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Stir Fry lovers know that it tastes so much better when it comes to a wok. Especially that authentic feel many of us only experience eating out.
The sizzling sound of frying veggies, the added flavor, and authentic feel is hard to beat, isn’t it?
Replicating it at home in your wok can be a challenge. Especially when it comes to picking what wok to buy!
There are so many on the market now, ranging in price and quality, it’s overwhelming knowing where to start.
But don’t panic, that’s where we come in!
With great recommendations, detailed reviews, and all the information you could ever want about woks, we’ve got you to find the best wok!
Table of Contents
In a hurry? This is our winner!
Runner Up
Best Wok – Comparison Table
Best Wok – Reviews
Lodge’s Pro-Logic wok is 14-inches and made of cast iron. The material provides superior heating and heat retention. It allows you to get those super high heats, and maintain them, great to get that seared stir-fry taste!
The wok features two loop handles that are easy to use. The wok is oven safe as well, making it a diverse pan to have in your collection.
The Pro-Logic is pre-seasoned and ready to use, taking the hard-work of seasoning the wok out of your hands! Be sure to hand wash this wok to preserve the seasoning, keeping the wok non-stick for you.
The wok has a study flat bottom good for use on all stovetops. It provides a large surface area, great for cooking large quantities, there’s no excuse to avoid the family cooking sessions now sorry!
Customers praised its good investment and heavy-duty performance, although some might find it heavy to handle.
- 14 INCH CAST IRON WOK: Seasoned and ready to use, this cast iron wok features helpful, modern handles and a large cooking surface that delivers high-heat performance.
- HEAT RETENTION: This cast iron wok features unparalleled heat retention for consistent, high-heat cooking and even heat distribution without hotspots.
- NATURALLY NONSTICK: This naturally seasoned cast iron wok is made with just iron and vegetable oil, creating a quick-release surface that gets better with use — just hand wash, dry, and rub with oil to preserve finish.
- COOK ANYWHERE: Cast iron cookware is oven-safe and can be used on so many heat sources, including glass-top stoves, induction, grills, or even live fire.
- MADE IN THE USA: Designed and made in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, where the people of Lodge Cast Iron have been crafting quality cookware since 1896.
- Pre-seasoned
- Sturdy construction
- Oven safe
- 14-inch
- Large surface area
- Some customers found it heavy to handle
Souped Up Recipes offer a carbon steel wok designed for electric, induction, and gas stoves. Great for many households across the country!
The wok is slightly smaller than others at 12.5 inches with a flat bottom.
Made from carbon steel the wok is designed to be lightweight and boasts a quick heat up time.
Customers were particularly impressed with its quick heat-up time, and how quickly it cools down, great to have in your kitchen!
With this wok, you also get a wooden lid and metal spatula. The handle is also wooden to avoid heating up when in use, no-one wants a scalded thumb!
Souped Up Recipes also throw in a video user guide and takeout recipes, great for those looking to expand their cooking skills, and beat the ‘what to eat’ blues most families encounter!
As its carbon steel, the wok will need to be seasoned, which is detailed in the instructions for you to follow. Some customers found this process a little longer than expected, so make sure you set plenty of time aside to do this.
Customers did note that the time was worth it, as once the seasoning is complete, the repeating process is not needed, with some customers noting that it lasted as long as ten months! It’s worth putting the initial time in on this great wok!
- PRE-SEASONED FOR IMMEDIATE USE - Sizzling stir frys, crispy deep frys, pan-searing to perfection.... while also able to make soups and stews!
- HANDLES HIGH HEAT AND SCRATCHES - Carbon steel wok has no tefflon coating and can sustain super high temperature without damage. You can use metal utensil and no need to worry about scratches. With the proper care, it will last you a life time.
- VIDEO AND WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS - Had problems with other carbon steel woks getting rusty? We have very simple care instructions, so you'll be cooking like a pro!
- THE ORIGINAL FLAT BOTTOM WOK - Works on electric stoves, induction stoves, gas ranges and other heat sources. Manufactured and imported by popular Youtuber, Souped Up Recipes.
