The Best Tea Infuser

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Infused tea, teapot and brown sugar next to each other on beech wood, shot from top

When it comes to making a cup of tea, some people grab a tea bag or a spoon of instant powder, which tea lovers will strongly disapprove of. Since tea is meant to be enjoyed, brewing an absolutely awesome cup of tea is something that only a tea infuser will be able to do. If you’re nitpicking, you may also note that not all tea infusers are up to the task. So, how to find the best tea infuser – one that delivers an unforgettable taste?

While there are a number of tea infusers available on the market today, we made sure to hand-pick only the cream of the crop and give you honest reviews about each product.

Keep reading to find out why these four tea infusers earned “the best” spot in our list and how they can match your specific tea brewing needs.

Don’t forget to also check out our essential buying guide at the end of the article, where we share the most important tips you need to know when shopping for the best tea infuser.

The Best Tea Infuser

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best Spoon And Ball
Best For Travel
Genuine Fred, MR. TEA, Resuable Silicone Tea Infuser, Gray, Fun Gift for Tea Lovers, Clever Kitchen Gadget
Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot,clear,16 oz
OXO Stainless Steel Twisting Tea Ball Infuser
Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with AUTOSEAL Lid, 16oz., Stainless Steel/Black
Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.
Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.
Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.
Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.
Best Overall
Genuine Fred, MR. TEA, Resuable Silicone Tea Infuser, Gray, Fun Gift for Tea Lovers, Clever Kitchen Gadget
Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.
Best Quality
Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot,clear,16 oz
Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.
Best Spoon And Ball
OXO Stainless Steel Twisting Tea Ball Infuser
Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.
Best For Travel
Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with AUTOSEAL Lid, 16oz., Stainless Steel/Black
Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.

Best Overall: Fred & Friends MR. TEA Silicone Tea Infuser

Genuine Fred, MR. TEA, Resuable Silicone Tea Infuser, Gray, Fun Gift for Tea Lovers, Clever Kitchen GadgetWe chose the Fred & Friends MR.TEA silicone tea infuser as our best overall pick, as the product is cute and fun, very easy to use and maintain, and steeps evenly. It’s a good choice for most people because it can definitely deliver an incredibly delicious cup of tea.

Pros:

Fred & Friends is a very reputable and popular brand that creates innovative and fun tea infuser’s designs. You can choose from Mr. Tea, Manatea, sloth, whale, and so much more. It’s practically impossible to be moody or sad drinking tea when a cute sloth is hanging from your mug. Grown-ups enjoy the adorable designs, too, but kids are especially enthusiastic about them. Therefore if you have kids, this is the right tea infuser for you.

Aside from its pleasing appearance, the Fred & Friends MR. TEA infuser grips strongly to the side of a mug and always stays cool in hot water. You will never burn your fingers, nor have problems with the insider falling inside the mug.

It is important to note that the Fred & Friends MR. TEA infuser steeps evenly, so you can enjoy a consistent flavor from the first sip to the very last one.

Finally, the unit is dishwasher and microwave safe. It can’t get any more convenient than that! Once you’re done drinking your tea, simply open the infuser, throw away the used leaves, and place it in the dishwasher. That’s it.

Cons:

When it comes to the concerns, we’ve noticed that sometimes leaves can get stuck inside the infuser. This can be a little annoying, as you’ll have to go out of your way to thoroughly clean the infuser.

Another disadvantage is that the product is not suitable for larger quantities of tea. It’s a single-serving type of infuser, designed to fit in one mug. People who need a larger tea infuser can check out our next recommendation – the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot.

The Verdict:

Silly design, fair-price, and great taste are just some of the characteristics that made us choose Fred & Friends MR. TEA infuser as our best overall choice. The unit is great for everyone, small or big, and we guarantee it will make your cup of tea even more enjoyable.

Best Quality: Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot

Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot,clear,16 ozTea masters need something bigger and more serious than the previously discussed single-serving tea infuser, which is were the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot truly shines. It’s a lot larger and features a bottom-dispensing mechanism, making tea drinking even more practical. The unit is a high-quality tea infuser meant to handle the needs of a tea party.

Pros:

While most infusers are designed for single-serving, this teapot can hold up to 16 ounces of liquid, which is great news for people that drink a lot of tea. You also have the option to choose the 28-ounce version, which is available on the same purchase link. If your whole family are passionate tea drinkers, then this will come quite handy.

Another handy feature is its bottom-dispencing mechanism, as you only need to place it above your cup in order to fill it.

The Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot is made from strong, BPA-free plastic, which makes the device completely safe.

As a great representative of its type, the teapot is spacious, which allows the leaves to fully extend and release flavor. This not only means that your tea will steep evenly, but the flavor will be richer and more delicious.

Another important consideration is that the unit is very easy to maintain. The lid and the filter come off and you can simply toss them in the dishwasher.

Cons:

If you have oversized mugs with a very wide opening, you might have trouble placing the teapot above your mug. It’s designed to fit an up to 3.5″ opening in diameter, so keep this on your mind.

After a while, some customers have mentioned that the device starts to leak.

The Verdict:

The Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot is a high-quality tea infuser with a modern design for greater convenience. It’s the perfect choice for people that are passionate tea drinkers, large families, or tea part gatherings. If 16 ounces is not enough, you can even get the 28-ounce version, which will ensure you have enough tea for the whole day.

Best Spoon And Ball: OXO BREW Twisting Tea Ball

OXO Stainless Steel Twisting Tea Ball InfuserGoing back to basics, we introduce the OXO BREW twisting tea ball type tea infuser. It’s the most widely known and used single-serving tea infuser, which makes most people feel comfortable. The unit is a high-quality, stainless steel version that features a unique twisting mechanism and a long handle for an even more pleasant experience.

Pros:

The OXO Good Grips twisting tea ball infuser is made of strong, high-quality stainless steel, which makes the unit very durable and safe for use.

To stand out from the competition, the OXO BREW model features a twisting mechanism that is used to lock the ball. This makes the filling very easy and it leaves space for the leaves once the ball is closed – you can’t overfill it.

The product is very simple and easy to use, however, that didn’t stop the designers to think about every little detail. The OXO BREW has a very long handle that works for all types of mugs and glasses. Regardless of the height, you’ll be able to comfortably stir your tea. Plus, you have a plastic non-slip cover on top of the handle that allows for a better grip and stays cool even when more than half of the infuser is in hot water.

Just like the rest of the recommendations, the OXO model is dishwasher safe.

Cons:

On the downside, we should mention that the device can only be used for a single-serving cup and the ball is small, which is typical of tea ball type tea infusers.

The Verdict:

For people that enjoy the classics, the OXO BREW twisting tea ball tea infuser is a great pick. It looks and feels like a spoon, that releases flavor and makes delicious tea. Steeping is even, cleaning is effortless, and filling is easier than ever.

Best For Travel: Contigo 2034154 Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with AUTOSEAL Lid, 16oz., Stainless Steel/BlackContigo 2034154 is one of the highest-quality travel mugs that also features a tea infuser attachment, making it incredibly attractive for everyone that likes to enjoy a hot (or cold) cup of tea on the go.

Pros:

The Contigo 2034154 is made of stainless steel, or in other words, is built to last. Plus, the strong construction makes it so much more reliable in holding the temperature of the liquid constant. In fact, this unit can hold hot liquids up to 5 hours and cold up to 12 hours.

The plastic parts are BPA-free, so you’ll know that your health won’t suffer from harmful chemicals.

The unit uses an exclusive auto seal technology, so it can prevent spills. Without troubling your mind, you can place it in a bag full of books, documents, or other precious stuff, as the unit doesn’t leak and doesn’t spill.

Best of all, it can hold up to 16 ounces, which is more than three regular teacups. You can fill it before going out and have tea for the whole day.

With these features, we’ll say that this travel mug is great on its own, but with the tea infuser attachment, it becomes the perfect tool for tea lovers.

For those who appreciate good design, the Contigo stainless steel travel mug has 24 colors for you to choose from. You can match it with your bag, backpack, or simply pick your favorite color.

Cons:

Since its primary purpose is to fit the needs of travelers, the tea infuser attachment is small, which can prevent the full flavor of the tea from developing.

Additionally, the unit is quite pricey compared to our other recommendations, considering you need to pay for the infuser attachment separately from its basic price.

The Verdict:

The Contigo stainless steel travel mug is the best solution for people that like to drink freshly brewed tea while traveling. The unit has a strong construction, with auto seal and vacuum functionalities that hold the temperature of the drink constant for many hours.

Conclusion:

Our best overall choice is Fred & Friends MR. TEA silicone infuser, which is unique, fun, efficient, and very convenient. The unit is easy to use and clean, as it’s dishwasher and microwave-safe. We believe that it can be the perfect gift for your tea-loving friend, a way to make kids drink tea more, and a mood-booster on a hard day.

While most people go for the adorable Fred & Friends’ design, serious tea enthusiasts will want something larger and more professional, which is why we chose the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot as our highest-quality pick. This teapot features the amazing concept of dispensing tea from the bottom, by placing it above your mug. It’s large, very convenient, and still easy to maintain and clean. It’s the unit that most hard-core tea drinkers will approve of.

Another single-serving choice is the classic OXO Good Grips twisting tea ball model. The unit is an improved version of the typical ball-type tea infuser, as it features a long handle which makes it look and feel like a spoon. This tea infuser is very simple, durable, and one of the easiest products to use.

Finally, we chose the Contigo Travel Mug as our best travel mug. While there are many travel mugs available on the market today, the Contigo model stands out with its tea infuser attachment, durable construction, large space, and no-spill auto spill functionality. Whenever you’re on the road, the Contigo 2034154 won’t disappoint you.

Everything You Need To Know About Tea Infusers

Knowing a little more about tea infusers will help you figure what will work for you best. For example, do you know what are the advantages of using a tea infuser instead of regular tea bags; what are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of tea infusers; and how to prepare the perfect brew? Keep reading to find out the answers.

Why Use A Tea Infuser?

There’s nothing wrong with using tea bags for drinking tea. They’re perfectly safe and just as healthy as loose tea leaves. However, as many passionate tea lovers will tell you, the flavor is very different.

Although more convenient, tea bags are tightly packed, and the tea leaves are chopped or even minced, so they can fit in the packaging. Unfortunately, this affects the taste, as there’s no space for tea leaves to expand and release the flavor. As a result, tea from tea bags can taste bland or bitter. Using a high-quality tea infuser can change your opinion on tea, as the flavor is much more intense, making the drink more delicious.

Another reason for choosing a tea infuser are the health benefits. Like we mentioned, sometimes tea leaves need to be crushed, chopped, or smashed to fit in the tea bags, which can destroy some of the nutritional properties of certain teas. There’s a much better chance to get your daily dose of antioxidants and potent polyphenols from loose tea leaves.

Types Of Tea Infusers

Some tea experts believe that the best way to enjoy the health benefits and flavor is to brew the tea leaves in a large pot and then use a strainer to remove them before consuming. However, seeing how many options you have today, you can easily get the same tea quality from a variety of different types of tea infusers.

Tea Infuser Baskets/ Brewing Baskets

Experts and passionate tea lovers will probably opt for brewing baskets as their preferred choice. The reason for this is that brewing baskets are very spacious and they allow the leaves to flow freely in the water. Of course, there are a variety of sizes you can choose from, but baskets are not meant for making one cup of tea. This type is a great choice for families or couples who want to brew the perfect tea at home.

Tea Balls Infusers

The most popular and basic type is the tea ball infuser. This model is the opposite of the above-mentioned brewing baskets. While the baskets were designed for making large quantities of tea at once, the ball infusers are made for single-serving cups. You should only use them for one cup of tea and with a small number of tea leaves, otherwise, the small spacing won’t allow for the flavor of your tea to develop properly.

If you believe the ball type tea infuser is for you, we have the OXO Good Grips Twisting Tea Ball, as the best tea infuser in its category.

Silicone Tea Infusers

Silicone tea infusers are a variation of the ball infusers. They’re also meant for a single-serving cup of tea but differ in the material from which they’re made. While the ball infusers are made from stainless steel, the silicone tea infusers are made of silicone (BPA-free). People choose silicon tea infusers because they’re shaped artificially and in a fun way. They’re the perfect choice for you and your kids.

Our best overall recommendation, the Fred MR. TEA is a silicone type of tea infuser.

Travel Mugs

When you’re traveling, commuting to work or university, camping, or simply spending a day in the park, you’ll want a freshly brewed tea. This is the reason why people invented travel mugs with a tea infuser inside them, which can hold the liquid either hot or cold. Plus, they’re very convenient and easy to use.

For all the travelers and on-the-go tea drinkers, we recommend the Contigo stainless steel travel mug that features a tea infuser.

Teapot Infusers

If you’re a fan of tea parties, then you’ll need something more serious and larger. Although brewing baskets are large, teapots take things to the next level. You can serve two to three people with a brewing basket, while you can serve up to four or five people with a teapot, depending on its size, maybe even more.

The vintage choice would be ceramic and porcelain teapots, but today you can also find teapots made of cast iron, clay, glass, and so on.

Our highest-quality pick, the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA, is a unique and modern variation of the classic teapot.

Tips For Steeping Loose Tea Leaves Perfectly

Assuming that brewing tea means bringing water to a boil and leaving the tea leaves for 10 minutes inside is the first mistake. Typically, you’ll know that you’ve made a mistake if the flavor is a little off, or if the tea is a little bland, or bitter.

Here are some tips to help you make delicious tea:

  • You need different water temperatures for different types of teas. For example, for black or dark tea, you can use almost boiling water, while for green or bright tea leaves you should leave boiled water at room temperature for five minutes before inserting the leaves. To be more precise, here are some temperature regulations, according to L’AtelierduThe:
    • 75-85°C for Green Teas
    • 87-95°C for Oolong Teas
    • 79-90°C for White Teas
  • Buy high-quality tea with whole leaves. The flavor depends on the quality of the tea leaves. If the leaves are processed in some way (chopped, crushed, minced) they’ll lose nutrients and flavor, and may even become bitter.
  • Take out the leaves before drinking. If you leave the tea leaves for too long they may also make the drink too intense and bitter. Every herb is different, so research the appropriate brewing time for your favorite type of tea to get an aromatic and delicious taste.
  • Sugar is not a solution for bitterness. Your tea may turn bitter for some of the above-mentioned reasons, but you shouldn’t try to fix the situation with sugar, as you’ll only make the drink less healthy. Refined sugar is the worst option. Consider changing something in your steeping process before reaching out to sweetener, or use a natural alternative like honey or agave syrup.

How To Find the Best Tea Infuser?

Tea infusers are pretty straightforward and simple, yet you still need to pay attention when trying to find the best tea infuser for your needs.

Do you need an appliance that can hold large quantities of liquid? Do you need the tea infuser to be portable? Do you need something for the road? Although tea infusers differ a lot based on their main purpose, there are still some things you need to consider, regardless of what type of unit you want to buy.

Easy to use

Tea infusers are designed for brewing loose tea leaves quickly and efficiently. Since the main reason why people use tea bags, instead of loose tea leaves, is convenience, tea infusers need to offer something similar. Complicated, hard to figure out, heavy and big tea infusers can turn a pleasant experience into an annoying one. Therefore, look for simple and easy-to-use units.

Easy to Clean

The same principle of convenience applies here, too. You’ll want a tea infuser that’s easy to clean by hand, or it’s dishwasher safe. While some stainless steel or metal tea infusers are more durable, they can also have sharp edges between the holes where tea leaves usually get stuck. To avoid the frustration of having to unstuck used tea leaves from the tea infuser, look for

appliances that are easy to clean and maintain.

Steeping Evenly

Tea lovers know that making tea isn’t just placing a tea bag for 10 minutes into hot water. In fact, the temperature of the water and the steeping method can really affect the flavor of the tea, which is why you need a high-quality tea infuser that steeps tea leaves evenly. This is the reason why we made sure all of our recommendations can produce a perfect brew.

Before You Go

We hope that our reviews will help you find the best tea infuser for your specific needs. However, if you’re still undecided, you can use our essential buying guide to filter through the massive amount of products offered on the market today, and carefully select what works for your best.

