Pan gauge and coating affect browning and release more than cup count; a heavier pan browns muffin tops more evenly and resists warping over years of oven use. Parchment liners are the companion purchase if you want cleaner release and less pan cleanup.
Some links below are Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
USA Pan
Heavy-gauge aluminized steel with the Americoat coating releases muffins and cupcakes cleanly, even without paper liners. It costs more than a basic Wilton pan for the same 12-cup format.
Wilton
The cheap, widely available standard muffin pan. The nonstick coating is fine for a few years of regular use, but it wears and can warp faster than a heavier-gauge pan.
Nordic Ware
Bare cast aluminum browns muffin tops evenly and holds up for decades with no coating to wear off. It needs greasing since there's no nonstick surface, and it's heavier to handle than a steel pan.
Chicago Metallic
A commercial-style pan with a durable nonstick coating and reinforced rolled edges that resist warping better than Wilton's lighter steel. It isn't as widely stocked in stores as Wilton, so it's more of an online purchase.
Reynolds
Parchment liners release more cleanly than wax-coated paper liners and don't let grease show through decorated cupcakes. They cost a bit more per liner than basic wax paper cups.