If you are choosing between aluminium and stainless steel cookware, the right answer depends on what you cook, how you cook, and what matters most to you. Both materials have real strengths, and both are used in professional kitchens worldwide. Here is a factual comparison to help you decide.

Heat Conductivity

Aluminium conducts heat approximately 16 times faster than stainless steel. This means an aluminium pot heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly across the entire cooking surface. For dishes like pap, porridge, and stews — where even heat prevents burning at the bottom — aluminium has a clear advantage.

Stainless steel heats more slowly and can develop hot spots, particularly in thinner pots. Higher-quality stainless steel cookware addresses this with a layered base (sometimes called a capsule bottom or tri-ply construction) that sandwiches an aluminium or copper core between stainless steel layers. This improves heat distribution but adds to the cost.

Durability and Maintenance

Stainless steel is harder and more scratch-resistant than aluminium. It does not react with acidic foods like tomatoes or lemon, making it a good choice for sauces and slow-cooked dishes with acidic ingredients.

Aluminium is softer and can discolour over time, especially with acidic foods. However, modern aluminium cookware is typically thick enough (1.8mm–4mm in the case of Bon Voyage heavy-duty pots) to withstand decades of daily use. Many South African households have used the same aluminium pots for 10, 20, or even 30 years.

Weight

Aluminium is significantly lighter than stainless steel. A 21-litre aluminium pot is noticeably easier to handle than its stainless steel equivalent — an important consideration for large-batch cooking and catering.

Price

Aluminium cookware is generally more affordable than stainless steel. A quality aluminium pot set from a local manufacturer costs considerably less than an imported stainless steel set of similar size. For budget-conscious households, aluminium delivers excellent cooking performance per rand spent.

Stovetop Compatibility

Aluminium works on gas, electric, and ceramic stovetops. It does not work on induction stovetops, which require a magnetic material. Stainless steel (specifically 18/10 stainless steel) is compatible with all stovetop types, including induction.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose aluminium if you cook pap, stews, and large-batch meals regularly, want fast and even heating, and prefer a lighter pot at a lower price point. Bon Voyage aluminium pots, made from 99.9% pure aluminium, are designed specifically for this purpose.

Choose stainless steel if you cook acidic dishes frequently, want scratch-resistant cookware that works on induction, and prefer a modern aesthetic. Tiger stainless steel sets offer a professional-grade option at a competitive price.

Both are available from Big5 Cookware, manufactured and sold direct from our factory in Thaba Nchu, Free State since 1977.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is aluminium cookware safe? Yes. Aluminium cookware has been used safely in kitchens worldwide for over a century. The amount of aluminium that transfers to food during cooking is minimal and well within safe limits established by health authorities.

Can I use aluminium pots on an induction stovetop? No. Aluminium is not magnetic and will not work on induction cooktops. If you have an induction stovetop, choose stainless steel or cast iron cookware.

How long does aluminium cookware last? With proper care, quality aluminium cookware lasts 10–30 years or more. Bon Voyage pots, with a wall thickness of 1.8–4mm, are built for heavy daily use over many years.