No matter which piece of cookware you initially lean toward, it’s important to look at a few key factors before you purchase your skillet or sauté pan.

Coated cast iron pans are glazed with an enamel coating. This eliminates the need for seasoning and makes it easier to clean them. It also prevents iron from leaching into food. Enameled cast iron, however, doesn't resist sticking as well as seasoned bare cast iron. It also doesn't withstand searing heat and can chip easily if dropped.

However, as cookware diameters are measured at the opening (i.e., from side to side of the top), a 12-inch skillet means roughly 10-inches of real cooking surface. Any food that leans on the curved edges is not in direct contact with the heat and won’t cook as quickly as food on the bottom surface. However, the wide opening and relatively light weight of skillets makes them very easy to maneuver so food can be quickly shifted inside. 

On the other hand, ceramic pans, which are chemical-free with non-stick cooking surfaces, are also available in some locations, but the only drawback is they do not last long and may crack easily.