This 2-cup version is a workhorse that’s been in my kitchen for years: the borosilicate glass can go from microwave to dishwasher without blinking, and the bold red markings (cups, ounces, and milliliters) are easy to read from above and the sides. What sets the Pyrex Prepware apart is how well it balances form and function. The wide mouth allows for easy pouring (even with thick batters), and the spout is precise enough that you’re not cleaning up drips every time you use it. It’s also heavy enough to feel secure on the counter, but not so bulky that it’s annoying to wash or store.
What we’d leave: While it’s built to withstand temperature swings, this is still glass—and that means it can chip or shatter if dropped. The red measurement markings also have a tendency to fade over time, especially with frequent dishwasher use. Still, for the price and performance, it’s a staple that earns its shelf space.
Best silicone: Sur La Table Silicone Measuring Cups
Sur La Table Silicone Measuring Cups
Pros:
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Easy to pour—silicone design makes it easy to get every last drop out
- Clear measurements
- Set of 3
- Dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Not suitable for dry ingredients
Materials: ½ cup, 1 cup, 2 cups
Capacity: BPA-free silicone
What we love: If you want something lighter than glass and entirely unbreakable, these silicone measuring cups are so satisfying to use. Made from heat-resistant, BPA-free silicone, wildly versatile and safe for the microwave, freezer, and dishwasher. You can melt butter in one, stash extra sauce in another, and toss them in the sink without worrying about warping or cracking. The spouts are sharp and precise, and the squishy-soft sides give you more control when pouring than rigid plastic or glass, allowing you to get every last drop out of them.
With three sizes, they nest neatly inside one another for easy storage and, since they’re squishy, can be squeezed into tighter spaces where solid cups can’t go (a win for small kitchen dwellers). For less than $30, they’re as functional as they are fun to use.
What we don’t love: I noticed that they were a bit slippery when my hands were wet or slick with oil. Also, they’re not suitable for dry ingredients. The silicone is extra grippy, and foods like flour or sugar will stick to the sides. Stick to liquids only.
How we tested these measuring cups
I tested both dry and liquid measuring cups in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and silicone. For dry sets, I measured ingredients like flour, sugar, and oats to assess volume accuracy compared to a known weight, ease of scooping, and how comfortably they fit into containers. For liquid cups, I looked at pour control, visibility of measurement markings, and overall stability when filled. I also considered how well each set nested (space is everything in a kitchen!), how easy they were to clean (both by hand and in the dishwasher), and whether they showed any wear or staining after repeated use.
What to consider when shopping for measuring cups
What are the differences between dry and liquid measuring cups
Dry measuring cups are meant to be filled and leveled off, while liquid cups allow you to pour and read measurements from the side. Keep this in mind on your quest for your cups.
That said, most professional chefs I spoke with recommended measuring dry ingredients with a digital scale if possible. “When it comes to dry ingredients, weighing isn’t just preferred—it’s essential,” explains Jamon Harper, Executive Pastry Chef of ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki. “Volume measurements for dry goods like flour, sugar, or cocoa powder can vary significantly depending on how they’re scooped or packed. A gram is always a gram; a cup is not always a cup.”
Depending on how serious you are about your cooking and baking, you might also want to invest in a quality kitchen scale—you can find our recommendations here. But if the idea of weighing your flour every time you make pancakes stresses you out, a set of measuring cups will be A-OK.
No cup is perfect; all materials have their pros and cons. Stainless steel is strong and dishwasher-safe, but it’s not microwaveable. Plastic is lighter and often more budget-friendly, though some may warp over time. If you’re not sure, err on the side of caution and go with a more durable option—even if it’s more expensive. “When tools are dependable, you save time and reduce mistakes—something every kitchen needs,” says Chef Velez.
If you don’t enjoy using it while you cook, you’re not going to use it, so feel is important. The sets above have a satisfying weight, easy-to-grip handles, and balanced proportions that won’t tip over when you’re scooping flour or pouring batter. They’re easy to clean (pop ‘em in the dishwasher) and, most importantly, easy to stow away.
The measuring cup questions you should be asking
Can I put measuring cups in the dishwasher?
Most plastic, glass, and stainless steel sets are dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Over time, plastic may warp or crack, and painted-on measurements can fade—opt for molded or etched markings if possible. And put them in the top rack of your dishwasher to avoid melting.
What size measuring cups do I need?
A basic dry measuring set should include ¼, ⅓, ½, and 1 cup sizes. Liquid cups often come in 1-cup, 2-cup, and 4-cup options. If you bake frequently, you may appreciate odd sizes (like ⅔ or ¾ cup) or mini measures for small amounts.
Other dry measuring cups we tested
Le Creuset Stainless Steel Measuring Cups, Set of 4
Le Creuset Stainless Steel Measuring Cups
These sleek, polished cups from Le Creuset feel as premium as they look. They have everything you want in a premium measuring cup: strong, bend-proof metal, flat bottoms, wide handles, and easy-to-read etchings. They nest smoothly and look neat stashed away or hanging from a hook. That said, the set only includes four sizes (¼, ⅓, ½, and 1 cup), and at $45, that’s pretty pricey.
Thyme & Table 4-Piece Gold Measuring Cups
Thyme & Table 4-Piece Gold Measuring Cups
This glossy, gold set is lightweight, easy to clean, and looks chic. They scoop great, too—not too heavy, not too light, just right for measuring and leveling off. Just keep in mind: they’re more style-forward than pro-grade, and the gold coating may wear down over time, especially with frequent dishwasher use. But for $15, they’re a stylish pick for trendy home cooks.
Other liquid measuring cups we tested
Anchor Hocking 32 oz. Glass Measuring Cup
Anchor Hocking 32 oz. Glass Measuring Cup
This classic glass measuring cup from Anchor Hocking is a workhorse in the kitchen. It holds up to 32 ounces (or 4 cups), with bold, easy-to-read markings on both sides and a wide, stable base. Made of thick tempered glass, it’s microwave-, oven-, and dishwasher-safe, making it great for melting, heating, and mixing. The only downside? It’s a bit bulky to store and, of course, breakable if dropped.
Great Jones Beyond Measure 4-Cup
Great Jones Beyond Measure 4-Cup
This beautiful measuring cup looks great, but feels way more fragile than the Pyrex and Anchor Hocking options. It is technically borosilicate, but it feels daintier and lighter than traditional options, which, honestly, made me a little scared when cleaning it and storing it away. Still, it’s stunning and does get the job done—the measurements are clearly outlined on the side in ounces, cups, and milliliters, and the spout ensures clean, splatter-free pours. I just wish it felt sturdier.
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