When I initially was looking for a new cookware set, I had several choices/brands to consider. Due to past experience with Circulon, we opted to stay away from it. Circulon was pretty good stuff, BUT those little ridges in the bottom of the cookware seem to collect alot of "gunk" in them...and yes I did hand wash it after each use :P After a while, unable to remove it even with scrubbing.
So I compared this set with Emerilware and Avalon hard anodized sets.
All three sets were very similar in weight and sizes. I liked the handles on the Kitchen Aid , due to the silicone rubber on them. It really keeps the cool to touch even after "heavy duty "cooking.
Also,after a little research, I discovered that there is a reason Anolon, Circulon and Kitchen Aid all look real and feel real similar... they are ALL made by the MEYER /Kitchen Aid company !!! After seeing eaach set in person at numerous store, we discovered they were almost identical except for a few minor detail (handles, markings, etc.) Seems that even cookware , you pay for the name!!
Lastly, we have used this cookware to cook fish, chicken, ground beef, eggs, you name it. I con honestly tell you , as stated, you only need to use oil/butter for flavor. NOTHING sticks to this cookware. everything seems to just slide right off. I mean even water on these pans beads right up! It heats evenly and very fast. As directions state, cook on low to medium heat. Seems this cookware heats up faster and cooks better that way. On low/ medium heat, was able to cook just as fast as my previous pans did on high.
All in all...fantastic cookware set and fantastic price on Amazon.
I would highly recommend this set for those that need new cookware and those that love to cook. You don't need to spend tons of money on the other brands whem you can get the same this/ different name for a much cheaper price!! :)