Anyone who cooks knows that a quality pot and pan set is an absolute must in the kitchen. Far too often, beginner cooks will opt for affordability rather than longevity in their cookware and end up paying more in the long run when they have to replace their entire set within a few years. Cookware sets are not all created equal; this we know, but how do you know which pot and pan set is right for you? We’ve included a few favorites below to help you find your perfect match.

If you’re a Gordon Ramsey in the kitchen: Get serious in the kitchen and upgrade your cooking experience with a pot and pan set like the one from HexClad. They’re one-of-a-kind with a signature hexagon surface that creates the scientific nonstick design. The surface has a peaks and valleys texture which allows for the perfect sear and protection against peeling. A hybrid pot and pan set with both stainless steel and aluminum allow for searing from to the surface texture and easy cleanup due to the materials it’s made from. This pot and pan set makes cooking and cleaning easy and is the most high-quality, chef-grade set for its price range. And we weren’t kidding; it really is Gordon Ramsey’s cookware of choice.

If you’re an aesthetic enthusiast in the kitchen: The Caraway Cookware set was made for people who are lovers of beautiful things in their kitchen. This gorgeous ceramic-coated pot and pan set comes in stunning colors and has an aesthetic storing rack for both your pots and lids so that even in your cabinets, your cookware set looks good. It has a non-toxic coating, free of PTFE, along with a nonstick surface. With its stylistic finish and cult following, this set is sure to enhance your kitchen vision and make every cooking experience visually pleasing.

If you’re a beginner chef in the kitchen: Tried and true, Calphalon is a great cookware set for the cook who’s just starting out in the kitchen. With a smaller price tag than the more luxury brands that may have a longer life, Calphalon sets still remain beloved by many and are sturdy and reliable for the price. This classic nonstick pot and pan set has been found in American homes for years and has a two-layer nonstick surface that is great for the beginner chef. This aluminum cookware set with stainless steel handles and tempered glass lids is oven-safe up to 450 degrees. Whether you’re taking a class, watching online videos, or simply trying to master a recipe in a book, the Calphalon set will be with you every step of the way in your newbie journey.

If you’re a lover of color in the kitchen: For you, cooking is all about having fun and expressing yourself. The Our Place pan is the perfect accessory for your New York studio apartment or your downtown loft. Where space is limited, you might as well have cookware that serves as a statement piece, and the Our Place pan truly is pretty enough to do just that. Meant for the minimalist, the Always Pan by Our Place serves to replace 8 different traditional pieces of cookware. They also have the Perfect Pot for all your needs. With 13 incredibly unique colors ranging from lavender and terracotta to electric green and golden yellow, there is truly no other cookware set on the market that is more vibrant in the kitchen.

If you’re a lover of a classic look in the kitchen: Maybe you want to hang your pots and pans from the ceiling in that French kitchen bistro way that shows you have a traditional taste with the flair of a chef. If the colored pot is not for you, there are absolutely gorgeous stainless steel sets out there that are sure to catch your eye. Our favorite is the Cuisinart Multiclad Stainless Steel Set. With its attractive design, it still manages to be nearly indestructible. Both elegant and contemporary, this set has a brushed finish and is oven-safe up to 550 degrees.

Conclusion

Don’t fall prey to the trap of buying the cheapest set on the market; there are options out there that are high-quality, aesthetic choices that will end up saving you money in the long run as you may never have to purchase another pot and pan again. Cookware sets should reflect who you are in the kitchen. Take time to consider what’s most important to you in features and choose something that reflects your personal style. Whether you’re a nonstick enthusiast or a stylistic chef, there’s something out there for everyone.