On this page, we will examine three major products from this top-notch brand. Enter the All-Clad D5 vs. Copper Core vs. Tri-Ply comparison.
The All-Clad brand is known for durability, quality, and exceptional performance. And All-Clad cookware is so versatile that you can use it in your home, restaurant, or food business.
But, each of these different cookware sets has its unique qualities. So, this comparison isn’t necessarily good, better, or best. But instead, you should think “Which features will work best for me”?
We know that choosing between very similar products is quite tricky. But, we’ve been able to compare them, and the information gathered below eases the process.
All-Clad D5 (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
All-Clad Copper Core (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
All-Clad Tri-Ply (10 pieces)– Click here to check the price
All-Clad D5 vs Copper Core vs Tri-Ply
Other Cookware Comparisons:
Cuisinart Multi-Clad vs French Classic Tri-Ply
All-Clad Copper Core
The All-Clad Copper-Core has a 5-ply construction, ‘ply’ being a technical term for layer. So, the Copper Core has five layers of metals combined to give solid and durable cookware. These metallic layers include a magnetic stainless steel exterior. Next, an aluminum layer follows that layer, then a copper core, followed by another layer of aluminum. And finally, an interior cooking surface is made from 18/10 stainless steel. These different metals serve a specific purpose in the performance of the cookware.
The outer layer of magnetic stainless steel means that you can use it on any cooking surface. And that includes induction stovetops. The aluminum layers serve as good heat conductors. However, the reason for superior performance is the copper core. Copper is a better heat conductor than aluminum. And it also has better heat distribution capabilities.
As a result, the Copper Core line of cookware excels at even heat distribution throughout the pan. With All-Clad Copper Core, users won’t have to worry about hot spots on their cookware. The interior layer of stainless steel provides a healthy and secure cooking surface that does not interact with the foods cooked, even if they are acidic or salty.
All-Clad D5
You’ll find that the All-Clad D5 line features 5-ply construction as well. However, the core layer is different. Instead, there is a stainless steel core surrounded by two layers of aluminum. The interior is 18/10 stainless steel. And the exterior layer is magnetic stainless steel. The aluminum and stainless steel layers of the D5 serve the same purposes as their Copper Core counterparts.
But the D5 and Copper Core do not perform the same when it comes to heat distribution. That’s because the stainless steel core is a poor conductor compared to copper.
The stainless steel construction of these cookware lines ensures their durability. The exterior stainless steel covering protects the pan from warping, deformation, and scratches. And the interior stainless steel cooking surface makes the pan very easy to clean and maintain.
All-Clad D5 (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
The All-Clad Copper Core (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
All-Clad Tri-Ply (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
Fully Clad Feature
Both sets of cookware feature a fully clad construction. This means that the layers of metals are not limited to the base of the cookware. The 5-ply construction extends from the bottom to the rim and ensures you cook your food evenly.
Appearance
The All-Clad D5 Brushed Stainless Steel gets its ‘brushed’ description from its appearance. It features a stainless look, but instead of the usual gleaming appearance, it is toned down. This matte look helps to hide scratches better when compared to a more polished surface.
The Copper Core has a more decorative and elegant design added to its classic stainless look. This is achieved via a thin band of copper circling the pan and quite close to its base. In essence, the decorative band does not have the extra aluminum and magnetic stainless steel exterior layers.
Lid, Handle, and Brim Design
The lids and handles of both All-Clad cookware sets are made from stainless steel. The handles are large and long, offering users increased control.
But there is a trade-off. Several users claimed the exposed rivet design of these handles made them harder to clean. When compared to rivet-less or flush-rivet designs of other brands in the market.
The handles have received a fair amount of both praise and criticism from a large number of users. Due to their stainless steel construction, these handles stay cool while cooking.
But the major downside is the curved handle design can cause discomfort when held. These curved handles tend to dig into your palms (according to some users). But you can cut this discomfort by using a towel or by tucking the handles under the forearm.
The All-Clad D5 and Copper Core feature a second handle. This second handle is usually referred to as the helper handle. It makes handling easier. However, this handle doesn’t stay cool in the heat, unlike the main handle.