- VIRAL TAKEOUT RECIPES - Over 1 Million subscribers trust her recipes... and we'll also include a link to over 200 video recipes in the box, many that can be made this wok.
- Lightweight carbon steel
- Wooden lid and spatula included
- User guide and recipes included
- 12.5 inches with flat bottom design
- Works with induction, gas, and electric tops
- Some customers found the seasoning process time consuming
Cook’s wok is 13-inches with 18/10 stainless steel and an aluminum-clad disk at the bottom for fast and even heating.
The steel and aluminum material makes the wok strong and durable, with customers praising its strength and longevity. Great for those wanting an investment wok.
The v-shaped handles are made from solid stainless steel to allow for cool airflow.
This wok comes with a handy stainless dome lid with a loop handle and has a 5-inch bottom.
It’s suitable for all stovetops and oven safe up to 500 degrees.
Cook offers a dishwasher safe wok, making doing the dishes a breeze!
Customers praised its even heating ability and easy cleanup, a plus for those looking for an easy to use wok.
Some customers did find that the interior of the wok stained easily, something to consider if you pride yourself with sparkling pans, can’t relate personally!
- HIGH QUALITY - Cooks Standard Wok Pan is made of premium grade 18/10 stainless steel and multi-element aluminum core both inside and outside, which is corrosion-resistant, high-temperature resistant, and has a long service life.
- STAINLESS STEEL DOME LID & COMFORTABLE HANDLE - The Stainless Steel Dome Lid has a good seal, which can effectively keep the moisture and heat in the pot and speed up cooking. Riveted stainless steel handles stay cool with airflow technology.
- GOOD HEAT DISTRIBUTION - The magnetic stainless steel and aluminum disc bottom is designed for induction cooker compatibility for even/fast temperature distribution and no hot spots, experience perfectly cooked meals every time.
- MULTI-STOVE COMPATIBLE – Induction compatible and works on gas, electric, glass, ceramic, halogen, and more. Oven safe up to 500℉. Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- PERFECT FOR EVERYDAY CHEF'S - Our Cooks Standard wok pan 13-inch stainless steel is the perfect addition to your kitchen, Whether you're cooking for yourself or your family, our pans are the perfect size for everyday use.
- Sturdy construction
- Oven safe
- Dishwasher safe
- Stainless steel
- Comes with a lid
- Some customers found the interior stained easily
Helen Chen’s wok is made from traditional carbon steel.
It has 1.6mm depth which provides rapid and even heating.
The wok features a heat resistant stick handle and helper handle made from natural bamboo. The stick handle also features a loop for vertical hanging, making it a little easier to store than other woks.
The wok also comes with a lightweight aluminum lid and features a flat bottom design that works well with gas and electric ranges.
Helen Chen’s wok needs initial scouring and seasoning before use to prevent rusting. Some customers noted that it takes a while to achieve adequate seasoning to avoid any rusting, which some experienced as a result of this.
As this is a more traditional design wok it is hand wash only to avoid the coating being removed.
Customers praised its construction and conductivity, a great wok for those looking for a more traditional one for their dishes.
- Helen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok for stir frying, stewing, sauteing, steaming, braising, frying, and deep frying favorite Asian recipes and more
- Made from 1.6-millimeter carbon steel with heat-resistant bamboo handle, helper handle, and high-domed lid; sturdy riveted design; hangs to store
- Carbon steel distributes heat quickly so foods cook evenly; cooking surface collects a natural patina over time for non-stick cooking performance
- Flat bottom sits securely on any stovetop; works with gas, electric and induction; high-domed lid retains heat and prevents splatters
- Traditional carbon steel material
- Aluminum lid included
- Great for electric and gas
- Well constructed
- Heat retention
- Initial pre-seasoning can take a while to ensure rust prevention
Joyce Chen’s wok is made from lightweight cast iron and measures in at 14-inches.
It has even heat distribution and excellent heat retention thanks to its cast-iron material.
