If you have manually opened cans before, then you will know how frustrating it can be! Luckily, with the best electric can openers, such a task is effortless.
Especially for people with arthritis and dexterity problems, an electric can opener is a must-have. It has an automatic functionality that makes it better than those that you have to use manually. It is a kitchen staple you will be thankful for.
Are you looking for a top-notch can opener to buy? Read on and learn from some of our recommendations in this buying guide.
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Types of Electric Can Openers
There are two main types of electric can openers, which are plug-in and battery-powered can openers. This is based on how they are used.
Plug-in Can Opener
This type of can openers only works when the cords are plugged into a power supply. It is simple to operate when compared to manual openers. But one of the downsides of a plug-in opener is that it is ineffective when the power goes off. This could cause delays during your food prep.
Battery-powered Can Opener
This is a more handy can opener that works without power. It is usually designed to be portable, easy to store, and requires the use of batteries for the opener to work. However, the batteries need to be changed occasionally.
[Top 9] America’s Test Kitchen Best Electric Can Openers Reviews by Consumer Reports
Clueless about the automatic can opener to buy? We’ll make your life easier by rounding up some of the top options below.
Hamilton Beach 76606ZA Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener
The brand name alone is already a compelling reason to choose this product. More than the company’s reputation, it also stands out because of its aesthetics. It is sure to be an attractive addition to any kitchen. The sleek chrome and black body make it a head-turner.
Looking at its features, one thing that stands out is the large and ergonomic lever. The latter makes it a snap to operate. You will require minimal grip strength as the sharp blade rotates around the can that you wish to open.
More so, it is an incredible product because of its durable construction. Once you touch the can opener, you will feel how solid it is. This is indicative of its longevity and value for money.
Another good thing about this product is that it cuts along the side. This means that you will have smooth edges that are safe to hold.
Nonetheless, some users note that it can be prone to jamming, especially after using it for a while. This can be because of stuck particles. Regular maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts, can be an easy fix to this problem.
Pros:
- Aesthetically-pleasing design
- High-quality construction
- User-friendly operation
Cons:
- Can be prone to jamming
Cuisinart SCO-60 Deluxe Stainless Steel Can Opener
Topping the list is an elegant can opener from Cuisinart, a well-known brand for its quality products. This is a freestanding electric can opener with a sturdy base that sits comfortably on your countertop without slipping. It is constructed with well-polished stainless steel that is free from toxic chemicals.
The magnetic lid holder holds the can in place as the blade cut open the can with precision. This is well suited for people with weak hands and arms. You don’t need to hold the can when using this product.
The activation lever is detachable for easy cleaning. This electric can opener is a perfect choice for opening all kinds of cans irrespective of the size or height. This product is fully automated and requires just a single touch to open any standard can. It automatically shut off once it has open the can and comes with 3 years warranty on defects. The power cut blade is rust-resistant and does not come in touch with your food. The exterior is BPA free and safe for use.
Pros:
- 3 years warranty
- Fits any kitchen decor
- Automatic
- Magnetic lid holder
- Easy cleanup
Cons:
- Takes a lot of storage space
Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener
If you would rather have a small can opener than those that are bulky, this is an excellent alternative to consider. With its lightweight and compact design, it fits easily on your palm. It does not require countertop space and will easily fit in the cabinet.
Ease of use is one of the best assets of this product. Opening a can does not have to be a burden. All that you need is two taps, and it will automatically open any can. The best thing is that it can do the job safely since it opens cans on the side.
For your peace of mind, it is also good to know that the company is offering a one-year free replacement. If you are unhappy within such a period, let the company know and they will send a new product.
Nonetheless, some people complain that the unit can get hot quickly. Other people might be worried that it is unsafe but based on the experiences of many of its users, this should not be a problem.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to operate
- Comes with a one-year replacement
Cons:
- Easily gets hot
Hamilton Beach Electric Can Opener
Hamilton Beach Electric Can Opener features a sure cut tech that slices through smaller sizes of cans, jars, and plastic lids with less pressure. It opens your jars faster and is user friendly. The magnet at the top prevents the can’s lid from dropping into the opened can. This product automatically opens your cans with a push of a button and shut off immediately. It is quite simple and easy to fasten the cans to the blade.
This product is slender and taller than most can openers. Its elegant design fits into all kinds of kitchen decorations and adds aesthetic value to the countertop. The blade is detachable with a single touch, which makes it easy to clean and maintain. It features a cord and knife sharpener that could be used to sharpen the blade. Although this option is sturdy, it is not well suited for large or heavy cans. You will have to be at alert when opening heavy cans to avoid spilling the content of your can all over the counter.
