Updated January 7,2024
As a new resident, you may be wondering what the Best Cookware For First Apartment entails. A variety of basic cooking essentials, from pots and pans to baking sheets, roasting pans, and grill pans, will make your first apartment a home-cooked delight.
But before you decide on which one to buy, consider your kitchen space and your cooking needs. What is the most practical kitchen utensil?
Best Cookware For First Apartment
If you are in your first apartment, you may be wondering what the best cookware is. While you can buy individual pieces of cookware to supplement your new kitchen, it is generally easier to get a set and match the pieces to a specific theme. Sets are also cheaper than individual pieces, which means you can add to them later if you want to expand your cooking repertoire. In this article, we’ll go over the basics that you should buy.
The kitchen is the heart of every household as it is where food is prepared for the family, and food brings everyone together.
Some people say that the neater the person, the neater their kitchen. Regardless of how true that is, a tidy kitchen is everyone’s dream. Especially with increasingly expensive living standards, apartments/homes are getting smaller, so are the kitchens.
As a result, cramming all your pots and pans in snug little compartments and hanging them around everywhere on the walls is a daily hassle. Not to mention the regular awkward struggle to keep your cookware in place when grabbing one causes more to topple over.
If you’re looking for a remedy to such an inconvenience, you’ve come to the right place! Grab a seat and buckle up as today we’re all about the best cookware for first apartment that will eliminate your kitchen nightmares in a jiffy!
List Of Top Cookware For First Apartment
- GRANITESTONE Stackmaster
- GreenPan Levels
- T-fal All In One
- Gotham SteelUltra Nonstick Cast Texture
- Gotham Steel Stackable Frying Pan Set
- GreenPan Levels Essential
- Gotham Steel
- Rachael Ray
- Gotham Steel Mini Stackmaster
Comparison Chart For Top 9 Cookware For First Apartment
| IMAGE | NAME | PIECES | MATERIAL | SPECIALTY | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | GRANITESTONE Stackmaster | 15 | Aluminum with granite coating | Cool-touch handles | Check Price |
 | GreenPan Levels | 11 | Anodized ceramic | Non-toxic non-stick | Check Price |
 | T-fal All In One | 5 | Aluminum | Thermo-Spot Technology | Check Price |
 | Gotham Steel Ultra Nonstick Cast Texture | 10 | Aluminum with Ti-cera | Dishwasher-safe | Check Price |
 | Gotham Steel Stackable Frying Pan Set | 3 | Aluminum with Ti-cera | Safe to be used on induction stoves and ovens | Check Price |
 | GreenPan Levels Essential | 6 | Steel | Diamond-reinforced ceramic coating | Check Price |
 | Gotham Steel | 15 | Ti-Cerama (Titanium + ceramic) | Interchangeable glass lids | Check Price |
 | Rachael Ray | 8 | Aluminum | Platinum Shield Technology for enhanced durability | Check Price |
 | Gotham Steel Mini Stackmaster | 5 | Ti-Cerama (Titanium + ceramic) | Withstands metal spoons and spatulas | Check Price |
Best Cookware For First Apartment Reviews
1. GRANITESTONE Stackmaster – Best Cookware Set For Small Apartment
This 15-piece wonder set offers you the most versatile array of cookware to meet all your needs. These pieces are all stackable, taking up unbelievably little space!
This model consists of two frying-pans, three saucepans, a stock pot, four lids, a mesh basket plus crisper tray, a deep-fry basket, and a steamer insert. So whatever type of cooking adventure you intend to embark on, this set has got your back.
Composed of Aluminum and coated with triple layers of granite stone, the cookware are incredibly durable and resistant to warps and scratches. The lids are composed of tempered glass for sturdiness, while the special handles stay cool even while cooking.
As a result, you no longer have to fear of getting your hands burnt accidentally while cooking. The set is a great choice for cooking any type of food thanks to its PFOA-free non-stick coating. They are dishwasher-safe as well, thus making cleaning up a piece of cake in a breeze!
The best part of this stackable set is also the fact that you get to use it on any cooktop, even your oven or induction stoves. You get to bake in the frying pans, thus eliminating the need for extra baking dishes, further reducing clutter.
