Scanpan CTX Review

While nonstick cooking pans have been around for centuries, people are still looking for the ideal solution to take their cooking experience higher. As one of the most utilized fixtures of the kitchen, brands have invested a lot of money into both R&D and marketing to create competitive products. Scanpan CTX does a nice job of bridging the gap between function and aesthetic.

Scanpan CTX 10-Piece Deluxe Set
$699.95 ($139.99 / Count)

The Scanpan CTX is a premium aesthetic resting atop the performance materials of Scanpan Classic Induction. Yes, the set is compatible with induction cooktops. We are in love with this look, but you will certainly pay extra for the details.


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02/19/2024 06:52 am GMT

What we like

  • Incredibly fashionable.
  • High durability for nonstick cookware.
  • Compatible with induction stoves.

What We don’t

  • Among the more expensive Scanpan lines.
  • Limited sizing if you are regularly cooking large portions.
  • The warranty is limited to manufacturer defects, and in some cases may be difficult to claim.

What is Scanpan?

Scanpan has been making an extensive collection of quality non-stick pans for over three decades. The business originally started in 1956 with a `squeeze cast` method that was used to develop their first cookery. Today, Scanpan has maintained a place at the top of the market because of the dedication and exploration of modern production techniques.

All products are manufactured in Denmark, and the production is anchored in traditional Danish culture. Subsequently, the pans have excellent craftsmanship and a focus on using recycled materials in their construction. For instance, the cast base of each pan is made from 100% recycled aluminum. This reduces the overall costs of production, and yields only 5% raw material waste in the process.

The company focuses on creating functional designs, rather than novelty items, so they can be effectively used in any modern kitchen. And Scanpan is a heavy investor in research, development and design which helps them functionally and aesthetically outperform most of the competition.

Scanpan CTX 14-Piece Deluxe Set

Scanpan CTX may be a great fit if you’re looking for a long-lasting induction cook set for your kitchen. It looks great and has exceptional performance. The primary drawback is pricing, since it sits near the top of the market.

The 14-piece Deluxe Set Features is built using a multi-layer construction, atop a cast aluminum base. A magnetic stainless steel plate is added to make the pans compatible with induction cooktops. The exterior is an elegant looking stainless steel with a brushed finish, and the cook surface is coated with Scanpan’s patented Stratinum 5-layer ceramic titanium non-stick coating.

The stainless steel handles on the CTX pans are nearly identical to those used in Scanpan’s Professional and PRO IQ lines. They look good and have a nice hand feel. Compared with both Pro lines, the lids included with CTX are more functional and fashionable. They are constructed with stainless steel and glass, so that you can see your food without needing to remove the lid.

The pans are oven safe to 500° F, and can be used with silicone, wood and nylon utensils. The manufacturer says that metal utensils are also acceptable on these pans, but we would recommend against that practice as it can significantly shorten the lifespan of this cookware.

What We Like

First and foremost, we like Scanpan’s commitment to quality and sustainability throughout the manufacturing process. With so many non-stick pans hitting the market each year, we like that they are working to minimize waste and maximize re-use in the process.

The Stratinum non-stick coating has an excellent reputation among owners. It performs well on the job for food release, cleanup and durability compared with other nonstick pans. The surface is scratchable with rough scrubbing or metal utensils, but if you build healthy care habits these pans will often last for several years.

The design of Scanpan CTX is exceptional, though you’ll certainly pay for it. It’s possible to get similar functionality from one of their more affordable models. 

Induction cooking is not widespread in the United States, but if you plan on using an induction stove in your kitchen this set will be a good fit because of the magnetic steel plate built into the pan’s cast base.

What We Don’t Like

Scanpan CTX is definitely not built for a price conscious audience. There are more affordable ways to outfit your kitchen. 

Taking an a la carte approach toward building your cookware collection is a huge investment of both time and effort, but can save you money. Buying a collection like the CTX Set is a short-cut in effort, but you’ll notice the difference in cost.

Buying a full set will also add some limitations toward the type of materials you’re bringing into the kitchen. For example, some kitchens make heavy use of the CTX fry pans and saucepans, but prefer to use a dutch oven of cast iron construction instead.

One of the core challenges of non-stick cookware compared with other types is durability. It’s unlikely these pans will last for more than 5-years, so keep durability in mind when budgeting for your next set.

What’s Included In The Set

What to Know Before You Buy

Is Scanpan CTX safe?

Scanpan CTX pans are manufactured without the use of lead, cadmium, mercury or PFOA.

While doing so may impact the durability of the pans, they are manufacturer rated as dishwasher and oven-friendly. They are safe to use with temperatures up to 500 F.