Pros:
- Knife sharpener included
- Sure cut technology
- Extra tall design
- Auto-stop feature
- Detachable cutting unit
Cons:
- Not ideal for large cans
- Slippery bottom
Cuisinart CCO-50BKN Deluxe Electric Can Opener
From style to convenience, this is another great option to consider in your search for the best electric can opener. It has a classic black standalone body that will make your countertop look more elegant.
More than its aesthetics, we love this product because of its reliability. After all, it is made by Cuisinart. The top-notch motor system ensures fool-proof performance. Plus, it has Power Cut blade, which is sharp enough to deliver accurate and smooth cuts. You can use it on almost any can.
Another good reason to use this product is its user-friendly design. It activates with a single touch, eliminating complications that you will often find in many of its competitors. Plus, it is worth noting that it comes with a sturdy base. This will prevent the unit from slipping, which is also a great way to promote safety.
While it seems like a great product overall, some of its users note that the lever is plastic and flimsy. This can be a durability issue. Nonetheless, since it is made by Cuisinart, we believe that the durability is second to none.
Pros:
- Has a powerful blade
- Comes with a reliable motor
- Effortless to clean
Cons:
- Plastic lever feels flimsy
Oster FPSTCN1300 Electric Can Opener
The first thing that you will notice in this product is its price. Nonetheless, do not let the cost discourage you. It is justifiable. Aside from the brand name, the quality and the performance will make this product worth every dollar.
One thing that makes it impressive is the stainless steel body. With its tough construction, we are confident that it will withstand many years of use. It can withstand harsh conditions, unlike others that are easily prone to damage.
Additionally, this electric can opener is great because it allows hands-free operation. There is a magnetic lid lifter that simplifies its function. This is a patented technology that makes it user-friendly.
It is a plug-in unit, so expect that it will have a cord. The good thing about the latter is that it comes with a retractable design, which means that it stays compact and neat during storage. This will prevent the wire from tangling.
Lastly, it is multifunctional, making it a worthy addition to your kitchen. Aside from being a can opener, it also works as a bottle opener and a knife sharpener.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Allows hands-free operation
- Has a retractable cord
Cons:
- Expensive
Kitchen Mama One Touch Can Opener
Do not confuse this with the can opener from Kitchen Mama we have earlier talked about. While it is an equally great product, its biggest benefit is that it is more compact. This way, it is comfortable and effortless to hold.
One of the things that we love the most is its one-touch operation. All that you need to do is to tap the button once and watch it perform its magic. It will cut at 360 degrees, leaving a clean and smooth rim. Even better, it automatically shuts off once it has fully covered the lid.
More so, it also has a patented bend blade design. The latter is the one responsible for following the natural curve of a can. In turn, it can make smoother cuts.
While the size is a benefit, it can also be a drawback. Some people might find it to be small and underpowered when they are opening large or thick cans.
Pros:
- Compact and easy to handle
- One-touch operation
- The blade bends as it opens a can
Cons:
- Can be underpowered for large cans
Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Can Opener
Wrapping up our list is another product from Hamilton Beach. While it has many commendable features, one of our favorites is the patented Sure Cut technology. This is an exclusive innovation that ensures its ability to open the can on your first try, every time.
It is also notable because of the removable cutter. The part that directly touches a can during its opening is easily detachable from the unit. This makes it effortless to clean, so you can remove the particles that can accumulate on the surface.
Another incredible feature is the extra-tall height of the unit. This means that it is effortless to open even bigger cans.
Furthermore, it has automatic shut-off for hands-free operation. Once it is done opening a can, there’s no need to manually tap a button to turn it off.
For the best bang for the buck, it is good to know that it is a multifunctional kitchen tool. It also has a built-in feature for sharpening knives.
Even if it is made by Hamilton Beach, some users note that the durability is a potential issue. Some of its parts feel flimsy, which might not last through the years.
Pros:
- Removable cutter
- Opens even large cans
- Has a built-in knife sharpener
Cons:
- Durability can be an issue
KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener
KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener is a stylish hands-held model that can be easily stored away in your drawer to saver counter space. This product features a large knob that controls the opening of different types of cans and jars. The handles are made with a nonslip plastic material that offers a comfortable grip.
The sleek design and bright color adds aesthetic value to your countertop and fits into any kind of kitchen design. For durability, this can opener requires extra care and maintenance. It is manually washed with warm water and mild soap before drying to prevent rusting. This model is not safe for the dishwasher.
