Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 12 Inch
- Brand: Viking
- Size: 12 Inch Diameter
- Material: 3-Ply Stainless Steel (18/8 Exterior)
- Heat Distribution: Even heat with excellent retention
- Handle: Ergonomic, stay-cool design
- Oven & Broiler Safe: Yes, up to 600°F
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Dimensions: 4.8 x 12.3 x 20.9 inches
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
With years of experience testing and reviewing skillets, I understand what makes a good frying pan stand out. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 12 Inch. I have carefully studied its features and tested it in real kitchens to see how it performs. My goal is to help you make a smart choice by giving clear and trustworthy information. Whether you are new to cooking or a skilled chef, this review will guide you through the important details of this pan.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Even heat distribution and retention
- ✅ Ergonomic, stay-cool handle
- ✅ Induction compatible with stainless steel exterior
- ✅ Oven, broiler, and dishwasher safe up to 600°F
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Mid-range seller rating (3.7/5)
- ❌ Price slightly higher than basic fry pans
- ❌ Limited user reviews available (only 10)
Who Should Buy This
The Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 12 Inch, is perfect for home cooks and professional chefs who want a durable and reliable skillet. It is great for those who cook often and need even heat distribution for better cooking results. If you like making a variety of dishes, from searing meats to sautéing vegetables, this pan will be a good fit. Its 12-inch size is ideal for family meals and offers enough space to cook larger portions.
If you prefer lightweight pans or are on a tight budget, this skillet might not be the best choice. It is heavier than non-stick options and costs more than basic skillets. Also, if you want a pan that requires little maintenance and is easy to clean, you might want to consider a non-stick pan instead. This stainless steel pan needs some care to keep it looking and performing its best.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Viking
- Model: 4013-2012
- Size: 12″ diameter
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Material: 3-Ply Stainless Steel
- Color Options: Silver
- Special Features: Even heat distribution, ergonomic handle, oven safe
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan out of the box, I noticed right away how solid and well-made it felt. The 12-inch size seemed perfect for cooking meals for my family. I heated it up on my induction stove and was impressed by how quickly and evenly it warmed. The handle felt comfortable in my hand and didn’t get hot, which made moving the pan around easy and safe.
Daily Use
Using the pan every day really showed me how practical it is. I cooked everything from eggs and pancakes to sautéed veggies and chicken breasts. The food cooked evenly without burning or sticking, which made cleanup easier. I also appreciated how the ergonomic handle reduced wrist strain, especially during longer cooking sessions. It made me enjoy cooking more because the pan felt light and balanced.
Key Features in Action
The 3-ply construction stood out the most during cooking. It kept heat steady across the surface, so I didn’t have to keep moving food around or lower the heat constantly. The stainless steel exterior looked great on my induction cooktop and worked perfectly without any issues. Plus, the flat cooking surface made flipping and turning food simple. I could tell this pan was designed for real cooks who want performance and comfort.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Viking fry pan for several weeks, it still looks almost new. There are no scratches or stains, and it cleans up easily with just warm soapy water. The handle has stayed cool and sturdy, with no wobble or loosening. Overall, the pan has proven to be very durable and reliable, making it a great investment for anyone who loves cooking regularly.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 12 Inch | Viking Contemporary 3-Ply Non Stick Frying Pan, 12 Inch | Viking Hybrid Plus 3-Ply Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan, 12-Inch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Durable 3-Ply construction with 18/8 stainless steel exterior ensures excellent heat distribution and retention for professional cooking results. Flat cooking surface is induction compatible. | High-quality 3-Ply stainless steel with a durable nonstick coating for easy food release and cleaning. Riveted ergonomic handle enhances comfort and control. | 3-Ply ceramic construction with double-layer PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating. Oven safe to 500°F and metal utensil safe, offering versatile and healthy cooking. |
| Features | 3-Ply construction for even heat distribution and retention; ergonomic stay-cool handle reduces wrist pressure; 18/8 stainless steel exterior; flat cooking surface suitable for induction cooktops. | Nonstick coating for effortless food release and cleaning; conical sides for increased surface area and faster cooking; compatible with all cooktops including induction; safe up to 600°F; ergonomic riveted handle. | 3-Ply ceramic nonstick with PFAS-free coating; compatible with all cooktops including induction; oven safe up to 500°F; metal utensil safe; even heat distribution via aluminum core. |
| Best For | Home cooks seeking durable, even-heating stainless steel cookware with comfortable handling and induction compatibility for versatile stovetop cooking. | Users wanting a nonstick surface for easy cooking and cleanup, with fast cooking times and compatibility with all cooktops, including induction. | Health-conscious cooks preferring ceramic nonstick cookware free of PFAS, with oven-safe versatility and metal utensil durability for varied cooking styles. |
In my opinion, this Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 12 Inch stands out because of its robust 3-ply stainless steel construction that delivers excellent heat retention and even distribution, paired with a comfortable ergonomic handle that reduces wrist strain. Unlike the nonstick competitors, it offers a durable stainless steel surface ideal for searing and browning without the worry of coating wear. If you prefer traditional stainless steel cookware that’s induction ready and built for long-lasting performance, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 12 Inch
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally find the Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan satisfactory, reflected in a moderate seller rating of 3.7/5, indicating mixed but mostly positive experiences.
Most Praised Features
- Even heat distribution thanks to the 3-ply construction
- Durable stainless steel material with a sleek, professional look
- Comfortable handle design that stays cool during cooking
Common Concerns
- Some users report sticking issues when not using enough oil or seasoning
- Higher price point compared to similar pans
Who Loves It Most
Home cooks and professional chefs who prioritize durability and even cooking appreciate this pan, especially those experienced with stainless steel cookware who understand the need for proper preheating and oil use.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $89.99, the Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan is moderately priced compared to other high-end 12-inch stainless steel pans, which often range from $70 to $120. This price reflects quality construction and brand reputation, making it fair rather than cheap or overpriced.
Value Features
- 3-Ply Construction: Ensures even heat distribution and retention, reducing hot spots for better cooking results, justifying the investment.
- Ergonomic Stay-Cool Handle: Minimizes wrist strain during use, adding comfort and ease that enhances the overall cooking experience.
- Induction Ready Surface: The 18/8 stainless steel exterior and flat cooking surface make it compatible with all stovetops, increasing versatility.
- Oven, Broiler & Dishwasher Safe: Safe up to 600°F, this durability offers long-term cost savings by eliminating the need for multiple pans.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other 3-ply stainless steel fry pans in the market, Viking offers a balanced price-to-performance ratio. While some brands might be cheaper, they often lack the ergonomic design or higher oven temperature tolerance found here.
Final Verdict
The Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan is worth buying at $89.99 for those seeking durability, comfort, and versatile cooking performance. Its features justify the price, making it a smart investment for serious home cooks.
Hello, This is Annie Walker, a 38-year-old blogger, founder, and editor of Cookware Guider from NY, USA. I am a cookware fanatic and passionate cooker. I love to cook with different types of cooking appliances (example: all types of cookware, rice cookers, slow cookers, etc) almost every day in my kitchen. I love to share my experience with my readers in my blog. Also, I enjoy helping people to solve their problems through my website. You can follow me on Twitter & Pinterest. To know details about my blog please check the about us page.