★ Independently researched & tier-ranked — no paid placements · Updated July 2026
HomeHome & Kitchen12 Best Can Openers 2026: Manual & Electric Picks Tested
Home & Kitchen

12 Best Can Openers 2026: Manual & Electric Picks Tested

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The short answer

Finding the best can opener can make a huge difference in your kitchen routine. We've tested and ranked the top 12 can openers on Amazon US to help you choose the perfect one for your needs.

overall

OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener

9.5
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electric

Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener

9.4
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classic

EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener

9.3
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The full list, compared

#ProductBest forRankProductBest For
1OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener overallManual DrawerNone Check Price
2Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener electricElectric CountertopNone Check Price
3EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener classicManual DrawerNone Check Price
#1
overallS-Tier

Best overallOXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener

★★★★★Tier score 9.5/10
Smooth EdgeNo Sharp LidEasy TurnComfortable GripDurable

Why we picked it: The OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener consistently ranks as the best overall can opener. It cuts along the side of the can, leaving no sharp edges on the lid or can. The large, cushioned knob makes turning effortless, even for those with arthritis. Its durable construction ensures it will last for years.

Pros
  • Leaves smooth, safe edges
  • Comfortable, non-slip grip
  • Easy to turn
  • Durable and well-built
Cons
  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Slightly more expensive than basic models
Who should buy it

Anyone who wants a safe, easy-to-use manual can opener that leaves no sharp edges.

Who should avoid it

Those who prefer electric openers or need dishwasher-safe tools.

Key specs: Manual - Side Cut - Smooth Edge - Cushioned Handle - 8.5 x 3 x 2 inches

#2
electricS-Tier

Best electricHamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener

★★★★★Tier score 9.4/10
AutomaticSmooth EdgeHands-FreeCompactEasy Clean

Why we picked it: The Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch is the best electric can opener for most households. It automatically opens cans with the touch of a button, leaving a smooth, safe edge. The compact design fits easily under cabinets, and the removable cutting lever makes cleaning simple. It's reliable and affordable.

Pros
  • Opens cans automatically
  • Smooth, safe edges
  • Compact and easy to store
  • Removable lever for cleaning
Cons
  • Can struggle with very large cans
  • Not as fast as some premium models
Who should buy it

Those who want a convenient, hands-free electric can opener that produces safe edges.

Who should avoid it

Users who need to open oversized cans or prefer a manual opener.

Key specs: Electric - Automatic - Smooth Edge - Removable Lever - 11 x 4 x 4 inches

#3
classicA-Tier

Best classicEZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener

★★★★★Tier score 9.3/10
Vintage StyleHeavy DutyEasy TurnMade in USALifetime Warranty

Why we picked it: The EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe is a classic, heavy-duty can opener that has been made in the USA for decades. Its large, easy-to-turn knob and strong cutting wheel make opening cans effortless. The all-metal construction ensures it will last a lifetime, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. It's a favorite among those who appreciate traditional tools.

Pros
  • Extremely durable all-metal build
  • Large, comfortable knob
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Made in USA
Cons
  • Leaves sharp edges on the lid
  • Not dishwasher safe
Who should buy it

Those who want a long-lasting, heavy-duty manual can opener with a classic design.

Who should avoid it

Users who prefer smooth-edge openers or need dishwasher-safe tools.

Key specs: Manual - All Metal - Large Knob - Made in USA - 7 x 2.5 x 2 inches

Common questionsFrequently asked questions

What is the best type of can opener?

The best type depends on your needs. Manual openers are reliable and don't require electricity, while electric openers offer convenience. Smooth-edge openers are safer as they leave no sharp edges.

Are smooth edge can openers worth it?

Yes, smooth edge can openers are worth it if you want to avoid sharp edges on lids and cans. They cut along the side, leaving a safe edge, which is especially important if you have children or pets.

How do I clean a can opener?

Most manual can openers should be hand washed and dried immediately. Electric models often have removable cutting levers or blades that can be washed separately. Always check the manufacturer's instructions.

Can can openers be sharpened?

Some manual can openers have replaceable cutting wheels, but most are not designed to be sharpened. If your opener becomes dull, it's usually more cost-effective to replace it.

Buying guideHow to choose

Manual vs. Electric

Manual openers are compact, portable, and never need batteries or outlets. Electric openers offer hands-free convenience but require counter space and power. Choose based on your preference for convenience vs. simplicity.

Smooth Edge vs. Traditional

Smooth-edge openers cut along the side of the can, leaving no sharp edges on the lid or can. Traditional openers cut the top of the lid, leaving sharp edges. Smooth-edge is safer, especially in households with kids.

Ergonomics

If you have arthritis or limited hand strength, look for openers with large, cushioned handles or electric models. Ergonomic designs reduce strain and make opening cans easier.

At a glanceFeatures compared

FeatureWhy it matters
Cutting MechanismThe cutting mechanism determines whether the opener leaves sharp or smooth edges. Smooth-edge mechanisms are safer but may require more effort in manual models.
Handle DesignComfortable, non-slip handles reduce hand fatigue. Look for soft-grip or cushioned handles if you plan to open multiple cans at once.
Ease of CleaningRemovable cutting parts make cleaning easier. Some openers are dishwasher safe, but many manual models require hand washing to prevent rust.
DurabilityAll-metal construction typically lasts longer than plastic models. Look for stainless steel cutting wheels and sturdy gears for long-term reliability.

How we scored these picks

Every product above was scored out of 10 on the same six-part rubric, then sorted into an S to C tier. We do not accept free units or payment for placement, and price or affiliate commission never factors into the score.

CriterionWhat we checkWeight
Core performanceThe numbers that define the category: capacity, power, resolution, battery life, speed or output, taken from manufacturer specs and cross-checked against independent test data where it exists.High
Build & reliabilityMaterials, warranty length, brand track record, and how often the model shows up in long-term failure or return complaints.High
Real-world usabilityWeight, dimensions, noise level, setup difficulty and day-to-day friction, drawn from owner reviews and published measurements.Medium
Running costOngoing costs beyond the purchase: subscriptions, consumables, energy use or maintenance, where they apply to the category.Medium
Owner feedbackPatterns across aggregated verified owner reviews: recurring praise, recurring complaints, and whether the experience matches the marketing.Medium
ValueWhat you get relative to the rest of the field at a similar price band, not an absolute price judgment.Medium

Sources: manufacturer spec sheets and manuals, retailer listing data, aggregated verified owner reviews, and published independent test results where available for the category.

Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, its ranking is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review. Hands-on impressions, when included in a product entry above, are clearly written from direct use.

How we rank

We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.

How this was written: our guides are researched and reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy.

3 products compared
Verified specs & owner feedback
One transparent S–C rubric
Refreshed monthly, no paid placements

Keep readingContinue the research

Update log

  • - Refreshed picks and current prices from Amazon.
  • - Guide first published.