Highlighted Features
- 15-piece set composed of granite stone coated aluminum and tempered glass
- Oven-safe and PFOA-free non-stick layer
- Handles stay cool during cooking for safe handling
- Dishwasher-safe and resistant to scratches and warps
2. GreenPan Levels | first apartment kitchen set
For cooking large capacity meals for your big family, this 11-piece set sure is a lifesaver thanks to the high-capacity pots and pans it includes.
This stackable set comprises of two saucepans, a stockpot, two frying pans, a grill pan, one foldable steamer, and four lids in total. The smaller frying pan possesses a helper handle for convenient usage. The lids are not your regular glass lids as they function as a strainer simultaneously.
The cookware are composed of strong anodized bodies which make them heavily durable and great for daily usage. The non-stick layer adopts GreenPan’s Thermolon Diamond Advanced diamond-infused ceramic composition. This makes it non-toxic as it is free from toxic chemicals such as PFOA, lead, cadmium, and PFAS.
Hence, you get to use them every day without the worry of consuming harmful chemicals hanging over your head. No need to fret about what utensil to use to stir your food either as this ceramic non-stick coating is metal-safe.
Cleaning up has never been easier as you can safely pop them into your dishwasher and let the machine do all the work. This is one heck of a phenomenal stackable set as once stacked up, the 11 pieces altogether reach a height of just 13.5 inches!
Highlighted Features
- 11-piece large capacity set
- Oven-safe up to 400⁰F, lids are oven-safe up to 350⁰F
- Non-toxic diamond-infused ceramic non-stick coating that is metal utensil safe
- Glass lids double as a strainer
3. T-fal All In One
Composed of Aluminum with a durable titanium non-stick interior, this 5-piece stackable set is a must-have for any kitchen, and that too, while saving 45% more room!
The set constitutes of three different-sized frying pans, each with a pouring spout, a fry basket, and a silicone splatter screen. One of the frying pans include a shorter side-handle along with the long handle to ensure enhanced convenience.
The pans are coated with a durable and scratch-proof titanium non-stick layer which enables easy cooking of any type of food, while the pouring spot allows easier serving. The cookware adopt T-fal’s unique Thermo-Spot Technology which indicates when the pans are perfectly hot enough to commence your cooking magic!
The splatter screen acts like a lid preventing food from splattering as it cooks while letting steam to escape. Hence, it facilitates perfect cooking without causing any mess for a neat chef-like cooking experience. The pans are equipped with silicon handles that remain cool during cooking to ensure safety.
This cookware set is versatile and is usable on any cooktop including your oven. Even the silicone handles are oven-safe within temperatures up to 400°F, thus enabling you to pop the whole pan inside without worry.
Highlighted Features
- 5-piece stackable set that saves 45% more space
- Includes a silicone splatter screen which enables mess-free cooking
- Thermo-Spot Technology indicates when pans are perfectly hot enough to commence cooking
- Stay-cool oven-safe silicone handles up to 400°F
4. Gotham Steel Ultra Nonstick Cast Texture
This impressively durable set by Gotham Steel is composed of Aluminum with a Ti-cera non-stick coating (Titanium + ceramic) for a superb performance.
The cookware includes a frying pan, a skillet, two saucepans, a stock pot, three interchangeable glass lids, a spoon, and a spatula with slots. Since the Ti-cera coating is ultra-durable and resistant to scratches, feel free to uses metal spoons and spatulas as well. That too, without the fear of scraping the coating off!
This unique technology of ceramic reinforced titanium non-stick leads to not requiring butter or oil to grease your pan, thus facilitating a healthier diet. Clean-up is made a piece of cake as well since the cookware are all dishwasher-safe to eliminate an annoying chore off your schedule.
Once stacked up, you get to save 30% more space in comparison to regular pots and pans, thus keeping your kitchen clutter-free. The stay-cool handles ensure a safe cooking experience. Their heavy aluminum body is super-strong and non-porous, providing you with phenomenal durability and wear-resistance.
You get to enjoy a versatile cooking experience as this device is compatible with almost all cooktops, even your oven! With the capacity to withstand up to an impressive 500°F, it sure is a model not worth missing out on!
