What is the Difference between Stoneware and Ceramic?

Cookware is one of the essential things that complete a kitchen and its overall functionality. However, in recent years, the market has had a variety of cookware products made of different materials and designs.

Therefore, choosing among the various types of cookware such as ceramic, porcelain, granite, and stoneware can be daunting, especially for first-time buyers.

What is the difference between stoneware and ceramic?

One significant difference between stoneware and ceramic is that stoneware is more durable than ceramic and chip-resistant. This post looks into their differences based on several aspects.

Therefore, you’ll have an easier time deciding which one suits you best. 

What is Stoneware?

Stoneware is a non-porous ceramic dinnerware made from stoneware clay that has been fired at a high temperature of about 2150 to 2400 degrees F.

It’s thicker and more durable than most types of cookware such as ceramic and porcelain due to the added vitreous material. 

Stoneware is very versatile; thus, it cooks on stovetops and ovens for baking.

Additionally, it comes in a variety of colors and finishes depending on the manufacturer. Stoneware also tends to have better heat retention than earthenware and porcelain. 

However, it requires proper maintenance (which is easy to do) to enhance durability. Also, you should not expose stoneware to sudden temperatures (avoid shocking it). 

Read our blog on how good is stone cookware. 

What is Ceramic? 

Ceramicware is a type of cookware that has been made from porous clay and fired over relatively low heat (about 1800-2100 degrees F) than stoneware.  

Often ceramic is thick and looks heavy, but it’s not as strong and durable as stoneware.

Additionally, its porous nature makes it prone to chipping. Lastly, it’s cheaper than other types of dinnerware.

Stoneware vs. Ceramic: What are the Differences?

The differences between these types of cookware are based on the following aspects:

Material

Ceramic is made of porous clay that is fired at a relatively low temperature of about 1800 to 2100 degrees F. Conversely, stoneware is made of non-porous clay fired at a high temperature of about 2150 to 2400 degrees F. 

Cooking and cleaning  

Cooking and cleaning on stoneware is pretty easy. Also, stoneware is microwave safe, allowing you to bake some of your favorite foods. Lastly, it’s dishwasher safe. 

On the other hand, cleaning ceramic cookware requires some extra care to avoid chipping or breaking the cookware. Additionally, ceramic cookware is not microwave and dishwasher-safe. 

Durability

Stoneware is more durable than ceramic cookware. Usually, stoneware is enhanced with extra glass material; it’s non-porous, waterproof, and doesn’t chip. 

In contrast, ceramic cookware is porous and chips easily, making it less durable than stoneware. 

However, the durability of each type of cookware depends on your handle and maintain the cookware.

Appearance

Stoneware appears to be thick, opaque and has a stone-like look. On the other hand, ceramic tends to appear translucent. 

Below table shows more outlines more differences between stoneware and ceramic:  

Features	Ceramic Cookware	Stoneware
Firing temperature	Up to 2100	Up to 2400
Porous	Yes	No
Chipping	Chips easily	Chip resistant
Microwave safe	No	Yes
Dishwasher safe	No	Yes
Durability	Less durable	More durable
Price	Affordable	Reasonably expensive

 
Also, check out the differences between granite and Maifan stone cookware.

Stoneware vs. Ceramic: Which is the best?  

Choosing between stoneware and ceramic depends on a few above aspects. 

Generally, if budget is not an issue and you need durable cookware, consider stoneware as the ideal choice.

Also, stoneware doesn’t require much maintenance attention as ceramic does. In addition to being chip-resistant, it’s microwave and dishwasher safe. 

Nevertheless, if you need affordable cookware and durability is not of much concern, consider ceramic. However, you have to pay much attention to the maintenance.

For instance, avoid sudden temperature changes and use utensils that don’t easily cause chipping. 

Where Can I Buy Stoneware Products?  

AtGrills makes high-quality stoneware products such as griddle pans, indoor electric grills, and electric griddles.

Our products have a 100% natural stone coating that is tough and doesn’t chip off easily.

Additionally, the cooking surface offers even heat distribution and doesn’t affect the authentic flavor of foods. Click this link to see more of our products.