The wok comes pre-seasoned and ready to cook on, although some customers noted that they needed to season before use and maintain this regularly. Those who had not noticed peeling, so be sure to keep on top of seasoning with this wok!
The exterior is made of easy-clean silicone and features a solid maple handle designed to be easy to handle while cooking.
To clean the interior of the wok, use warm water and mild soap, as to not damage the coating.
This wok is not suitable for the oven, so not as diverse as some of our other offerings.
- Famed cast iron performance that pro chef’s prefer
- 2.5mm cast iron gauge that’s a thinner, lighter, and more maneuverable composition
- Flat bottom and sloped edges extend the surface for high-temp cooking
- Solid maple handle is removable to easily pop the pan into the oven
- Handwash soon after using, wiping away any excess moisture, for best results
- Lightweight cast iron
- Excellent heat retention
- Pre-seasoned
- Easy to clean exterior
- Solid maple handle
- Not oven safe
Backcountry’s 14-inch wok is made of cast iron and is designed with superior heat retention for even cooking.
The wok claims to deliver restaurant-quality cooking in your home. It’s pre-seasoned to help deliver on that sear we all crave.
The wok is strong and durable, built to last which is great when you consider it’s decently priced.
Backcountry’s wok is designed to work on all surfaces, with their listening even boasting suitability for fire-pits, it’s a diverse wok to have in your cooking collection!
The woks surface is made of iron micro globules which ensure the seasoning on the pan adheres easily and quickly.
The pan is pre-seasoned, meaning its hand-wash only. It’s recommended using warm water, hand remove any pieces stuck, and use a paper towel to finish and dry.
Some customers did find the wok a little heavy to handle so bear that in mind.
- Backcountry Iron’s 14 inch wok has superior heat retention for even cooking. This skillet comes pre seasoned, ready to use out of the box! This wok has a 14 inch diameter, measures 17 inches handle to handle, and has a depth of 4 inches.
- Our 14 inch cast iron wok utilizes a flat base so it’s fully compatible with gas, electric, and induction cooktops. You can also use it on a wok burner, the oven, broiler, on the grill, BBQ or in the fire pit. Our wok’s versatility makes it great for searing, stir-fry, deep frying, and tossing. This large preseasoned wok is good for fried rice, orange chicken, broccoli beef, and even popcorn!
- Cast iron can rust so keep it out of the dishwasher, do not soak overnight, or air dry. Use warm water and scrape off any stuck food with a flat utensil. You can also lightly polish the cooking surface with a stainless steel chainmail scrubber for a smooth patina. Wipe dry immediately after cleaning, and apply a new layer of oil to protect from rust.
- This heavyweight wok is proudly designed in the USA and pre-seasoned with our proprietary oil blend. Our skillets are cast from the finest virgin ore and built to last generations.
- Our 14 inch wok comes with a smoother finish than other cast iron brands and is a perfect match for any cooktop.
- Made to last
- 14-inch wok
- Strong cast iron
- Works on all surfaces
- Pre-seasoned
- Some customers found it heavy to handle
Made from anodized aluminum Analon’s ultimate pan is a great choice for those looking for a non-traditional wok.
Available in a choice of 3 colors, the wok delivers on even heat distribution, and thanks to its nonstick nature, is metal utensil safe and is easy to clean up after use.
Customers were particularly impressed with its heat distribution and how easy it was to clean after use. The pan is hand wash only, so quick clean up is always a bonus! Who wants to be chained to the kitchen sink these days?
It boasts a triple-layer premium nonstick surface, great for peace of mind while cooking that your carrots won’t be sticking!
The SureGrip handle provides a solid, comfortable grasp and is dual riveted for strength.
Some customers found themselves needing to replace the pan after a year or so, with its nonstick design wearing off.
The wok does feature a lifetime warranty, so it is always worth checking you can use this should something be a miss with your wok. Something to consider for those who are after an investment piece instead.
Coming with a domed glass lid to help retain heat and moisture while cooking, the pan is also oven safe up to 400 degrees.
This versatile pan is a great addition to kitchens!