The cutting edge of KitchenAid classic can opener is made of durable stainless steel that is extremely sharp and can puncture open all kinds of cans, including larger cans with thicker metal. It is shaped in the form of a pair of scissors that allows you to hold with both hands to cut the can open. This product is well suited for right-handed users. The brand guarantees replacement against material and manufacturing defects within the first year of purchase.
Pros:
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Offers a nonslip grip
- Ideal for all kinds of cans
- Easy to hold
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe
- No auto feature
What to Consider Before Buying An Electric Can Opener
While the options abound, it does not mean that they are all the same. Below are some of the crucial considerations as you narrow down the possibilities.
Type
One of the most important is how the product works to open cans. It can have a traditional or top cut design. This means that it slices the lid inside the rim. As it happens, a thin circle is left on the metal. It touches the food, so it requires frequent cleaning.
Another type to consider is a side cut electric can opener. It slices the side of the can. In turn, it creates a seamless, smooth, and soft cut.
Size
Whether you will use one with a freestanding design or a can opener that you can easily hide in the cabinet, consider the size. Think about the available countertop space or the size of the cans that you will open most of the time.
Power Source
Another common way to differentiate electric can openers is based on their power source. The more powerful ones need to be plugged in a socket. They are often large and left on the countertop.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a more portable alternative, then you should go for one that uses batteries. They are more affordable and compact but can be less powerful than their plugged-in counterpart.
Features And Functions
Several people are on the lookout for extra features and functions for added convenience and safety. These features include a built-in bottle opener, knife sharpener, retractable cord, sidecut, detachable blade, one-touch control, auto stop, extra-wide base.
Most brands, especially plug-ins, add extra features and functions for its users for ease of use and added comfort. The base of several plug-ins can openers are well balanced and do not slip off the counter when in use. The side cut feature ensures the can is smoothly opened at the rim without any sharp edge that could easily injure the cook.
Material
The most popular materials utilized in making electric can openers range from steel, metal, and plastic. The cutting edge, which is the blade, is made of different kinds of steel. High-quality steel won’t rust or leach substances into your food or cause a threat to your hands. It is more durable and outlasts low quality steel.
The heavier the material, the longer it lasts. The balance of the can opener when handling large can is dependent on the material used in constructing the unit. Most plastic can openers are not well balanced, making them unsuitable for heavy cans, except you hold the cans with your hands.
Storage Space
The available space in your kitchen should be considered before buying a can opener. And how often you use your opener will also determine how you store. You would want the can opener to be within your reach if you frequently cook with canned ingredients.
Although a taller can opener can handle larger cans, it takes more storage space than the regular size. Nevertheless, If you have limited space in your kitchen, you would rather invest in a compact opener than a bigger one.
Ease Of Use
Are you looking for options that operate hands-free or hand-held?
Most electric can openers are designed to operate with your hands-free, which prevents you from straining your arms as you hold the can. These hands-free operation models are ideal for arthritic users and feature a magnet that holds the can. They are convenient and can handle almost any size of cans. Some are designed to be extra tall for larger cans.
The hands-held operating design is powered by batteries and doesn’t need to be plugged into an electric source. You are required to hold the can when the unit opens the lid to prevent the food from dispersing across the cooking surface. It is manually operated and does not feature auto functions such as automatic stop. They are portable, compact, accessible, and requires minimum storage space.
Maintenance
It is important to take care of an electric can opener after each use to retain its look and performance. Poor maintenance of openers encourages the spread of bacteria and causes the blade to rust, easily contaminating the food.
If it is a plug-in model, the cord needs to unplug, and the batteries of the battery-powered model need to be removed after each use. Then the detachable cutting edge needs to be removed and cleaned. Some blades are dishwasher safe, and others that require manual washing. Ensure to check the manual on how to clean the can opener before you buy it.
Safety Can Express 🥫Automatic Can Opener
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about electric can openers? We’ll answer some of them below.
How do you use an electric can opener?
This will depend on the type that you are using. Plug the can opener, lift the lever, and position it on the can. Once it is safely on position, turn on the can opener, making sure that you hold the can properly.
Alternatively, there are models that you do not have to plug. It works like a normal can opener, except that you do not need to rotate a lever manually.
How do you clean an electric can opener?
Clean the can opener regularly after every use. Wipe it with a paper towel or clean cloth to get rid of the food particles on the surface. Do not submerge in water. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer about care and maintenance.
Can you put WD-40 in an electric can opener?
It depends on the type of the can opener and the recommendations from the manufacturer. In most cases, there is no problem in doing so. It will clean and lubricate the moving parts, making sure they work smoothly.
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