Best Can Openers for Kitchen (2026)

A good can opener is one of those kitchen tools you never think about until it fails. These five options represent the most reliable, safe, and ergonomic choices available.

Why We Picked These

Cutting reliability, smooth-edge safety, ergonomic handle design, and durability over years of regular use were the evaluation criteria.

1. KitchenAid Classic Can Opener

KitchenAid's smooth-edge can opener cuts below the lid rather than through it, eliminating sharp edges entirely. The soft-grip handles and built-in bottle opener and lid lifter make it the most complete can opener available.

• Smooth-edge cutting — no sharp edges
• Soft-grip comfort handles
• Bottle opener + lid lifter included
• Dishwasher safe

★★★★★ — 4.7/5

2. Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter

The Kuhn Rikon model is the gold standard in safe can opening — its mechanism grips the side of the lid rim and cuts from the side, removing the lid completely without any sharp edge exposure.

• Side-cut mechanism
• Lid-lifting magnet
• No sharp edges
• Dishwasher safe

★★★★½ — 4.6/5

3. OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener

OXO's smooth edge opener uses a side-cutting mechanism with their signature soft, non-slip handles that are especially comfortable for users with arthritis or limited hand strength.

• Side-cut smooth edge
• Ergonomic soft handles
• Turning knob with wide grip
• Dishwasher safe

★★★★½ — 4.6/5

4. Zyliss Lock N Lift Can Opener

The Zyliss model adds a locking lid-lift mechanism that holds onto the removed lid so you never touch it with your fingers — an elegant hands-free safety solution.

• Locking lid-lift feature
• Side-cut smooth edge
• Ergonomic handles
• Dishwasher safe

★★★★ — 4.5/5

5. Hamilton Beach Open Ease Automatic Can Opener

For those who prefer electric convenience, the Hamilton Beach automatic model opens any standard can with one touch of a button — no hand strength required.

• Electric one-touch operation
• Hands-free lid removal
• Works on all standard cans
• Cord storage underneath

★★★★ — 4.4/5

Buying Guide

Side-cut (smooth edge) can openers are strongly recommended over traditional top-cut models — they eliminate sharp lid edges entirely and are safer for children and users with limited dexterity. The KitchenAid and OXO models are the most reliable in this category. Electric can openers suit users with hand strength limitations.