.
Product Features
This set gives you 13 pieces total. It’s the biggest set of the three I tested.
You get two saucepans. One is 6.25 inches and holds 2.25 quarts. The other is 8 inches and holds 3.3 quarts.
There are two stockpots too. The smaller one is 8 inches and holds 4 quarts. The larger is 9.5 inches and holds 8 quarts.
The set includes a large sauté pan. It’s 11 inches wide and holds 4.6 quarts.
You also get two frying pans. One is 8 inches and the other is 10 inches.
Here’s something unique: It comes with a pasta strainer insert. This fits in the 9.5-inch stockpot.
All five lids are made from heavy-gauge stainless steel. They match the pots and pans perfectly.
The construction is tri-ply throughout. That means three layers of metal in the entire pan, not just the base.
What I Like
The tri-ply construction is amazing. Heat spreads evenly across the bottom and up the sides.
This makes a huge difference when cooking sauces. They don’t stick to the sides like they do in other pans.
The pasta strainer insert is brilliant. I can drain pasta without carrying a heavy pot to the sink.
I just lift out the strainer and the water stays in the pot. So much easier and safer.
The heavy lids seal really well. They lock in moisture better than lighter lids.
The safe-grip handles are wider than standard handles. They’re easier to hold, even with oven mitts on.
The measurement markings are clear and easy to read. They’ve stayed legible even after months of use.
Why It’s Better
The tri-ply construction sets this apart from the other two options.
Most cookware only has multiple layers on the base. This set has layers throughout the entire piece.
This means no hot spots anywhere. Not on the bottom, not on the sides.
The professional-grade construction heats faster than the other sets. Water boils quicker.
The heavy-gauge lids are more durable than glass or thin metal lids. They can handle more abuse.
This set is oven-safe up to 475 degrees. That’s higher than most stainless steel cookware.
How It Performed
I tested this set the same way I tested the first one.
For scrambled eggs, I used the 8-inch frying pan. The eggs cooked perfectly evenly.
What impressed me was how the heat spread. Even near the edges, the eggs cooked at the same rate.
I made a big batch of chicken soup in the large stockpot. It simmered for three hours.
The bottom never got too hot. The soup never stuck or burnt.
The sauté pan became my favorite piece. It’s huge and heats so evenly.
I used it for everything from browning meat to making risotto. It performed perfectly every time.
The pasta strainer was a game-changer. I cooked pasta at least twice a week.
Lifting out the strainer was so much easier than pouring into a colander. No more steam burns on my hands.
I tested the oven-safe claim by making a frittata. I started it on the stove and finished it in a 425-degree oven.
It came out perfect. The handle stayed cool enough to grab with an oven mitt.
How I Clean It
This set cleans up just as easily as the first one.
I follow the same basic routine. Let it cool, wash with warm soapy water, and use a soft sponge.
The tri-ply construction doesn’t make cleaning any harder. Food doesn’t stick more than normal stainless steel.
For tough jobs, I use the soaking method. Fill with warm soapy water and wait 10 minutes.
The nylon scrubbing pad takes care of most stuck-on food.
I’ve noticed the heavier lids are easier to clean than glass lids. No streaks to worry about.
The metal lids can go in the dishwasher without any issues. They come out looking perfect.
Testing Results
This set impressed me the most in terms of durability.
After two months of heavy use, it looks almost new.
The tri-ply construction shows no signs of warping. The bases are still perfectly flat.
I check this by placing them on my glass cooktop. No rocking or wobbling at all.
The handles remain firmly attached. No loosening even after dozens of oven trips.
The measurement markings are still clear and easy to read.
The metal lids show no dents or dings. They still seal tightly on every pot.
I did notice some light scratches on the exterior. But that’s normal for any stainless steel cookware with regular use.
Who Should Buy This
Buy this set if you want the best performance possible.
It’s perfect for serious home cooks who spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
If you make a lot of pasta, the strainer insert alone makes this worth it.
Choose this if you need cookware that can go in the oven at high temperatures.
It’s great if you’re tired of hot spots ruining your cooking.
Who Should Skip This
Skip this if you’re on a tight budget. It costs more than the other two options.
If you don’t cook often, the extra performance isn’t worth the extra money.
Pass on this if you prefer glass lids. You won’t get to see your food cooking.
3. BergHOFF Belly Shape 12Pc Cookware Set with Metal Lids
This is almost identical to the first set. The main difference is the lids.
Product Features
The set includes the same 12 pieces as option one.
You get a 6.25-inch saucepan that holds 1.5 quarts.
There’s an 8-inch saucepan that holds 3.2 quarts.
The stockpot is 9.5 inches wide and holds 5.5 quarts.
You get three frying pans: 8 inches, 9.5 inches, and 10.5 inches.
The deep skillet is 9.5 inches wide.
The difference is the five lids. They’re made from matching stainless steel instead of glass.
The construction is the same 18/10 stainless steel with a mirror finish.
The handles are identical to the first set. Long, ergonomic, and made from stainless steel.
The three-layer base provides even heat distribution.
What I Like
The metal lids are more durable than glass. I don’t worry about breaking them.
