Difference Between Hard Coat Enamel & Porcelain Enamel

Luster

• Though porcelain enamel cookware is well-known for its sometimes decorative exterior, hard-coat enamel pots and pans often have more luster than porcelain enamel pieces. In some cases this is because a clear coat of hardened enamel has been painted on the outside of hard-coat enamel cookware, which gives it an additional dimension and shine that porcelain cookware does not have. In other cases it is because the additional layers of colored enamel make the color on the outside of the cookware deeper and richer.

Durability

• The extra coating found on hard-coat enamel cookware gives it the advantage of having more durability than plain porcelain enamel cookware pieces. Though porcelain enamel is known for its durability, the extra coating on the outside of the hard-coat enamel cookware makes it more resistant to cracks, scratches and chips. Because this type of damage often leads to the rusting of the metal parts beneath the cookware’s enamel coating, hard-coat enamel cookware is often the best option for those who want their cookware to last longer.

Price

• When comparing hard-coat and porcelain enamel cookware on the basis of price, you will find that you will pay a little more for hard-coat enamel cookware; this is because the extra layer of enamel coating on hard-coat enamel cookware commands a higher price. However, because hard-coat enamel cookware does not need to be replaced as often as porcelain enamel, you may find that the cost gets lower over time.

Use and Care

• Hard-coat enamel cookware can be put in the dishwasher more often than porcelain enamel because of the extra protective coating. You will also be able to cook your food at slightly higher temperatures with hard-coat enamel cookware. If you have an occasional need to put your cookware in the dishwasher or use a higher cooking temperature, hard-coat enamel might be better suited to your demands.