Ever wrestled with a stubborn can, only to have the opener slip and make a mess? We’ve all been there! Trying to find the perfect can opener can feel like a frustrating quest. There are so many types, and it’s tough to know which one is truly reliable and easy to use.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of can openers, specifically focusing on the top picks from America’s Test Kitchen. They test everything thoroughly, so we can trust their recommendations. If you’re tired of struggling with dull blades, sharp edges, or openers that just don’t cut it, this post is for you.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly which can openers passed America’s Test Kitchen’s rigorous trials. We’ll break down what makes them great, so you can finally enjoy effortless can opening and say goodbye to kitchen frustration. Let’s get started on finding your next kitchen hero!
Our Top 5 Can Opener America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Can Opener America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener with Red Grips
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of struggling with stubborn cans? The EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener with Red Grips is here to make your kitchen tasks a whole lot easier. This isn’t just any can opener; it’s designed for comfort, strength, and a smooth experience every time you need to pop open a tin.
What We Like:
- Opens cans with hardly any effort, making it great for everyone.
- It’s built super strong with chrome-plated steel, so it will last a long time.
- Works on all sorts of can sizes, from tiny to large ones.
- The cutting leaves smooth edges, which is safer, and it’s easy to clean.
- The red grips feel good in your hand and give you a firm hold.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s durable, some users might prefer a more modern aesthetic if the chrome finish doesn’t match their kitchen.
- The mechanism might require a slight learning curve for those used to electric openers.
This EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener is a reliable tool that brings ease and durability to your kitchen. It’s a smart addition for anyone who wants a simple, effective way to tackle canned goods.
2. World’s Best Can Opener – Made in USA – Sold by Vets – Easy Turn – Manual Can Opener
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of struggling with stubborn cans? The World’s Best Can Opener, proudly made in the USA and sold by vets, promises a smoother kitchen experience. This manual can opener is designed for ease, featuring an easy-turn crank that gives you extra power. It tackles everything from huge restaurant-sized cans to tiny cans of tomato paste. Plus, its durable construction means it’s built to last.
What We Like:
- The easy-turn crank makes opening cans a breeze. It has extra torque to help you out.
- It really reduces strain on your wrists and hands.
- The blade is made of strong carbon steel. It’s heat-treated and zinc-plated.
- This means it stays sharp and works well for a long time.
- The handle has a non-slip grip. It’s thick and rubberized for a comfy, firm hold.
- It works on all sorts of can sizes, big or small.
- It’s made in the USA, supporting jobs and families.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer an electric can opener for ultimate convenience.
- While durable, it is a manual tool, so it still requires some physical effort.
This can opener offers a fantastic blend of performance and comfort. It’s a reliable tool that makes a common kitchen task much simpler.
3. EZ-DUZ-IT Can Opener
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of struggling with flimsy can openers that leave you with sore hands and jagged edges? The EZ-DUZ-IT Can Opener in vibrant blue is here to save your day. This isn’t your average kitchen gadget; it’s built tough to handle any can you throw at it. Its clever swing design and heavy-duty construction mean opening cans becomes a breeze, not a battle. Get ready for a smoother, easier kitchen experience.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong, heavy gauge chromed steel, so it won’t rust or bend easily.
- The carbon steel cutting blade makes a clean cut every time.
- Thick rubberized handles give you a really good grip, even if your hands are wet.
- Its gear-driven design helps it open cans smoothly and with very little effort.
- It’s proudly made right here in the USA!
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s built to last, the bright blue color might not match every kitchen’s decor.
- It’s a manual opener, so it requires some physical effort, though it’s minimal.
For anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-use can opener, the EZ-DUZ-IT is a fantastic choice. It makes a chore feel less like work and more like a simple step in your cooking process.
4. KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener and Bottle Opener Easy to Use
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of struggling with stubborn cans? The KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener and Bottle Opener in sleek black is here to make your kitchen tasks a breeze. This handy tool is designed for easy use and tackles cans and bottles with confidence. Its sharp stainless steel wheel cuts through metal smoothly, and the comfortable, ergonomic handles make it a joy to use, even for those with weaker hands. Plus, the built-in bottle opener means you’ve got two essential kitchen tools in one!
What We Like:
- Opens cans easily and smoothly every time thanks to its sharp stainless steel cutting wheel.
- The large, easy-to-turn knob provides a great grip, making it simple to open cans with little effort.
- Soft, ergonomic handles feel good in your hand and reduce strain, even when opening tough cans.
- It’s a 2-in-1 tool! The built-in bottle opener is super convenient.
- Works on many different sizes of cans and bottles, making it a reliable helper for everyday tasks.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cutting wheel is sharp, prolonged use might require occasional sharpening to maintain peak performance.
- The black color, while stylish, might show smudges more easily than lighter colors.
This KitchenAid can opener is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both performance and comfort. It simplifies common kitchen chores, making it a valuable tool for everyone.
5. Good Cook Can Opener
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of wrestling with stubborn cans and sharp lids? The Good Cook Safe Cut Manual Can Opener in sleek black is here to change your kitchen routine. This opener is designed for safety and convenience, making it a fantastic addition for any home chef.
What We Like:
- Hands-Free Lid Disposal: This clever opener lifts the lid and holds it. You just flip the handle, and the lid drops right into your trash. You never have to touch the sharp lid.
- Reuse Lids for Storage: The lids it cuts have smooth, safe edges. You can pop them right back onto the can to store leftovers in the fridge.