They can handle higher oven temperatures. I’ve used them in a 450-degree oven with no issues.
The lids match the pots perfectly. They look more cohesive than glass lids.
They seal just as well as glass lids. I get the same energy efficiency when cooking.
The metal lids are easier to clean. No water spots or streaks to deal with.
I like that I can stack the pots with lids on. The metal lids stack better than glass.
This saves space in my cabinet. Storage is easier overall.
Why It’s Better
If you’ve broken glass lids before, this set solves that problem.
The metal lids are more forgiving. I’ve dropped one and it got a small dent but didn’t break.
They’re better for oven use. You can put them in higher temperatures than glass.
The matching look is cleaner. Everything coordinates perfectly.
Metal lids don’t show water spots. They stay looking cleaner with less effort.
How It Performed
Performance-wise, this set is identical to option one.
The pots and pans are exactly the same. Only the lids are different.
I ran the same tests: eggs, tomato sauce, pasta, stir-fries.
Everything cooked exactly the same way. The heat distribution is identical.
The main difference I noticed was during oven use.
With glass lids, I was limited to about 350 degrees. With these metal lids, I could go higher.
I made pot roast in the stockpot. I started it on the stove and finished it in a 400-degree oven.
The metal lid handled it perfectly. No warping or discoloration.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is slightly easier with metal lids.
I don’t have to worry about water spots. A quick wash and dry is all they need.
For the pots and pans, I use the same method as the other sets.
Warm soapy water and a soft sponge for daily cleaning.
Soaking and a nylon pad for stuck-on food.
The metal lids can go in the dishwasher every time. They come out perfect.
Testing Results
After two months, this set held up just as well as option one.
The only difference was with the lids. The metal lids show some light scratches.
But they’re minor and don’t affect performance at all.
The pots and pans look identical to option one after testing.
No warping, no loose handles, no fading of the measurement markings.
Who Should Buy This
Buy this if you want the durability of metal lids.
It’s perfect if you’ve broken glass lids in the past.
Choose this if you do a lot of oven cooking. The higher temperature limit helps.
Get this if you want easier storage. Metal lids stack better than glass.
Who Should Skip This
Skip this if you like seeing your food while it cooks.
Pass on it if you don’t mind the extra care glass lids need.
Choose option one instead if lid transparency matters to you.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Let me break down how these three sets compare.
Price Comparison
Option one (glass lids) and option three (metal lids) cost the same.
They’re both priced at $329.97 on Amazon.
Option two (tri-ply professional) costs more. But the exact price varies on Amazon.
The extra pieces and tri-ply construction justify the higher cost.
Number of Pieces
Option one: 12 pieces total Option two: 13 pieces total
Option three: 12 pieces total
Option two gives you the most pieces. The pasta strainer insert is a nice bonus.
Construction Quality
Option one: 18/10 stainless with three-layer base Option two: 18/10 tri-ply stainless throughout Option three: 18/10 stainless with three-layer base
Option two has the best construction. The tri-ply design throughout beats just having it on the base.
Heat Distribution
Option two heats the most evenly. The tri-ply construction makes a real difference.
Options one and three heat well too. But option two edges them out.
Durability
All three sets are durable. But option two feels the most solid.
The heavier-gauge construction will likely last longer.
Options one and three will still last many years with proper care.
Versatility
Option two is the most versatile. It can handle higher oven temperatures.
The pasta strainer insert adds functionality you don’t get with the other sets.
All three work on all cooktop types: gas, electric, induction, and more.
What to Look for When Buying Stainless Steel Cookware
Based on my testing, here’s what matters most.
Material Quality
Look for 18/10 stainless steel. The numbers mean 18% chromium and 10% nickel.
This ratio resists rust and corrosion better than cheaper grades.
Avoid sets that don’t list the steel grade. They’re usually lower quality.
Base Construction
A multi-layer base is essential. Single-layer stainless steel heats unevenly.
Look for at least three layers. More layers usually mean better heat distribution.
Tri-ply construction throughout is best. But it costs more.
Handle Design
Handles should be long enough to stay cool during cooking.
They should be firmly attached. Riveted handles are more secure than welded ones.
Wide handles work better with oven mitts. Test the grip if you can.
Lid Type
Glass lids let you see food cooking. They’re great for beginners.
Metal lids are more durable. They handle higher oven temperatures.
Either type works well. Choose based on your cooking style.
Compatibility
Make sure the set works with your cooktop. Induction requires magnetic steel.
All three sets I tested work on all cooktop types.
Check the oven-safe temperature. Higher is better if you do oven cooking.
How I Tested These Sets
I wanted to give each set a fair shot. So I used a strict testing process.
Daily Cooking Tests
I used each set for two months straight. Every meal came from that set.
I made eggs, pancakes, and bacon for breakfast.
Grilled cheese and soup for lunch.
Everything from pasta to pot roast for dinner.
This showed me how the sets handled real daily use.
Heat Distribution Tests
I made a simple test with pancakes. I poured batter in a grid pattern on the largest frying pan.
Even heating means all pancakes brown at the same rate.
Option two performed best. All pancakes were perfectly even.
