I have bought several more expensive brand "everyday" style pans and the non stick surface has always broken down quickly.  I always use wood or silicone tools and medium heat for most of my cooking.  This pan is slightly lighter weight than the other pans which is actually a good thing.  It heats evenly and the non-stick surface is incredibly slick.  I haven't had this pan long enough to tell how the non-stick surface will age, but at this price point I won't feel like I'm losing an investment piece if I need to replace it annually.  Thanks for making a great pan, Cuisinart!