Several factors can affect the price of a wok. Woks made from different materials, such as carbon steel or cast iron, will usually vary in price. Electric woks are also typically much more expensive than traditional woks. Woks that are endorsed by celebrities or famous chefs will also usually cost more, as will very large woks. For an inexpensive wok, a cook can buy a used wok as opposed to a brand new one.
The price of a wok will often depend partly on what type of material is used to make it. Carbon steel woks and cast iron woks are typically the most common types of woks. On average, a carbon steel wok will usually cost a little less than a cast iron wok. These types of woks are also usually more lightweight than their cast iron counterparts.
Cast iron is the traditional material for making woks. A cast iron wok can also be coated with an enamel glaze, which often eliminates the need to season a wok. The price of a wok coated with enamel is usually much higher than the prices of other types of woks.
Consumers also have the option of purchasing electric woks. These types of woks need no outside heat sources, since they are heated by electric coil located just under the bottom of the wok. Electric woks, although convenient, are usually the most expensive types of woks.
When shopping for a wok, a consumer will often notice that many woks are endorsed by celebrities or famous chefs. These woks are not always any better or worse than other woks. Wok manufacturers simply pay these famous people to help promote their products, which helps grab the attention of consumers. While this tactic often works, it can also drive up the price of a wok.
The size of a wok will also usually help determine the price of a wok. Small woks or mini-woks, for example, are usually rather inexpensive. Very large woks, like commercial woks used in restaurants, are typically much more expensive.
When choosing the best wok, it is not always necessary to buy a brand new wok. To cut down on the price of cookware, cooks can look for used woks. These can sometimes be found in thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales, or online auction sites.