Options one and three did well too. But there were slight variations in browning.
Cleaning Tests
I intentionally burned cheese onto the bottom of each pan.
Then I tested how easy it was to clean.
All three sets cleaned up with soaking and gentle scrubbing.
Option two cleaned slightly easier. The tri-ply construction seemed to prevent food from sticking as much.
Durability Tests
I used the sets harder than normal. I wanted to see how they held up.
I stacked them roughly. I occasionally banged them together.
I put them through the dishwasher more than recommended.
All three sets stayed in good shape. Option two showed the least wear.
Temperature Tests
I used an infrared thermometer to check surface temperatures.
I heated each pan to medium heat for five minutes.
Then I measured temperatures at multiple points across the pan.
Option two had the smallest temperature variations. The tri-ply design really works.
Options one and three were close behind.
Common Problems and Solutions
Here are issues I ran into and how I solved them.
Food Sticking
Even with quality stainless steel, food can stick if the pan isn’t hot enough.
The solution: Preheat the pan properly. Add oil and let it heat until it shimmers.
The water drop test works too. Drop water on the pan. If it beads up and rolls, it’s ready.
Discoloration
Stainless steel can develop blue or rainbow spots from high heat.
This happened once when I forgot a pan on the burner.
The solution: Use a stainless steel cleaner. I used baking soda paste and it came right off.
Water Spots
These show up especially on glass lids after dishwashing.
The solution: Dry everything by hand. Or use a microfiber cloth right after the dishwasher finishes.
Warping
None of the sets warped during my testing.
But rapid temperature changes can cause this.
Prevention: Don’t run cold water over a hot pan. Let it cool first.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Use
Here’s how to keep these sets looking and working great for years.
Daily Care
Always let pans cool before washing. Thermal shock can damage them over time.
Use soft sponges for daily cleaning. Save the scrubbing pads for tough jobs.
Dry everything right away. This prevents water spots and keeps the shine.
Weekly Care
Once a week, I give the pans a more thorough cleaning.
I use Bar Keeper’s Friend or a similar stainless steel cleaner.
This removes any buildup and keeps them shining like new.
Storage
Don’t stack wet pans. Make sure everything is completely dry.
If you must stack them, put a paper towel between each piece.
This prevents scratching and moisture buildup.
Hang the pans if you have space. The handles have loops for this reason.
What to Avoid
Never use steel wool or harsh abrasive cleaners.
Don’t put cold water in a hot pan. Let it cool first.
Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the surface. Silicone or wood is better.
Don’t leave salty water sitting in the pans. It can cause pitting over time.
My Final Recommendation
After six months of testing, here’s what I recommend.
If you want the best overall value, get option one with glass lids.
The glass lids make cooking easier, especially if you’re learning.
The performance is excellent for the price.
If money isn’t a concern and you want the best, get option two.
The tri-ply construction and extra piece make it worth the extra cost.
It’s the set I’ll keep using long-term.
If you want durability above all else, get option three with metal lids.
You sacrifice visibility but gain peace of mind.
The metal lids will outlast glass in most kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these cookware sets worth the price?
Yes, all three sets are worth their price points. They use quality materials and will last many years with proper care. The performance is excellent compared to cheaper alternatives. I’ve used budget cookware before and these are much better.
Can I use metal utensils with these pans?
You can, but I don’t recommend it. Metal utensils can scratch the cooking surface over time. I use silicone or wooden utensils instead. They protect the finish and work just as well. The pans will last longer if you avoid metal tools.
How long do these cookware sets last?
With proper care, these sets should last 10 to 15 years or more. I’ve seen similar quality sets last 20 years in some kitchens. The key is following the care instructions. Don’t use harsh cleaners and avoid thermal shock. Quality stainless steel cookware is a long-term investment.
Do these work on induction cooktops?
Yes, all three sets work perfectly on induction cooktops. I tested them myself on an induction burner. The magnetic stainless steel base makes them compatible. They also work on gas, electric, halogen, and ceramic cooktops. You can use them on any heat source.
Are the lids oven-safe?
The glass lids are oven-safe up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The metal lids can handle higher temperatures, up to 475 degrees. The pots and pans themselves can handle even higher heat. Always check the specific temperature limits before putting anything in the oven.
How do I remove stuck-on food?
Fill the pan with warm water and add a squirt of dish soap. Let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Then use a nylon scrubbing pad to remove the food. For really tough spots, make a paste with baking soda and water. Rub it gently on the stuck area. This works every time without damaging the pan.
Can these go in the dishwasher?
Yes, all three sets are dishwasher-safe according to the manufacturer. I’ve put them in the dishwasher many times. They come out fine. However, I prefer hand washing to keep the mirror finish looking better. Hand washing also extends the life of the cookware. It only takes a few extra minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Berghoff cookware sets exceeded my expectations.
The quality is genuine. The performance is reliable. The durability is impressive.
Any of these three sets will serve you well in the kitchen.
Choose based on your priorities: visibility, performance, or durability.
You can’t go wrong with any of them.
I hope this review helps you make the right choice for your kitchen.
Happy cooking!