How To Choose Between Two Popular 16-inch Electric Skillets
- Pick Presto 06852 if you want a skillet that doubles as a buffet server.
- Choose Presto 06857 when easy cleaning and compact storage are priorities.
- Go with Presto 06852 for a skillet with a tempered glass cover and stay-cool handle.
- Prefer Presto 06857 if you need foldable handles and a removable base.
- Presto 06852 makes more sense for extra cooking and serving capacity with high sidewalls.
- Presto 06857 is the safer bet for saving kitchen space without compromising pan size.
Does The Presto 06852 Skillet Serve Well For Entertaining And Daily Meals?
Yes, it does. The Presto 06852 features a large 16-inch pan with high sidewalls. This design adds cooking and serving capacity, making it suitable for gatherings. The tempered glass cover with a stay-cool handle lets you monitor food without lifting the lid. It also doubles as a buffet server, which is handy during entertaining.
In daily use, I find the skillet spacious and reliable for various cooking methods like frying and baking. The high sidewalls prevent splatters, and the glass cover feels sturdy and practical. Its size means it takes up some counter space but performs consistently. Cleanup is straightforward, though the base is fixed. Overall, it feels like a stable and dependable kitchen companion.
Best Features for Cooking and Serving
- Large 16-inch pan with high sidewalls for more cooking space
- Tempered glass cover with stay-cool handle for easy monitoring
- Multi-function: roast, fry, grill, stew, bake, and casseroles
- Can double as a buffet server for gatherings
- Sturdy build and stable on counters
Considerations Before Choosing This Skillet
- Fixed base means cleaning can be less convenient than detachable models
- Relatively larger footprint on the countertop
- Heavier weight at 9 pounds requires stable placement
A Practical Take on the 06852 Skillet
This skillet suits those who value cooking versatility and serving options without much need for compact storage. It removes the stress of juggling multiple pans when hosting. In my experience, it works well for beginners and experienced cooks alike, thanks to its simple controls and durable design. A practical tip is to use the glass lid to keep heat and moisture in while checking the food easily. Owning this skillet offers peace of mind through reliable performance over time.
Is The Presto 06857 Foldaway Skillet Better For Space And Cleaning?
It depends on your kitchen needs. The Presto 06857 offers a removable base and foldable handles, which make cleaning and storage easier. This model keeps the same 16-inch pan size with high sidewalls, so cooking capacity remains. Its compact design fits better in smaller kitchens or when counter space is limited.
From daily use, I appreciate how the skillet folds down neatly, saving space in cabinets. The removable base allows thorough cleaning without fuss. It feels lighter than some other models, which helps when moving it around. However, the folding mechanism means a few extra steps before and after cooking. Overall, it balances practicality and convenience well.
Highlights for Convenience and Storage
- Removable base for easier cleaning
- Handles fold down to detach pan from base
- Compact storage when handles are folded in
- Large 16-inch pan with high sidewalls for cooking capacity
- Relatively lighter weight at about 8.55 pounds
What to Keep in Mind Before Buying
- Folding handles require a few extra steps in setup and storage
- Less suited for serving directly on the countertop
- Smaller base footprint but slightly shorter length than some models
Thoughts on the Foldaway Design
This skillet fits well for those who need a balance between cooking size and compact storage. It removes the hassle of bulky kitchen appliances crowding your space. In my experience, it suits both new users and those familiar with electric skillets due to its straightforward folding mechanism. A good tip is to fold handles carefully to avoid wear over time. The skillet gives peace of mind through easy cleanup and neat storage.
Key Questions To Decide Between These 16-inch Electric Skillets
Do you need a skillet that can also serve food directly at the table? Is compact storage important in your kitchen setup? How often do you clean your skillet, and would a removable base help? Would foldable handles make a real difference in your kitchen space? How much weight can you comfortably handle when moving or storing the skillet? Is having a glass cover to watch food cooking a priority for you?
Comparing Two Versatile 16-inch Electric Skillets For Daily Cooking
The comparison looks at cooking capacity, ease of cleaning, storage convenience, and serving options. Each skillet is tested through everyday meal preparation and cleanup. User experience with handling, setup, and storage plays a key role. Durability and comfort during use are also considered. This approach helps highlight practical differences beyond specs.
How do the skillets handle cooking and serving tasks?