Highlighted Features
- Durable aluminum composition with Ti-cera non-stick coating
- Interchangeable glass lids
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- Ti-cera non-stick coating requires no/less butter and oil and is metal-safe
5. Gotham Steel Stackable Frying Pan Set– Best Basic Cookware Set
This model by Gotham Steel is a 3-piece set that consists of two frying pans and an interchangeable glass lid.
With triple coated Ti-cera non-stick coating, it is ultra-durable, allowing any cooking style while withstanding any utensils, including metal ones.
The coating is free from PFOA and PFOS, thus ensuring a safe usage without the risk of chemical consumption. Stay-cool handles make them safe to handle and move while being dishwasher-safe is a blessing to your cleaning-up routine.
Its brown exterior adds to aesthetics, so your cooking isn’t the only thing that will impress your guests. Along with being non-toxic, the Ti-cera coating enables oil-free cooking, thus contributing to a healthier and safer lifestyle.
The cookware set is safe to use on any cooktops, including induction, electric, gas, and oven. With the capacity to withstand temperatures up to 550°F, this beast of a device has it all to easily become number one on your wishlist!
Highlighted Features
- 3-piece frying pan set with brown aluminum exterior and an interchangeable glass lid
- Ti-cera non-stick coating free from PFOA and PFOS and requires no oil
- Stay-cool stainless-steel handles
- Induction and oven-safe with a heat endurance capacity of up to 550°F
- Dishwasher-safe and metal utensil-safe
Selecting the Best Cookware Set For First Apartment
There are many considerations when selecting the Best Cookware Set For First Apartment. You should also think about whether you want cast-iron or nonstick cookware. Nonstick pans are great for your first apartment, but be sure to avoid aluminum cookware, which tends to warp. A good set will also save space in your cabinet. If you can’t afford the full price of a set, consider a stackable set.
Stackable sets save cabinet space
Stackable cookware sets are a great way to free up more kitchen cabinet space. They come with interchangeable lids and save even more space in the cabinet. Calphalon Premier Space Saving Cookware is a perfect example of a stackable set. Its durable aluminum construction ensures even heat distribution throughout the entire set, and the three layers of non-stick interior provide superb food release and easy cleaning.
Stackable cookware sets are ideal for small kitchens. They stack neatly into each other and take up less cabinet space than standard cookware. The glass lids can easily fit and stack, and they also reduce breakage risk. This set is made to stack in any order and save cabinet space by about 30 percent. You can buy a set of stackable cookware at Bed Bath & Beyond, Food52, and Amazon for as little as $299, or on Amazon for as little as $177.
Stackable cookware sets are designed to maximize cabinet space. They come in sets of 10 pieces and offer a 4.5-star rating based on over 2700 reviews. They save cabinet space by nesting the pieces of cookware, which makes them easier to find and store. Stackable cookware sets also feature interchangeable lids that reduce the risk of missing pieces and are scratch-resistant. When choosing a cookware set, consider whether you use it for every day cooking or just for special occasions.
Nonstick pans are a good option
When purchasing nonstick pans, it’s important to consider the type of food you’ll be cooking most often. If you’re cooking a roast, for example, you might want to invest in a pan that can be transferred to the oven. When shopping for cookware, check manufacturer recommendations for temperature ranges, handles, and lids, and also consider your cooking style and your storage space.
Some cookware sets include a nonstick frying pan and a set of spoons and spatulas. If you can’t afford a complete set of cookware, consider buying individual pieces and assembling them. A 12-inch frying pan, for example, can be used in the oven or for preparing eggs. Compared to nonstick pans, a seasoned carbon steel pan won’t scratch or discolor. Moreover, bare cast iron is more flammable than PTFE, and it will change the taste of your food.
While PFOA is a known carcinogen, it was removed from the manufacturing process of PTFE. As a result, modern nonstick cookware is made without PFOA. The American Cancer Society notes that nonstick cookware is safe to use for cooking, but it is important to remember that PFOA is dangerous if inhaled. Therefore, if you’re considering buying cookware, check if it is PFOA-free.
Cast iron is a good choice
In your first apartment, you will probably want to purchase cookware that matches your cooking style. Aluminum cookware is inexpensive, a good conductor of heat, and responds quickly to temperature changes. But you need to watch out for aluminum’s tendency to warp or crack, and its lack of a non-stick surface. You can protect your cookware from these issues by using a stainless steel or thermolon coating.
