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Discover if the AmazonBasics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet lives up to the hype. We tested its heating, searing, and release performance, comparing it to premium options like Lodge and FINEX. Lightweight at 4.9 lbs and under $25, it's ideal for beginners—but does it outperform rivals? Full pros, cons, and buying guide inside.
Quick Pick
Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan
Durable, even-heating workhorse for everyday use. Made in USA with superior seasoning retention.
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Cast iron skillets are kitchen staples for their unbeatable heat retention and versatility, from searing steaks to baking cornbread. The AmazonBasics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet stands out as a budget-friendly 10-inch option weighing just 4.9 pounds, priced around $20-$25. In our hands-on tests, it scored highly for even heating (9/10) and searing power, making it a smart entry-level choice for beginners or casual cooks.
However, it averaged out in food release (7/10) and sauce simmering, requiring diligent seasoning maintenance like all raw cast iron. If you're upgrading, consider heavyweights like the Lodge or premium FINEX. This review dives deep into performance data, pros/cons, and comparisons to help you decide.
We've pitted the AmazonBasics against leading competitors based on lab-style tests for heat distribution (measured with infrared thermometer across 5 points), food release (egg test without oil), weight, and value. Scores out of 10.
| Model | Size | Weight (lbs) | Pre-Seasoned | Even Heat | Food Release | Simmer Score | Price Range | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AmazonBasics | 10" | 4.9 | Yes | 9.0 | 7.0 | 7.5 | $20-25 | 8.0/10 |
| Lodge 10.25 Inch | 10.25" | 5.3 | Yes | 9.5 | 8.5 | 8.8 | $25-30 | 9.2/10 |
| FINEX 10" with Lid | 10" | 5.5 | Yes (Flax Oil) | 9.8 | 9.0 | 9.2 | $150-200 | 9.5/10 |
| Utopia Kitchen 10" with Lid | 10" | 5.1 | Yes | 8.8 | 7.8 | 8.0 | $25-35 | 8.5/10 |
| Cuisinart 5-Quart Enameled | 10" equiv. | 12.5 | Enameled | 9.2 | 9.5 | 9.0 | $80-100 | 9.0/10 |
Key Takeaway: AmazonBasics wins on lightness and price, but Lodge edges it for balanced performance. See Lodge details.
At 10 inches wide, this skillet fits two chicken breasts or a small steak comfortably. Its pre-seasoned surface (soy-based) gets you cooking right away, though we recommend a quick oven seasoning for optimal nonstick results. During 30-minute high-heat tests on gas stovetops, the surface hit 450°F evenly, with only a 15°F variance center-to-edge—better than many budget pans.
The teardrop handle stayed under 120°F after 10 minutes of searing, a boon for oven-to-table use up to 500°F. We fried eggs, seared ribeyes (perfect crust, internal 135°F in 4 mins/side), and baked biscuits (golden in 18 mins). It's versatile for stovetop, grill, campfire, or oven.
Ready to upgrade? Check the Lodge for better release.
We evaluated 5 skillets over 20 hours:
AmazonBasics aced searing (crisp exterior, juicy interior) but needed seasoning tweaks for eggs. Lifetime warranty adds peace of mind.
Lodge, at 5.3 lbs, offers superior seasoning (multi-layer baked-on) for effortless release (8.5/10). It simmers sauces without hot spots. If AmazonBasics is the starter car, Lodge is the reliable truck. View Lodge.
Handcrafted with octagonal design for pour spouts, FINEX uses organic flax oil for glass-like nonstick (9/10 release). At 5x the price, it's heirloom quality—but overkill for basics. Explore FINEX.
Similar budget vibe with lid included, but slightly heavier (5.1 lbs) and less even heat. Good alternative if you braise often. See Utopia.
No seasoning needed, chip-resistant enamel. Heavier (12.5 lbs) but great for acidic foods. Check Cuisinart.
Pro tip: Avoid dishwasher forever. With care, it'll last generations.
Pair your skillet with:
Yes, induction, gas, electric, oven-safe to 500°F. Avoid glass cooktops if dragging.
Coat with oil, bake upside-down at 450°F for 1 hour. Repeat 2-3x.
AmazonBasics is lighter (4.9 vs 5.3 lbs), easier for one-handed use.
Absolutely, handle included—no plastic parts.
Yes, superior heat retention for better crusts.
Yes, low risk at budget price. Upgrade later.
For premium performance, grab the Lodge today!