- No Cross Contamination: The cutting part never touches your food. This means no yucky stuff gets into your meal. Open cans with confidence, even with saucy foods.
- Sturdy Chrome Construction: Made from strong chrome, this can opener feels solid and is built to last. It works smoothly every time you use it.
- Effortless & Secure: It’s safe and easy to use. It cuts cans smoothly without making sharp edges. The comfy handles give you a good, strong grip.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the chrome construction is sturdy, some users might find it a bit heavier than plastic openers.
- The “hands-free” lid disposal works well, but for very small cans, a gentle nudge might be needed to detach the lid completely.
This Good Cook Can Opener makes opening cans a breeze. Its focus on safety and ease of use makes it a winner in our book.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Can Opener Companion
Finding the right can opener can make kitchen tasks so much easier. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many to find the best ones. This guide will help you choose a can opener that works well and lasts a long time.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- **Smooth Operation:** The opener should turn easily without a lot of force. It shouldn’t get stuck or skip.
- **Sharp Cutting Wheel:** A good cutting wheel slices through metal smoothly. It should leave clean edges so you don’t cut yourself.
- **Comfortable Handle:** The handles should feel good in your hand. They should be easy to grip, especially if you have to open many cans.
- **Durability:** You want a can opener that’s built to last. It shouldn’t rust or break after a few uses.
- **Easy to Clean:** Kitchen tools should be simple to wash. Look for openers that you can wipe down easily or that are dishwasher safe.
- **Safety Features:** Some openers have features that keep the lid from falling into the can. This is a nice safety bonus.
2. Important Materials
The materials a can opener is made from really matter.
- **Stainless Steel:** This is a popular choice because it’s strong and doesn’t rust. It’s also easy to clean. Many high-quality can openers use stainless steel for their cutting parts and handles.
- **Plastic:** Some handles might have soft plastic grips. This makes them more comfortable to hold. Just make sure the plastic is sturdy and won’t crack easily.
- **Ergonomic Designs:** Sometimes, the design itself is as important as the material. A well-designed opener feels balanced and comfortable.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a can opener better or worse.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- **Solid Construction:** When a can opener feels heavy and well-made, it usually means it’s good quality.
- **Precise Engineering:** The parts should fit together nicely. This helps it cut smoothly every time.
- **Rust Resistance:** A can opener that resists rust will look good and work well for years.
- **Sharpness of the Blade:** A really sharp blade cuts through cans like butter.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- **Wobbly Parts:** If the handles or the cutting mechanism feel loose, it’s a sign of poor quality.
- **Cheap Metal:** Thin, flimsy metal can bend or break. It might also rust quickly.
- **Dull Cutting Wheel:** A dull wheel will make opening cans a struggle. It can also leave jagged edges.
- **Poor Grip:** If the handles are slippery or uncomfortable, it makes the opener hard to use.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How a can opener feels and works in your hand is super important.
- **Everyday Kitchen Use:** For most people, a can opener is used for opening soup cans, vegetable cans, or tuna cans. A good opener makes these simple tasks quick and painless.
- **People with Hand Strength Issues:** For those who find it hard to grip or twist, an ergonomic can opener with easy-turn handles is a lifesaver.
- **Busy Cooks:** If you cook often, you need a can opener that’s reliable and fast. You don’t want to waste time struggling with a bad tool.
- **Camping or Picnics:** Some smaller, more compact can openers are great for taking on the go.
A can opener from America’s Test Kitchen often means it has been tested thoroughly for all these things. They aim to find openers that are durable, safe, and easy for everyone to use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Can Openers
Q: What makes a can opener “America’s Test Kitchen” approved?
A: America’s Test Kitchen tests products very carefully. They look for openers that are strong, easy to use, and cut cans well. They often choose ones that are built to last and don’t have problems like rusting.
Q: Are manual can openers still good?
A: Yes, manual can openers can be very good! The best ones are strong and cut cleanly. They don’t need batteries or electricity.
Q: How do I clean my can opener?
A: Most can openers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Some are dishwasher safe, but it’s always best to check the instructions. Make sure to dry it well to prevent rust.
Q: What is the best type of can opener?
A: The best type is usually one that feels comfortable in your hand, cuts smoothly, and is made of good materials like stainless steel. America’s Test Kitchen often recommends smooth-edge openers for safety.
Q: Will a good can opener rust?
A: High-quality can openers made from stainless steel are very resistant to rust. If a can opener rusts, it might be made of lower-quality metal or not dried properly after washing.
Q: How long should a good can opener last?
A: A well-made can opener, especially one tested by America’s Test Kitchen, can last for many years, even a lifetime, with proper care.
Q: What is a “smooth-edge” can opener?
A: A smooth-edge can opener cuts the side of the lid instead of the top. This leaves no sharp edges on the can or the lid, making it safer.
Q: Do electric can openers work better?
A: Electric can openers can be easier for some people. They do the work for you. However, a good manual opener is often just as effective and doesn’t need power.
Q: What should I do if my can opener gets stuck?
A: If your can opener gets stuck, try to gently wiggle it or turn it backward a little. Sometimes, the can might be dented, making it harder to open. Ensure the cutting wheel is clean and sharp.
Q: Where can I find can openers that America’s Test Kitchen recommends?
A: You can usually find their recommendations on the America’s Test Kitchen website or in their magazines. They often list specific brands and models that performed best in their tests.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!