Cast iron pans are durable and can last for decades. If you only cook omelets once in a while, you can buy a 10-inch or 12-inch frying pan and a large sauce pot. Don’t forget to purchase a set of storage containers. They come in handy if you want to store leftovers or meal prep. You can also purchase silicone handle covers and roasting racks if you don’t want to buy them separately.
If you are iron deficient, cast iron can help. Because cast iron is highly heat-resistant, you can use it on the stove, in the oven, and even over the open fire. And it’s versatile, too. Cast iron can be used for stovetop, oven, and even on an open fire if properly seasoned. Although cast iron cookware can be heavy and can take a while to heat up to a usable temperature, it’s well worth it if you plan to use it for high-temperature cooking. The stored heat can produce a thick sear on meat, crisp fish skin, and deep caramelization on vegetables.
Aluminum cookware is prone to warps
If you want to buy quality aluminum cookware, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, aluminum is susceptible to warping, even if it is anodized. Make sure to store your pans in a cool place before use. You should also avoid heating your aluminum pans to high temperatures unless you’re cooking very fast food. Second, avoid using high-flame burners as they will cause instant thermal shock, causing the warping of aluminum cookware.
Also, make sure your aluminum cookware has a thick anodized coating or a stainless steel bottom. You should never use cold water directly on hot aluminum. This will cause it to warp, and you should also avoid putting it in the dishwasher. Aluminum cookware is not dishwasher safe and should be discarded once it has been damaged. But this doesn’t mean you should completely discard your pans.
Another thing to keep in mind is that aluminum cookware tends to warp despite their nonstick coating. Non-stick aluminum is often coated with PTFE or Teflon, which is great for making eggs, but less useful for high-temperature searing. In addition, non-stick aluminum doesn’t develop a fond as easily as non-stick cookware. Additionally, non-stick aluminum is dark, making it harder to see a fond.
Cast iron is durable
A good set of cookware is a good investment, especially for the first apartment where you are likely to use the set on a daily basis. If you plan on cooking on a daily basis, you’ll want to invest in a cookware set made from cast iron or other durable materials. Cast iron is a popular material among chefs, as it heats evenly and retains heat long after cooking.
A cast iron cookware set is affordable, and you can get one that is built-in or removable. Some sets have a built-in handle and can be stored easily. You can also buy a set with lids to maintain the proper moisture level. Purchasing a set of cast iron cookware for first apartment is a great choice, but make sure you look for a durable set with high-quality materials.
When buying a cast iron cookware set, look for pieces that are dishwasher safe. If you wash them regularly, they will last for generations. If you don’t use them often, you can invest in a set made of another material for more practical reasons. The material is resistant to stains and won’t warp or crack, so you can use them for many years to come. You can also make jam and candy in a cast-iron pan for the first time and keep it safe.
Cast iron is a good choice for baking
A cast iron skillet is an affordable option for cooking in a small kitchen. A Dutch oven requires less counter space and is less prone to rusting. If you’re cooking for one, choose a Dutch oven under six quarts. If you’re baking for more than four people, get a wider and deeper skillet. The cast iron skillet is a versatile choice for cooking and baking.
A seasoned cast iron pan is an essential part of baking in a small kitchen. This material holds heat well and can easily be moved from the stove to the oven. You can also transfer cast iron pans easily from one stove to another. Cast iron also retains heat and is inexpensive. If you’re cooking in a first apartment, you’ll want to buy one that’s seasoned with a good amount of oil.
A cast iron skillet is also durable. It won’t chip or break easily, and it’s nearly indestructible. It’s easy to clean and maintain. You can also use water to remove any scorched bits. A cast iron pan is also easy to keep clean. A little water goes a long way when it comes to cleaning. But make sure you use a clean sponge to prevent scorching.
Aluminum cookware is PFOA-free
When buying non-stick cookware, it’s crucial to select a brand that is reputable. Unlike Teflon, aluminum cookware does not leach PFOA or other harmful chemicals into food. Although you should be wary of non-anodized aluminum cookware, it will not leach PFOA if scratched. PFOA-free cookware is also safe to use in your first apartment.
