I've had my stainless steel since 1960, and they are still good, although I should replace a couple handles. I also use my cast iron pieces which are well-seasoned (but heavy), and I recently added a set of T-fal which was about half-price of regular. I once had a set of Kitchen Fair,(party plan), which were heavy, but great at first, but over the years the no-stick interiors flaked off. That was an expensive venture, as I bought 2 smaller sets for my kids. I do like the T-fal for eggs, pancakes, browning of meats, veggies, etc.