The geometry of a pan can affect how easily moisture is driven off of food, and how rapidly a sauce will reduce. It's often claimed that the sloped sides of a skillet help moisture exuded by cooking meats evaporate more rapidly, allowing you to sear more efficiently. And this is true, but only given the same cooking area. In other words, a 12-inch skillet with a 10-inch cooking area will sear foods more efficiently than a 10-inch sauté pan. The corollary to this, of course, is that, given an equal amount of food that needs searing over super-high heat (some steaks, for example), the large surface area of a sauté pan does not offer any significant advantages over a skillet—you'll still have to cook in just as many batches.

Properly cleaning your frying pan can make all the difference in its longevity. While some manufacturers may label their pans as dishwasher-safe, it is always best to hand-wash your pans to avoid potential damage caused by harsh dishwashing chemicals or a dishwasher's high heat.

The sloped and rounded sides are slightly higher than a frying pan, resulting in two to three inches of steepness. The high edges prevent the oil and other liquids inside from spilling out.

Skillets and frying pans are basically the same types of pan. When it comes time to create a delicious meal, you want the right cooking instrument for the job. Skillets are great for shallow sauces and searing meat, while saute pans can hold a large volume of ingredients. In the end, it is your kitchen and your choice - cook with whatever you want. However, using the right pan for your recipe ensures that you will have a smoother time making those delectable at-home meals.