Our Verdict on the OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener

We've tested enough OXO options to know what separates the ones worth keeping from the ones that end up in a drawer. The Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener $12.99 lands firmly on the right side of that line.

What We Think, Straight Up

The OXO soft-grip can opener is what a can opener should be. No slipping, no mid-tin fails, no sharp edges. Buy it and stop thinking about can openers.

If you've been on the fence, here's how we'd frame it: the OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener is designed for anyone who struggles with cheap can openers and wants one that actually works first time, every time. If that's you, it's very likely the right choice. If it's not, there's probably a better fit at a lower price point.

The Performance

We ran the OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener through daily use across several weeks. The things that impressed us most are the ones listed below — not the marketing claims, the actual experience of using it regularly.

There's a difference between products that sound good in spec sheets and ones that feel right in practice. The OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener is in the second group.

What We Love

• Non-slip handles even with wet hands
• Wide turning knob — easy to operate
• Cuts on the side to prevent sharp edges on lids
• Lid remover built in
• Dishwasher safe

Room for Improvement

• Manual — not electric
• Not the cheapest can opener available
• Slightly bulky to store

Who Should Buy It

This is for anyone who struggles with cheap can openers and wants one that actually works first time, every time. If that's you — buy it. The OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener is one of those products where you'll look back and wonder why you waited.

If you're on the fence because of price, consider how often you'll use it. Most quality purchases amortise down to almost nothing over their lifespan.

The Value Question

At $12.99, the OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener sits at the higher end of the category. Our take: it's priced correctly for what it is. There are cheaper options. They are cheaper for a reason.

We've tested the alternatives. The OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener is the one we kept.

Our Verdict

The short answer: yes. The OXO Good Grips Soft Works Can Opener is our recommended pick for anyone who struggles with cheap can openers and wants one that actually works first time, every time. It's well-built, performs as advertised, and we haven't found anything at this price point that beats it.

Buy it. Use it. You'll stop second-guessing the purchase within a week.