18/10, 18/8, 18/0 stainless steel: what's the difference? The guide to making the right choice.

Do you often see “ 18/10 stainless steel ” on a pan or saucepan without really knowing what it means?
You sometimes come across “ 18/8 stainless steel ” or “ 18/0 ” and you wonder what the difference is?

👉 You are right to ask the question: these figures are much more than a technical detail — they determine the quality, durability and safety of your kitchen utensils.
In this guide, we explain simply how to choose your stainless steel properly.

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What do the numbers 18/10, 18/8 and 18/0 mean?

These two numbers indicate the chemical composition of the stainless steel :

• The first number (always 18) → corresponds to 18% chromium , a metal that protects against rust and corrosion.

• The second number → indicates the nickel content , an element that makes stainless steel more stable, more resistant and shinier.

In summary:

• 18/10 = 18% chromium, 10% nickel

• 18/8 = 18% chromium, 8% nickel

• 18/0 = 18% chromium, 0% nickel

💡 These nuances may seem similar, but they have a major impact on the strength and durability of your pots and pans.

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18/10 stainless steel: the best choice for the kitchen

It is the absolute benchmark in the world of cooking.
Used in high-end professional, medical and domestic catering, 18/10 stainless steel combines safety, performance and elegance.

✅ Advantages:

• Excellent corrosion resistance , even when exposed to acidic foods (lemon, tomato, white wine...)

• Long-lasting shine, without tarnishing

• Perfect stability at high temperature

• No release of harmful substances

• Impeccable hygiene, easy to maintain

🎯 This is the alloy used in all SAINE pans , because it offers the best compromise between durability, safety and performance .

👉 Discover our high-end 18/10 stainless steel models .

And to better understand why this material is the safest for health:
Read our article on the dangers of stainless steel pans .

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18/8 stainless steel: an intermediate version

18/8 stainless steel is quite close to 18/10, but it contains slightly less nickel , which makes it slightly less stable over time.

✅ Advantages:

• Good corrosion resistance

• Cost less than 18/10

❌ Disadvantages:

• Less resistant to food acids

• Gloss that fades more quickly

💬 Verdict: suitable for utensils or pans for occasional use, but not for a pan used daily.

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18/0 stainless steel: beware of confusion

18/0 stainless steel is often used in inexpensive cutlery or dishes.
It contains no nickel , which makes it magnetic (therefore induction compatible), but also more susceptible to corrosion.

✅ Advantages:

• Nickel-free → suitable for allergy sufferers

• Compatible with induction hobs

❌ Disadvantages:

• Risk of long-term rust

• Less heat stable

• Less resistant to acids

🎯 Not recommended for pots and pans. This type of stainless steel is better suited for secondary utensils.

Also read: Stainless steel pan comparison: how to choose in 2025?

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Comparative table: how to choose your stainless steel

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SAINE pans: 100% 18/10 stainless steel, nothing else

At SAINE , we made a simple choice: to use only 18/10 stainless steel .
Why? Because our customers deserve the best, without compromising on health or sustainability.

Our stoves offer:

• Cooking without chemical coatings , healthy and natural

• Long-lasting shine without tarnishing

• Fully compatible with all hobs, including induction

• A lifetime guarantee — because a good utensil shouldn't end up in the trash.

👉 Discover our models:

• 22cm stainless steel frying pan — perfect for one or two people

• 26cm stainless steel frying pan — versatile format

• Complete stainless steel cookware set — for a 100% stainless steel kitchen

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FAQ — Choosing the right stainless steel

What is the best quality of stainless steel for cooking?

18/10 stainless steel is the best quality available: it is hygienic, corrosion resistant and durable over time.

Is 18/10 stainless steel dangerous to health?

No. European LFGB tests confirm that it does not release any harmful substances into food, even at high temperatures.

What is the difference between 18/10 and 18/8 stainless steel?

18/10 stainless steel contains slightly more nickel, making it more stable and durable. It is the preferred choice for high-end pans.

Is 18/0 stainless steel compatible with induction cooktops?

Yes, thanks to its lack of nickel, it is magnetic. But it rusts more easily: best avoided for cooking utensils.