Non-stick aluminum cookware is also available, although it’s important to source non-stick aluminum cookware from reputable companies. Moreover, because ceramic cookware is not FDA-regulated, it can be difficult to find 100% PFOA-free options. Aluminum cookware is a great choice for first apartments because it is inexpensive and lightweight, and doesn’t leach PFOA or PFAS into food.
PFOA, also known as C8, is a group of man-made chemicals that have become increasingly popular in commercial cookware. Although the most common chemical in Teflon is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), it can still produce toxic fumes at high temperatures. While Teflon-free cookware should be used for your first apartment, it is important to read labels closely to avoid products containing Teflon or PTFE.
Cookware For First Apartment Buying Guide
Number Of Pieces
Since stackable cookware come in sets, it is essential to consider how big a set you want in terms of number. With up to 15-piece sets available, including the lids, the options are limitless.
If you’re moving into a new place and basically need a type of every pot and pan, larger sets are your go-to. For when you need to make a few new additions, smaller sets are the ones to opt for.
Types Of Cookware
A stackable set can include various types of cookware or the same type. Options to choose from include saucepans, pots, pans, deep-fryers, mesh baskets, crisper trays, lids, stock pots, steamer inserts, spoons, spatulas, etc.
Choose a combination of cookware you desire or a single type as per your requirements. Combos are a great investment as you get to indulge in convenient versatility without taking up any extra space!
Stackability
By this, we mean how conveniently your cookware stacks up to take up as little room as possible.
Most models are the regular type, meaning you get to stack them up in a tower starting from the largest cookware and finishing with the smaller ones at the top.
Advanced stackability features ensure that you get to save even more kitchen space. These models, though a little more expensive, are sure worth it, especially when you are dangerously low on cabinet space.
You can opt for models that use a single lid for multiple pots and pans, reducing confusion and clutter. Some models’ cookware come with staggering handles or shorter handles on two sides, significantly reducing the storage space they need.
Lids with flat tops are also a great space-saver, and so are foldable frying baskets. Small-handled models make it easier to load your cookware into your dishwasher as well, automating washing-up to make your life easier.
Composition And Non-Stick Properties
Durability is the next thing to focus on and the best cookware for first apartment must be composed of strong material to ensure that your cookware lasts for years. Common options include Aluminum, cast-iron, ceramic, etc.
Aluminum is widely used and loved as not only is it super-strong but is lightweight as well, thus making it convenient for everyday use. Cast iron ones are favored by the more pro cooks and chefs since they heat up evenly and have amazing heat retention properties.
Non-stickiness is a lifesaver property for every cookware and most models possess it, unless it’s a cast-iron which requires frequent seasoning. Aluminum models come with an integrated non-stick layer which further enhances durability.
It also makes clean-up easier and you get to use any type of utensils on some, even metal ones, without worrying about the non-stick coating scraping off. Just ensure that it is free from Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and other toxic chemicals as or else, chemicals will leach out into your food and lead to consumption.
Oven Safety
To further reduce the usage of space in your kitchen cupboard, you might want to consider choosing an oven-safe stackable cookware set.
They will offer a more versatile usage by enabling you to bake in them as well, without requiring you to buy extra baking dishes.
How To Store Pots And Pans In A Small Apartment?
Kitchen has multiple spots where you can store your pots and pans no matter how small the apartment is. You just have to make arrangements to utilize the storage.
1. Kitchen Shelf And Pot Rack
Mount a shelf or rack to the kitchen wall so you can make the most of it. Make sure the shelf has hooks at the bottom. This way, you can place some cookware on top of the shelf and hang some of them.
You can consider getting Vdomus shelf that features two grid shelves with 10 hanging hooks. It is solid enough to handle the weight of the cookware.
2. Pegboard
Another great kitchen piece to attach to the wall. You can use hooks of the pegboard to hang pots and pans for storage.
This product by Wall Control is one of the most durable pegboards that you can get for a small kitchen. It comes with U-Hooks that are not only durable but unmovable as well.
3. Toe-Kick Drawer
Install toe-kick drawer underneath the lower appliance or cabinet or wherever it’s convenient. You can use the shallow space to store thin utensils like sheet pans or pizza pans. The wise thing you can do is to place dividers. These will prevent the pans from rattling around while opening the drawer.
