These two pans are so similar in appearance and in functionality that they are often interchangeable. Because of this, most home cooks define them as the same pan. There are, however, a few differences, although they are very minimal. These differences are:
• Skillets come with a lid; whereas, frying pans usually do not.
• Skillets are commonly made from cast-iron; whereas, frying pans are commonly made from stainless steel or aluminum.
• Skillets are deeper than frying pans.