Additionally, make sure to follow the links for each product to find out in-depth specifications, product descriptions, current prices, and customer reviews.

You can also check out our blog because we have many more product reviews, product guides, and recipes that will spark your appetite for sure.

Want to see our favorite tea infusers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best Spoon And Ball
Best For Travel
Genuine Fred, MR. TEA, Resuable Silicone Tea Infuser, Gray, Fun Gift for Tea Lovers, Clever Kitchen Gadget
Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot,clear,16 oz
OXO Stainless Steel Twisting Tea Ball Infuser
Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with AUTOSEAL Lid, 16oz., Stainless Steel/Black
Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.
Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.
Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.
Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.
Best Overall
Genuine Fred, MR. TEA, Resuable Silicone Tea Infuser, Gray, Fun Gift for Tea Lovers, Clever Kitchen Gadget
Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.
Best Quality
Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot,clear,16 oz
Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.
Best Spoon And Ball
OXO Stainless Steel Twisting Tea Ball Infuser
Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.
Best For Travel
Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with AUTOSEAL Lid, 16oz., Stainless Steel/Black
Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.

We Don’t Mince Words In Our Meat Grinder Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Meat Grinder

Are you still purchasing ground meat from the grocery store? Although this is a convenient way to make wholesome, family dishes like spaghetti with meatballs, meatloaf with mashed potatoes, or homemade sausage, it’s not the cheapest nor the healthiest option. On top of that, you have no control over the fat content or how finely the meat has been ground. These are some of the reasons that drive people toward buying a home meat grinder.

However, choosing a meat grinder is not an easy task. There are a lot of factors you need to consider in order to find the best meat grinder for your specific needs. Meat grinders vary in type, price, power, speed, and accessories, which is why we created a detailed buying guide where you can learn how to choose the best meat grinder.

But first, take a look at the meat grinders we trust and believe are the best products available on the market today. Aside from detailed product descriptions, we also categorized and compared four different meat grinders, so that everyone can find their perfect match.

The Best Meat Grinders

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
STX International Turboforce 3000 Heavy Duty 5-In-1 Powerful Size #12 • 3 Lb High Capacity Meat Tray • Sausage Stuffer (3 Sizes) • Kubbe Maker • Electric Burger/Slider Maker • Meat Claws
LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric #8-Meat Grinder (.35-HP)
LEM Products #10 Clamp-On Hand Grinder, Stainless Steel Meat Grinder
Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.
Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.
Best Overall
STX International Turboforce 3000 Heavy Duty 5-In-1 Powerful Size #12 • 3 Lb High Capacity Meat Tray • Sausage Stuffer (3 Sizes) • Kubbe Maker • Electric Burger/Slider Maker • Meat Claws
Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Best Quality
LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric #8-Meat Grinder (.35-HP)
Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.
Best on a Budget
LEM Products #10 Clamp-On Hand Grinder, Stainless Steel Meat Grinder
Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.

Best Overall: STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

STX International Turboforce 3000 Heavy Duty 5-In-1 Powerful Size #12 • 3 Lb High Capacity Meat Tray • Sausage Stuffer (3 Sizes) • Kubbe Maker • Electric Burger/Slider Maker • Meat ClawsSTX Turboforce Classic 3000 is our choice as the best meat grinder. The unit is great for heavy-duty work as it has an incredibly powerful motor. It’s efficient, versatile, and large enough to meet the needs of an average family as well as commercial use. We love it because it’s not too expensive, yet it offers amazing quality, making it suitable for beginners as well as professionals.

Pros:

The device is manufactured with food-grade cast aluminum and tempered/hardened steel, which makes the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 a very durable and reliable item.

When it comes to the motor power, unlike the LEM Products (250 watts) and Weston (550 watts) model, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 has an incredible 1200-watt running capacity. This means that the unit is capable of heavy-duty work and can grind all kinds of meat effortlessly.

The unit is size 12, which means it’s one of the largest meat grinders available on the market. Just for reference, typically, electric meat grinders are #6 to #8 and they’re still more than what an average family needs.

The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 has three different speed options, so you can completely control the grinding process and the results. On high speed, the unit can grind up to 360 pounds of meat per hour. Additionally, it has a reverse speed option, just in case you sense something is wrong, so you don’t have to take out the meat manually.

Included in the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 package deal are three (304-grade stainless steel) cutting blades, three grinding plates, three sausage stuffing tubes (1/2″, 5/8″ & 3/4″), one kubbe/kibbeh making attachment, one meat pusher, two meat shredder claws, and a 3-in-1 burger-slider maker.

When it comes to the warranty, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 offers a 3-year deal, plus a no-hassle 30-day free return policy.

Cons:

Depending on your cooking expertise and creativity, you may need to buy additional parts separately. For example, people who use the meat grinder for stuffing sausages frequently may need the “beaner plate”. Think about your needs before buying the meat grinder and consider whether you’ll need extensions.

Another remark is toward the small motor. Some customers have noticed that the motor is small which means it might heat easily when used for longer periods of time.

The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 can’t grind animal tendons, so you’ll need to thoroughly clean the meat before grinding.

The Verdict:

Grinding all kinds of meat to a perfect mash quickly and effortlessly is what makes the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 meat grinder stand out from the crowd. The unit is truly a workhorse, designed to handle large portions of meat. On top of that, it’s durable, versatile, and it comes with a more than fair price. The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 is a great choice for most people.

Best Quality: LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel #8-Meat Grinder

LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric #8-Meat Grinder (.35-HP)When quality is the top priority, the LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder comes out as the winner. The model is very durable, efficient, quiet, yet more than capable of handling heavy-duty work. The LEM Products W779A #8 is an obvious choice for professionals, as well as large families.

Pros:

The LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder operates very efficiently with little power. The motor is only 250 watts, although it shouldn’t be underestimated. This means that you’ll get lower bills and save some extra money on electricity. Not to mention, the motor is very quiet.

The high capacity is another advantage of the LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder. The unit can handle around seven pounds of meat per minute, which equals 420 pounds of meat per hour – 60 pounds more than the STX Turboforce Classic 3000.

The quality of the unit is certified by ETL, which means this product passed all safety standards.

You’ll get the LEM Products W779A meat grinder along with one meat stomper, one stainless steel knife, one stainless steel stuffing plate, two stainless steel plates (Coarse, Fine), and three stuffing tubes. Plus, you get a very useful storage tray for all the knives and plates.

Finally, the most impressive feature is the 5-year warranty, which is probably one of the longest warranties in the industry.

Cons:

The metal gears and bearings add to the product’s quality, but they also make the meat grinder heavy and hard to move. If you don’t have a permanent place for this appliance, moving it before and after grinding can be quite frustrating.

The Verdict:

High-quality, heavy, efficient, quiet, and durable are the key characteristics of the LEM Products W779A meat grinder and the reason why we believe it’s the highest quality meat grinder available on the market. It’s a great product for hunters, large families, restaurants, and other types of commercial use.

Best on a Budget: LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

LEM Products #10 Clamp-On Hand Grinder, Stainless Steel Meat GrinderOur budget pick is also the only manual meat grinder featured on our list. The LEM Products #10 clamp-on hand grinder is a very durable, strong, and versatile meat grinder, great for people who don’t mind putting in a little muscle work. The clamp-on is flexible, so the unit is suited for all kinds of kitchen counters.

Pros:

Although manual, The LEM Products #10 meat grinder is a heavy-duty unit made to last. The whole device is made of stainless steel, while the end of the handle is covered with softwood, so you can have a comfortable grip.

Additionally, the handle is well designed so it turns smoothly. This feature allows for a very pleasant grinding experience.

The LEM Products #10 meat grinder is a clamp-on type of grinder, which means it attaches and locks to the kitchen corner so you can get more stability. The mounting clamp on this model is very wide (1 1/4″ thickness) so it can fit almost any counter.

With the meat grinder, you’ll get two stainless steel plates (coarse 3/8″ and fine 3/16″), one stainless steel knife, one stuffing star, and three stuffing tubes (1/2″, 3/4″ & 7/8″).

Cons:

Since the meat grinder is manual, it’s not suited for people who have a weak grip. If you’re suffering from arthritis, for example, it’s best to choose an electric type meat grinder.

Although the housing is made of stainless steel, the blade and the grate are not and they need to be hand dried and lightly oiled to prevent rusting.

The Verdict:

If you don’t mind grinding meat manually, the LEM Products #10 hand grinder is one of the best choices. The unit is made of stainless steel, features a versatile mounting clamp, and comes with a great set of accessories, which can help you make the perfect burgers, sausages, or simple ground meat meals.

Best For Commercial Use: No products found.

No products found.We understand that professionals might need a more powerful, faster, and convenient meat grinder that can meet the standards of busy kitchens in restaurants. This is why we included the Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series model in our best meat grinder for commercial use.

Pros:

The Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series is very durable as it’s well-built and has a sturdy construction. It’s made of stainless steel and has precision-engineered steel gears. The motor is permanently lubricated and the unit features an air cooling system so that it doesn’t overheat.

The steel gears allow the device to operate very quietly, which is an amazing feature considering most meat grinders are very noisy.

The unit has a 550 watts motor, which means it won’t spend much electricity, yet it’s capable of grinding more than 18 pounds of meat per minute, or approximately 540-pound of meat per hour – more than all of the other recommendations.

The Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series is designed to have a very wide throat so you can pour large pieces of meat very easily and all at once, which makes the device incredibly fast. By the time you place all of your meat in the machine, the grinding process will be done.

Along with the meat grinder, you’ll also get two stainless steel plates for coarse (7 mm) and fine (4.5 mm) grinds, stainless steel knife, sausage stuffing kit including adapter, spacer, and four different sized funnels.

It’s good to know that you can disassemble the device so you easily and thoroughly clean it after using it.

Cons:

Unfortunately, we’ve noticed that the main grievance against this product is the customer service and not the device itself. Be careful about which seller you’re buying from and whether all of the documentation regarding the warranty is in place to prevent problems in the future.

The Verdict:

More powerful than all of our recommendations and faster than your ability to put meat in the grinder, the Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series is the professional’s choice. It’ll be a good addition to any kitchen as its very quiet and easy-to-clean and store. Also, chefs won’t have problems transporting it from one spot to another, as the model comes with strong transport handles.

No products found.

Conclusion:

Our pick as the best meat grinder overall is the powerful STX Turboforce Classic 3000. The unit comes from a reputable brand and offers a 3-year warranty with a no-hassle 30-day return policy. But, we assure you, returning it will never cross your mind if you decide to buy this model. It’s great for heavy-duty work, it’s versatile, and offers a lot of control so you can get a perfect ground meat consistency. This meat grinder is the smart choice for a lot of people.

However, if you want a fancier, higher-end meat grinder that will last you for years to come, we recommend the LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder. Aside from its efficiency, high capacity, and advanced features, the unit offers a 5-year warranty that will please meat-lovers, hunters, and professional chefs alike.

The only manual meat grinder that made our list is the LEM Products #10 clamp-on meat grinder. Its strong construction, flexible clamp, and comfortable grip handle for smooth grinding experience have made the unit our top budget-choice. The unit also comes with an array of accessories, so if you don’t mind the muscle-work, you can grind pretty much anything you like.

Finally, the Weston Pro Series model is our recommendation for the best meat grinder for commercial use. Of course, meat enthusiasts can use it at home, but this high-powered machine can easily handle large amounts of meat that can feed a crowd. It’s very fast, quiet, and efficient. Plus, it comes with a 2-year warranty.

Everything You Need To Know About Meat Grinders

Reasons For Using A Meat Grinder At Home

Mincing meat might seem like a time-intensive chore, but it’s one that will improve the quality of your dishes and potentially help you save money in the long run. Many times, the ground meat in our local grocery store can be made from the leftovers of the animal after all of the prime cuts have been taken. When you own this kitchen appliance, you can control the quality of the meat you’re grinding, which will help you make healthier and more delicious meals.

If you’re making some specific dishes that require some fat or lard, a meat grinder can also help you control the actual amount of fat that you include. You can add or remove fat as necessary to create the right conditions for cooking based on your specific needs. In many typical store-bought sausages, for example, the fat content in the meat can exceed 50%. On the other hand, you can create your own products with 80% less fat.

Meat grinders at home are also a very safe option for handling raw meat. There is a dramatic reduction of potential food allergens, including gluten, that can contaminate the meat. You’ll also reduce the risks of an E. Coli contamination in the meat because there is less risk of cross-contamination in a home kitchen compared to a grocery butcher station.

Grinding your own meat is also a way to make sure that you’re getting a fresh product. It isn’t uncommon for ground meat to come from products that have passed their sell-by date or have been flash-frozen to preserve quality. There’s even the risk that your grocery ground meat could actually come from reprocessed meat byproducts that have been re-purposed for food – the “pink slime” meat that is a very controversial topic.

Meat Grinder Type

The usual debate about this useful kitchen appliance is whether or not one should invest in an electric meat grinder. A lot of this depends on how much you anticipate using the grinder. If you think you’ll be having a ground dish once a week at most, then you’re likely better off with a hand-cranked grinder to meet your needs. If you anticipate using your grinder more than this, then an electric grinder will save you a lot of time and hassle.

Safety is also a major concern with this appliance as it can easily grind up a finger if it gets stuck inside the machine. Instead of feeding meat by hand, use some sort of press to push the meat through. With manual meat grinders, you control the mechanism, so just be sure to keep your fingers at a safe distance at all times.

Cleaning And Maintaining The Meat Grinder

The cleaning process is a very important aspect of meat grinders because you’re working with raw meat. The machine must be cleaned after every use to prevent contamination and reduce the risks of food-borne illnesses. Take apart your entire grinder to make sure you’ve removed all of the raw products. Look for an appliance that is easy to take apart and clean to reduce the amount of time spent in cleaning and maintaining the grinder.

How To Use Meat Grinders?

Use firm cuts of meat. The firmer the meat is, the better your grinding experience will be. With poultry, use the darker meats instead of breast meat for grinding. Firm seafood, like swordfish or tuna, can hold up to the grinding process. Short ribs, butt roasts, and chuck are also perfect for grinding.

Use quality flavoring ingredients. Because you’re using a meat grinder for a fresh ground product, you’ll get better flavoring results from fresh herbs and spices than you will from dried, prepackaged items. If you do need to use pre-made flavors, go for short shelf-life items like minced garlic, capers, chives, or parsley.

Chill your meat and your grinder. To get the cleanest cut possible, you need to put your choice of meat into the freezer before beginning. It shouldn’t be frozen, but it should feel firm to the touch. It generally takes about 15 minutes to chill the meat that you’ve cut into 1-inch square cubes. Make sure the grinder is not heated before starting to grind.

What Are the Advantages of Meat Grinders?

The primary advantage of having this appliance in your kitchen is the ability to create higher-quality meals for a lower price. Whole cuts of meat are often a better value at the grocery store than low-fat ground meats, which means you can even improve your diet through the use of a quality meat grinder.

The best meat grinders will also give you the advantage of flavor variety. Animal protein absorbs herbs, spices, and flavors during the cooking process, but not after it has been completed. You can combine fresh herbs, a little salt, or your favorite marinade with the meat as it is ground to create flavorful dishes that are difficult to replicate from already ground meat products.

The final advantage of using a good meat grinder is that you can use it to make your own sausages and other minced meat dishes like burgers. Just get some meat tubing from your favorite supplier, find some amazing sausage recipes, and then begin the grinding process. Both electrical and hand-cranked options will give you the flexibility that you need to create virtually anything in the kitchen.

How To Find the Best Meat Grinder?

Now that you know more about meat grinders, here are the most important factors you should always consider before making a buying decision.

Power And Capacity

Meat grinders can largely vary in power, mostly because they’re suited for different purposes. For example, low-duty meat grinders require very little power, however, commercial use meat grinders need to be powerful enough to handle all kinds of meat in a quick and efficient way. The same goes for capacity, which measures how much meat per hour the meat grinder can handle. Large families or businesses can benefit from a high power and capacity meat grinder, while the average home-cook might be overwhelmed with such a device and will benefit more from a simpler model.

