Circulon Momentum Review: A Humble (But Bold) Cookware Set

A 30-year history of innovative cookware manufacturing is nothing to be sniffed at. Judging by the time served, we can expect that Circulon has a wealth of knowledge about cookware manufacturing under their belt.

Circulon aims to ‘make home cooking fast, easy, healthy and delicious’ and through their choice of materials, advanced nonstick coatings, and raised circle surface, they live up the expectations they’ve laid down before them.

The Momentum Stainless Steel Range is an example of how Circulon incorporates all of their innovation into one well-priced cookware range.

Circulon Momentum might be humble, but it’s certainly mighty - here’s what we discovered .

Circulon Momentum Cookware Review

What Are The Features Of Circulon Momentum Stainless Steel?

There are many features of the Circulon Momentum range. Many of which were unexpected. But the first thing to consider is that you get two main options within the range: hard-anodized or stainless steel.

The hard anodized option is coated with a non-stick coating on the inside and outside of the pots and pans, making them easier to clean. Whereas the Circulon Momentum stainless steel option only has the TOTAL non-stick coating on the inside.

If you like the look and longevity of stainless steel, you’ll probably prefer this option over the hard-anodized.

Nonetheless, these two options will surely please most cookware users.

  1. 1
    Hard-Anodized Stainless Steel
  2. 2
    Circulon Momentum Stainless Steel

Momentum stainless steel features an aluminum core, which is fully-encapsulated with magnetic stainless steel. This design ensures outstanding heating and even cooking on any stove.

You’ll also enjoy the following features in all cookware products within the Circulon Momentum cookware range.

Dual Riveted Handles

Handles within the Momentum range are dual-riveted to make them last for a loooong time.

They also stay cool, thanks to the silicone and stainless steel construction of the handles. The hard anodized and stainless steel options both have the same handles. 

Circulon Dual Riveted Handles

Oven Safe

You can enjoy putting these pots and pans in the oven, so long as you keep the temperature below 400* F, which is pretty standard for most quality cookware. 

Dishwasher Safe

Circulon claims that all cookware within the Momentum range is 100% dishwasher safe. 

Tempered Glass Lids

Enjoy unbreakable, tempered glass lids. Allowing you the convenience of looking at your dishes without having to take the lid off and also the peace of mind that your glass lids won’t break and find their way into your food. 

Nonstick Surface

Circulon Nonstick Surface

You’ll find no less than three layers of non-stick coating on your Momentum pots and pans. On the stainless steel range, that’s three layers inside only, and on the hard anodized option, you’ll find those three layers on the inside AND outside of the pans.

According to Circulon, their Triple-layer premium-quality TOTAL Food Release System (AKA, their non-stick coating) will last 15X longer than their other non-stick competitors. Circulon also claims that the non-stick coating is 100% safe and PFOA free

It’s worth noting that PFOA does not feature in any cookware and hasn’t for several years. We were unable to confirm exactly what the ingredients are in the Circulon non-stick formula. Though most non-stick coatings are generally safe nowadays. If you want full confidence that your cookware is safe, it’s worth considering stainless steel, clad, or cast iron cookware instead. 

Raised Circle Surface

Could the unique interior surface of the Circulon pans be the inspiration for this cookware brand’s name? Possibly. All Circulon cookware has a raised circle surface.

The purpose of the raised circle is to increase the performance of the non-stick. It allows for a smoother food release and prevents wear on the non-stick surface from the use of utensils. Mostly because the utensils cannot easily scrape across the bottom of the pan - it prevents the user from being too heavy-handed.

This feature is quite ingenious and does seem to be the reason why Circulon can make such bold claims about their non-stick performance.

If you were confused about which is the better option between Momentum vs Symmetry, you may be even more confused now. But have no fears, we’ve figured out the difference and it’s coming up next. 

Which Is Better Circulon Momentum Or Circulon Symmetry?

Circulon Momentum vs. Symmetry is a classic comparison, and it’s easy to see why people often wonder what the difference is between the two.

However, there is one significant difference between Momentum vs. Symmetry: Symmetry cookware is designed to be heavy-duty, durable, and to have an incredible performance with induction stoves. While Momentum, despite also offering long-lasting durability, is not designed to be as heavy-duty as the Symmetry range.

Check out the details for both ranges below:

Circulon Momentum Stainless Steel Nonstick Cookware Set with Glass Lids, 11-Piece Pot and Pan Set, Stainless Steel

Circulon Momentum

Circulon Symmetry Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 11-Piece, Black

Circulon Symmetry

Circulon Vs Symmetry The Similarities

Both ranges have the features listed below in common:

  • Triple-layer premium-quality TOTAL Food Release System on the interior and exterior
  • Double riveted stainless steel and silicone handles
  • Raised circle surface
  • Tempered glass lids
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Induction suitable
  • Oven Safe

Circulon Momentum Vs Symmetry The Differences

While the technology is the same for both Momentum and Symmetry, there are a few marked differences:

  • Symmetry has a heavy-duty hard-anodized construction, which makes this range more durable than Momentum.
  • There is a choice of color options in the Symmetry range, but there is not a stainless steel option.
  • Momentum has a stainless steel non-stick option and a non-stick coated interior and exterior option too.
  • Symmetry is more expensive because the construction is superior and extremely durable. However, Momentum is still a great option and is less expensive than Symmetry.

