Slightly sloped sides;Suitable for shallow frying only;Can be manufactured from different materials (carbon steel, cast iron, etc.);Can come with non-stick surfaces;Not complemented with lids.
So we know that the frypan is generally smaller than the skillet, but does that also mean it has a smaller cooking surface? It sure does. Its overall smaller build gives it a smaller cooking surface, while its shallower depth also reduces the amount you can cook on it. But its compact size certainly gives you an easier time when it comes to cooking smaller portions.