- SUPERIOR NONSTICK PERFORMANCE: Anolon Advanced ultimate pan features long-lasting, incredibly smooth, premium nonstick so culinary creations glide with ease from the pan to plate
- BALANCED HEAT CONTROL: Ultimate pan is engineered for fast, uniform heat with durable hard-anodized construction that's twice as hard as stainless steel
- SUBLIME COOKING: Enjoy every flip, tip, and toss with a durable SureGrip chef pan handle for a secure and comfortable hold
- EASY CLEAN FINISH: Bring style and easy cleaning to your cooking with a nonstick exterior finish that keeps your family pan looking newer, longer
- STOVE TO OVEN: Easily finish any dish in the oven where the nonstick ultimate pan is oven safe to 400°F
- Nonstick
- Durable construction
- Oven safe up to 400 degrees
- Comes with domed glass lid
- Even heat distribution
- Some customers found the pan did not last very long.
Craft Wok Store offers a traditional hand-hammered wok made of carbon steel.
The 14-inch wok features a round bottom making it unsuitable for a flat electric or induction stove.
This wok thanks to its carbon steel design needs to be seasoned before use. You are provided with instructions to follow for first-time wok seasoners!
The wok is hand-hammered in China by professionals and features a wooden handle, designed to be non-slip thanks to its special hygroscopic, which will provide you with a secure grip. The wooden handle won’t get too hot while you are cooking either.
You also get a steel helper handle, made in a loop design, allowing for great storage when not in use.
Customers praised its solid construction and heavy-duty feel. Designed to last, this wok is durable, with customers praising its ability to be passed down the generations, now that is value for your money!
- Round Bottom Heavy 14 Inch 15 gauge (1.8mm) carbon steel wok, commercial grade. Original design by Craft Wok since 2014, proven quality over the years. Traditional chinese wok pan with round bottom.
- Not suitable for flat electric or flat induction stove. Carbon steel wok may rust. Do not forget to season it before use! Instructions for easy seasoning are included with the wok. Our customer service is ready to guide through the process whenever you need it.
- Hand hammered by Chinese professionals in Guangzhou. This wok is the proven choice of many professional Chinese chefs. Wok weight: 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg). Heavy and sturdy.
- Steel helper handle will not burn when you stir fry over high heat, also helpful for hanging the wok for storage. Wooden handle has special hygroscopic not slippery surface for tight grip when you stir-fry.
- Craft Wok - Love Wok! We are a team of professionals drawn together by our passion for the carbon steel wok. Our mission is to bring you as much pleasure from Stir-frying in a wok, as chefs get in restaurants across China. To do this, we have found the best manufacturers in China. Our range of branded products is 100% authentic traditional carbon steel woks, 8 years on market.
- Durable
- Strong carbon steel
- Hand-hammered in China
- Wooden handle and steel helper handle
- 14-inch wok
- Seasoning can take some time
Best Wok – Buyers Guide
What is a Wok?
Now a staple in kitchens across the country, the wok has been used in dishes across Asia for hundreds of years before its migration across the pond.
Viewed as one of the most versatile cooking pans, it’s perfect for stir-fries. It’s also a great tool for deep frying, making sauces and soups thanks to its larger surface area.
Designed typically with rounded bottoms and smooth rounded edges, woks heat quickly over a small flame and distribute the heat evenly.
Woks generally have long handles as well, helping you shake the wok while you cook. This can sometimes eliminate the need for picking up a spoon and stirring it!
Wok Hei?
Translated into English, wok hei means ‘wok thermal radiation.’ Getting deep and metaphorical here, it’s the ‘breath of the wok’ or where the pain takes on certain characteristics, almost like a personality trait.
It refers to that smoky taste when food is stir-fried over high heat. You know the one you have when you eat out, but never seem to replicate at home?
Wok hei is achieved usually on high heat, often with Chinese chefs honing their skill over many years.
Now not everyone has the time or desire to spend years of their life in the kitchen, the humidity am I right? Thankfully, you can achieve great results with great wok in your own home.
