Quality workmanship is important.

Fewer welds attaching the handle to the pot will result in handle breakage or loosening. A hole at the base or hollow handle will result in a cooler metal handle. Some large sauté pans have a small handle opposite the main handle of ease of moving from the stove.

Weight of heft is important because the thicker and heavier the pan the more even the heat distribution, heat holding ability and resistance to pan warping.

Pans with lids should have a good fit and have oven proof handles with the ability to be easily removed.