Do the pans use PTFE?

The pans’ Stratinum non-stick surface is created from a blend of ceramic titanium and PTFE to enhance heat-transfer and scratch tolerance. The PTFE is not made synthetic PFOA chemicals that drew safety headlines during the early 2000s.

How Do Scanpan CTX and CTQ Compare?

Scanpan’s CTQ and CTX models are both made with a stainless steel exterior atop a cast aluminum base. The cook surfaces for each model employs PFOA-free Stratinum for food release. The two versions have similar heat transfer and durability.

Primarily, the difference between the two pans is related to aesthetic qualities and sticker price. Scanpan CTQ has a metal knob on its lid handle, while CTX has a metal strap. As for the price, CTQ is typically priced as slightly more expensive.

Is Scanpan CTX worth the Price?

If affordability is a major driver in your cookware shopping decisions, we recommend checking out Scanpan’s more affordable collections. You can see our review of the Classic and Professional collections here, which both have great performance. If aesthetic is important in your decision-making process, it’s hard to beat the CTX collection. 

How does the non-stick surface perform?

Owners give the Stratinum non-stick coating an excellent grade. Like any non-stick product that we’ve reviewed, the function will fade over time. Most owner feedback suggests that these pans will last 2-5 years with proper care.

Does the Pan Have a Warranty?

Scanpan gives the CTX a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. This is good protection if you are sent a warped or defective pan, but don’t rely on it to save you if the pans wear out quicker than expected. The warranty is limited against most damage that occurs after regular use.

How To Care For This Product

Do not overheat the pans.

These pans are not intended for regular use on high temperature settings. They are manufacturer rated to 500 F, but that doesn’t mean you should push the limit. Repeated or extended exposure to high temperature settings will shorten the life of these pans.

Use a suitable oil.

Avoid using aerosol sprays and cooking fats with a low smoke point like butter. Besides damaging the nonstick surface, they leave behind sticky residues that can be difficult to clean.

Clean gently after using.

Don’t store leftover food in your pan. After use, allow time for the pan to cool before wiping with a soft towel or washing gently with warm soapy water. Refrain from washing the pan in a dishwasher.

Alternatives To Consider

Starfrit The Rock

Starfrit The Rock 10-Piece Set
$199.99 $167.99
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02/19/2024 11:12 am GMT

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, The Rock by Starfrit is a great value for the price. We really like it for the price because of the design and durability compared to similarly priced competitors. The quality is really high, especially for the price. 

Scanpan Classic

Scanpan Classic 11 Piece Cookware Set
$430.40
  • Nonstick cookware that browns, braises, sears and deglazes.
  • Nonstick cookware that cooks with little or no oil. Safe, PFOA-free, and sustainable.
  • Nonstick cookware that is dishwasher and metal-utensil safe.
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02/18/2024 09:52 am GMT

The Danish brand that makes the CTX also offers 10 other lines of cookware, across a wide range of price points. We like most of their products, and recognize that many of the upgrades are cosmetic. The Classic offers some of the best Scanpan performance materials without any upgrade frills.

GreenLife 

GreenLife Soft Grip Ceramic Cookware
£143.99 £120.15
  • Cookware set includes: 4” mini frying pan, 7” and 9.5” frying pans, 1 quart and 2 quart saucepans with lids, 5 quart stock pot with lid, 2.5 quart saute pan with lid, 7” stainless steel steamer, and 4 kitchen utensils
  • Our healthy and easy-to-clean ceramic nonstick coating is derived from sand and free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium for effortless cooking and quick cleanup
  • Soft Grip Bakelite handles are designed to stay cool on the stovetop for maximum comfort
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If you’re seeking a PTFE-free option, GreenLife makes a decent medium heat pan for a discount price. Product durability is somewhat less than Scanpan, but pricing is significantly more competitive. The pans are offered in 7 unique colorways for those seeking a distinctive look.

Our Recommendation

The Scanpan CTX impresses with both its performance and durability. We like this collection for kitchens that are looking to invest in aesthetics in addition to function. You will pay extra for the design attention, but in our view there are few competitors that look this good.

As with any non-stick cookware, the quality of food release will deteriorate with regular use. We recommend learning the manufacturer care tips and building them into habit in order to get the most out of these pans.

Scanpan CTX 10-Piece Deluxe Set
$699.95 ($139.99 / Count)
Buy Now
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 06:52 am GMT

About the author

David is the creator of Kitchen Ambition, and has been cooking seriously for about 10 years. Originally from the American South, the spirit of bringing people together fueled his passion for cooking.

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