A basic guide to copper pan thickness

Tin-lined copper pans come in a variety of thicknesses, tailored to their intended use, ranging from under 1mm (for decorative purposes) to 5mm for ultra-heavy-duty pots and pans. But thicker doesn’t always mean better.

While there is a minimum thickness needed for practicality in the kitchen, once you reach around 1.5mm, the pan can be used safely with minimal concern. Copper is known for its exceptional heat conductivity, heating up quickly and evenly. The reason 1.5mm is often considered the "minimum" for functional cookware is that thinner copper heats up faster and is more delicate than thicker alternatives. Below 1.5mm, copper pans have a tendency to become too reactive to fluctuations in temperature, especially when used on an electric stove.

However, this isn't always a drawback. For instance, crepe pans, designed for lower heat and shorter cooking times, benefit from the quick responsiveness of thinner copper. A thinner pan allows for faster temperature adjustments, offering more precision compared to thicker copper. On the other hand, if you’re simmering a stock or soup for several hours, a thicker pot that retains heat well is a distinct advantage.

Another factor to consider is how frequently the pan will be used. Professional kitchens require cookware built to withstand heavy use, often for 8-12 hours a day. For these environments, thicker copper is preferred for its durability, though the trade-off is added weight, which can strain the wrists over time. Tableside cookware, prized for its delicate appearance and quick responsiveness, generally does not exceed 2.5mm in thickness.

For most home cooks, 2-2.5mm copper pans strike the ideal balance. They’re heavy enough to retain heat but light enough to offer precise control over temperature without causing fatigue. These pans are versatile, capable of handling everything from searing to delicate sauces, and their form can be aesthetically pleasing. For specific tasks like making crepes or omelets, I prefer 1.5mm copper because it heats up faster and feels light when flipping delicate items.

In recent years, there’s been a misconception that thicker copper equals higher-quality cookware. In reality, the right pan thickness should be chosen based on the task at hand. Just as I select different knives for different jobs, it’s important to tailor the thickness of your copper pan to suit your specific cooking needs.