Sturdiness and Blade Quality

The materials and craftsmanship of the meat grinder should be your primary consideration. You’ll need an appliance that won’t tarnish, discolor, or leave plating materials in your meat as you’re grinding it. The craftsmanship also includes the quality of the blades that are being used to grind the meat, as stronger, sharper blades will give you a finer mincing cut for better overall cooking. This is why we recommended stainless steel products.

Ergonomics

How you stabilize the meat grinder should also be a consideration. Most hand-cranked grinders will affix tightly to the counter via a vice or clamping method, although entry-level models sometimes just sit on a level surface and you must control the stability. Electric meat grinders are the easiest to use as you simply feed the meat through the grinder, letting the appliance do all of the work for you. If you’re using a cranking grinder, look for a quality handle that won’t deform when you have a tough cut to grind.

Price

Meat grinders come in two basic forms: a manual grinder and an electric grinder. The manual grinders are typically the budget-friendly option as you can often get a heavy-duty grinder on a website like Amazon for less than $100.

On the other hand, high-quality electric grinders may cost anywhere from $200 to $500 and more, since they have multiple grinding speeds and blades. So, consider how much you want to spend on a meat grinder and how will that price determine the other functionalities that you need from your new meat grinder.

Before You Go

Hopefully, you’ll find our comprehensive reviews and detailed buying guide useful in your search for the best meat grinder. You might already have your eye on a certain product from our recommendations, but in case you’re still in doubt, feel free to follow the links and learn about prices, product specifications, and customer reviews for each recommendation.

You can also check out our blog for many more product reviews and product guides essential for any kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes to test with your new meat grinder.

Want to see our favorite meat grinders one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
STX International Turboforce 3000 Heavy Duty 5-In-1 Powerful Size #12 • 3 Lb High Capacity Meat Tray • Sausage Stuffer (3 Sizes) • Kubbe Maker • Electric Burger/Slider Maker • Meat Claws
LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric #8-Meat Grinder (.35-HP)
LEM Products #10 Clamp-On Hand Grinder, Stainless Steel Meat Grinder
Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.
Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.
Best Overall
STX International Turboforce 3000 Heavy Duty 5-In-1 Powerful Size #12 • 3 Lb High Capacity Meat Tray • Sausage Stuffer (3 Sizes) • Kubbe Maker • Electric Burger/Slider Maker • Meat Claws
Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Best Quality
LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric #8-Meat Grinder (.35-HP)
Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.
Best on a Budget
LEM Products #10 Clamp-On Hand Grinder, Stainless Steel Meat Grinder
Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.

The Best Soda Maker Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Assorted Organic Craft Orange Soda with Cane Sugar

Do you want to add some fizz to a party or just have a fun family night? If yes, you will love how wonderfully a soda maker can spice up your special event and bring the nostalgia of the old soda shops right into your own home.

Soda makers are not only entertaining, but they offer a more nutritious alternative to traditional sodas. You can use healthier ingredients and create your new favorite fizzy drinks! There are many soda recipes available online and you can even create your own custom drinks.

On top of that, they’re more economical in the long run and will lower your ecological footprint, as you won’t be using single-use plastic bottles and cans. One of the best features of soda makers is that they can also make carbonated water and save you money on buying bottled carbonated water, too.

However, not every soda maker offers the same benefits. So, how do you choose the best soda maker for your specific needs? Hopefully, you’ll find the answer among our reviews of the best soda makers available today. Keep reading to learn more about soda makers and find out which are the most important factors you should look out for when shopping for a soda maker.

The Best Soda Makers

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best Design
SodaStream Aqua Fizz Sparkling Water Machine (Black) with Co2 & Glass Carafes
KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, Contour Silver
Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Sparkling Water and Soda Maker Drink, with .5L Re-usable BPA-Free Carbonating Bottle, Two 3 oz CO2 Cylinders and Patented Fizz Infuser, Matte Black
AARKE - CARBONATOR II (PREMIUM CARBONATOR/SPARKLING WATER MAKER) (Stainless Steel)
Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.
Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.
Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.
Best Overall
SodaStream Aqua Fizz Sparkling Water Machine (Black) with Co2 & Glass Carafes
Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Best Quality
KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, Contour Silver
Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.
Best on a Budget
Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Sparkling Water and Soda Maker Drink, with .5L Re-usable BPA-Free Carbonating Bottle, Two 3 oz CO2 Cylinders and Patented Fizz Infuser, Matte Black
Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.
Best Design
AARKE - CARBONATOR II (PREMIUM CARBONATOR/SPARKLING WATER MAKER) (Stainless Steel)
Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.

Best Overall: SodaStream Aqua Fizz

SodaStream Aqua Fizz Sparkling Water Machine (Black) with Co2 & Glass CarafesThe SodaStream Aqua Fizz soda maker is our best overall pick, as it’s a very durable and eco-friendly unit. Plus, the product has an amazing market value considering all the accessories included in the package. You’ll be getting a full starter pack, with everything you need to start making your own sodas. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced soda makers so anyone can use it.

Pros:

The SodaStream Aqua Fizz soda maker is a highly durable device. The unit even comes with glass bottles, which means you can goodbye to plastic, completely.

Although compact and easy to store, the SodaStream Aqua Fizz comes with a 60L CO2 tank, which means you can make up to 60L of soda bottles before you need to refill it. Of course, the number of soda bottles that you make will depend on the level of carbonation of your drinks.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the unit allows you to control the carbonation level by the number of times you press the lever control and gauge.

You’ll also be happy to find that you’ll get two glass bottles with this soda maker. The glass bottle is a great alternative for people who want to ditch plastic products altogether.

Aside from being very easy-to-use, the SodaStream Aqua Fizz is also dishwasher safe. In other words, you can save a lot of time by safely washing the soda maker’s accessories and parts in the dishwasher. Be careful, you can’t throw the whole soda maker in the dishwasher.

Cons:

The glass bottles are about 20 oz each, which can be small for some people. If you’re a person who expects to carbonate large quantities of water on a daily basis, you may want to consider a device that can quickly carbonate larger bottles.

Another remark from customers was that the product is not suited for “to-go” use, because of the glass bottles. However, this is a larger model and if you’re looking for something portable, you might be better off with our budget-pick.

The Verdict:

It’s easy to see why the SodaStream Aqua Fizz comes at the top of our list. SodaStream is a very reputable brand that basically sets the standard for every other soda maker on the market. Besides, the Aqua Fizz model is one of the most balanced soda makers with an amazing price to quality and accessories ratio, which is why we believe it can make most people very happy.

Best Quality: KitchenAid KSS1121CU Sparkling Beverage Maker

KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, Contour SilverAnother popular, but a lot pricier soda maker is the KitchenAid’s KSS1121CU model. If you’re into a high-quality, vintage-looking soda maker, this unit might be the right one for you. This soda maker is made to last, and the attractive design, advanced CO2-release control, and SodaStream compatibility is something that many soda maker enthusiasts will appreciate.

Pros:

The KitchenAid KSS1121CU soda maker has a sturdy construction and beautiful design. The machine’s housing is made of premium die-cast metal which ensures you’ll be making soda for years to come, and it’s available in more than seven different colors, so you can make sure it is indeed a pleasant addition to your kitchen decor.

The unit has a nice vintage-looking lever on the side that releases CO2. You can completely control the amount of carbonation while monitoring the whole process, as there’s a meter that shows the release of CO2. The handle is comfortable and easy to grip.

KitchenAid made sure its soda maker can stay competitive on the market by making it compatible with SodaStream’s products. This means that you can enjoy more than 60 Sodastream flavors on your KitchenAid soda maker.

When it comes to accessories, you’ll get a big (60L) CO2 tank, plus a 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle.

Finally, another attractive feature of the KitchenAid soda maker is that it’s 100% made in the USA. The unit is designed, engineered, and assembled in Greenville, Ohio.

Cons:

Be careful of Amazon sellers’ conditions, especially for the return policy and warranty. Some people have had trouble returning the device to be repaired for free, because of issues between the sellers and the original manufacturer – KitchenAid. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and require transparency before buying anything.

Being expensive is not a disadvantage when you’re offering a product with superior quality. However, considering that you need to also buy cartridges on a regular basis (to fill the tank) the overall cost for making carbonated water at home can be an issue for some people. This is why if you’re using the device to make soda, you have nothing to worry about, but if you only use it for carbonated water, it would be wiser to go for a more basic and affordable model.

The Verdict:

The KitchenAid KSS1121CU is definitely one of the best soda makers, suited for people who are looking for a high-end device. By choosing this model, you’ll get an attractive soda maker that will allow you to make more than 60 different flavor drinks. You can also control the carbonization level, so you can make the perfect drink for your taste.

Best on a Budget: Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Soda Maker

Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Sparkling Water and Soda Maker Drink, with .5L Re-usable BPA-Free Carbonating Bottle, Two 3 oz CO2 Cylinders and Patented Fizz Infuser, Matte BlackIncredibly versatile, portable, and easy-to-use, the Drinkmate Spritzer makes our list as the best on a budget soda maker. However, don’t let the price fool you, as this unit has its own target. It’s perfect for campers, singles, offices, and anyone else who appreciates simplicity.

Pros:

It may be easy to underestimate the Drinkmate Spritzer soda maker, but if you decide to buy it, this little machine won’t disappoint you. It’s amazingly versatile as it can carbonate water, ice tea, juices, wine, and even cocktails.

The Drinkmate Spritzer is so compact that you can easily put it in your bag and take it with you whenever you need a fresh carbonated drink. Once you want to use it, simply press the handle to carbonate the liquid in the bottle. And it’s not just easy-to-use, the Drinkmate Spritzer is also very easy-to-clean and store.

It comes with two 10L CO2 carbonator cylinders that can make up to 40 bottles of sparkling beverages. On top of that, the cartridges for this model are easily available on Amazon or other online stores, so you won’t have problems finding a replacement.

Cons:

The Drinkmate Spritzer’s size and capacity are like a double-edged sword. While for some people it’s the best soda maker because of these features, for others it might be a major limitation. People who have large families or want to use a soda maker for parties and special occasions will probably feel extremely limited with this model.

The Verdict:

If you’re buying a soda maker for the first time or you want something simple, affordable, and easy-to-move, the Drinkmate Spritzer is the right choice for you. While it is a budget choice, the  Drinkmate Spritzer has everything a high-quality soda maker should have. Plus, perfectly carbonated drinks are a guarantee.

Best Design: Aarke Carbonator II Soda Maker

AARKE - CARBONATOR II (PREMIUM CARBONATOR/SPARKLING WATER MAKER) (Stainless Steel)IWhen you have a beautifully designed kitchen, you want just as beautiful kitchen appliances that will complement one another. We believe the Aarke Carbonator II soda maker is such a device that can also offer durability, quality, and high capacity.

Pros:

The first advantage of the Aarke Carbonator II relates to its unique Swedish design. The housing is made of stainless steel and finished with copper which gives it an even more elegant look. You can choose from five different colors: white, silver, black, brass, and copper.

The Aarke Carbonator II carbonates when the front lever is pressed, which works very quickly. You’ll have your fresh sparkling water in a matter of seconds.

When it comes to capacity, the Aarke Carbonator II soda maker is compatible with most 60L CO2 carbonated cartridges. The filling bottle that comes with the product is around 0.8L which is quite large. The bottle itself is made from non-toxic PET plastic but optically finished with a lower stainless steel base and screw cap. You should only use that bottle with the product.

Finally, to be sure you’re buying a long-lasting product, this soda maker comes with a 2-year warranty.

Cons:

The device is pretty expensive and yet it comes without a cartridge. You need to purchase one separately, which for some people might be a deal-breaker considering you have more affordable products that come with one or two cartridges.

The bottle that comes with the soda maker is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll have to carefully wash it by hand each time.

The Verdict:

The Aarke Carbonator II is the best-designed soda maker with a slim and cool style that can fit perfectly in every modern kitchen. It’s also a high-capacity device, which means it will be a nice addition to a gathering, party, wedding, or some other special occasion. If aesthetics are important for you, the Aarke Carbonator II is without doubt the best soda maker for you.

Conclusion:

SodaStream Aqua Fizz takes the first place as the best soda maker available on the market today. It’s durable, eco-friendly, and easy-to-use. Plus, it has a large tank capacity, which means you won’t need to refill new cartridges too often. Finally, this model also shines in another aspect thanks to the SodaStream reputation. It’s very easy to find replacement parts and flavor samples if you want to get more creative. The SodaStream Crystal 2.0 would be a great choice for most people.

If money is not an issue, then owning the KitchenAid KSS1121CU soda maker can bring you a lot of fun by allowing you to easily create your own personalized fizzy drinks. It’s a very strong and stable unit with a beautiful design, which you can have in eight different colors. When it comes to the drinks themselves, the KitchenAid KSS1121CU gives you full control over the carbonization and allows you to combine over 60 different flavors.

On the other hand, if affordability and portability are your two top priorities, the small but extremely efficient  Drinkmate Spritzer will make sure you still get the high-quality soda maker you deserve. It’s a very versatile and user-friendly soda maker, ready to follow you wherever you go. The Drinkmate Spritzer is a perfect choice for newbies, campers, and one-person users.

Finally, when you’re looking for a soda maker to use at weddings, parties, or other special occasions, you’ll find the Aarke Carbonator II as the best soda maker. It will also please the aesthetic-lovers, as it has a very unique and beautiful stainless steel design.

Everything You Need to Know About Soda Makers

A Little History

The first rendition of the soda machine was invented in 1903. It was called the “Apparatus for aerating liquids” and was the predecessor to today’s SodaStream. Reserved for the affluent and wealthy, this device added flavor to the mix in the 1920s. By 1955, updated versions of the soda maker were made available to the general public.

Soda Makers offer fun and a touch of nostalgia for events such as birthday parties, weddings, and family reunions. They are also fun for the family to enjoy, especially if all family members enjoy fizzy drinks. SodaStream’s first commercial sells the fun of making soda at home with the tagline “Get busy with the Fizzy!”

Design And Functionality

The soda makers of today have come a long way from the models of yesterday. They generally do not use electricity, and therefore, require no batteries and don’t even have to be plugged in. They operate by utilizing carbon dioxide (CO2) which comes in a can and is inserted into the device. This is where the machines may vary. Some soda makers come with one starter can, but inevitably, you will need to purchase more. CO2 cans come in different sizes, and of course, vary in price, so it’s good to take this into consideration when deciding upon a certain model.

Much of choosing your device will depend on your intentions for it. If you want to use it at a wedding or for parties, you will most likely want to opt for one with a larger capacity. But if the soda maker will strictly be for home use, you can most likely get away with a less expensive model that will still hold up nicely for your purposes.

The designs of the soda makers range from plastic to stainless steel and everything in between. As a rule, the devices are priced accordingly.

The option of controlling the amount of carbonation you put into the drink is a nice feature. Especially if you like more or less than the usual amount, or if you have children who you’d rather use bubbles sparingly.

Additional Features

The majority of the soda makers on the market come with one or two plastic/glass bottles. Good quality soda makers come with BPA-free plastic bottles. Some, however, come with at least one glass bottle which is nice for those who prefer not to drink out of plastic.

Another twist is that some devices feature the ability to lock in freshness which is a good thing considering carbonation tends to go flat fairly quickly.

If you do opt to purchase a soda maker, you will love the wide array of choices you have for flavors. Many of the units come with flavor samples which are a great way for you to try and decide which you would like to purchase more of. You can find a number of recipes online, although many devices come with recipe booklets. There are standard flavorings and those you can combine to make unique and even custom drinks.

The device you choose will depend a lot on how much you plan to use it and what for. There are many options available, which is why it’s important to learn more about soda makers before making a purchase. The good thing is, you can easily find the best soda makers for you as long as you know what you’re looking for.

What Are the Advantages of Soda Makers?

Soda makers are entertaining and nostalgic. They are great additions to a party, wedding, or even a fun family night in. Young and old alike take pleasure in making soft drinks the old fashioned way.

