Nuts are full of heart-healthy, brain-boosting fats, and they're loaded with other necessary micro and macronutrients such as fiber, protein, and a wide range of vitamins. Unfortunately, nuts can be a bit pricey. Additionally, if you're trying to pick up the habit of some healthy snacks but don't want to overdo it, nuts still in their shells are a bit more time-consuming the pre-shelled nuts. This means you'll likely end up eating less, a bonus if you're trying to watch your consumption. A simple solution is to purchase nuts that are still in their shells, and a nutcracker to make use of them. And perhaps the best reason of all to go with a nutcracker and shelled nuts? They'll be delightfully fresh. The only problem with nuts still in their shells is that you're going to need a high-quality, durable nutcracker to extract the meat from the shell. Here we've rounded up a few of the best nutcrackers out there. Fani Nutcracker No more pinched fingersA non-slip grip makes this a fantastic find.Best OverallFind on Amazon The simple design of this beauty makes this a favorite among nut lovers. Made from high-quality zinc alloy, this plier-style nutcracker features a two-size sawtooth design with a reinforced, non-slip handle. To use it, place the nut in the appropriate-sized opening, squeeze the handles together to crack the nut’s shell, and voila — chomp away. This is a lightweight, bright little nutcracker that’ll efficiently and safely extract the meat for you time after time after time. Pros: Fun, vibrant handle color options Anti-slip handle design Cons: Not ideal for pistachios Hiware Seafood and Nut Cracker Set Jack of all tradesThis complete nut-cracking set works well for nuts as well as shellfish and seafood.Best Multi-Purpose SetFind on Amazon If you find yourself eating nuts as often as you eat tasty crab legs or lobster, you’re going to want a nutcracker set that expertly does both. This 10-piece cracker and pick set is stainless steel, incredibly durable, and will make eating any nut or shellfish a breeze. Made from die-cast zinc allow, this kit features tools that are significantly heavier than similar kits on the market, making them far more durable and user-friendly for cracking even the hardest of shells. Pros: Dishwasher-safe design Heavy, high-quality metal that is durable and much more user-friendly than the typical kit Cons: No anti-slip handle on the pliers Hiware Nut Cracker with Picks Go nuts for nutsIf you love walnuts and you hate messes, you're going to love this nutcracker.Easiest CleanupFind on Amazon When it comes to devouring those delicious kernels, the first thing you’ll need is a good nutcracker. But sometimes, that isn’t enough. If you’re looking for a cracker that comes with supplementary tools to help you crack nuts like a pro, you’ll want this set from Hiware. Once you’ve cracked the shell, the included picks help you precisely extract the meat. Those who’ve tried in vain to crack and extract walnuts in a neat and tidy manner will be happy to know a kit like this exists. Pros: Clever design collects shell debris Ridged inner chamber helps you apply pressure evenly to the shell Fits well in the hand Cons: While it’s perfect for walnuts, it’s less ideal for smaller nuts Hiware Heavy Duty Nut Cracker Tool Serious businessYou'd have to be a stubborn nut to pick a fight with this Goliath.Best Heavy-DutyFind on Amazon Tired of buying the latest-and-greatest nutcracker only to find that it’s no match for the toughest of shells? Well, nuts. Though it’s a bummer, know that you’re not alone. If you’re looking for a nutcracker that’ll make easy work of anything from a Brazil nut to a walnut or a pecan, here’s your pick. This unit has developed a reputation for being a lean, mean, nut-cracking machine, and that’s due in large part to the fact that it’s mounted on a wooden base. The added stability this provides means you can leverage your weight more easily to help put more power into the job. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that this tool is sleek-looking, either. Pros: High-quality nickel-plated steel construction Excellent value considering the quality Great for the toughest of nuts Cons: Since the wooden base isn’t secured to the surface you use it on, it may wobble or move as you use it EFO Wooden Mushroom Nutcracker Making nut cracking funFun for all ages, this nutcracker is a delightful kitchen gadget that makes cracking and eating nuts fun.Best For KidsFind on Amazon If you have picky eaters at home, you probably already know that if you can make food fun, they’ll eat just about anything. This darling wooden nutcracker is shaped like a mushroom, and it expertly cracks nuts. Simply place the nut in the hallow and screw the top down to break the shell. The design keeps the shells fully contained, so you won’t have to worry about sharp shells, either. And because of the twist-down design, you won’t have to worry about pinched fingers. It makes cracking nuts so much fun, your kiddos will want in on the action. Turn it into a taste-testing game, and your picky eaters will be chowing down in no time. The simple operation of this nutcracker also works wonders for those who have issues with arthritis or hand pain. Pros: Turns extracting the meat of nuts into a fun game for kids Low-mess design Works on all nuts (macadamia nut excluded) Cons: You’ll need to hand-wash this nutcracker and occasionally oil it to prevent the wood from cracking Frequently Asked Questions I don’t want just another kitchen gadget. Can nutcrackers be used for anything else? Rest assured, nutcrackers are typically low profile and can easily be stored in a kitchen drawer without taking up too much space. However, if you don’t want a lot of kitchen gadgets but would love to have nuts still in their shells, a nutcracker is a necessary kitchen tool. However, many nutcrackers can also be used for eating shellfish, making them a multi-purpose kitchen gadget. What’s the best design for a nutcracker? There are many different types of nutcrackers. From simple pliers, to levers, screws, and even ratchet-style nutcrackers (not to mention, the classic nutcracker doll), if you’re looking for a nutcracker you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Perhaps the favorite type of nutcracker due to its user-friendly design and durability, the plier tends to be a favorite design. Related posts: The Best Frisbees The Best Rubber Snakes The Best Dog Ornaments