These similarities mean that the Circulon Momentum vs. Symmetry argument is easy to solve.

If you want a very heavy duty non-stick cookware set and don't mind paying more for it, then the Symmetry range will be for you. However, if you don't like the look of a painted non-stick coating on the outside, Symmetry is not for you.

If you want durable cookware, but don't need to go over the top with the durability and if you're going to purchase quality cookware without a hefty price tag then the Momentum range is for you. Especially because you still get ALL of the technological innovations that Circulon are known for in both ranges.

If Momentum's your jam, then keep on reading because we've got plenty more information for you and feature some of our favorite products.

Best Products From Circulon Momentum Cookware

The Circulon momentum 11-piece cookware sets are the best value product within this range by far. There are two options; we feature both of them here because which one you choose really will boil down to personal preference.

If you want super easy to clean cookware and don’t care too much about the appearance, the non-stick interior and exterior version coming up will appeal to you.

But if you like the stainless steel look - this is the Circulon momentum 11-piece cookware set for you:

Circulon Momentum Stainless Steel Nonstick Cookware Set with Glass Lids, 11-Piece Pot and Pan Set, Stainless Steel

Like the look or lightness of stainless steel, but wish you could have non-stick properties? Now you can have the best of both worlds with this Circulon Momentum 11 pc cookware set.

In fact, you get more than you bargained for because the Non-stick surface is triple coated and combined with the raised circle system to maximize the longevity of the non-stick.

Could this be the perfect cookware set? Quite possibly - it's definitely worth the price.

The set includes:

  • 1-Quart Pouring Saucepan
  • 2-Quart Saucepan, with lid
  • 3-Quart Saute Pan, with lid
  • 6-Quart Stockpot, with lid
  • 10" Frying Pan, with lid
  • 8" Frying Pan
  • 11.5" Frying Pan

It also comes with all of the standard Momentum features as described earlier on in this review.

If you prefer a non-stick exterior you’ll enjoy this 11-piece cookware set instead.

Circulon Momentum Hard-Anodized Nonstick 11-Piece Cookware Set - Gray

This set has all of the features listed above for the ‘stainless steel’ range, but it is made from hard-anodized stainless steel and coated with the triple layers of the TOTAL non-stick coating on the exterior as well as the interior.

The set includes:

  • 8.5” French Skillet
  • 11.5” French Skillet
  • 10” Skillet, with lid
  • 6-quart Stockpot, with lid
  • 3-quart Saute Pan, with lid
  • 2-quart Saucepan, with lid
  • 1-quart Pouring Saucepan

And the saucepan that many reviewers wished were included in these cookware sets is right here, and seems to be a great addition. Many customers purchased this saucepan to add to their collection.

Circulon Momentum Stainless Steel Sauce Pan/Saucepan with Straining and Lid, 3 Quart, Silver

Aside from the size - which seems to be very popular, this saucepan also has a straining feature—making it oh-so-easy to drain those veggies.

Just like all other products in the Momentum range, this saucepan is induction, oven, and dishwasher safe and includes the triple-layer TOTAL non-stick coating. 

Just because we love this product so much, we’ve added one more for your consideration …

Here’s the only non- stick casserole dish you need. It’s so easy to clean, even baked on food seems to glide away.

Circulon Momentum Hard Anodized Nonstick Casserole Dish/Casserole Pan with Lid - 4.5 Quart, Gray,83732,2

This casserole dish is perfect on the stovetop and in the oven. The dishwasher safe guarantee combined with the triple layer TOTAL non-stick on the inside, and the outside makes it the perfect option for a casserole dish.

Especially when you consider how tough it is to remove those baked on drips of casserole sauce from a standard casserole dish.

The Momentum casserole dish also has the raised circles to assist with food release and protect your non-stick surface.

This is one product from this range, which is well worth trying. 

What Is Different In Circulon Momentum?

The main feature in Circulon Momentum, which makes these pans different from other brands, is the ‘raised circle surface’ and the TOTAL non-stick coating combined with quality materials to assist with even heat distribution.

How Safe Is Circulon Momentum Cookware?

Circulon claims that their pans are 100% safe. The metals used are safe, and there’s a triple layer of non-stick coating covering the metal in the Momentum range. That non-stick coating is PFOA free and, according to Circulon, totally safe. 

Circulon Momentum Cookware Reviews: What Do The Customers Say?