On top of that, soda makers offer a more affordable way to enjoy carbonated beverages. Most sodas can be made for pennies per serving. For large events, soda makers save you a lot of money.

The third advantage would be of great appeal to environmentalists and people who aspire to be more eco-friendly. This is because when it comes to taking care of the Earth, soda makers are at the top of the list. Each soda dispensed in the device means one less can or bottle.

Last but certainly not least, soda makers give you the ability to create your own drink. You can add in little or no sugar and make other changes for a more nutritional alternative to traditional sodas. There is no limit to the creative edge you can use to concoct your own signature drinks.

How To Find the Best Soda Maker?

The best soda makers will have a few basic things in common that you will want to compare. They will also offer different features so you can decide which ones you would like to have on your device. The following factors will guide you as you narrow down the best soda maker for your needs and will help you determine which devices are good and which are the best.

Safety

Safety is something you want to watch out for in a soda maker or any appliance you intend to use. It’s wise to look for such safety features as safety punch out valves for the CO2 tanks. In addition, never leave the device on direct sunlight, around a fire, or on a hot surface, since the CO2 is under pressure and can explode if heated – this applies to all soda makers.

Simplicity And Capacity

A soda maker should be simple to use. The insertion of the CO2 can is one thing to keep in mind. The easier, the better. The buttons should be clear and easy to figure out. You don’t want to have to bear down too hard on them, or they won’t last.

Look for models that offer ease of operation. Since most soda makers these days don’t need to be plugged in or have batteries, they work via a CO2 can. It’s wise to check the size, price, and availability of the replacement cans and also to determine how many bottles the CO2 tank can produce.

Gasification Level

You’ll know that you’re looking at a good quality soda maker if it offers at least two different gasification (carbonization) levels. However, most high-end units offer a lot more control and let you choose how carbonated you like your drink to be. This is important because depending on your health, you may not be allowed to drink above a certain level of carbonization.

Accessories

When you’re comparing soda makers, take a look at the accessories or additional features that are included in your purchase. Some devices, although pricier, may come with a 60L CO2 tank, one/two reusable bottles, flavor samples, or even recipe booklets on how to create your own drink. “Cheaper” models sometimes use this illusion – sellers put a lower price, but the package doesn’t include any of the above-mentioned accessories. So, when you calculate how much you need to spend to buy the separate parts, you’ll see that the deal wasn’t cheap at all.

Before You Go

By buying one of the best soda makers we’ve picked for you, you can make your home more fun and cut your whole family’s ecological footprint. To find out more information about each product, like specific prices, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews, feel free to follow the links.

You can also use the buying guide and all the other pieces of information we’ve shared about soda makers while you shop. Hopefully, that can help you make the right decision and find the best soda maker for you.

Finally, don’t forget to check out our blog because we have many more product reviews, product guides, and even delicious recipes.

Want to see our favorite soda makers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best Design
SodaStream Aqua Fizz Sparkling Water Machine (Black) with Co2 & Glass Carafes
KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, Contour Silver
Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Sparkling Water and Soda Maker Drink, with .5L Re-usable BPA-Free Carbonating Bottle, Two 3 oz CO2 Cylinders and Patented Fizz Infuser, Matte Black
AARKE - CARBONATOR II (PREMIUM CARBONATOR/SPARKLING WATER MAKER) (Stainless Steel)
Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.
Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.
Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.
Best Overall
SodaStream Aqua Fizz Sparkling Water Machine (Black) with Co2 & Glass Carafes
Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.
Best Quality
KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, Contour Silver
Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.
Best on a Budget
Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Sparkling Water and Soda Maker Drink, with .5L Re-usable BPA-Free Carbonating Bottle, Two 3 oz CO2 Cylinders and Patented Fizz Infuser, Matte Black
Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.
Best Design
AARKE - CARBONATOR II (PREMIUM CARBONATOR/SPARKLING WATER MAKER) (Stainless Steel)
Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.

Reviewing The Best Meat Slicers

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Meat Slicer

Owning a meat slicer might seem like a luxury, but it’s actually a useful home appliance that saves both time and effort in the kitchen. And given that most people pay a premium price for sliced meat at the grocery store, investing in a meat slicer might save you a lot of money in the long run as well. Being cost-effective, extremely efficient, and versatile, meat slicers are becoming more and more frequent appliances in home kitchens.

However, actually choosing a meat slicer can be hard to do. You can easily go overboard and spend a lot of money, only to realize that you don’t need nor use most of your meat slicer’s features. So, the following question is very valid: How do I choose the best meat slicer for my needs?

Fortunately, we’ve done a lot of research and hand-picked the best meat slicers trending on the market these days. You can find detailed reviews that explain why we think these products are the best meat slicers in their category.

Plus, at the end of the article, we created a practical buying guide where you can find all of the information you need to consider when shopping for a meat slicer.

The Best Meat Slicers

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best For Commercial Use
Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Meat Slicer For Home Use With Precision Thickness Control, Tilted Food Carriage and 7-Inch Removable Blade, 100 W, Silver
KWS Metal Collection MS-10DT Commercial 320W 10-Inch Meat Slicer Anodized Aluminum Base with Teflon Blade + Blade Removal Tool, Frozen Meat/Cheese/Food Slicer Quiet [ ETL, NSF Certified ]
Elite Gourmet EMT-503B Ultimate Precision Electric Deli Food Meat Slicer, Removable Stainless Steel Blade, Adjustable Thickness, Ideal For Cold Cuts, Hard Cheese, Vegetables & Bread, 7.5”, Black
BESWOOD 10" Premium Chromium-plated Steel Blade Electric Deli Meat Cheese Food Slicer Commercial and for Home use 240W BESWOOD250
Features: 120 watt motor power, 7-inch blade, made of cast aluminum and stainless steel, removable parts, 1-year warranty.
Features: 320 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel blade coated with Teflon, aluminum alloy base, 1-year warranty.
Features: 180 watt motor power, 7.5-inch blade, made of aluminum housing and stainless steel blade, 1-year warranty.
Features: 240 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel chromium-plated blade, 1-year warranty.
Best Overall
Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Meat Slicer For Home Use With Precision Thickness Control, Tilted Food Carriage and 7-Inch Removable Blade, 100 W, Silver
Features: 120 watt motor power, 7-inch blade, made of cast aluminum and stainless steel, removable parts, 1-year warranty.
Best Quality
KWS Metal Collection MS-10DT Commercial 320W 10-Inch Meat Slicer Anodized Aluminum Base with Teflon Blade + Blade Removal Tool, Frozen Meat/Cheese/Food Slicer Quiet [ ETL, NSF Certified ]
Features: 320 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel blade coated with Teflon, aluminum alloy base, 1-year warranty.
Best on a Budget
Elite Gourmet EMT-503B Ultimate Precision Electric Deli Food Meat Slicer, Removable Stainless Steel Blade, Adjustable Thickness, Ideal For Cold Cuts, Hard Cheese, Vegetables & Bread, 7.5”, Black
Features: 180 watt motor power, 7.5-inch blade, made of aluminum housing and stainless steel blade, 1-year warranty.
Best For Commercial Use
BESWOOD 10" Premium Chromium-plated Steel Blade Electric Deli Meat Cheese Food Slicer Commercial and for Home use 240W BESWOOD250
Features: 240 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel chromium-plated blade, 1-year warranty.

Best Overall: Chef'sChoice 615A Premium Electric Meat Slicer

Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Meat Slicer For Home Use With Precision Thickness Control, Tilted Food Carriage and 7-Inch Removable Blade, 100 W, SilverThe Chef’sChoice 615A is our top overall pick, as the unit is very sharp, versatile, and easy-to-use, yet still affordable. It’s not surprising that the Chef’sChoice 615A meat slicer is also most people’s favorite tool when you consider how well balanced the product is in terms of quality, safety, maintenance, and affordability.

Pros:

The Chef’sChoice 615A wouldn’t get its best meat slicer title if we didn’t believe it can serve you for a very long time. The unit is very durable, as all its structural components are made of cast aluminum and stainless steel. However, this meat slicer is not heavy so you can easily move it from one place to another.

Another great aspect of this unit is its versatility. As long as the food is solid and firm, the Chef’sChoice 615A can slice it without any effort. The model has a rugged stainless steel slicer that’s very sharp and can cut through any type of meat, bread, fruits, and vegetables. You can make slices as thin as ¾ inches.

We can also praise the Chef’sChoice 615A for its safety. The unit has a special button that secures food carriage in a locked position to limit access to the blade when the unit is not in use. Additionally, the button also doubles as a food holder while cutting and can secure the food in place so it doesn’t slip. On top of that, the model comes with a metal food pusher that you can easily grip, meaning your hands will never be even close to the blade.

The Chef’sChoice 615A is also very easy to maintain and clean. All of its structural parts are removable, so you can clean it easily and thoroughly. You can remove the blade, food carriage, food pusher, food deflector, and even the thickness guide.

Most customers mention how quiet and smooth the whole slicing process is. This is especially beneficial for home-use, as you don’t want to annoy everyone in the household anytime you decide to make a sandwich.

Cons:

The device itself might not be flawed, but the manufacturer’s customer service leaves something to be desired.

The length of the blade is only 7 inches, which is still very satisfying for home use, but compared to the other recommendations on this list, this model has the shortest blade.

The Verdict:

All in all, the Chef’sChoice 615A is the best meat slicer for most people. The unit is very durable, versatile, safe, quiet, and easy-to-clean. Considering that it’s not very big and heavy, yet it’s still sharp and efficient, we can safely assume that this meat slicer would fit perfectly in almost any kitchen.

Best Quality: KWS MS-10NT Premium Electric Meat Slicer

KWS Metal Collection MS-10DT Commercial 320W 10-Inch Meat Slicer Anodized Aluminum Base with Teflon Blade + Blade Removal Tool, Frozen Meat/Cheese/Food Slicer Quiet [ ETL, NSF Certified ]If you’re looking for the highest quality, then let us introduce you to the KWS MS-10NT Premium electric meat slicer. It’s incredibly safe and blissfully quiet, yet it has one of the most powerful motors in the industry, which places this unit at the top of most experts’ lists. Designed for heavy-duty use, the KWS MS-10NT is the perfect choice for professionals at home, as well as commercial use.

Pros:

The most impressive feature of the KWS MS-10NT model is the 320-watt motor power, which basically means it can cut through meat, cheese, bread, fruit, and veggies like a knife through butter. The whole experience of slicing is very pleasant and smooth, as you’ll get perfect paper-thin slices without putting any effort.

Durability is not an issue for the KWS MS-10NT meat slicer, as it comes with a 10-inch stainless steel blade coated with Teflon so it doesn’t rust. Plus, the whole body is made of aluminum alloy, which speaks volumes about the unit’s sturdiness.

The unit is designed for heavy-duty work regardless of whether it’s at home or in a restaurant, shop, or for a catering business. The KWS MS-10NT provides a built-in dual whetstone sharpener and ring guard assembly for the blade, meaning you won’t need to sharpen the blade manually.

Cons:

One possible concern is that the KWS MS-10NT model is very hard to clean. The blade doesn’t come off, which complicates the cleaning process. If you’re someone who slices meat all day every day (restaurants, sandwich shops, etc.), this might not be a deal-breaker, because you have to clean everything at the end of the workday anyway. However, for people who use it at home for a variety of products, cleaning might become a very frustrating aspect.

Another thing is that, unfortunately, the device is not user-friendly and beginners can struggle with it. The instructions can be a little hard to figure out, which means that if this is your first meat slicer and you’re unfamiliar with the mechanics of the device, it’s better to choose a more user-friendly model.

The Verdict:

Made for chefs, professionals cooks, commercial use, and cooking enthusiasts, the KWS MS-10NT will give you a very smooth and pleasant slicing experience. Buying this model means you’re in for quick and effortless slicing for years to come.

Best on a Budget: Elite Platinum EMT-503B Electric Meat Slicer

Elite Gourmet EMT-503B Ultimate Precision Electric Deli Food Meat Slicer, Removable Stainless Steel Blade, Adjustable Thickness, Ideal For Cold Cuts, Hard Cheese, Vegetables & Bread, 7.5”, BlackSmall and affordable, the Elite Platinum EMT-503B electric meat slicer is the perfect addition in your kitchen at home. The unit is very easy-to-use and easy-to-clean, which means you can have perfect slices in no time.

Pros:

Although a budget-pick, the Elite Platinum EMT-503B doesn’t disappoint with its slicing power. It comes with a long and sharp blade that makes very precise cuts. Plus, you can go from ultra-thin to ½-inch thick, which is everything you’ll ever need.

The device is very versatile as it can cut turkey breast, pepperoni, ham, chorizo, beef pastrami, salamis, hard cheeses, tough vegetables, or even bread.

Another great feature is how stable and safe this unit is. Although small and made of plastic (the body), the large slicing platform has non-slip rubber feet that keep the unit in place even when you apply pressure. This feature significantly increases its stability, which affects the safety of the unit.

Finally, once you’re finished with slicing, you can easily remove the blade and clean it thoroughly.

Cons:

Unlike our other recommendations, the Elite Platinum EMT-503B has plastic gears, which is not a big concern for light work at home, but it does make it more fragile and easy to break if you apply too much pressure.

The Elite Platinum EMT-503B is not suited for heavy-duty work and if you’re a professional cook, or you’re looking for a commercial-use meat slicer, you should consider some of the other recommendations.

The Verdict:

What we most liked about this model, aside from its affordability, is the long high-quality blade, safety features, and user-friendly design. The Elite Platinum EMT-503B is a great choice for first-time buyers, as well as families that enjoy making home-made sandwiches and diverse meat platters.

Best on a Budget: BESWOOD Premium Chromium-Plated Electric Meat Slicer

BESWOOD 10' Premium Chromium-plated Steel Blade Electric Deli Meat Cheese Food Slicer Commercial and for Home use 240W BESWOOD250Whether you own a sandwich shop, restaurant, or catering service, we believe the BESWOOD 10″ Premium Chromium-Plated electric meat slicer would be a great choice. It’s very durable, efficient, and suitable for heavy-duty work.

Pros:

Made for commercial use, the BESWOOD 10″ Premium Chromium-Plated meat slicer is a highly versatile and powerful unit. It has a long (10-inch) and very sharp blade which can quickly and smoothly cut any solid and firm food ingredient. Some customers have also praised the meat slicer’s ability to cut through dense semi-frozen meat completely effortlessly, which is very impressive.

Since working in a restaurant or a shop means you’ll quickly move from one task to another, the unit has a double illuminated ON/OFF Switch, which will help you avoid a power shock. It’s also approved by the US ETL, NSF, and FDA safety standards. On top of that, it also has skidproof rubber feet and blade ring guard.

Using the device frequently and for a long period of time is no problem. This is because the  BESWOOD 10″ Premium Chromium-Plated meat slicer has an aluminum body with a top-mounted, two-stones blade sharpener. This feature allows the device to maintain a consistently sharp blade, regardless of how much you use it.

Finally, the  BESWOOD 10″ comes with a V-belt that noticeably reduces noise and vibration.

Cons:

It was almost impossible to find a con for this product, as the device is very loved by anyone who bought it. However, we did notice that, although not a deal-breaker, the machine is hard to clean, which can be quite annoying.

The Verdict:

The  BESWOOD 10″ Premium Chromium-Plated is the best choice if you need a meat slicer for commercial use, or you’re an experienced home-cook with a large family and slicing meat is a regular task. All in all, the unit is designed to meet the needs of people working in busy kitchens, and it does that flawlessly.

Conclusion:

The best meat slicer overall is the Chef’sChoice 615A. Whether you’re a newbie in the kitchen or a family cook, this unit will surpass all of your expectations. You can make amazing charcuterie boards almost effortlessly and show off in front of your friends and family.

Best of all, it’s very safe, so you won’t have to worry if there are children running around the kitchen. Finally, we should mention that although the model is designed mostly for home use, the Chef’sChoice 615A can also handle some commercial uses.

