What Size Frying Pan Should You Choose?

How to choose the size
of your pan

Diameter affects how food browns, the efficiency of your kitchen —especially on induction— and cooking comfort. We’ve put together this guide so you can make the right choice next time.

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Find your size

What is your ideal pan?

Still not sure what size you need? Answer three questions and we’ll tell you exactly which diameter is right for you.

Test · Question 1 of 3

How many people do you usually cook for?

Think about your everyday routine, not special occasions.

Test · Question 2 of 3

Do you have an induction cooktop?

This affects how to choose the exact diameter.

Test · Question 3 of 3

What do you cook most often?

Your cooking style also determines the ideal size.

Your ideal pan is

18–20 cm
The single-serve pan

Perfect for cooking for one, fast. Ideal for eggs, small omelets, and reheating portions.

Claudia&Julia tip: With 18 cm, you save energy and cupboard space. Easy to clean and store. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
22–24 cm
The expanded single-serve

For cooking whole pieces when it’s just you. It gives you room without being too large.

Claudia&Julia tip: If you have induction, make sure your cooktop is at least 22 cm in diameter. Check your cooktop diameter before buying.
20–22 cm
The compact all-rounder

A size that works for any recipe without taking up too much space.

Claudia&Julia tip: If you find yourself running out of room often, consider also having a 24 cm pan. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
20–22 cm
The everyday pan

Ideal for two people with simple recipes. Easy to clean and store.

Claudia&Julia tip: You’ll get plenty of use out of this size morning, noon, and night. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
24–26 cm
The all-rounder

For two people cooking large pieces. With 24–26 cm, you’ll have plenty of space.

Claudia&Julia tip: With induction, check that your cooktop supports this diameter to make the most of the heat. Measure your cooktop carefully before buying.
24–26 cm
The most popular

The size most people love. Versatile, comfortable, and roomy enough for any recipe.

Claudia&Julia tip: If you could only have one pan at home, this would be the winning choice. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
24–26 cm
The light family pan

Perfect for families that cook simple meals but want enough room for everyone.

Claudia&Julia tip: At 24 cm, it’s still manageable in small kitchens with limited hob space. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
28–30 cm
The large family pan

For families cooking large pieces or big quantities. Nothing will feel too small.

Claudia&Julia tip: At this size, look for a pan with good weight and a comfortable handle: you’ll be lifting it quite full. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
26–28 cm
The versatile family pan

Covers any recipe for 3–4 people without being too large.

Claudia&Julia tip: Ideal together with a 22 cm one: between the two, you’ll cover 100% of your recipes. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
26–28 cm
The big all-rounder

For big tables with light cooking. Everything fits and there’s still room to spare.

Claudia&Julia tip: If your needs vary a lot, consider also having a 24 cm one for lighter days. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
+30 cm
For special occasions

When you cook for many people and with large pieces, you need a truly large pan.

Claudia&Julia tip: More than 30 cm is quite heavy when full. Make sure your kitchen and cooktop can handle it. With induction, it’s especially important that the cooktop is compatible.
28–30 cm
The big all-rounder

For a table of 5 or more with a variety of recipes, this range covers everything comfortably.

Claudia&Julia tip: Pairing it with a 22–24 cm pan for smaller everyday recipes is the perfect combination. And remember: on induction, the diameter must match your cooktop.
Download guide

Reference chart

Size by number of diners

18–20 cm

1 person

Eggs, small omelets, reheating individual portions

20–22 cm

1–2 people

Sautéed vegetables, pancakes, medium omelets

24–26 cm
The most popular

2–4 people

Stir-fried pasta, meat, large omelets

28–30 cm

3–5 people

Family dishes, paellas, large sautés

+30 cm

5 or more people

Large quantities, gatherings, and generous recipes

Before you buy

Four tips that make all the difference

If you want to replace your pan with the same size, measure the top diameter: that is always the one shown when buying.

With an induction cooktop, choose a pan that matches the diameter of the hob so you use energy efficiently and distribute heat properly.

If you usually cook large pieces of meat or fish, you need a wide pan: at least 26–28 cm.

If you cook a variety of dishes, the ideal setup is two sizes: a 22–24 cm one for everyday use and a 26–28 cm one for more complete recipes.

The love is our
secret ingredient

Download the full guide and make the right choice next time.

Download guide