Head-to-head · Best Cast Iron Skillets

Lodge Cast Iron Set - 5-Piece Set - Pre-Seasoned Kitchen Set - Skillets, Griddle vs Stargazer Cast Iron Skillets

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Stargazer Cast Iron Skillets comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about Buyers seeking heirloom-quality performance — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #7 in Best Cast Iron Skillets

Lodge Cast Iron Set - 5-Piece Set - Pre-Seasoned Kitchen Set - Skillets, Griddle

4.3

$100as of May 28

The Lodge Cast Iron 5-Piece Set offers pre-seasoned, durable cookware ideal for various cooking methods including stovetop, oven, grill, and campfire use. The set includes a Dutch oven, two skillets, a griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces. Reviewers noted the self-basting spikes on the lid as a useful feature, though the heavy pieces make handling and storage challenging. The set is praised for its versatility and classic design, though the lack of a lid for the small skillet is seen as a limitation.

Strengths

— Pre-seasoned for immediate use with no additional seasoning required
— Durable cast iron construction suitable for stovetop, oven, grill, and campfire cooking
— Includes versatile pieces: 10.25-inch Dutch oven, 10.25-inch skillet, 8-inch skillet, 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces

Watch-outs

— Pieces are heavy, making them difficult to handle and store
— No lid included for the small skillet

$100 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Cast Iron Skillets

Stargazer Cast Iron Skillets

4.6

$155

The Stargazer 10.5-Inch Cast Iron Skillet offers a premium vintage-style cooking experience with a smooth, machined surface that's easier to clean and less prone to sticking than traditional cast iron. Bon Appétit's Wilder Davies praised its quick heating, glossy nonstick finish, and durability, calling it built to last a lifetime. While reviewers noted it's heavier than average at 5.2 lb, its smart handle design and drip-free flared rim make it user-friendly. It's ideal for cooks seeking a high-end, heirloom-quality pan versus those looking for budget-friendly options like Lodge.

Strengths

— Features a smooth, machined cooking surface that's easier to clean and less prone to sticking
— Includes a long, stay-cool handle and helper handle for easy maneuvering
— Has a drip-free flared rim that allows easy pouring at any angle

Watch-outs

— Heavier than typical cast iron skillets at 5.2 lb
— Price point is higher than basic Lodge models

$155 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Lodge Cast Iron Set - 5-Piece Set - Pre-Seasoned Kitchen Set - Skillets, Griddle

Unlike the Victoria Cast Iron Skillet, which has a smoother surface but requires more maintenance, the Lodge 5-piece set offers convenience with its pre-seasoned pieces and includes a versatile griddle. However, it lacks a lid for the small skillet, a shortcoming not found in the Stargazer skillet which provides a more complete set of pieces.

Stargazer Cast Iron Skillets

The Stargazer skillet surpasses the Lodge 10.25-inch skillet in terms of surface finish and handle design, offering a smoother cooking experience and easier maneuvering. However, it's heavier and more expensive than the Lodge, which makes the latter a better choice for those who want premium features without the premium price tag.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Lodge Cast Iron Set - 5-Piece Set - Pre-Seasoned Kitchen Set - Skillets, Griddle	Stargazer Cast Iron Skillets
Material	Cast iron	Cast iron
Diameter	10.25-inch and 8-inch	10.5 in
Seasoning	Pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil	Seasoned (canola, grapreseed, and sunflower oils) or Bare (mineral oil)
Capacity	5-quart Dutch oven	2.3 qt
Compatibility	Stovetop, oven, grill, campfire, and induction cooktops	Induction compatible
Shape	Classic	Round with a drip-free flared rim
Handle	Long handles with hanging holes; some with loop handles	Stay-cool long handle and a helper handle
Weight	—	5.2 lb

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