Built for people who appreciate quality above anything else, the KWS MS-10NT will make you happy with its strong, aluminum construction and long stainless steel blade that’s coated with Teflon. With 320-watts, the unit has the most powerful motor no slicing task is a challenge for. If you don’t mind the higher price, the KWS MS-10NT is definitely one of the best meat slicers for both commercial and home use.

Since we believe there should be something for everyone, the Elite Platinum EMT-503B model appeals to first-time buyers, cooking enthusiasts who want to upgrade their skills, or anyone who’s on a budget and looking for a good-quality meat slicer.

Finally, the  BESWOOD 10″ Premium Chromium-Plated model is the best meat slicer for professionals to use in restaurants, commercial kitchens, cafes, catering businesses, and sometimes home-use. The unit is very powerful and extremely sharp, but very safe. Most of its features are focused on meeting professionals’ needs, but even if you’re a cooking enthusiast, this unit would never disappoint you.

Everything You Need to Know About Meat Slicers

Reasons For Buying A Meat Slicer

The primary question that most people have about a meat slicer is this: does it slice more than just meat? It absolutely does! Anything that’s fairly firm can be accurately sliced with this handy kitchen appliance. That means you can slice vegetables, some fruits, and even bread quickly and easily. Even firm types of cheese can be sliced! You’ll want to avoid soft, watery items, however, because they can jam up the blade and damage it.

So why invest in a meat slicer for your home? The obvious reasons are convenience and cutting costs. You can make deli-style sandwiches and epic charcuterie boards at a fraction of the cost, anytime you feel like it. Just think about it – if you spend $6 on a sandwich at a deli three times per week, you’ll save $12 per week by owning a meat slicer. Even more, having this multi-purpose and powerful appliance means you won’t need any catering services ever again! Meat slicers are amazing tools for creating dashing charcuterie boards for any purpose.

The multi-purpose of meat slicers is what makes them attractive to many people for their home kitchens. Why would you buy a bunch of smaller appliances when you can have one powerful tool that does all of the work? Also, meat slicers are particularly useful for folks who love to cook in their kitchen, but struggle with the actual chopping and cutting that a lot of prep work requires.

If you’ve got arthritis in your dominant hand, for example, trying to cut through a firm vegetable, a hard cheese, or any kind of meat can be excruciating. A mandoline slicer might not be of help if you can’t keep a firm enough grip. The meat slicer, however, allows you to press the food down and through the slicing mechanism almost effortlessly.

Cleaning And Maintenance Of Meat Slicers

The cleaning and maintenance of most meat slicers can get a bit boring over time, but quality care will produce longevity in even the cheapest meat slicers. It’s important to look for appliances that are easy to clean, especially if you have certain challenges with your hands.

Think of it as an extension of your cutting board. If you chop raw onions and you don’t clean the working surface, then everything ends up tasting like onions when you’re done! If you cut raw meat, then you could cross-contaminate other foods without cleaning it properly. Additionally, leaving pieces of meat or other food ingredients between the blade at room temperature is dangerous as it can be a perfect ground for bacterial growth.

Another responsibility is that you’ll need to make sure you have a food-grade oil on hand to lubricate the gears and the blade regularly, although this depends on the model itself. Don’t try to use other oils because you’ll taste that oil in your food for weeks to come! Follow the instructions that accompany your device and you won’t have any problems.

Are there certain recipes that require a meat slicer to be on hand? Not necessarily, but you can create better consistency with certain dishes if you happen to own this appliance. Take a beautiful chicken cordon bleu, for example. You need a consistent thickness to your chicken and your ham in order to bake multiple proteins evenly together. You could try to do this by hand, but inevitably you’ll get slight variations to the size and that means differences in cooking times. With a meat slicer, you get the same thickness every time because the setting size locks into place.

Safety Of Meat Slicers

The other component of owning a meat slicer that worries some folks is its safety. In some cases, your fingers would be just inches from a high-speed spinning blade that is designed to cut through virtually anything! For that reason, an effective method of using this appliance is to simply press a flattened palm against the food product being cut, with fingers outstretched parallel to the appliance instead of grasping the food. This will keep your fingers safe and you’ll be able to create razor-thin slices of your favorite foods in return! Even better, you can buy a plastic food-holder for a couple of bucks and be completely safe while using it.

Finally, we should mention that while a meat slicer can last you forever, you’ll have to replace the blades over time. Even with regular sharpening, the blade will be worn off, so consider how easy it is to find a replacement before making a purchase. You can even secure replacement blades now as you shop so that you’ll be able to continue using your meat slicer on a consistent basis for years to come.

What Are the Advantages of Meat Slicers?

Who doesn’t love a good sandwich every now and then? A grilled panini, hot ham, cheese, or just a classic Reuben, are all staples of the typical deli. When you’ve got a good meat slicer in your kitchen, you get to bring the deli experience home with you every day. Freshly cut meat slices from your appliance will create fresh sandwiches for school or work. Because deli meat is cheaper when it comes unsliced, it’s also a great way to save money if you eat a lot of sandwiches!

A good meat slicer will also help you create less overall food waste in your home because you’ll be able to recycle leftovers into more dishes. For example, leftover chicken thighs can be sliced and made into a beautiful chicken Alfredo pasta. A leftover chunk of a London broil can be made into a stunning spicy beef stir fry thanks to your meat slicer. Less waste means less cost as well, plus you’re being environmentally conscious!

The final advantage is that you can do your own cutting at home to save on your typical cuts of meat. Create your own pork chops, cut your own steaks from roasts, or cut strips of fresh meat so that you can dry them in a food dehydrator. You can even use them to shave potatoes, fresh vegetables, and even reclaim your kitchen if arthritis or joint inflammation has stolen your ability to chop with ease.

How To Find the Best Meat Slicer?

It’s one thing to have a lot of information on meat slicers, and completely another to know which pieces of information are crucial when making a purchase. Here are some things to consider before deciding on a meat slicer.

Blade Size And Quality

The key to the quality of a meat slicer is located in the blade. Most slicers have a 7-inch blade that’s used in home models, but you may find models with blades as large as 11 inches. The reason why this needs to be considered is that blade-size limits the food you can slice. If your food is 8 inches in height and you’ve got a 7-inch blade, then part of your product won’t come into contact with the slicing mechanism. Think about this when shopping for a meat slicer.

Also, make sure the blade is sharp and of good quality – it’s the most fundamental aspect of any good meat slicer. Without a good blade, the cutting experience can quickly turn into frustration, which is the reason why we made sure all of our recommendations have high-quality blades.

Gears

The types of gears that your meat slicer has is also a very important consideration. This can be an extremely heavy appliance, so some manufacturers have moved from metal components to plastic or even nylon gears. For the average home cook, carefully using a cheaper nylon or plastic equipped meat slicer will be fine, but for heavy use, always go with all-metal components.

Price

Finally, you’ll have to keep in mind all of the above-mentioned features and your needs so you can decide how much you can invest in a meat slicer. You might afford to sacrifice some features that are simply not as important, for example, having an all-metal meat slicer, to a better price.

Usually, a basic food slicer that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles costs around $60 to $80 on Amazon today. However, you can still get a premium device at this basic level that will let you cut anything with precision, from bread to salami, if it has at least a 130-watt power.

Professional-style models tend to enter the market at around $100 and go way up, while top home use models tend to stay below $200 in most instances.

Before You Go

Hopefully, our recommendations for the best meat slicers will help you make a biting decision. However, if you’re still in doubt, feel free to follow the links and check out specific prices, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews for each meat slicer.

Of course, you can also use the information on meat slicers we’ve provided, as well as our buying advice. We also have many more product reviews and product guides that you can check out whenever you need a new appliance for your kitchen.

Want to see our favorite can openers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best For Commercial Use
Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Meat Slicer For Home Use With Precision Thickness Control, Tilted Food Carriage and 7-Inch Removable Blade, 100 W, Silver
KWS Metal Collection MS-10DT Commercial 320W 10-Inch Meat Slicer Anodized Aluminum Base with Teflon Blade + Blade Removal Tool, Frozen Meat/Cheese/Food Slicer Quiet [ ETL, NSF Certified ]
Elite Gourmet EMT-503B Ultimate Precision Electric Deli Food Meat Slicer, Removable Stainless Steel Blade, Adjustable Thickness, Ideal For Cold Cuts, Hard Cheese, Vegetables & Bread, 7.5”, Black
BESWOOD 10" Premium Chromium-plated Steel Blade Electric Deli Meat Cheese Food Slicer Commercial and for Home use 240W BESWOOD250
Features: 120 watt motor power, 7-inch blade, made of cast aluminum and stainless steel, removable parts, 1-year warranty.
Features: 320 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel blade coated with Teflon, aluminum alloy base, 1-year warranty.
Features: 180 watt motor power, 7.5-inch blade, made of aluminum housing and stainless steel blade, 1-year warranty.
Features: 240 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel chromium-plated blade, 1-year warranty.
Best Overall
Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Meat Slicer For Home Use With Precision Thickness Control, Tilted Food Carriage and 7-Inch Removable Blade, 100 W, Silver
Features: 120 watt motor power, 7-inch blade, made of cast aluminum and stainless steel, removable parts, 1-year warranty.
Best Quality
KWS Metal Collection MS-10DT Commercial 320W 10-Inch Meat Slicer Anodized Aluminum Base with Teflon Blade + Blade Removal Tool, Frozen Meat/Cheese/Food Slicer Quiet [ ETL, NSF Certified ]
Features: 320 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel blade coated with Teflon, aluminum alloy base, 1-year warranty.
Best on a Budget
Elite Gourmet EMT-503B Ultimate Precision Electric Deli Food Meat Slicer, Removable Stainless Steel Blade, Adjustable Thickness, Ideal For Cold Cuts, Hard Cheese, Vegetables & Bread, 7.5”, Black
Features: 180 watt motor power, 7.5-inch blade, made of aluminum housing and stainless steel blade, 1-year warranty.
Best For Commercial Use
BESWOOD 10" Premium Chromium-plated Steel Blade Electric Deli Meat Cheese Food Slicer Commercial and for Home use 240W BESWOOD250
Features: 240 watt motor power, 10-inch stainless steel chromium-plated blade, 1-year warranty.

Enjoy the Benefits of the Best Rice Cooker!

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Rice Cooker

Who doesn’t love rice? With so many ways to make rice and add it as a base to a lot of delicious foods, it’s practically unimaginable how one can spend a week without making it. In fact, for some people, cooking rice is a daily habit. And finding the quickest and easiest way to make rice is what brings us to rice cookers.

Rice cookers are incredibly practical, convenient, and affordable appliances that most people would want in their kitchen regardless of how much they love rice. However, because of the high demand, the market is littered with products hugely varying in price, shape, size, and functionality. So, which rice cookers have the greatest value considering your needs and budget?

To answer this question, we handpicked the best rice cookers available on the market today and wrote honest reviews about each unit. To help you find the perfect match, we also made a handy buying guide where we share the essential factors you need to keep in mind when shopping for a rice cooker.

The Best Rice Cookers

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Large Families
Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter
Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 5-1/2-Cup Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer, Premium White
BLACK+DECKER 6-Cup Rice Cooker, RC506, 3-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
Aroma Housewares 20 Cup Cooked (10 cup uncooked) Digital Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Food Steamer, SS Exterior (ARC-150SB),Black
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, steam rice, and a cake menu setting, 1-year limited warranty.
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white (regular/sushi, softer or harder), mixed, porridge, sweet, semi-brown, brown, rinse-free and quick cooking, 1-year limited warranty.
Features: 6 cups cooked (3 cups uncooked) capacity, no specialized functionalities, 2-Year Limited Warranty.
Features: 20 cups cooked (10 cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, sushi, and flash rice, 1-year limited warranty.
Best Overall
Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, steam rice, and a cake menu setting, 1-year limited warranty.
Best Quality
Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 5-1/2-Cup Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer, Premium White
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white (regular/sushi, softer or harder), mixed, porridge, sweet, semi-brown, brown, rinse-free and quick cooking, 1-year limited warranty.
Best on a Budget
BLACK+DECKER 6-Cup Rice Cooker, RC506, 3-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
Features: 6 cups cooked (3 cups uncooked) capacity, no specialized functionalities, 2-Year Limited Warranty.
Best for Large Families
Aroma Housewares 20 Cup Cooked (10 cup uncooked) Digital Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Food Steamer, SS Exterior (ARC-150SB),Black
Features: 20 cups cooked (10 cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, sushi, and flash rice, 1-year limited warranty.

Best Overall: Zojirushi NS-TSC10

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-LiterIf you’ve ever wanted to eat restaurant-quality rice in the comfort of your own home without putting any effort into the cooking process, we recommend buying the Zojirushi NS-TSC10. It’s the most well-rounded, high-quality rice cooker with a variety of features designed to make your life easier. It’s the perfect choice for most people.

Pros:

Thanks to the exclusive computerized fuzzy logic technology, the rice made in the Zojirushi NS-TSC10 cooker comes out perfect every time. This is because the unit has a chip that controls the cooking time and temperature while the rice is being cooked.

The Zojirushi NS-TSC10 is very easy to clean. It comes with a non-stick inner pot that you can remove easily, and the rice is never stuck on it. Plus, the inner lid is removable, so you’ll clean it without going through any trouble.

On top of that, the unit is also praised as very easy to use and easy to store. On the front side of the device, there’s a display around where you can see all the menu settings and the available features, like “keep warm”.

Also, the inner pot is marked with water levels for various amounts of uncooked rice. If you use 2 cups of rice, fill the pot to mark 2, and so on. Just be careful, just like many other rice cookers (and all of our recommendations), the measuring cup is unique for rice, and it’s not the same as a standard US cup measurement (it’s around ⅔ of a standard cup). So only use the cup that comes with the rice cooker.

When you’re not using the rice cooker, you can store it pretty much anywhere as the power cord is retractable.

The Zojirushi NS-TSC10 has many other beneficial features and functionalities. We should definitely mention that it also has a cake setting menu, which means it works as a cake maker as well. It comes with a steam basket so you can cook rice and steam vegetables at the same time. And, it has two delayed time settings, so you can schedule your rice meal if that’s more convenient.

However, we were most impressed by the keep warm functionality, which can keep prepared rice warm for up to 12 hours! Maybe even more, but we can tell you for certain you can keep your rice warm and fresh for 12 hours at least.

Oh, and did we mention it also has an interchangeable melody and beep signal? It’s not an important feature when it comes to cooking rice, but it sure is a nice addition.

Cons:

If you want to make long-grain rice, you can’t use the water measurements inside the pot as the device is primarily designed for medium and short-grain rice. You can still cook long-grain rice, but you’ll have to figure out the water ratio yourself.

Also, we already mentioned that the Japanese cup is different from the standard US cup. Always keep in mind that when you measure in the Japanese cup, you’re actually using ⅔ of a standard US cup. Plus, the measurements for water on the pot work for the Japanese cup. If you use standard cups to measure rice, you can’t use the pot measurements for water.

The Verdict:

The Zojirushi NS-TSC10 is easily one of the best rice cookers invented. It has a high-quality stainless steel construction, and it’s very easy to use, clean, and store. Plus, it comes with an abundance of additional features that make rice cooking truly effortless. Best of all, it’s perfect for one person as well as the whole family as you can cook batches as little as a half a cup of rice, which is why we believe the Zojirushi NS-TSC10 is the best rice cooker overall.

Best Quality: Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy

Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 5-1/2-Cup Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer, Premium WhiteUnlike the previous model, the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy comes at a higher price with a few more functionalities that add to the whole rice-cooking experience. We believe the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy is the best option for true rice aficionados who are looking for a rice cooker with advanced capabilities.

Pros:

The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy comes with the brand’s exclusive computerized fuzzy logic technology. You’ll have perfectly cooked rice as the unit automatically adjusts the cooking time and temperature based on the internal input from the chip inside.

One of the most impressive features is the timer option, which allows you to set the time you want the rice to be done! Yes, you heard right, you can schedule when you want the rice to be ready – not when it should start cooking, like in other models with a timer.

You would expect the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy to be a complex model that’s hard to figure out, but it’s actually the opposite. The unit is very easy to operate as all menu settings are very intuitive.

