A reliable can opener makes quick work of pantry staples from diced tomatoes to chickpeas. Whether you prefer manual, electric, or innovative side-cutting designs, these are the best options for every kitchen and hand strength level.
In a hurry? The OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Can Opener is the best choice for most people. Need something for limited hand strength? Go with the Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener. Want smooth, safe edges? The Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter is excellent.
Product
Best For
Key Feature
OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled
Best Overall
Comfortable cushioned handles
Kitchen Mama Auto Electric
Best Electric
One-touch, hands-free operation
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety
Best Safety
Smooth edges, no sharp lids
EZ-DUZ-IT Can Opener
Best Budget
Made in USA, simple design
KitchenAid Classic
Best Brand Name
Sharp stainless wheel
Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch
Best Countertop
Extra tall for large cans
Cuisinart Deluxe Electric
Best Premium Electric
Sleek stainless design
Gorilla Grip Manual
Best Heavy Duty
Smooth edge cut
What to Look For
Cut type — Traditional top-cut models are familiar but leave sharp edges; side-cut safety openers create smooth edges
Handle comfort — Soft-grip, cushioned handles reduce hand strain during use
Power source — Manual openers work anywhere; electric models require outlets or batteries
Magnet feature — Built-in magnets lift lids off cans, preventing them from falling into food
Ease of turning — Large knobs and long handles provide better leverage for easier operation
Cleaning — Look for removable cutting mechanisms and dishwasher-safe parts
Best Can Openers
OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Can Opener — Best Overall
OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Manual Can Opener
Large, comfortable handles take the pain out of opening cans
Features big, cushioned handles for a non slip grip, even when wet
Oversized knob turns easily to take the hard work out of opening cans
Sharp cutting wheel is made of sturdy stainless steel
Includes a built in bottle opener
The OXO Good Grips Can Opener combines comfortable handles with smooth operation that makes opening cans nearly effortless.
This traditional top-cut opener features oversized cushioned handles that absorb pressure and reduce hand strain. The large turning knob operates smoothly with minimal effort, and the sharp stainless steel cutting wheel powers through lids cleanly. A built-in bottle opener adds versatility, and the ergonomic design has won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award.
Pros:
Cushioned non-slip handles
Large turning knob for easy operation
Sharp cutting wheel
Built-in bottle opener
Cons:
Traditional cut leaves sharp edges
Hand wash recommended
Best for: Those who want comfortable, reliable manual operation.
Kitchen Mama Auto Electric Can Opener — Best Electric
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The Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener offers true hands-free operation with one-touch activation and smooth-edge cutting.
This battery-powered opener attaches to any standard can and opens it automatically when you press the button. The side-cut design creates smooth, safe edges on both the can and lid. Auto shut-off stops operation when the lid is severed, and the compact design stores easily in a drawer. Requires 4 AA batteries (not included).
Pros:
Completely hands-free operation
Smooth, safe edges
Portable, battery-powered
Works on dented cans
Cons:
Requires AA batteries
Slower than manual openers
Best for: Those with arthritis, limited hand strength, or mobility issues.
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter — Best Safety
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The Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter cuts below the rim to create completely smooth edges on both the can and lid.
This Swiss-designed opener uses side-cutting technology that never touches food contents. The lid lifts off cleanly without falling into the can, and both edges remain smooth enough to handle safely. The sleek design stores compactly, and the blade stays sharp for thousands of uses.
Pros:
Smooth edges on can and lid
Blade never touches food
Compact storage design
Swiss quality construction
Cons:
Different technique takes practice
Higher price than traditional openers
Best for: Families with children or anyone concerned about sharp can edges.
EZ-DUZ-IT Can Opener — Best Budget
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The EZ-DUZ-IT Can Opener delivers American-made quality and simple reliability at a budget price.
This straightforward opener has been manufactured in the USA for decades. The carbon steel blade stays sharp through heavy use, and the simple design means fewer parts to break. The rubberized handles provide decent grip, though they’re not as cushioned as premium models. Perfect for those who prefer traditional function over features.
Pros:
Made in USA
Simple, reliable design
Very affordable
Long-lasting blade
Cons:
Basic handle comfort
No extra features
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want simple, reliable American-made quality.
KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener — Best Brand Name
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The KitchenAid Classic brings the trusted brand’s quality to a well-designed manual can opener.
This opener features a razor-sharp stainless steel cutting wheel that powers through cans cleanly. The soft ergonomic handles provide comfortable grip, and the oversized knob turns easily. A built-in bottle opener handles caps, and the design matches other KitchenAid kitchen tools.
Pros:
KitchenAid brand quality
Sharp stainless cutting wheel
Ergonomic handles
Multiple color options
Cons:
Traditional cut with sharp edges
Premium price for manual opener
Best for: KitchenAid enthusiasts who want matching kitchen tools.
Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric — Best Countertop
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The Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch opens cans with a push-down lever and creates smooth, safe edges.
This countertop electric opener handles all standard-size cans plus tall cans up to 48 ounces. The smooth-touch operation eliminates sharp edges, and the easy push-down lever activates opening without twisting or gripping. SureCut technology ensures clean cuts every time, and the extra-tall design accommodates large cans.
Pros:
Extra-tall for large cans
Smooth-edge cutting
Easy push-down activation
Affordable for electric model
Cons:
Requires counter space
Cord limits placement
Best for: Those who prefer countertop convenience and open cans frequently.
Cuisinart Deluxe Electric Can Opener — Best Premium Electric
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The Cuisinart Deluxe Electric combines sleek stainless steel design with reliable automatic operation.
This countertop opener features a sturdy base with rubber feet for stability and a single-touch activation lever. The detachable cutting lever removes for easy cleaning, and the magnetic lid holder keeps lids from falling into cans. The stainless steel finish looks professional on any counter. Cuisinart backs it with a 3-year limited warranty.
Pros:
Sleek stainless design
Detachable cutting lever
Magnetic lid holder
3-year warranty
Cons:
Higher price
Takes up counter space
Best for: Those who want premium countertop style and performance.
Gorilla Grip Heavy Duty Manual — Best Heavy Duty
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The Gorilla Grip Manual Can Opener delivers smooth-edge cutting in a durable, heavy-duty design.
This side-cut opener creates safe, smooth edges without leaving sharp metal. The soft comfortable handles and large turning knob make operation easy, while the heavy-duty stainless steel construction ensures durability. A built-in bottle opener adds functionality, and the US-designed construction emphasizes quality.
Pros:
Smooth-edge cutting
Heavy-duty construction
Comfortable soft handles
Built-in bottle opener
Cons:
Side-cut technique takes practice
Larger than traditional openers
Best for: Those who want manual smooth-edge cutting with durable construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best can opener for most people?
The OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Can Opener offers the best combination of comfort and reliability. Its cushioned handles reduce strain, the large knob turns easily, and the sharp cutting wheel handles any can size effectively.
How much should I spend on a can opener?
Budget manual openers like the EZ-DUZ-IT work well for around $10. Quality manual openers with comfortable handles cost $15-25. Battery-powered electric openers run $20-30. Countertop electric models range from $20-50 depending on features.
What is the difference between top-cut and side-cut can openers?
Top-cut (traditional) openers pierce the lid and cut downward inside the rim, creating sharp edges but familiar operation. Side-cut (safety) openers cut horizontally along the side of the rim, leaving smooth edges on both the can and lid. Side-cut lids also fit back on cans for storage.
Are electric can openers worth it?
Electric openers make sense for those with arthritis, limited hand strength, or anyone who opens cans frequently. Battery-powered handheld models combine convenience with portability. Countertop models work well in busy kitchens but require dedicated space.
Why does my can opener keep slipping?
Dull cutting wheels slip rather than biting into lids. Clean residue from the wheel and gears, or consider replacing the opener. Some openers struggle with certain can materials—try adjusting your grip angle or switching to a different can opener style.
How do I clean a can opener?
Manual openers should be hand washed with warm soapy water after each use—wet cutting wheels can rust. Use a brush to remove food particles from gears. Electric opener cutting mechanisms often detach for easier cleaning. Never submerge electric bases.
What can opener is best for seniors?
Electric openers like the Kitchen Mama eliminate grip strength requirements entirely. Among manual options, the OXO Locking Can Opener holds the can automatically, reducing the force needed. Smooth-edge openers also prevent cuts when removing lids.
Do can openers wear out?
Cutting wheels dull over time, typically after several years of regular use. Some manufacturers offer replacement wheels; otherwise, replacing the entire opener is usually more practical. Quality construction extends lifespan significantly.
Can I sharpen a can opener blade?
Sharpening can opener wheels is difficult and usually not worth the effort. Most quality openers last years before dulling noticeably. When performance declines, replacement is the better option than attempting to sharpen the wheel.
Are expensive can openers worth it?
Premium manual openers offer better handle comfort and longer-lasting construction. If you open cans frequently, a $15-25 quality opener provides meaningful daily comfort improvements over budget options. For occasional use, any functional opener works adequately.
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Verdict
The OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Can Opener is the best choice for most people because its cushioned handles, smooth operation, and sharp cutting wheel make opening cans comfortable and effortless. It’s the manual opener recommended by America’s Test Kitchen for good reason.
For those with limited hand strength, the Kitchen Mama Auto Electric Can Opener provides true hands-free operation with one-touch activation and smooth-edge cutting. And for families concerned about sharp edges, the Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter creates completely smooth edges on both the can and lid using Swiss-engineered side-cutting technology.