The Best Can Openers In 2022
Mikhailov Studio/Shutterstock By Taylor Murray/Updated: Jan. 31, 2023 10:38 am EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Ever since canned foods were invented for the armed forces in the early 1800s, according to Britannica, this process of preserving food has become an essential part of our way of life. Contrary to popular belief, canning is often a great way to preserve the nutrients of various foods while still providing convenience and long term storage solutions. While we argue that some canned food items are better than others, the truth is that this style of food preservation remains popular. According to a 2013 press release from the Can Manufacturers Institute, the average American at that time ate five canned food products per week.
Some of those canned foods, like the iconic Campbell’s Soup cans, have a pull-top tab for easy opening, but for the most part canned foods need a can opener to get at the stuff inside. All of this means that can openers are undoubtedly one of the more common utensils found in an American kitchen. Most people don’t give a second thought to the one kicking around their kitchen drawer, but perhaps that should change. You’ve got plenty of options, after all. Whether you’re shopping for your first one or thinking about an upgrade, we’ve rounded up the best can openers on the market today for any kind of budget or lifestyle.
How we chose can openers
New Africa/Shutterstock
Can openers are a fairly ubiquitous item in the average kitchen, but it turns out that there is still a surprising amount of variety amongst the many different types and models available to the modern consumer. To find out which can openers were the best on the market today, we checked out new technology and old, including classic styles and some seriously newfangled technology. We also looked at honest reviews from real people who have purchased the products to see how the can openers fared when used in actual home settings.
Additionally, we considered which models proved to be best sellers and leaders in the market for their special functions or features. Some best-sellers were just that for a reason. Meanwhile, product testing sites also provided valuable information about the true abilities of some of these can openers, beyond what was claimed in advertising copy.
Best design-conscious can opener
Chefn
Some people have design on their minds all the time, and so want everything in their home to have a beautiful aesthetic, from the drapes all the way down to their can opener. Thankfully, this sleek and streamlined can opener from kitchen utensil designer Chef’n is as interesting to look at as it is to use.
Apart from the pleasing look, the design of this can opener is intended to create optimal storage efficiency without compromising utility. Tho that end, the handle folds flat when not in use for maximum space-saving capability. Like some other can openers, this has a magnet that grabs onto lids once removed so they are easy to handle and dispose. Some reviewers did note that the design may not be ideal for left-handed users, and the gears may have a tendency to strip over time. Purchase the Chef’n Click+Store Can Opener on Chef’n for $16.99.
The Best Can Openers In 2022
Mikhailov Studio/Shutterstock
By Taylor Murray/Updated: Jan. 31, 2023 10:38 am EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Ever since canned foods were invented for the armed forces in the early 1800s, according to Britannica, this process of preserving food has become an essential part of our way of life. Contrary to popular belief, canning is often a great way to preserve the nutrients of various foods while still providing convenience and long term storage solutions. While we argue that some canned food items are better than others, the truth is that this style of food preservation remains popular. According to a 2013 press release from the Can Manufacturers Institute, the average American at that time ate five canned food products per week.
Some of those canned foods, like the iconic Campbell’s Soup cans, have a pull-top tab for easy opening, but for the most part canned foods need a can opener to get at the stuff inside. All of this means that can openers are undoubtedly one of the more common utensils found in an American kitchen. Most people don’t give a second thought to the one kicking around their kitchen drawer, but perhaps that should change. You’ve got plenty of options, after all. Whether you’re shopping for your first one or thinking about an upgrade, we’ve rounded up the best can openers on the market today for any kind of budget or lifestyle.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
Some of those canned foods, like the iconic Campbell’s Soup cans, have a pull-top tab for easy opening, but for the most part canned foods need a can opener to get at the stuff inside. All of this means that can openers are undoubtedly one of the more common utensils found in an American kitchen. Most people don’t give a second thought to the one kicking around their kitchen drawer, but perhaps that should change. You’ve got plenty of options, after all. Whether you’re shopping for your first one or thinking about an upgrade, we’ve rounded up the best can openers on the market today for any kind of budget or lifestyle.
How we chose can openers
New Africa/Shutterstock
Can openers are a fairly ubiquitous item in the average kitchen, but it turns out that there is still a surprising amount of variety amongst the many different types and models available to the modern consumer. To find out which can openers were the best on the market today, we checked out new technology and old, including classic styles and some seriously newfangled technology. We also looked at honest reviews from real people who have purchased the products to see how the can openers fared when used in actual home settings.
Additionally, we considered which models proved to be best sellers and leaders in the market for their special functions or features. Some best-sellers were just that for a reason. Meanwhile, product testing sites also provided valuable information about the true abilities of some of these can openers, beyond what was claimed in advertising copy.
Additionally, we considered which models proved to be best sellers and leaders in the market for their special functions or features. Some best-sellers were just that for a reason. Meanwhile, product testing sites also provided valuable information about the true abilities of some of these can openers, beyond what was claimed in advertising copy.
Best overall can opener
Target
Reviewers call this opener “unstoppable” and “smooth as butter”. One reviewer praised the “cushy” handles on this can opening, which made it easy to operate even for someone with joint issues. What’s more, some of the models come with an integrated bottle opener. However, some don’t, so make sure to verify which model you are purchasing if that particular feature is important to you.