The menu itself features options for a variety of functionalities, like automatic keep-warm, extended keep-warm, and reheat cycle. The cooking menu includes programs for white rice  (regular/sushi, softer, or harder), mixed, porridge, sweet, semi-brown, brown, rinse-free, and quick cooking – basically anything you can imagine.

The small details, like a nonstick pot with cool handles and LED clock, are what make this unit stand out from the rest of the Zojirushi models.

The unit also comes with two measuring cups, a nonstick rice spoon/scooper, a rice spoon holder, and a recipe book.

Finally, just like the previous model, the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy has a retractable power cord that makes the unit portable and very easy to store.

Cons:

The only other downside, aside from the price, is the cooking time. Being able to finely adjust the rice texture to hard or soft (which you can choose in the menu) comes at the cost of extra cooking time. While cooking rice on the stovetop is 15 to 20 minutes, with this model, cooking is 40 minutes to an hour. However, you can simply set it and forget about it as it will beep when the rice is ready for your plate.

Another thing you should be careful about is that the 5.5 cup capacity doesn’t apply to all types of rice. For example, you can only make 4 cups of (uncooked) jasmine rice, so keep this in mind.

The Verdict:

When looking for the highest quality, the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy rice cooker is the best option. It’s very well built, yet still convenient and easy to store. It comes with an array of features and functionalities that will impress even the biggest rice enthusiast. If you’re cooking rice frequently and you can afford it, the unit is more than worth it.

Best on a Budget: BLACK+DECKER RC506

BLACK+DECKER 6-Cup Rice Cooker, RC506, 3-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One TouchRice cookers are a convenience, which is why you can find a lot of decent models that cost next to nothing. We found that the Black+Decker RC606 rice cooker is the best budget-friendly model. It’s perfect as a first-buy or for people with a busy schedule who enjoy nicely cooked rice with the least hassle.

Pros:

We like the Black+Decker RC606 model because it’s very versatile. Aside from rice, you can also cook/steam veggies, fish, dumplings, oatmeal, quinoa, and so much more. This means that with just one click, you can have a variety of healthy and freshly-made meals in no time.

Unlike the other models we’ve reviewed so far, the Black+Decker RC606 is actually very quick and can cook up to 3 cups of rice. Your rice will be done in just 20 minutes, and even though 3 cups might seem very little (especially when compared to the other models), they’re more than enough to feed a couple or even a small family.

For such an affordable and simple cooker, it’s very impressive that the device has an automatic keep-warm function, which automatically turns on to keep the rice warm after finishing with the cooking process.

The unit also comes with a non-stick removable bowl that’s very easy to clean. And on top of that, you get a steaming basket, measuring cup, and a spoon. Best of all, all the parts are dishwasher-safe, which can save you a lot of cleaning time.

Cons:

One drawback to this model is that it’s small, and if you have to feed the whole family, it might be too small. Large families are better off with the Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB model.

Also, the power cable is short, which might be a problem for some.

If you like to wash and soak your rice before cooking it, don’t use the full cooking time. For many people, the fast cooking time is an advantage, but if you soak your rice before cooking, it can dry out very quickly and burn.

The Verdict:

The Black+Decker RC606 model is a small, affordable, and very convenient cooker for anyone with a busy schedule. Plus, it’s the ideal kitchen appliance for the office. You’ll get all of the basic functionalities and more in a simple intuitive design. If you value efficiency and speed more than versatility, then this rice cooker is the right one for you.

Best Large: Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB

Aroma Housewares 20 Cup Cooked (10 cup uncooked) Digital Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Food Steamer, SS Exterior (ARC-150SB),BlackLarge families and people who cook rice in big batches and split it into a couple of meals might not be satisfied with our recommendations so far. To make sure we include something for everyone, we chose the Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB as our last pick. The unit comes from the reputable Aroma Housewares brand, and it doesn’t disappoint in its ability to handle a variety of cooking tasks.

Pros:

The size is the model’s most attractive advantage that truly sets it aside from the competition. It can cook up to 10 cups of uncooked rice, which equals 20 cups of cooked rice – a sufficient amount to feed a large family, or even a dinner party.

On top of that, the device is extremely useful as a versatile cooker in general. It has a “Slow Cooker” option and you can even steam veggies, dumplings, meats, soups, and other meals. It’s an amazing device to have if you need to prepare dinner for parties or special occasions, just without the usual effort.

Also, the unit comes with a built-in steamer function that allows for nutrient-rich meals to be cooked above while the rice, soup, or other meal is being cooked below.

Convenience is also a strong side of this model as it has a delay function that allows you to set the ingredients and schedule cooking anytime in the next 12 hours.

The Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB got our best rice cooker title not just because of its size and versatility, but because it’s made of stainless steel, aluminum, and comes with BPA-free plastic accessories. It’s a sturdy and safe device, made to serve you a long time.

Finally, if this is your first time buying a rice cooker, the Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB comes with a user-friendly digital panel, making operating the device very intuitive. Simply set it and forget about it.

Cons:

This rice cooker is not suitable for single servings, which means if you want to make one meal, just for one person, you won’t be able to use the cooker.

Another drawback is that you’ll have to remove the rice from the cooker once it’s done cooking. While other models have a keep-warm function and you can keep the rice for a very long time, this model is not suitable for that task.

The Verdict:

The Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB is the perfect option for large families and people who prepare meals for crowds. It’s a high-quality, versatile cooker that will save you a lot of effort and time. The only disadvantage is that you can’t use the device for single-serving meals, but that’s why it’s the best multi-purpose and large rice cooker.

Conclusion:

Our top pick as the best rice cooker is the Zojirushi NS-TSC10 model. We believe it’s one of the most well-rounded products with an amazing market value. The unit has decent space and comes with advanced features that will make the whole rice-cooking experience extremely pleasurable. If you’ve ever struggled to make the perfect rice, the Zojirushi NS-TSC10 will show you how it’s done.

Another Zojirushi rice cooker is the even more impressive NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy model, which is a lot pricier, but well worth it. The unit comes with an amazing array of settings, designed to satisfy even the pickiest rice enthusiasts. Plus, you can literally choose when you want your meal to be done. What more can we say?

The Black+Decker RC606 is our top pick as the best budget-friendly rice cooker. It’s a perfect blend of quality and simplicity that can best suit people who want quick but perfectly done meals. It’s a very convenient unit which can also be used in an office kitchen or as a student’s go-to cooker. Just keep in mind, the Black+Decker RC606 is very small.

Finally, the ultimate party pot is the Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB. It’s our recommendation for anyone who handles a large amount of food on a daily basis – and not just rice! This model is a great slow cooker, cake maker, and even double cooker as it can steam and cook food at the same time.

Everything You Need To Know About Rice Cookers

You never really think you need a rice cooker until you end up owning one, and then you can’t imagine why you waited so long to purchase it! A rice cooker makes cooking this dietary staple a simple and easy process. You simply put the ingredients, set it, and forget about it! The inner pot is made with a nonstick surface, often with the measurement levels listed on the side of the pot, so that you always know how much water you need to add.

However, the benefits of a rice cooker aren’t just limited to rice! This kitchen appliance is a versatile machine that can help you bake a cake or create a stunning soup in no time at all. Some units even come with a rack that fits inside the rice cooker so you can steam meats or vegetables inside the pot without difficulty. You’ll see in our recommendations that the higher-end cookers come with steaming baskets and functionalities that allow you to cook rice and steam veggies at the same time.

Being on a budget is no problem when it comes to rice cookers as you can easily get a first-class rice cooker without spending much – just take a look at our best on a budget recommendation. An entry-level rice cooker won’t give you any control over the cooking process, but you do get one-touch convenience and have perfect meals ready in about 20 minutes.

One thing we’d advise you when purchasing a good quality rice cooker is to get one that’s very easy to clean. Even if you don’t get any starch overload that causes your inner pot to boil over, you’re still going to have a lot of water vapor and starchy condensation building up inside the inner lid of the rice cooker. Look for a glass lid that you can just toss into a dishwasher or a removable lid that you can quickly clean.

We mentioned that almost all modern rice cookers are made with a nonstick surface – just like all of our recommendations. Make sure you have a scoop or spatula that works with this surface, so you don’t accidentally scratch it or add Teflon or other chemicals to your food. Many rice cookers come with a serving utensil, but having a heat resistant spatula on-hand to help complete a cooking cycle is never a bad thing.

As a final consideration, you’ll want to look for a rice cooker that has some version of a stay-cool handle so you can access your rice without burning yourself, like the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro-Fuzzy’s handles that don’t heat up.

Also, some rice cookers need you to stir the cooking rice a time or two in order to prevent it from browning, toasting, or burning the bottom layer of the rice, so get something that you know you’ll be comfortable handling when you might be in a hurry. We made sure that all of our recommendations have a “set it and forget it design,” as we know convenience is key.

What Are the Advantages of Rice Cookers?

The primary advantage of rice cookers is that these appliances allow almost anyone to cook rice easily, perfectly, and without effort. Instead of having to worry about stirring the rice so it won’t burn on the bottom of a saucepan, the non-stick cooking bowl in rice cookers allows you to load up your rice and liquid and then forget about it while the rice cooks. As long as you know how to measure the rice and liquid accurately, you can make rice.

The second advantage is that you can quickly reduce your grocery bills with this small kitchen appliance. Many avoid rice at the store because it requires a lot of effort to cook it home. With a rice cooker, there is no prep work whatsoever! A month’s supply of this starch can often be purchased for about $10, which equals about 90 total servings in many communities.

The final advantage is improved nutrition. Naturally sourced rice is a healthy, low-calorie starch that aids digestion and is naturally gluten-free. Rice is considered to be one of the healthiest foods that you can eat. It works with most sensitive diets and is versatile enough that it can star as the main dish or as the dessert in a rice pudding, depending on your personal preferences.

How to Find the Best Rice Cooker?

You don’t need a lot to get a lot out of a rice cooker. Even a basic rice cooker that has an on/off switch will provide you with a quality result! Some have additional features to consider, however, these are the most important ones:

Size

The most important aspect of the rice cooker is its size and how many cups of rice you can cook in one batch. The minimum amount is as important as the maximum amount. Think about the amount of rice you need to cook on a daily basis, then choose a rice cooker that best suits your needs.

Versatility

Did you know that you can steam your vegetables in a rice cooker? Some appliances come with a tray that lets you place vegetables on them with water underneath. Once heated, the steam cooks the vegetables, and you keep the vitamins and minerals. Also, some pot-style rice cookers give you a baking option that allows you to create mini-cakes in the appliance for those moments when you want a sugary pick-me-up. When deciding to invest in a rice cooker, choose one that cooks more than just plain rice.

Additional Features

Even some budget-friendly options can have additional beneficial features, like the keep warm function. Our best on a budget pick, the Black+Decker RC606, has an on/off switch and a keep-warm function. It can keep your rice warm if you don’t want to eat it right away.

As the price grows, the features and functionalities of the rice cooker also improve, but always compare the rice cooker based on these additional features. Do they have a delay option and a steaming option? If you’re going to spend more money, make sure you’re getting more functionality.

Before You Go

If you’re someone who struggles to make rice on the stovetop and ends up with either a mushy mess or crunchy rice burnt to a crisp on the bottom, don’t hesitate to buy one of the rice cookers we’ve recommended. You can follow the links to find out more about the specific prices, specifications, and even customer reviews, which will help you make a decision.

Of course, always keep in mind the information from the buying guide when shopping for rice cookers. And, if you need anything else, don’t forget that we also have many more product reviews, product guides, and even recipes you can check out.

Want to see our favorite rice cookers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Large Families
Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter
Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 5-1/2-Cup Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer, Premium White
BLACK+DECKER 6-Cup Rice Cooker, RC506, 3-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
Aroma Housewares 20 Cup Cooked (10 cup uncooked) Digital Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Food Steamer, SS Exterior (ARC-150SB),Black
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, steam rice, and a cake menu setting, 1-year limited warranty.
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white (regular/sushi, softer or harder), mixed, porridge, sweet, semi-brown, brown, rinse-free and quick cooking, 1-year limited warranty.
Features: 6 cups cooked (3 cups uncooked) capacity, no specialized functionalities, 2-Year Limited Warranty.
Features: 20 cups cooked (10 cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, sushi, and flash rice, 1-year limited warranty.
Best Overall
Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, steam rice, and a cake menu setting, 1-year limited warranty.
Best Quality
Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 5-1/2-Cup Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer, Premium White
Features: 16 cups cooked (5½ cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white (regular/sushi, softer or harder), mixed, porridge, sweet, semi-brown, brown, rinse-free and quick cooking, 1-year limited warranty.
Best on a Budget
BLACK+DECKER 6-Cup Rice Cooker, RC506, 3-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
Features: 6 cups cooked (3 cups uncooked) capacity, no specialized functionalities, 2-Year Limited Warranty.
Best for Large Families
Aroma Housewares 20 Cup Cooked (10 cup uncooked) Digital Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Food Steamer, SS Exterior (ARC-150SB),Black
Features: 20 cups cooked (10 cups uncooked) capacity, functionalities for white, brown, sushi, and flash rice, 1-year limited warranty.

The Best Can Opener Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Using Can Opener

Can openers are irreplaceable kitchen appliances. Whether you want to open a can of soup or beans, you’ll need a tool if you want to get to your food. Ever since the practice of sealing food in cans began in 1858 in the United States and even earlier in other parts of the world, people have invented and sold specialized devices that can quickly and effortlessly open all kinds of cans.

What first began as a gloried lever is now available in many shapes and sizes. Some are very basic and inexpensive, costing only a few dollars. Others are much more sophisticated and come with a variety of practical features. For example, some can be attached to a wall, while others can cut with a smooth edge. Basically, all can openers do the same thing – cut metal cans – but they vary greatly in their efficiency, convenience, and price.

So, if you’re still in doubt about which model is the best fit for your needs and preferences, keep reading to learn about the best can openers offered on the market this year, and what you need to consider when shopping for a can opener.

What first began as a gloried lever, the can opener is now available in many makes and models. Some are very basic and inexpensive as well, costing only a few dollars. Others are much more sophisticated such as devices that attach to the wall and others that cut with a smooth edge. All do the same thing, cut metal cans, but the differences are great both on price and convenience.

The Best Can Openers

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Most Versatile
OXO SteeL Can Opener
Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener with Easy Push Down Lever, Opens All Standard-Size and Pop-Top Cans, Extra Tall, Plastic/Metal, Black and Chrome
Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener - Manual Can Opener with Locking Mechanism - Safe Magnetic Can Opener - Easy-to-Turn Can Opener - White/Gray
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Opener for Cans, Bottles and Jars, 9 x 2.75 inches, Black
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, big cushioned handles, built-in bottle cap opener.
Features: electric, permanently lubricated motor, smooth cuts, side cutting mechanism, retractable cord.
Features: manual, sharpened stainless steel wheel blade, BPA Free, hands-free disposal, comfortable grip, and 5-year Zyliss guarantee.
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, side cutting mechanism, bottle, pop, and pull tops opener.
Best Overall
OXO SteeL Can Opener
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, big cushioned handles, built-in bottle cap opener.
Best Quality
Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener with Easy Push Down Lever, Opens All Standard-Size and Pop-Top Cans, Extra Tall, Plastic/Metal, Black and Chrome
Features: electric, permanently lubricated motor, smooth cuts, side cutting mechanism, retractable cord.
Best on a Budget
Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener - Manual Can Opener with Locking Mechanism - Safe Magnetic Can Opener - Easy-to-Turn Can Opener - White/Gray
Features: manual, sharpened stainless steel wheel blade, BPA Free, hands-free disposal, comfortable grip, and 5-year Zyliss guarantee.
Most Versatile
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Opener for Cans, Bottles and Jars, 9 x 2.75 inches, Black
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, side cutting mechanism, bottle, pop, and pull tops opener.

Best Overall: OXO SteeL Can Opener

OXO SteeL Can OpenerWe chose the OXO 58081 as our best overall can opener. The unit is built to last, with comfort and safety as its best aspects. So, it’s not surprising why this simple, yet sturdy can opener is most people’s favorite pick.