Gotham Steel VS Red Copper Reviews

Circulon Momentum Cookware reviews are surprisingly good. We say 'surprisingly' because when we are reviewing higher quality cookware, we almost always encounter customer reviews that stem from the user not following the manufacturer's guidelines on how to use and care for their cookware. It's an expensive mistake for which the blame is often assigned to the manufacturer or product range, unfortunately.

However, we didn't find too many of these types of Circulon Momentum Cookware reviews at all. The most we saw was a complaint about an egg sticking to the pan after using an oil spray. Don't use oil spray - it's not good for your non-stick cooking experience.

Most customer reviewers were delighted with their pans. They just wished that there was a 3.5-quart pot included in the Circulon Momentum 11 pc Cookware Set. The 11 piece set doesn't include one, but we've added this pot to our favorite products listed above - for your convenience. You're welcome.

Having mentioned the required care and use for your new fancy pans, we thought we should include some details on how to take care of it. That's coming up next.

Taking Care Of Your Circulon Momentum Cookware

Circulon Momentum Cookware care Tips

If you’re going to purchase some pricey cookware, we imagine it’s with the intention of it to last you a long time. How else will you get your return on investment? Sure, you get the bonus of having a lifetime warranty from Circulon, but you can void the warranty if you don’t know how to take care of your cookware correctly.

Here are some essential tips and advice for taking care of your Circulon Momentum cookware. 

Basic Care Tips For Your Circulon Momentum Cookware

Avoid spray oil!

It heats at a lower temperature and can damage the surface of the pan, regardless if that surface is non-stick or not.

Don’t use metal utensils.

Even if the manufacturer claims it’s ok. They almost always damage the surface of the cookware.

Try to hand wash as much as possible.

It makes the cookware last longer - there’s more about this coming up.

Read the manufacturer’s care instructions.

It’s the best way to avoid invalidating your warranty and for keeping your pots and pans in good condition for a long time.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges.

To keep the surface of your pan in tip-top condition.

Circulon Momentum: How To Clean

Circulon Momentum cookware is easy to clean. That’s because Circulon says it’s 100% dishwasher safe, which means that if you put your cookware in the dishwasher.

And if anything happens to damage your pots and pans, then you’d be well within your rights to make a claim against your lifetime warranty. 

Circulon Momentum dishwasher safe

However, in our experience, we’ve come to realize that dishwashing almost always seems to reduce the lifespan of a cookware product. So if you don’t want to have to make warranty claims, we suggest at least trying to refrain from using the dishwasher some of the time, if you can’t manage to avoid it all of the time. 

At least with Circulon’s claims, you’re in a ‘win-win situation.’ You have the protection of the warranty if you want the convenience of the dishwasher or the convenience of not having to claim if you choose to hand wash your cookware. 

You never know, Circulon may prove us wrong, and their cookware might just live up to their claims and withstand the dishwasher for many years to come. We can’t help thinking that if it doesn’t, Circulon would probably be out of business. We have seen Circulon Momentum Reviews where the customer states that they received a replacement set after making a claim on the warranty - which is reassuring. 

To ensure that your cookware remains under warranty, make sure you place your pots and pans in the dishwasher CAREFULLY. Making sure that nothing can move around and damage the pans - not applying due care when loading into the dishwasher could void the warranty. 

Circulon Momentum: How To Clean Grease Build-Up

Grease build-up occurs if you don’t wash your pans properly, or if you use spray oil and it can be difficult to remove.

The best way to gently remove grease build-up is by using the wonder ingredient ‘Bicarbonate of Soda’. 

  • Mix some baking soda with water into a paste and then apply that paste to the problem area in your pan.
  • Gently wash with a soft sponge, until you remove the grease.
  • Wash the pan with dishwashing detergent and water.

Now you know how to take care of your Circulon Momentum pans, here’s a recap of the pro’s and cons, which are once again surprising. We couldn’t find many cons at all. 

The Pros and Cons Of Circulon Momentum

Pros

  • 3 Layers of TOTAL non-stick coating
  • Choose between a stainless steel or TOTAL non-stick coated exterior
  • Innovative design ensures non-stick coating lasts
  • Easy to clean
  • Full warranty
  • Fairly priced

Cons

  • No option for no non-stick coating

Conclusion

The Circulon Momentum Cookware range is pleasantly surprising. At first glance, it may seem somewhat average, without too many features to sing and dance about.

It’s only when you take a deeper look, that you see it’s an excellent cookware range with a solid reputation amongst its consumers.

The Circulon Momentum 11 pc cookware set has two options; you can have a non-stick exterior for easier cleaning or stick to a classic stainless steel look. The only downside we could see is that this range only has non-stick options. If non-stick isn’t for you, you won’t like this range. 

About the author 

Jesse Spitzer

Jesse is a father of two and an aspiring chef. He has worked in the kitchen for over 7 years. He loves cooking and is passionate about finding ways to cook easier and more efficient. When he's not in the kitchen, Jesse can be found on on the golf course, reading a productivity book or sipping a glass of nice pinot.

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