To find the best wok for you, let’s take a look at some of the factors to consider before making your purchase.
Materials
Traditionally, woks are made from carbon steel. These days, with a range of materials in our arsenal, there is a lot more choice on the market.
We’ll look at these in detail to find the best fit for your needs.
Carbon steel
Traditionally woks were made with carbon steel and it’s still a popular choice today for those after an authentic taste.
These woks head up quickly and evenly and transfer the heat well. They are designed to reach those super-high heats needed for that searing effect and wok hei flavor.
Carbon steel, if treated correctly, will become nonstick over time. This can take some time and preparation, partly responsible for their decline in popularity in recent years.
These types of woks need to be pre-seasoned, usually with oil, and because of this, they are to be hand-washed only.
The seasoning can flavor the cooking slightly, which some people aren’t a fan of, but for those after a traditional wok and taste, it’s the one for you!
Cast Iron
A popular choice is cast iron. It can take some time to heat but retains it well.
Similar to carbon steel it will form its nonstick surface, providing you take the time to season and maintain this wok. You can purchase pre-seasoned cast iron woks, saving you the time it takes to season the wok!
Due to the seasoning that needs to be done on the wok, it’s recommended not to wash the wok (students rejoice, it’s one less thing to clean!) as it will remove the seasoning.
Cast iron woks can be heavy and difficult to move. This issue can be solved by using a wok spatula, which thanks to its shovel-like design can move food around quickly and easily.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is easier to clean and will provide the strength and heat retention needed when cooking with woks.
These can take longer to heat but provide you with good heat distribution. For quicker heat-ups, opt for a steel wok that has been blended with aluminum.
Steel woks don’t need to be seasoned, often making them dishwasher safe. They are also extremely durable.
However, they can be heavy to handle and don’t respond as quickly to temperature changes as the more traditional carbon steel woks.
Other options
Electric, ceramic coated cast iron, anodized aluminum, and those with nonstick materials are also options to consider.
Nonstick woks are a great idea for those beginners, it’s easy to clean, and providing you don’t use anything abrasive will work well.
They can’t be heated too hot, so it will be harder to get that seared effect we all crave in our stir-fries. It’s better to go low and steady with a nonstick wok, bucking the traditional super high heats they are usually used for!
There are some considerations to be aware of though. Nonstick treatments may release toxic chemicals at high temperatures.
They also aren’t suitable for use with metal utensils as they can scratch and damage the surface. Ceramic coatings can also chip and crack making them unsafe to use once this happens.
Added Extras
Woks are sold individually, or you can pick them up in a set, with a lid, burner rings, a thin metal spatula (otherwise known as a Chuan), ladle, tray, etc. which are great options if you are starting (or make an excellent house warming gift!).
Before making your purchase think about what your wok is going to be used for, alongside stir-fries, they are also great for steaming, smoking, or even deep-frying and will require extra utensils, all of which can incur additional costs.
Price
The price of a wok can vary depending on the brand and material.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a good quality wok, and those students looking to just play some serious wok tennis, really need not spend their precious pennies on a wok!
Consider the best material for you, and whether you want a standalone wok, or a set with added extras, before setting a budget that will best suit.
How Do I Season My Wok?
For those opting for carbon steel or cast iron wok, it needs to be seasoned first to stop food sticking. This can be done quite simply.
First, scrub the wok when you first unpack it. This will remove any oils that have been put on the wok to prevent rusting while it’s made its way to you.
Next, heat the wok on high for 10 minutes. Any color change at this point is completely normal!
Once the wok is very hot, use a dry towel to rub the wok with a high smoke point oil. Good ones to use for this are canola or vegetable oil. Be sure to wipe away any residue.
Leave the wok to heat for a further five minutes. Any more color change is completely normal. Once this is done leave the wok to cool completely.
Your wok may also come with instructions on how to do this, so be sure to give those a read too!
That brings us to the end of our hunt for the best wok!
Remember to consider what you will be using the wok to cook and what stove you will be working on to get the best wok for you!