Pros:

The OXO 58081 can opener is one of the easiest manual models to operate. The large, cushioned handles help to absorb pressure, and the oversized, easy-to-grasp knob makes turning the sharp cutting wheel a breeze.

It has ultra-rubberized handles that prevent slipping which makes the device very safe.

On top of that, the unit is one of the rare manual can openers suitable for people with wrist problems or arthritic hands. Because of its sharpness and the way it’s constructed, every cut will be perfectly smooth – up to the point where you might not even feel it working.

Another impressive characteristic of the OXO 58081 is that it’s one of the most affordable can openers available on the market today. Why pay a ridiculous amount of money when you can get one of the best can openers for less? If you’re looking for a basic yet high-quality can opener, you’ve just found it.

Cons:

While it’s very easy-to-use, the OXO 58081 doesn’t offer the same convenience when it comes to cleaning. Given that it’s not dishwasher-safe, you need to hand wash it every time. Of course, for most people this isn’t an inconvenience, but we felt it was something we should mention.

The Verdict:

All in all, the OXO 58081 can opener is one of the best manual models available today because it’s durable, efficient, very easy-to-use, and best of all, affordable. If you don’t want to go over-the-top for a simple can opener, but still want the convenience of opening cans of every size, and frequently, the OXO 58081 would be a smart choice.

Best Quality: Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Can Opener

Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener with Easy Push Down Lever, Opens All Standard-Size and Pop-Top Cans, Extra Tall, Plastic/Metal, Black and ChromeIf you prefer electric can openers, then you should keep your eyes on the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch model. It offers amazing quality and an effortless experience, which is exactly why we placed it in the best quality category.

Pros:

Unlike the other recommendations, the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch is an electric can opener that locks the can in place and can be operated with one hand. This means you only have to plug it in, attach the can, and press the lock with one hand. That’s it. You don’t even have to hold the can. Regardless of whether you have arthritis, problems with your wrists, or your left hand is the dominant one, this unit makes cutting cans a piece of cake.

Also, the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch makes side-cuts (smooth) which prevents the lid from falling, and the machine itself has zero contact with the food. After you make a full cutting circle, simply take the can and take off the lid.

The unit is very user-friendly and intuitive. Once you plug it in, you’ll only have to raise the handle which unlocks the cutting wheel. After this, place the food under the wheel and press until it’s locked. To start cutting, hold the handle fully pressed. To stop cutting, remove the hand from the handle. It’s that simple.

Finally, the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch won’t fail you even if you need to open large and heavy cans. The locking mechanism is very secure and can hold a can of all sizes. This also applies to cans with untypical shapes, like fish cans with ellipse shapes.

Cons:

It’s hard to find a drawback to such a powerful device, but some people may be put off by the price. After all, we’re talking about a can opener and if you don’t want anything fancy, you might be better off with some of the other recommendations.

The Verdict:

For people who prefer a fancier can opener with a lot of power and that requires zero effort to operate, the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch seems like the right choice. It’s well designed, intuitive, makes clean side-cuts, and you can operate it using only one hand. The unit is also a great choice for people who can work with manual can openers that require pressure.

Best on a Budget: ZYLISS Lock N' Lift Manual Handheld Can Opener

Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener - Manual Can Opener with Locking Mechanism - Safe Magnetic Can Opener - Easy-to-Turn Can Opener - White/GrayWe chose the ZYLISS Lock N’ Lift 7″ Manual Handheld Can Opener as our best budget-pick because it’s a very durable, comfortable, and affordable device that gets the job done.

Pros:

One of the best features of the ZYLISS Lock N’ Lift 7″ model is its ability to lock the lid. The locking mechanism securely holds the lid after cutting, so you don’t have to even touch it. This makes the whole cutting process very safe and clean (no stains on hands).

Another great feature is how comfortable it is to use it. To open cans you need pressure and wrist strength, so having a device that allows you to comfortably grip the handle is crucial. You’ll find that this level of comfort makes cutting much easier.

The ZYLISS Lock N’ Lift 7″ model has the best of both worlds – it’s very small and easy-to-store, while still feeling quite sturdy and heavy.

It comes with a stainless steel blade, which means it won’t rust or corrode. The body is made of hard plastic, while the handles are covered with a softer material.

Best of all, you can throw it in the dishwasher and save yourself the trouble of washing it by hand.

Cons:

Depending on the shape and size of the can, unfortunately, sometimes the magnet doesn’t reach the lid and can’t lock it. This means that the lid might fall into the can and make a mess. However, this happens rarely, and only with very large cans.

Some people find it hard to latch this can opener onto the lid, so if you’re someone who has a weaker grip, it’s best to go for an electric can opener or our best overall pick.

The Verdict:

The  ZYLISS Lock N’ Lift 7″ model is a great budget choice as it offers convenience, comfort, and most importantly, durability. While a lot of cheap options are made of thin plastic and brittle blades, this unit promises a job well done regardless of the can type. Plus, it’s easy-to-store and easy-to-clean.

Most Verssatile: Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Smooth Touch Can Opener

Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Opener for Cans, Bottles and Jars, 9 x 2.75 inches, BlackWhen it comes to versatility, the Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Smooth Touch is the winner. With the ability to open cans of all types and sizes, as well as bottles, this little can opener deserves a spot among the best can openers available on the market.

Pros:

The Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Smooth Touch can opener can open pretty much anything. If you want a two/three-in-one device that can handle a variety of different tasks, know that this unit can open cans, bottles, pop, and pull tops.

Not only is the Kuhn Rikon model the most versatile can opener, but it’s suited for lefties, too. This means that regardless of whether your right or left hand is dominant, you won’t have problems cutting cans or opening bottles with this practical kitchen appliance.

The Kuhn Rikon can opener has an automatic attaching mechanism. What this means is that it automatically locks itself onto the lid, so you can very easily cut the can and then remove the lid without ever touching it with your hands. This is also the reason why this unit is praised as being very safe.

Cons:

The body of the Kuhn Rikon is made of plastic, which might be a turn off for people who use can openers very frequently and appreciate a very durable product.

The Verdict:

Versatility is no problem for the Kuhn Rikon can opener, so if you want a unit that can do it all – this should be your choice. Aside from being versatile, the can opener is also very safe, easy-to-use, and suited for lefties.

The Advantages of Can Openers

The advantage of having a can opener is that you can actually open canned food. It is near impossible and very dangerous to attempt to open a metal can without one. The advantage of using a good can opener is usually convenience.

The cheaper models cost a mere buck or two but often do not work at all. If they do, they are often very hard to turn which can result in you either getting cut by a sharp edge or feeling frustrated with a partially opened can. There are manual ones available that are easy to twist though, like the ones we chose in our recommendations. Some even cut the can leaving a smooth edge which is ideal for families with small children. Even the fancier manual can openers are very affordable.

How To Find the Best Can Opener?

There is a myriad of can openers on the market, so here are three factors you should always keep in mind when looking to buy a can opener.

Electric vs. Manual

The first thing you should decide is whether you need an electric or manual type. Electric can openers are much more convenient and powerful, requiring zero effort, but they also cost more. Some people don’t have a choice and an electric can opener is something they truly need. For example, people with arthritis. Others want something simple and portable, so they invest in a high-quality manual can opener. For example, a person who’s going camping will want to open cans without having to use electricity.

Some people do not wish to clutter their kitchen counter with a can opener and opt for the small, handheld device, while others have a bigger kitchen or more storage space. The price is often a factor when deciding on a electric vs a manual can opener. While some want to only pay a small amount and prefer to add muscle to the mix, others are willing to pay more for the convenience that the electric can openers have to give.

There are also extra features that are available in many of the electric versions. For those who use a can opener frequently, these features will certainly come in handy. Some have a knife blade sharpener, there are can openers that can be mounted on a wall, and some can even open bottles.

Manual and metal types, on the other hand, are generally sold very cheap but usually require a series of heavy twists in order to operate. This can be an issue for anyone who does not have good strength or who has trouble gripping.

Cleaning And Safety

Many manual models are not suitable for the dishwasher as that can lead to rusting. But there are some that are dishwasher safe. Of the electric models, some have cutting blades that can be removed for cleaning which is a big plus.

Another feature that both manual and electric can openers have is the ability to cut cans with a smooth edge. The can is cut from the side and doesn’t reveal sharp edges, perfect for those who have children in the household.

Versatility

What kind of cans do you usually buy? If you’re someone who enjoys the convenience of canned food then you probably come across a variety of different cans on a weekly basis. In this case, versatility would probably be very important for you. Also, instead of buying a bottle opener and going through the same selection process, you might be better off with a multi-purpose device.

Price

Most people don’t really see the point in investing more than a couple of bucks in a can opener. Of course, you can always find manually operated ones that cost very little. Some work and some are just a waste of money. Plus, being without a can opener in the kitchen when preparing a family dinner, for example, can be very frustrating, so throwing a couple of bucks more for a good quality can opener can be a lifesaver in the long run.

Of course, higher-end devices (usually electric types) are also available if you want that extra convenience or you have problems with your grip. Therefore, think about your budget and decide how much you want to spend on a can opener that works for you.

One thing is for sure when you are ready to open a can, you want a can opener that works. Be it a manual version or a top of the line more modern device, it is imperative that it works and that it works well. Looks, size, and durability are other factors that certainly fall into play as well, but bottom-line is that you can have the best valued, best-looking can opener available and if it doesn’t open a can for you… it’s worthless.

Before You Go

Every kitchen needs a can opener, whether you’ll use it on a daily basis or want to have it just in case. Either way, you need to decide how much you want to invest in a small but significant kitchen appliance, what type suits you best, and its uses.

Hopefully, you’ll find the best can opener for you among our recommendations, but if you’re still indecisive feel free to follow the links and get more information about each product’s price, specifications, and customer reviews.

The information in our detailed buying advice can also guide you when shopping for a can opener, and in case you’re looking for other products for your kitchen, we also have many more product reviews, product guides, and even recipes on our blog.

Want to see our favorite can openers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Most Versatile
OXO SteeL Can Opener
Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener with Easy Push Down Lever, Opens All Standard-Size and Pop-Top Cans, Extra Tall, Plastic/Metal, Black and Chrome
Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener - Manual Can Opener with Locking Mechanism - Safe Magnetic Can Opener - Easy-to-Turn Can Opener - White/Gray
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Opener for Cans, Bottles and Jars, 9 x 2.75 inches, Black
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, big cushioned handles, built-in bottle cap opener.
Features: electric, permanently lubricated motor, smooth cuts, side cutting mechanism, retractable cord.
Features: manual, sharpened stainless steel wheel blade, BPA Free, hands-free disposal, comfortable grip, and 5-year Zyliss guarantee.
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, side cutting mechanism, bottle, pop, and pull tops opener.
Best Overall
OXO SteeL Can Opener
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, big cushioned handles, built-in bottle cap opener.
Best Quality
Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener with Easy Push Down Lever, Opens All Standard-Size and Pop-Top Cans, Extra Tall, Plastic/Metal, Black and Chrome
Features: electric, permanently lubricated motor, smooth cuts, side cutting mechanism, retractable cord.
Best on a Budget
Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener - Manual Can Opener with Locking Mechanism - Safe Magnetic Can Opener - Easy-to-Turn Can Opener - White/Gray
Features: manual, sharpened stainless steel wheel blade, BPA Free, hands-free disposal, comfortable grip, and 5-year Zyliss guarantee.
Most Versatile
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Master Opener for Cans, Bottles and Jars, 9 x 2.75 inches, Black
Features: manual, stainless steel blade, side cutting mechanism, bottle, pop, and pull tops opener.

The Best Electric Knives

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Electric Knife

Chopping, slicing, and carving can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a lot of work. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was an easier way to carve a Thanksgiving turkey or make your prep work almost effortless every time? Thanks to electric knives, this is now a reality, and we’re here to give you the best electric knives on the market today.

Electric knives are the perfect kitchen appliances if you want to save a lot of time while preparing your meals. Plus, you can use them for your DIY crafting activities. However, choosing the best electric knife for your specific needs can be tricky. There are many different models available nowadays, which is why we decided to do a little research. We picked the best electric knives in four different categories and composed a detailed review for each.

Don’t forget to also check our practical buying guide at the end of the article, where we share the most important factors you need to consider when shopping for an electric knife.

The Best Electric Knives 

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Fish
Hamilton Beach Electric Knife Set for Carving Meats, Poultry, Bread, Crafting Foam & More, Reciprocating Serrated Stainless Steel Blades, Ergonomic Design Storage Case + Fork Included, 5Ft Cord, White
Cuisinart Electric Knife
BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife, Black
American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife Sportsmen's Kit – 110 Volt High Performance Ergonomic Motorized Handset with Five Kinds of Stainless Steel Blades, 32352DS
Features: 7.5-inch blade, 100-watt motor, storage case + carving fork, 1-year warranty.
Features: 2 blades (8-inch each), 130-watt motor, 3-year warranty.
Features: 9-inch blades, 100-watt motor, 2-year warranty.
Features: 5 blades (2x 10-inch, 2x 8-inch, 1x 5.5-inch), storing case + gloves, 2-year warranty.
Best Overall
Hamilton Beach Electric Knife Set for Carving Meats, Poultry, Bread, Crafting Foam & More, Reciprocating Serrated Stainless Steel Blades, Ergonomic Design Storage Case + Fork Included, 5Ft Cord, White
Features: 7.5-inch blade, 100-watt motor, storage case + carving fork, 1-year warranty.
Best Quality
Cuisinart Electric Knife
Features: 2 blades (8-inch each), 130-watt motor, 3-year warranty.
Best on a Budget
BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife, Black
Features: 9-inch blades, 100-watt motor, 2-year warranty.
Best for Fish
American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife Sportsmen's Kit – 110 Volt High Performance Ergonomic Motorized Handset with Five Kinds of Stainless Steel Blades, 32352DS
Features: 5 blades (2x 10-inch, 2x 8-inch, 1x 5.5-inch), storing case + gloves, 2-year warranty.

Best Overall: Hamilton Beach Electric Knife

Hamilton Beach Electric Knife Set for Carving Meats, Poultry, Bread, Crafting Foam & More, Reciprocating Serrated Stainless Steel Blades, Ergonomic Design Storage Case + Fork Included, 5Ft Cord, WhiteWe chose the Hamilton Beach electric knife as the best overall as it has a powerful motor, strong blade, 1-year warranty, and best of all, a fair price. Offering amazing value, Hamilton Beach is the electric knife that’s going to satisfy most people, regardless of their kitchen or crafting needs.

Pros:

The Hamilton Beach electric knife comes with a versatile, stainless steel 7.5-inch blade specifically designed to carve meats and tough pieces of bread, but it’s sturdy enough to handle a large turkey too. What’s more, you can use the blade for your DIY projects to cut foam.

The unit also comes with a stainless steel carving fork, which will make you feel like a professional. Of course, you can always use a regular dinner fork to hold the meat while carving, but a carving fork is much handier. Plus, you can wash it in the dishwasher.

On top of that, Hamilton Beach comes with a nice plastic storing case, which makes the unit even more convenient as you can easily store it in any drawer without a problem.

Cons:

Some people have noticed that the device overheats after extensive heavy use. If you’re carving a large and tough piece of meat, you might need to let the device cool off after 10 minutes or so.

Also, the device doesn’t have an on/off switch, so you need to apply constant pressure on the trigger to work. For some people, this felt tiresome and uncomfortable.

The Verdict:

All in all, the Hamilton Beach electric knife is the go-to unit for most people who want to slice and carve food or craft foam. It can handle a variety of activities, which makes it suitable for most. Plus, with its low price point, it’s pretty affordable for anyone looking for a great electric knife.

Best Quality: Cuisinart CEK-40 Electric Knife

Cuisinart Electric KnifeThe Cuisinart CEK-40 electric knife is a high-end product with stainless steel blades and ergonomic design meant for precision and comfort while slicing and carving. It’s a perfect choice for people who enjoy a smooth carving experience and appreciate high powered electric knives.

