Electric Can Openers

Many cooks like electric can openers. They are convenient, and if you master the one you buy, it can be an easy solution that requires virtually no effort. On the flip side, it can be difficult to get cans lined up correctly with some electric can openers, and clean up can be messy. Also, electric model can openers cost more than manuals. 

Things to Consider When Buying an Electric Can Opener

  • Base Weight (needs to be heavy enough to sit flat and steady)
  • Blades (need to adjust to various sized cans)
  • Disassembly (parts should be easy to take apart for thorough cleaning)
  • Style/Color (can match to kitchen color scheme but neutrals allow for redecorating at a later date)

Manual Can Openers

Manual can openers are fabulous if you get a nice one.

If you think you hate manual can openers, then you likely have used the $1 special or the ones that hook on a keychain for camping. The cheap manual can openers stop and start and slip off the cans. It may look like you chewed your way into your can of beans with some of the low cost models.

A good manual can opener is just as easy to use as an electric, and it costs less. Plus, if the power goes out, you can still open cans. It’s always good to have a back up manual can opener even if you have an electric can opener.

Things to Consider When Buying a Manual Can Opener

  • Handles (padding makes a difference)
  • Size (make sure your hand fits the model selected)
  • Cutting Blade (sharp and sure when turning handle)
  • Pop Topper (nice to have the extra option to lift off lids as well)