I have admired the Le Creuset for years but resisted my husbands willingness to buy a Dutch Oven for me due to the price; i just couldn't justify spending that much money on a single pan. Well - fast forward a few years and my husband purchased that Dutch Oven for Christmas and I am shocked. Not only does it heat much quicker, but the pan retains heat far better than regular cast iron. In addition, cleanup is AMAZING!! Nothing requires more than soap and water to clean with minimal elbow greese. Since Christmas I have also replaced a grill/griddle and I am currently eying a frying pan. I know you said money was the issue but I do encourage you to purchase one Le Creuset when you can.