Le Creuset Classic vs Signature Dutch Oven the difference is minor but useful. Some of the things that is different is the size of the handle, knob and lid design. But the question is, is the the change worth buying a new dutch oven? This comparison will take a closer look at the two dutch oven. We will see how much different there is and whether you should buy it.

Le Creuset Classic vs Signature Dutch Oven Quick Summary

Categories	Le Creuset Classic Dutch Oven	Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Dutch Oven
Performance	Good	Good
Colors	Range of Colors	Range of Colors
Oven Safe	375 Degree Fahrenheit	500 Degree Fahrenheit
Handle	Smaller	larger
Brand Awareness	World Famous	World Famous
Pouring Lip	No	No
Thoughts	The Classic Le Creuset Dutch Oven, still one of the best around. Great range of colors and great usability.	Le Creuset has taken it one step further. They made the handle larger and more comfortable. The lid is slightly more attractive and the knob has a higher oven safe temperature.
Reviewed Cookware	Le Creuset Cerise Cherry Enameled Cast Iron Round French Oven	Le Creuset LS2501-262 Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Round French (Dutch) Oven (Better Overall)

Le Creuset Classic vs Signature Dutch Oven Design

For the most part, both the classic and signature are very similar. However little changes in the handle design makes all the difference.

Handle

The original classic dutch oven already has one of the best handle. It was wide and had loads of clearance. In the signature series, they expanded the handle to give it even more clearance and width. The handle now lets you hold it with confidence even with gloves on. Other manufacturer like staub causes your knuckle to hit the wall of the pot. With Le Creuset, this issue is alleviated. While some might see this as minor, but when you are holding 5 qt of liquid, you will be glad that the handles are larger.

Lid

The lid is also a little different. If you look at the top the rings that decorates the top are slightly thicker and more spaced out on the signature line. I wouldn’t say they are more attractive, but rather different. On the knob, they upgraded so that it can withstand a higher temperature. The classic one has a oven safe temperature of 375 degree Fahrenheit.

On the signature, it has a increased oven safe temperature of 500 degree Fahrenheit. Since most home oven doesn’t even reach that temperature, you do not have to worry about it melting. This means that the metal knob is not necessary. However, if you do switch it, Le Creuset stated that there is no upper temperature limit. The other benefit is that it is slightly thicker and more ergonomic. Overall, the design on the signature version is better. Interesting enough some say that the lid is more tight fitting, I find it to be about the same…

Enamel Coating

As far as I can see, there is no other changes on the Dutch Oven. There is some comments on the enamel coating being a higher grade, but really its about the same. For the average home user, you wont notice any difference. Both uses a cream interior so that you can judge how the quality of the fond is. Other manufacturer will use a black interior. Those black brown a little better, but you can easily burn the fond if you are not careful. The exterior enamel is still very durable and its one of the best in the industry. Those that are made in China, are prone to chipping. The Tramontina that I have, came chip from the store.

Le Creuset Classic vs Signature Dutch Oven Thoughts

Changes were mainly made on the handle design and the lid. While this is minor, it makes a huge difference in terms of ergonomic. Le Creuset was already one of the best Dutch Oven on the market, and they made it better. While performance wise, they will all be similar, its the usability that sets them apart. The range of colors is also one of the best in the industry. No other manufacturer have what they offer.

I hope you like this Le Creuset Classic vs Signature Dutch Oven article, If you would like to see more, please visit our Pots and Pans Review page.