Saucepan Sizes: 16, 18, or 20 cm – Which One?
By Guy Degrenne - The tableware specialist | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare 16, 18, and 20 cm saucepans to find the right size for your cooking. Learn the trade-offs and get practical advice for choosing.
Quick Answer
For most home cooks, an 18 cm saucepan offers the best balance of capacity and control. Choose 16 cm for small tasks, 20 cm for family portions, or get the set to cover all bases.
Capacity and Portion Size
The main trade-off between these sizes is capacity. A 16 cm saucepan suits single servings or small sides, while an 18 cm handles two to three portions comfortably. The 20 cm is better for family meals or batch cooking.
Think about what you cook most: heating milk, boiling eggs, or making sauce for one? A smaller pan heats faster and is easier to store. If you regularly cook for four or more, the 20 cm will be more practical.
Heat Control and Versatility
All three saucepans feature Multiply technology for even heat distribution, but the size affects how quickly they respond. Smaller pans heat up faster, making them ideal for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or reducing sauces. Larger pans provide more surface area for searing or simmering larger quantities.
Consider your stovetop and storage space. A 16 cm is great for small kitchens or as a secondary pan, while a 20 cm might be your go-to for everyday cooking. If you're unsure, the set gives you flexibility without committing to a single size.
How to Choose: Trade-offs at a Glance
- 16 cm – Small but Mighty: Best for single servings, sides, or quick tasks. Heats fast and stores easily, but limited capacity for larger batches. If you often cook for one, this is your daily workhorse.
- 18 cm – The All-Rounder: Handles two to three portions, ideal for sauces, rice, or soups. Balances capacity and control for most recipes. Choose this if you want one pan that does most jobs well.
- 20 cm – Family Size: Accommodates larger quantities, perfect for family meals or batch cooking. Takes more storage space and heats slightly slower. Go for this if you regularly cook for four or more.
Product Facts
- Saucepan 18 cm: The Expert collection features stainless steel cookware equipped with Multiply technology for precise and even heat distribution. This means the 18 cm saucepan heats evenly, reducing hot spots for consistent cooking results.
Saucepan 18 cm - Saucepan 20 cm: The Expert collection features stainless steel cookware equipped with Multiply technology for precise and even heat distribution. The 20 cm saucepan provides a larger cooking surface while maintaining even heat, ideal for family-sized portions.
Saucepan 20 cm
Which Size Fits You?
Best For
- Singles or couples who cook small portions
- Home cooks who want a versatile everyday pan
- Families or those who batch cook regularly
Not For
- Anyone needing a single pan for large family meals – choose the 20 cm instead
- Cooks who prefer non-stick surfaces – these are stainless steel