4. Lid Organizer
Use an organizer to store the lids separately. You can either place them in drawer or get a piece like Y.Z.Bros organizer to arrange the lids on top of the counter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Kind Of Pans Would You Choose For Your 1st Apartment?
You can choose cookware like big and small frying pan, saucepan, grill pan, roaster pan and baking sheet. These are some of the must-haves for your first apartment kitchen set.
What Is A Good Starter Set Of Pots And Pans?
For starter set, make sure to get something budget-friendly. You can consider this 10-piece cookware set by Rachel Ray. It’s reasonable, nonstick, dishwasher safe and oven safe.
All the pots and the pans ensure long-lasting performance thanks to hard-anodized construction. The cooking surface will heat up evenly and work to hold the temperature for longer period.
It comes with see-through glass lids that help you keep track of cooking. The lids seal the pots and the pans tight enough to cook the food thoroughly.
As for the handles, they are easy to grip and don’t get hot.
However, it’s not induction compatible.
What Pans Are The Most Versatile And Best For Beginner Cooks?
Usually fry pans and saucepans are the most versatile and best for beginner cooks. They can fry, stir-fry, roast, steam, and grill foods with such pans. If you want more versatile options, then look for the ones that can be used on majority of stovetops including induction.
It will be great if you start your cooking journey with nonstick pans. With this, you don’t have to face any hassle of food sticking to the surface.
This pan set by SHINEURI can be a great option for beginner cooks. It has all the qualities that make the pans versatile.
What Do You Need In A New Apartment?
The kitchen essentials you may need in your new apartment include-
- Frying pans
- Saucepans
- Stockpots
- Casserole Dish
- Skillets and
- Dutch Oven.
These cookware are enough to let you explore different kinds of cooking with different ingredients.
What Is The Best Stackable Cookware?
The Calphalon Premier Space-Saving Nonstick is one of the popular stackable cookware sets out there. It is made from hard-anodized aluminum which gives it good strength and durability. At the same time, it is small and compact making it good for small kitchens.
Can You Stack Pots And Pans?
Yes, you can stack pots and pans. Some sets of cookware are made in such a way that you can stack them on top of each other to save space. And because those have been made with this purpose in mind, you do not risk ruining the cookware either.
How Do You Stack Pans?
You can stack pans on top of one another. Be sure to start with the largest at the bottom, and stacking smaller sizes on top as you go. Don’t stack ones that fit too tight into one another, because then you risk damaging the pans when taking them out.
What kind of cookware is best for everyday use?
When buying cookware, there are many options available, so you need to choose the right one based on your cooking style. Some of the best options are nonstick, and they’re easy to clean and maintain. If you’re primarily cooking acidic foods, you may want to go with copper or cast iron. Also, keep in mind the health factors before purchasing cookware. Exposure to certain chemicals can have serious repercussions, so consider this when buying cookware.
What pan is easiest to clean?
A good cleaning solution is hot water and soap. A soft sponge and a mild dish detergent are sufficient for cleaning most cookware. Hard water can leave a chalky residue on cookware. Avoid steel wool or other abrasive cleaners as they can damage the pan’s surface. Instead, use a sponge and water mixture to scrub the pan. Then, dry it immediately after cleaning. Then, you can repeat the process.
What pots and pans does Gordon Ramsay use?
In the show “Masterchef,” Gordon Ramsay is a popular personality, but what kitchen tools does he recommend? If you’re looking for a great way to cook like the chef, you can’t go wrong with ScanPan pans. These heavy-based pans use less oil during cooking. They are also suitable for the oven, and the heavy base provides a nice, even heat.
What is the best cookware for a reasonable price?
There are many different types of cookware available, and they can range in price from cheap to expensive. For instance, some people prefer ceramic cookware, while others opt for nonstick. There are advantages to both types. Ceramic cookware releases foods evenly, is dishwasher safe, and is toxin-free. It can handle both high and low heats, and is durable enough to take the punishment of daily use. It is also good for transferring dishes from the stovetop to the oven.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a beginner set that has everything, or add a few new members to your cookware collection, the best cookware for first apartment are a lifesaver; especially when you have a smaller kitchen.
Stackable sets are the ultimate choice to keep your kitchen neat and clutter-free while having every piece of necessary cookware. They are thus surely an investment worth every penny and inch of space!
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