Pyrex vs. Anchor Hocking: A Detailed Comparison
Pyrex and Anchor Hocking are two popular brands known for their glass kitchenware and storage containers. If you’re in the market for glass kitchenware, you’ve probably come across these brands and may be wondering which one is better. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed comparison of Pyrex and Anchor Hocking, highlighting their similarities and minor differences.
Material
Both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking used to make their products from borosilicate glass, which is highly resistant to extreme temperature changes. However, both brands have now switched to using soda-lime glass. Anchor Hocking has been using tempered soda-lime glass for 40 years, while Pyrex began producing soda-lime glass kitchenware in 1998.
It’s important to note that soda-lime glass is susceptible to thermal shock, which means it can crack when exposed to drastic temperature changes. While this change in material may be a concern for some, it’s worth noting that both brands still offer durable and reliable glass kitchenware.
Security
When it comes to safety, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking glass kitchenware are considered safe choices. Glass kitchenware can break if dropped or handled carelessly, and both brands are susceptible to cracking when exposed to drastic temperature changes. However, this is a characteristic of tempered glass kitchenware in general, rather than a specific fault of either brand.
Most importantly, Pyrex and Anchor Hocking glass kitchenware will not leach chemicals into your food. In addition, the plastic lids of their food storage containers are BPA-free, ensuring a safe and healthy way to store your meals.
Browse Assortment
In terms of product variety, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer a wide range of options. However, Pyrex falls slightly behind Anchor Hocking in terms of assortment. Pyrex offers a large collection of bakeware and glassware, storage sets, and various accessories such as replacement lids, portables, and hot and cold packs.
Anchor Hocking, on the other hand, offers more than just bakeware and storage containers. They also make pantry organizers, cake stands, platters, drinkware (glasses, cups and water bottles) and more. This broader range of products makes Anchor Hocking a great choice if you’re looking for more than just bakeware and storage containers, but also other kitchen and dining essentials.
Features
When it comes to features, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer similar features for their bakeware and storage containers. Their products are oven, microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe. These features are critical to ensuring versatility and convenience in the kitchen.
It’s important to note that not all Anchor Hocking products have the same characteristics. For example, pantry organizers, cake stands and drinking glasses may not have all of the features listed above. It’s a good idea to check the specific product details before making a purchase.
Lids – Material, Tightness and Closure
The quality of the lids is a critical factor to consider when purchasing food storage containers. Both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer BPA-free and airtight lids for their storage sets. Let’s compare the brands’ storage sets and their lid features:
Pyrex Simply Store Set:
- BPA Free and Airtight Plastic Lids
- Rectangular and round containers in various sizes
- Tempered glass containers that are freezer, oven and dishwasher safe
- Oven safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
Anchor Hocking Snug Fit Lid Set:
- BPA Free and Airtight Plastic Lids
- Rectangular and round containers in various sizes
- Tempered glass containers that are freezer, oven and dishwasher safe
- Oven safe to 425 degrees Fahrenheit
While both sets offer similar lid features, Anchor Hocking containers are claimed to be oven safe at higher temperatures compared to Pyrex. This may be a deciding factor for people who frequently use their glass containers in high temperature ovens.
It’s worth noting that some Pyrex lids fit Anchor Hocking containers for added convenience and compatibility between the two brands. In addition, replacement lids are available from both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are essential kitchen tools, and both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer glass options. Let’s compare their mixing bowls:
Pyrex Rimmed Mixing Bowl:
- Rounded shape
- Oven safe (preheat to 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Microwave, refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher safe
- Plastic lids available for purchase
Anchor Hocking mixing bowl:
- Slightly more straight shape
- Oven safe (preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit)
-Microwave, refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher safe - Plastic lids available for purchase
Both brands offer reliable and versatile mixing bowls. The choice between the two may come down to personal preferences, such as desired bowl shape or specific temperature requirements for oven use.
Measuring jugs
Accurate measurements are critical in cooking and baking, and both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer measuring cup sets. Let’s compare their measuring cups:
Pyrex Measuring Cup Set:
- Set includes several cup sizes
- Made of durable tempered glass
- Microwave, refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher safe
- Easy-to-read measurements
Anchor Hock measuring cup set
- Set includes multiple cup sizes
- Made of durable tempered glass
- Microwave, refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher safe
- Easy-to-read measurement markings
Both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer reliable and functional measuring cup sets. The choice between the two may depend on personal preferences, such as the specific cup sizes included in the set or the design of the measurement markings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking offer high quality glass kitchenware and storage containers. While there are minor differences between the two brands, such as the temperature range for oven use or the variety of products offered, both brands provide reliable and safe options for your kitchen needs.
When choosing between Pyrex and Anchor Hocking, consider your specific needs, preferences and uses for glass kitchenware. Whether you are looking for a broader product line, higher oven resistance, or specific features such as mixing bowls or measuring cups, both brands offer options to meet your needs.
Ultimately, the choice between Pyrex and Anchor Hocking depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your kitchen. Both brands have a long history of producing quality glass kitchenware, and you can’t go wrong with either choice.
FAQS
Are Pyrex and Anchor Hocking made from the same type of glass?
Both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking use soda-lime glass for their kitchenware and storage containers. They have switched from using borosilicate glass to soda-lime glass in their manufacturing processes.
Are Pyrex and Anchor Hocking products safe to use?
Yes, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking glass kitchenware and storage containers are safe to use. They do not leach chemicals into your food, and their plastic lids are BPA-free. However, it’s important to handle glass kitchenware with care to avoid breakage.
Can I use Pyrex and Anchor Hocking in the oven?
Yes, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking products are oven safe. Pyrex is typically safe for temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while Anchor Hocking can withstand temperatures up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use Pyrex and Anchor Hocking in the microwave?
Yes, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking products are microwave safe. You can safely heat or reheat food in their glass containers without worry.
Can I put Pyrex and Anchor Hocking products in the dishwasher?
Yes, both Pyrex and Anchor Hocking products are dishwasher safe. They can easily be cleaned in the dishwasher without any problems.
Can I use Pyrex lids on Anchor Hocking containers and vice versa?
In some cases, Pyrex lids fit Anchor Hocking containers and vice versa. This interchangeability can provide added convenience and flexibility in using products from both brands. However, it’s recommended to check the specific lid and container compatibility before use.