Every piece of cookware in both models is designed with flared brims. This rim design ensures that users can easily pour liquids from the pans without any fear of dripping.
Dishwasher and Oven Compatibility
Both the Copper Core and the D5 are dishwasher safe. However, hand washing is still recommended for the Copper Core line. You can safely use them in the oven up to a temperature of 500oF.
Compared to the All-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply
The Stainless Tri-Ply is an earlier line of cookware from All-Clad. And this line remains the most popular to date. It is clad like the D5 and Copper Core. But instead of the more recent 5-ply design, the All-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply features a 3-ply construction. Thus earning it the name ‘Tri-Ply.’ An exterior magnetic stainless steel and 18/10 stainless steel inner layer surrounds the aluminum core.
The aluminum core of the Tri-Ply ensures even heat distribution and better conductivity. This is better than the stainless cButthe D5. But, the Tri-Ply’s performance is still eclipsed by that of Copper Core.
Well, in this case, you’d be trading durability for an increase in performance. Not only is the Tri-Ply more durable of the three models, but it’s also lighter because it only has three layers vs. five. As such, it is easier to carry as you won’t suffer hand fatigue as frequently.
The Tri-Ply can be safely used in the dishwasher and oven as long as the temperature doesn’t exceed 500F.
As with the All-Clad D5 and Copper Core, the Tri-Ply’s lids and handles are stainless steel. For some, this makes them uncomfortable to use. In addition, the rivets make them a little harder to clean. And because of the poorer conductivity of stainless steel, they stay cool while cooking.
But, unlike the D5 and Copper Core, the Tri-Ply line is not designed with a helper handle. Also, not all Tri-Ply cookware pieces have the flared rim design. Its regular skillets, stockpots, and sauté pans do, while the saucepans and French skillets do not.
Cookware Piece-Set
You can buy the All-Clad D5 Brushed cookware in various piece-sets. So, depending on your budget and needs, you might choose a 5-piece set, a 7-piece set, a 10-piece set, or a 14-piece set. It also has a French skillet set that you can buy. You can also find D5 cookware pieces in nonstick. Most notably, the All-Clad D5 Brushed Non-Stick Fry Pan.
You can buy the All-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply as either a 5-piece set, a 10-piece set, a 13-piece set, or a 14-piece set. The 10-piece is also available in nonstick.
The All-Clad Copper Core line is available as either a 7-piece set, a 10-piece set, or a 14-piece set. Unfortunately, the Copper-Core is the only All-Clad line that has none of its pieces available in non-stick. Despite this, users claim foods rarely stick to the sides of the pan, and if they do, they are effortless to clean off.
To prolong the lifespan of your non-stick pieces, never use them at high heat, as this could cause the non-stick surface to wear off much faster.
Warranty
All pots, pans, and other cooking vessels in these three cookware collections come with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros and Cons of the All-Clad D5
Pros
- Induction compatible
- Easy cleanup
- Durable
- Heats evenly
- Better at storing heat
Cons
- Heavy and thus, slightly difficult to lift
- Has the lowest performance in terms of heat conduction and distribution
Pros and Cons of the All-Clad Copper Core
Pros
- Induction compatible
- Easy cleanup
- Durable
- Best heat conduction and distribution
- Heats evenly
Cons
- Most expensive of the lot
- Heavy and thus, slightly difficult to lift
Pros and Cons of the All-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply
Pros
- Cheapest of the three
- Induction compatible
- Easy cleanup
- Lightest of the three and thus, easier to lift
- Good heat distribution and conduction
- Durable
Cons
- No helper handle
- More prone to warping due to lesser weight (although still very resilient)
Summary
The All-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply offers outstanding value and quality for a lesser price. On a budget and still wanting the best cookware in the market? The Tri-Ply is capable of meeting your needs. In addition, the Copper Core offers better heat distribution and quick responsiveness, making its higher price tag very well worth it.
If you are ready to shell out cash for the best quality available, then the All-Clad Copper Core gives you good value for your money.
The D5 gets no praise here: it trails behind the Tri-Ply and yet costs more.
All-Clad D5 (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
All-Clad Copper Core (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
All-Clad Tri-Ply (10 pieces) – Click here to check the price
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