Best electric can opener
One of the best electric can openers available today is the Kitchen Mama Electric can opener. This model features a user-friendly ergonomic design. While it does take batteries, which may prove annoying for some, this opener’s functionality doesn’t come at the cost of space in your kitchen. It’s designed to fit easily in your hand and in your kitchen drawer. Plus, it doesn’t leave any exposed sharp edges. One reviewer raved about the curved can rim this opener leaves behind, which can save you from both cuts and annoying torn trash bags.
Best manual can opener
Some reviewers love the opener’s ability to open cans without leaving behind sharp edges. Others love how easy it is to operate even with grip and joint issues. While it may seem too good to be true (especially for the price), there are definitely some downsides according to reviewers. Namely, many customers wrote about the can opener’s issues with rusting. To avoid rust on your can opener or any other kitchen implement, but sure to always dry it thoroughly after each use or cleaning.
Best compact can opener
The Korin can opener is one of the most popular versions of this style can opener. Its smooth enameled handle is easy to grip, while its stainless steel construction is about as durable as you can get. A lack of tight crevices means there is practically nowhere for bits of food to get stuck and gum up the works. One reviewer even described is as “deeply satisfying in so many ways.” When’s the last time you felt that way about your can opener?
Best stainless steel can opener
Everything Kitchens
One reviewer likened this can opener to the “jaws of life” for its strength and durability, while another appreciated how long theirs has lasted with daily use. In fairness, some reviewers did complain that the can opener did not function more than once, or not at all. It’s not immediately clear whether this was because of the product design or user error.
Best hands-free can opener
When it comes to longevity, this model can stay the course. It’s interior motor comes pre-lubricated and doesn’t need to be oiled again later. While 85 percent of users gave this model a glowing five stars, some of the negative reviews discussed the possibility of metal shavings being left behind with improper use.
Best design-conscious can opener
Chefn
Some people have design on their minds all the time, and so want everything in their home to have a beautiful aesthetic, from the drapes all the way down to their can opener. Thankfully, this sleek and streamlined can opener from kitchen utensil designer Chef’n is as interesting to look at as it is to use.
Apart from the pleasing look, the design of this can opener is intended to create optimal storage efficiency without compromising utility. Tho that end, the handle folds flat when not in use for maximum space-saving capability. Like some other can openers, this has a magnet that grabs onto lids once removed so they are easy to handle and dispose. Some reviewers did note that the design may not be ideal for left-handed users, and the gears may have a tendency to strip over time. Purchase the Chef’n Click+Store Can Opener on Chef’n for $16.99.
Apart from the pleasing look, the design of this can opener is intended to create optimal storage efficiency without compromising utility. Tho that end, the handle folds flat when not in use for maximum space-saving capability. Like some other can openers, this has a magnet that grabs onto lids once removed so they are easy to handle and dispose. Some reviewers did note that the design may not be ideal for left-handed users, and the gears may have a tendency to strip over time.
Purchase the Chef’n Click+Store Can Opener on Chef’n for $16.99.
Best ergonomic can opener
While some can openers are built for speed or ease, others are built for comfort. If ergonomic quality is most important to you consider choosing a can opener designed with that in mind first and foremost. The Zero Resistance Ergonomic Can Opener by Phantom Chef is the best can opener with such a design. But first, it’s pretty good-looking. The main body of the can opener is a colored stainless steel that’s rust-resistance and eye-catching.
The handle itself is made of a soft, wood-look material that’s curved to fit comfortably in any grip without causing cramping or discomfort. Unlike other can openers, this option is fully dishwasher-safe, making for easy cleaning and maintenance. That said, the manufacturer recommends washing the blade with a soft sponge to ensure it’s fully clean without dulling the edge. The Phantom Chef Zero Resistance Ergonomic Can Opener is available on Phantom Chef for $15.
The handle itself is made of a soft, wood-look material that’s curved to fit comfortably in any grip without causing cramping or discomfort. Unlike other can openers, this option is fully dishwasher-safe, making for easy cleaning and maintenance. That said, the manufacturer recommends washing the blade with a soft sponge to ensure it’s fully clean without dulling the edge.
The Phantom Chef Zero Resistance Ergonomic Can Opener is available on Phantom Chef for $15.
Best American-made can opener
The EZ-DUZ-It Can Opener features a chromed steel body with rubberized handles for steady, comfortable grip. It also boasts a sturdy carbon steel blade. While over 80 percent of reviewers give it a five-star rating, some negative reviews remarked that the body is prone to rusting if left wet for long periods of time. The best practice for avoiding rust is to wash and dry the can opener by hand immediately after using.
Best table-mounted can opener
Luckily, there are table-mounted can openers that can open any sized can in just seconds and with minimal effort. The New Star Foodservice Manual Can Opener utilizes the stability of a table to secure the can and make quick work of cutting through the lid. While the cost is on the higher side, it can be worth it for the right consumer who finds themselves opening tons of cans. One reviewer still felt it was a “good value” compared to similar openers.
