The Best Manual Can Openers

KitchenAid Classic Can and Bottle Opener

Classic design

This simple can opener is well-made and built to last.

Best Overall

Find on Amazon

If you want a straightforward, high-quality can opener, this classic option from KitchenAid may be just what you’ve been looking for. It’s affordable and makes it easy to open bottles and cans on the fly. The ergonomic handles are glossy and easy to clean while also fitting well in most hand sizes. The large knob is easy to turn, which makes it ideal for those with joint issues. Overall, it has everything we could ask for.

Pros:

• This can opener is available in lots of fun colors to match nearly any style
• It’s made of heavy-duty stainless steel
• The blade cuts cleanly and quickly

Cons:

• It may rust over time
• The handles would be more comfortable if they had a softer coating

Zyliss Lock N’ Lift Can Opener

Convenient cutting

All of the added extras make this can opener an awesome choice.

Best Extra Features

Find on Amazon

For a feature-rich option, we turn to the Zyliss Lock N’ Lift can opener. It’s specially designed with a locking mechanism to keep it in place so that you don’t need to worry about it dropping the can or skipping as it cuts. Add in the soft handle, and you have a user-friendly and effective device for people of all ages. Stainless steel blades work smoothly to get through the top quickly, as well. For extra security, the colorful soft-grips prevent your hand from slipping to help avoid injuries.

Pros:

• The built-in magnet keeps the top attached so that it won’t fall down when you’re done opening the can
• It’s super durable and well-made, which means it will last
• The comfortable handle and grips make it easy to use, even for those with pain in their hands

Cons:

• It doesn’t always work as well on large cans as it does for regular cans
• Steel rusts if you don’t keep it dry

Pakitner Safe Cut Can Opener

Safe and sturdy

Open cans easily without leaving sharp edges behind.

Smoothest Cut

Find on Amazon

One drawback to most can openers is that they leave behind sharp edges that can easily cut through skin, making them dangerous, especially for children. That’s why we love this safe-cut can opener by Pakitner for homes with kids. It opens cans up from the side and leaves smooth, straight edges. A wide, smooth knob makes it easy to turn, so even kids can use it without an issue. We especially appreciate the safety bar across the top to keep it in position to prevent accidents.

Pros:

• The price is great
• It’s ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to use for most people
• Safety measures make it a more appropriate option for kids to use

Cons:

• It doesn’t fit can with wider tops
• Turning it takes a little longer than traditional can openers

Gorilla Grip Original Manual Can Opener

Ergonomic option

This simple can opener is designed for frequent use without any pain.

Most Comfortable

Find on Amazon

We get frustrated with manual can openers because they’re often hard to squeeze and can hurt our fingers and joints as we use them. That’s why we appreciate this comfy and ergonomic manual can opener from Gorilla Grip. Its softly cushioned silicone handles are oversized and easy to hang onto without the need to white-knuckle it as you go. The handle is larger than average, making it even easier to get ahold of. Overall, this is a fantastic choice when comfort is your priority.

Pros:

• There are several cute colors so you can match your kitchen’s decor
• It’s affordable
• Leaves edges smoother than many can openers do

Cons:

• It skips if it isn’t in the proper position
• The size makes it hard for kids to hold

OXO Good Grips Can Opener

Squishy grips

The large, soft grips on this can opener make it super comfortable and easy to use.

Softest Handle

Find on Amazon

When it comes to can openers, it’s hard to understate the benefits of soft handles. They make it easier to use and ensure you won’t hurt your hands as you squeeze. For that reason, the OXO Good Grips can opener is a fantastic choice. The squishably soft handles are perfectly sized for nearly anyone’s hands, while the oversized knob makes it easy to turn the wheel. It’s perfect for many folks who may struggle to use most other options.

Pros:

• There’s a built-in bottle opener
• It’s super sturdy and made to last
• The handle turns smoothly

Cons:

• It tends to leave the edges of the can sharp, which can be dangerous for kids
• The soft material of the handles can rip

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you get a manual can opener if you have an electric one?

Electric can openers are convenient, but they have their drawbacks. Most of them take up precious counter space and have to be plugged into an outlet. On the other hand, manual can openers are easy to use and don’t require anything but good old elbow grease. When you aren’t using it, just stick it in a drawer.

What should I look for when choosing a can opener?

When you’re trying to decide which can opener is the right one for you, think about what you need. Do you have kids? If so, you may want to make sure the can opener leaves smooth edges behind. If you care for an older parent or have conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia, you’ll want to consider one with large, comfortable handles and an easy-to-turn knob.