While finding the best can opener doesn’t sound like a daunting task—won’t any can opener do the trick?—there are a lot of different features and preferences to account for. A manual can opener is more common and stores easily, but an electric model requires less effort. Some leave sharp edges as they cut along the top, while others cut along the sides. If you’re looking for a manual option, the Zyliss Lock N’ Lift Can Opener is our top choice. If you prefer an electric one, we recommend Hamilton Beach’s Smooth Touch Can Opener. Here is everything to consider when selecting the best can opener for your kitchen. Seasoned can opener users are also familiar with the mess of disposing of the lid of a can once it’s opened. The Zyliss model seeks to eliminate that, too, with its built-in magnet that allows for hands-free lid disposal. If you’re looking to upgrade your clunky manual can opener, this one has a modern design along with its modern features. It’s easy to use, made with high-quality stainless steel, and designed to be more comfortable to twist than traditional models. Price at time of publish: $20 This model measures 4.7 x 5 x 10.2 inches and looks nice on countertops with its chrome and black design. It has an extra-tall design for a variety of can sizes, including standard-size cans and pop-top cans. Highly rated by consumers, reviewers seem to enjoy the smooth touch feature of this can opener that eliminates sharp lid edges; the opener cuts along the sides of the can instead of the top. Price at time of publish: $40 Safety features include built-in pliers that attach to the lid, allowing for touch-free lid removal. This can opener also leaves no sharp edges on the can or lid for added safety. The placement of the sharp stainless steel cutting wheel ensures that the can opener does not come in contact with the contents of the can, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Measuring 7.5 x 4.5 x 2.25, some reviewers note this model is slightly bulkier than other options. However, the comfortable design and safety features make it the right choice for many households. Price at time of publish: $26 For those with an affinity for multifunctional kitchen tools, the Bartelli can opener also serves as a bottle opener and jar opener. Since no strenuous gripping or twisting is required to open cans, jars, and bottles, this opener is also suitable for people with arthritis or hand pain. If safety is a concern, this is an opener to keep on hand. The cutting mechanism automatically locks onto the can and cuts around the side, leaving behind no sharp edges or lids. Cutting around the side also creates a lid with a smooth edge that can be used to temporarily re-seal the can. Price at time of publish: $15 With mini pliers to remove the lid without handling with your hands and auto lock-on technology that grips the lid, this can opener is safer than traditional openers. While traditional can openers cut into metal cans and leave behind sharp, rigid edges, this model does not cut into the metal, leaving a smooth edge around the rim of the lid. This opener also prevents cross-contamination: The opener never touches the food, and the lid never falls into the can. Measuring just 7.25 x 2 x 3.5 inches, this is a compact option for those with limited storage. Price at time of publish: $25 This handheld device works in three simple steps: place the opener on the top of the can, press the button to start, and press the button to stop. The cutter leaves a smooth rim so you can remove lids without handling rough edges. While electric can openers are long-lasting, replacing the batteries every so often may be an inconvenience to some. Since batteries are not included, you’ll have to provide your own. Price at time of publish: $35
What to Look for When Buying a Can Opener
Handheld vs Battery-Operated
Handheld can openers are the classic staple for convenience. They require some physical effort and are straightforward to use. But it can be challenging for some people to manage the dexterity of using a handheld can opener. They have the benefits of being easy to store and significantly cheaper than their electric counterparts. Battery-operated can holders will take up more space, and are accompanied by a higher price tag. If you are seeking a stress-free, hands-off kitchen experience, or have limited hand mobility, battery-operated is the one for you. Many of them will open your cans without a sharp or jagged edge, reducing the risk of cuts or harm. It’s almost a luxurious experience, placing the can under your battery-operated opener, and watching it seamlessly open it up for you in a few seconds. As with any electric device, there is the need to regularly replace the batteries. Cleaning is not as simple with these, as submerging them in water will result in malfunction. You will need to wipe the blades separately.
Features
There are special features to seek out with can openers. Side-cutting mechanisms are an important feature that ensures the blade doesn’t touch the food in the can. This is essential to avoid cross-contamination or rusting. Side-cutting mechanisms also eliminate the dangerous sharp edges of open cans, as they smooth the edges while cutting. A common complaint with manual can openers is that the handles cause pain or discomfort to the hands. Thankfully, most new can openers come with a soft rubber grip and ergonomic handles that ease this greatly. These handles guarantee a non-slip grip and less strain on the hands and wrists. Another convenient feature is magnets that lift and keep the lid up while you finish the job. The modern upgrades to traditional handheld can openers make your life a lot easier. This can include pliers and auto-locking technology as featured in the Kuhn Rikon. Both features ensure the lid of the can won’t fall into your food during the opening process and is removed without the need for your hands to be fishing for it in the can.
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Lacey Muinos is a wellness writer with a specialty in food-related topics and a passion for kitchen gadgets. She has an impressive collection of small kitchen appliances and tools. Since she goes through a decent amount of canned beans and vegetables, she relies heavily on her manual can opener. Read Next: The Best Kitchen Scales