Both skillets offer a 16-inch cooking surface with high sidewalls. The Presto 06852’s glass cover allows monitoring and doubles as a buffet server. The 06857 lacks a glass lid but folds for storage.
| Metric | Presto 06852 Skillet | Presto 06857 Foldaway |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking surface size | 16 inches with high sidewalls | 16 inches with high sidewalls |
| Glass cover | Tempered glass with stay-cool handle | No glass cover included |
| Serving function | Doubles as buffet server | Primarily cooking only |
| Multi-cooking methods | Roast, fry, grill, stew, bake | Roast, fry, grill, stew, bake |
Ratings: Presto 06852 – 8/10 | Presto 06857 – 7/10
So what? Choose the 06852 if serving food directly is important; otherwise, both cook well.
Which skillet offers easier cleaning and maintenance?
The removable base on the 06857 makes cleaning the cooking surface straightforward. The 06852’s fixed base requires more care during cleanup.
| Decision point | Presto 06852 Skillet | Presto 06857 Foldaway |
|---|---|---|
| Base type | Fixed base | Removable base |
| Cleaning ease | More careful cleaning needed | Easy to clean detachable pan |
| Maintenance effort | Moderate | Lower due to removable parts |
| Durability | Sturdy, solid build | Foldable parts need care |
Ratings: Presto 06852 – 6/10 | Presto 06857 – 9/10
So what? For hassle-free cleaning, the 06857 is the better choice.
How compact and convenient is each skillet for storage?
The 06857’s foldable handles allow it to store in smaller spaces. The 06852 has a larger footprint and fixed handles.
| Use case | Presto 06852 Skillet | Presto 06857 Foldaway |
|---|---|---|
| Storage size | Larger, fixed shape | Compact with folded handles |
| Portability | Heavier and bulkier | Lighter and easier to move |
| Setup time | Simple, no folding needed | Extra steps to fold/unfold |
| Countertop space | Needs more space | Smaller footprint when stored |
Ratings: Presto 06852 – 5/10 | Presto 06857 – 8/10
So what? If kitchen space is tight, the foldaway 06857 is the practical pick.
Does weight affect usability in daily cooking?
The 06852 weighs 9 pounds, providing stability but less portability. The 06857 is lighter at 8.55 pounds, easier for lifting and storage.
| Metric | Presto 06852 Skillet | Presto 06857 Foldaway |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 9.0 pounds | 8.55 pounds |
| Handling ease | Stable but heavier | Lighter and more portable |
| Storage impact | Heavier to move | Easier to handle |
| Durability | Solid and sturdy | Foldable parts require care |
Ratings: Presto 06852 – 7/10 | Presto 06857 – 8/10
So what? If you prefer lighter appliances for storage and handling, the 06857 is better suited.
Final Thoughts On Choosing The Right 16-inch Electric Skillet
The Presto 06852 is ideal for those who want a versatile skillet that also serves as a buffet server. Its glass cover and larger footprint make it best for kitchens with enough counter space and for hosting meals.
The Presto 06857 fits well for cooks who need easy cleanup and compact storage. Its foldable handles and removable base reduce kitchen clutter and simplify maintenance, great for smaller kitchens.
If serving food directly and monitoring with a glass lid are priorities, go for the 06852; for space-saving and cleaning convenience, the 06857 is preferable. Both skillets offer solid cooking performance suited to different lifestyle needs.
FAQ’s On Presto 06852 Vs 06857 Electric Skillets
Can I use the Presto 06852 skillet without the glass cover?
Yes, the skillet can be used without the glass cover, though cooking times may vary. The cover helps retain heat and moisture, so removing it might affect results slightly.
How easy is it to clean the Presto 06857 skillet?
The 06857 has a removable base, making the cooking pan easy to clean separately. Folding handles also help access all areas. This design reduces cleaning time compared to fixed-base skillets.
Does the folding mechanism on the 06857 affect durability?
The folding handles are designed for convenience but require gentle handling. Frequent rough use might wear the joints faster. Treat the folds with care to maintain longevity.
Are both skillets suitable for baking casseroles?
Yes, both skillets support baking casseroles thanks to their even heating surfaces and high sidewalls. The 06852’s glass cover may help keep heat in during baking.
Which skillet is better for small kitchens?
The Presto 06857 is better for small kitchens due to its foldable handles and compact storage. It occupies less space when stored and offers easier handling.
Is the weight difference noticeable between the two skillets?
The weight difference is slight but noticeable when moving or storing the skillets. The 06857 is lighter, making it more manageable for frequent lifting.
Can the 06852 skillet be used as a buffet server safely?
Yes, the 06852 skillet is designed to double as a buffet server. Its stable base and glass cover make it suitable for keeping food warm on the table.