Pros:

The Cuisinart CEK-40 electric knife is an amazingly powerful knife that can cut through any kind of meat or tough bread crust. The motor is 130 watts, which is higher than all the other recommendations.

While other models have one blade that can be used for multiple purposes, Cuisinart CEK-40 comes with two stainless steel blades, specifically designed for slicing and carving. One thinner blade is used to slice bread and other lighter meals, while the thicker blade is made to carve your Thanksgiving turkey like it’s butter. The blades are very sharp and powerful, so you can easily cut anything you can imagine.

You can forget about hand cramps with this model as it has an amazingly designed handle for more comfort while carving. On the handle, you’ll find a one-touch pressure-activated on/off trigger and a safety lock.

The Cuisinart CEK-40 comes with a 3-year warranty, which is more than all the other recommendations. However, carefully read the warranty before buying the product, so you’ll know exactly what is covered.

Cons:

The storage stand is a little inconvenient as it’s unstable, and there’s no place to store the cord. While for some people this has been very frustrating, others simply store the knife in plastic cases.

Also, some people have complained that the model is noisy.

The Verdict:

With 130 watts of slicing power, two specialized stainless steel blades, an ergonomically built handle, and a 3-year warranty, the Cuisinart CEK-40 stands out as the highest quality electric knife. If you don’t mind the higher-price, this model will give you a smooth carving experience.

Check out our detailed product review for the Cuisinart CEK-40 Electric Knife if you want to find out more.

Best on a Budget: BLACK+DECKER 9-Inch Electric Carving Knife

BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife, BlackThe most surprising aspect of Black + Decker electric knife is its price, as every other feature can match or even surpass higher-end models. It’s an amazing electric knife that comes with a high-quality blade and a 2-year warranty, which truly makes it a bargain.

Pros:

The Black + Decker electric knife has long 9-inch stainless steel blades that are quite powerful and can cut bread, meat, or even fish. Most models within this price range have an around 7.8-8-inch long blade.

The unit is very easy to clean. Both blades can be removed with a push of a button and placed in the dishwasher. So, you won’t have any trouble cleaning it after craving a greasy turkey.

Even if you haven’t used an electric knife before, you shouldn’t worry, as the Black + Decker model is very safe and easy to use. Simply click the blades into the handle, plug in the device, and you’re good to go. Just, don’t forget, you need to hold the safety lock pressed or otherwise it won’t work.

Cons:

Some people have reported problems with the safety lock – so it could be uncomfortable or impractical to hold it pressed while working for some people.

The Verdict:

If we’re talking about affordability, the Black + Decker electric knife really shines. Plus, it comes with a 2-year warranty, which makes this deal a true steal! The unit has a long stainless steel blade, which is also dishwasher safe. All in all, the device is very powerful, easy-to-use, and easy-to-clean.

We also have a detailed product review for the Black+Decker 9-inch Electric Knife, where you can learn a lot more about this product.

Best For Fish: American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife

American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife Sportsmen's Kit – 110 Volt High Performance Ergonomic Motorized Handset with Five Kinds of Stainless Steel Blades, 32352DSAmerican Angler PRO is an electric blade of the highest quality designed to meet the needs of sportsmen and professional cooks. This electric blade will make your life much easier if you’re a fisherman or have a restaurant. It comes with five blades, all designed to cut different kinds of fish.

Pros:

If you’re a sportsman who wants some high-power knife to cut fillet with ease, the 110-Volt American Angler PRO would be a smart choice. The PRO series has twice more torque than any other “Heavy-Duty” Electrif Filleting Knife, which means even big bones won’t stop you from cutting your meal.

Maybe the most impressive of all are the five stainless steel blades that are included with this product. You’ll get a 10-inch saltwater blade, a 5.5-inch curved tip blade, an 8-inch curved tip blade, a 10-inch heavy-duty shark blade, and an 8-inch heavy-duty shark blade.

The unit comes with safety gloves and a storing case to keep all of the blades in one place, so you won’t need to buy additional accessories.

Finally, the model doesn’t disappoint with its durability as it’s backed with a 2-year limited warranty.

Cons:

Some people have noted that the device gets hot after extensive use, so you’ll probably need to make pauses and let it cool off for a few minutes if you’re working with a large food quantity.

Another drawback is the on/off button, which is a little too close to the knife. If you’re cutting from a tricky angle, the fish matter can come in contact with the button and make it sticky and hard to push.

The Verdict:

The American Angler PRO is a specialized electric knife meant for cutting fish, and it’s our top pick in this category as it comes with five amazing blades and a powerful motor that won’t leave you hanging in the middle of your work. So, if you’re looking for an electric knife for cutting fish, this is your best option.

Conclusion:

The Hamilton Beach electric knife is our best overall pick as it’s one of the most versatile, high-quality electric knives that are also affordable and convenient. You can use the knife for light slicing or carving heavy meat like turkey and beef, as well as to cut foam for your crafting activities. It surpassed our expectations, so we can safely say the unit is a great choice for most people.

Our best quality pick is the Cuisinart CEK-40, as it proved to be the most powerful, sharp, and ergonomically designed device with a 3-year warranty. The two specialized blades make it even more attractive for cooking enthusiasts as they know that one blade can’t cut different textures with the same efficiency.

However, the Cuisinart CEK-40 is not affordable for most people, which is where the Black + Decker model shines. It’s a very good knife with a long, stainless steel blade and convenient features that make it very easy-to-use and clean.

Finally, we have the professional American Angler PRO model as the perfect pick for sportsmen, fishermen, and everyone else who wants an electric knife for cutting fish. It’s a very powerful model with five specialized blades, so you can cut anything from saltwater fish to sharks. Plus, it comes with a 2-year warranty, which is quite impressive.

Everything You Need To Know About Electric Knives

Electric knives work a lot like hand mixers. Most devices have two blades that lock into the machine. The blades may also lock with each other for an added level of security. Once properly installed, these knives then rapidly move back and forth, often with a serrated edge, and all you’ve got to do is point the knife in the right direction, and you’re ready to go!

If you plan on slicing bread more often than slicing a turkey or whole poultry products, then you’ll want to look for an electric knife that offers a smoother cutting surface. These smoother knives create extremely clean slices through a fresh loaf of bread while keeping your hands out of the way when steam erupts from a hot loaf.

Fishermen aren’t left out from the electric knife market either. Fillet knives of up to 7.5 inches are available on Amazon right now and offer you a cordless alternative so you can clean your fish on site instead of having to wait to bring them home. Look for knives that have special fillet options, like the American Angler PRO we recommend, so you can get the intricate, precise cuts that you need to get the job done correctly.

Safety And Efficiency While Cutting

The best electric knives also have safety features that make it difficult for children to use them, even if they find the appliance in the kitchen. Many of these safety features involve a locking trigger or a double trigger. Double-check what kind of safety feature you’re getting before you purchase the knife, so you get one that works with your grip. Some double trigger electric knives are difficult to use unless you’ve got big hands, so keep that in mind as you shop.

You’ll also want to look for an appliance that is able to keep the knife blades tightly together during the cutting process. You can do a lot of damage to animal protein and the knife itself when food ingredients get stuck between the blades of the knife as they are rapidly moving.

If you are getting an electric knife that plugs into an outlet, you’ll want to look for two additional options that will enhance your safety: a swivel cord and a length of cord that’s at least 3 feet long, if not longer. One of the most common mistakes that people encounter with this kitchen appliance is an electrical cord they catch while they are carving or slicing. This presents an obvious electrocution hazard that is completely avoidable with appliances that have these two additional, yet still optional features. Cordless knives, of course, eliminate that hazard altogether!

Additional Features

If you are pursuing a cordless knife, then make sure to check the reputation of the batteries that come with the product. You’ll also want to make sure you fully charge the batteries before using the knife for the first time as otherwise you may ruin the batteries and this may not be covered by a typical limited manufacturer’s warranty.

The release buttons for this appliance are also something to think about as you’re shopping for a new appliance. Most knives have a push-button release on the sides of the device right near the front, but not all of them. Some are placed on the top of the appliance, and others are placed on the bottom. For best results, go with a design you’re most comfortable using that won’t feed your greasy hands toward the blades if you feel the appliance slipping.

Blade size is often the final consideration of shoppers looking at electric knives. Most knives come with a 7-inch blade, although some are longer and some are shorter. A common ploy by some less reputable manufacturers is to measure the blade from the tip, past the tang, and to the end that locks into the knife. This often adds 4 inches or more to the “length” of the blade as a marketing point but doesn’t give you any practical use.

What Are the Advantages of a Good Electric Knife?

When you own an electric knife, it’s all about speed and the quality of the cut. Because the knife is doing the slicing work for you, your attention should be focused on the placement of the cut itself. This leads to better consistency with hard-to-cut items, like poultry that has been baked whole, breaking down raw meats, or cutting through hard fruits or vegetables like squash.

The second advantage is related to its power. Electric knives are a necessity for some people because of common grip problems. With very little effort, a person afflicted with debilitating arthritis and other medical issues can still keep their independence thanks to the power behind the two blades that work in conjunction with each other. Even without medical issues, owning this kitchen appliance is more than a convenience when it comes to carving a turkey, prepping potatoes, or slicing a loaf of home-baked bread.

The final advantage of this appliance is the price. Even top-of-the-line electric knives are often priced less than a mid-range quality traditional kitchen knife. Many of them don’t need regular sharpening, and their serrated blades make quick cuts of anything put before them. As long as you keep your fingers clear of the blade (and the cord for plug-in models), you’ll have one of the most useful appliances invented for the kitchen.

How To Find the Best Electric Knife?

The best electric knives are going to work for you on a daily basis with very little maintenance. Although most of them are pretty basic in their design, there are a few features that make some models stand out from the rest.

Multiple speeds

For those extra tough food items, you may wish to consider an electric knife that has variable speed controls so you can decrease or increase the speed of the blade as needed during the prep or serving process.

Stainless steel blades

You’ll want to look for high-quality stainless steel blades that won’t tarnish or warp over time. Because most designs involve two interlocking blades that work together, any blade warping can create an unsafe appliance.

Versatility

When you buy an electric knife, the general assumption is that you’ll be using it for a variety of foods. Plus, some people buy electric knives for their crafting activities, like cutting foam. When investing in an electric knife, make sure to buy a model that has a blade designed for multiple purposes, or comes with more blades. Some blades are more suitable for slicing bread and veggies because they have a smoother surface. However, tougher meat products, like turkey or whole chicken, are better carved with a serrated knife.

Before You Go

We hope this article helped you find the best electric knife for your specific needs and preferences. Whether you want an affordable yet high-quality blade, convenient and versatile, or a fillet knife, we’ve got you covered. However, if you still can’t decide, feel free to follow the links and check out detailed specifications, prices, and customer reviews of each product.

We also have many more product reviews, product guides, and even recipes on our blog, so visit us to make sure your kitchen is well equipped.

Want to see our favorite electric knives one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Fish
Hamilton Beach Electric Knife Set for Carving Meats, Poultry, Bread, Crafting Foam & More, Reciprocating Serrated Stainless Steel Blades, Ergonomic Design Storage Case + Fork Included, 5Ft Cord, White
Cuisinart Electric Knife
BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife, Black
American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife Sportsmen's Kit – 110 Volt High Performance Ergonomic Motorized Handset with Five Kinds of Stainless Steel Blades, 32352DS
Features: 7.5-inch blade, 100-watt motor, storage case + carving fork, 1-year warranty.
Features: 2 blades (8-inch each), 130-watt motor, 3-year warranty.
Features: 9-inch blades, 100-watt motor, 2-year warranty.
Features: 5 blades (2x 10-inch, 2x 8-inch, 1x 5.5-inch), storing case + gloves, 2-year warranty.
Best Overall
Hamilton Beach Electric Knife Set for Carving Meats, Poultry, Bread, Crafting Foam & More, Reciprocating Serrated Stainless Steel Blades, Ergonomic Design Storage Case + Fork Included, 5Ft Cord, White
Features: 7.5-inch blade, 100-watt motor, storage case + carving fork, 1-year warranty.
Best Quality
Cuisinart Electric Knife
Features: 2 blades (8-inch each), 130-watt motor, 3-year warranty.
Best on a Budget
BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife, Black
Features: 9-inch blades, 100-watt motor, 2-year warranty.
Best for Fish
American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife Sportsmen's Kit – 110 Volt High Performance Ergonomic Motorized Handset with Five Kinds of Stainless Steel Blades, 32352DS
Features: 5 blades (2x 10-inch, 2x 8-inch, 1x 5.5-inch), storing case + gloves, 2-year warranty.

The Best Electric Smokers Reviewed

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

I37czau79PhCAfzEWmsGVE2Gutqzzif0kuoVp0uzyG0

Electric smokers can truly transform the whole experience of smoking food. They’re very practical, convenient, and easy-to-use devices that enable everyone to enjoy moist and delicious, freshly-smoked meat in their home.

Electric smokers may be easy to use, but the task of choosing the best electric smoker can be tiresome. So, with so many products available on the market today, how do you sort out the workhorses from the wimps? To help you out, we scoured the market and picked the best electric smokers in four different categories, so you can easily find one that matches your specific needs.

You can also use our practical buying guide at the end of the article to make sure you don’t forget anything important when shopping for the best electric smoker.

The Best Chart for Electric Smokers 

Smoking food is one part art, one part science, and one part creativity. These are the best electric smokers that will help you put those three parts together into one flavorful package.

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Professionals
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Four Chrome-Coated Racks and Broiler in Black, Model MB20073519
Masterbuilt Bluetooth 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with App Control, Side Wood Chip Loader and Chrome-Coated Smoking Racks in Stainless Steel, Model MB20074719, 40 inch
Smokehouse Little Chief Front Load Smoker, Low to Mid Temperature Smoker for Fish, Sausage, Cheese, & Other meats, Smoke Up to 25 Pounds of Meat & Fish
Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts), digital control.
Features: 4 chrome-coated smoking racks, (space for 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts), digital control.
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for up to 25 pounds of meat or fish).
Features: 4 smoking racks (space up to 35 pounds of meat or seafood), 12-foot power cord.
Best Overall
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Four Chrome-Coated Racks and Broiler in Black, Model MB20073519
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts), digital control.
Best Quality
Masterbuilt Bluetooth 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with App Control, Side Wood Chip Loader and Chrome-Coated Smoking Racks in Stainless Steel, Model MB20074719, 40 inch
Features: 4 chrome-coated smoking racks, (space for 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts), digital control.
Best on a Budget
Smokehouse Little Chief Front Load Smoker, Low to Mid Temperature Smoker for Fish, Sausage, Cheese, & Other meats, Smoke Up to 25 Pounds of Meat & Fish
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for up to 25 pounds of meat or fish).
Best for Professionals
Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker
Features: 4 smoking racks (space up to 35 pounds of meat or seafood), 12-foot power cord.

Best Overall: Masterbuilt 30” Electric Smoker

Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Four Chrome-Coated Racks and Broiler in Black, Model MB20073519The Masterbuilt MB20073519 is our top pick overall, as it’s a durable and powerful device built for barbecue enthusiasts, both beginners and experienced cooks. It’s not too large nor too small, with plenty of cooking space. Best of all, it comes equipped with Bluetooth for digital control.

Pros:

The Masterbuilt 30″ Electric Smoker is a well-constructed and durable product. The cabinet is built from stainless steel material, while the interior is made from aluminum. It’s well insulated (no heat loss) and very easy to clean.

Aside from having a very high-quality construction, this model is also very practical. It comes with 4 adjustable smoking racks where you can smoke 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts at one time. If you’re using it for a family or friends gathering, you can smoke the food all at once.

You’ll know that this model deserves its “best overall” title when you see that it also comes equipped with some advanced features, usually found in much pricer models. This Masterbuilt model has Bluetooth Smart technology. With that fancy feature you’ll be able to control temperature, lighting, monitor meat temperature, and power your smoker on or off, all from your phone. You can sit with your family and friends, or continue with other responsibilities while monitoring the cooking process from afar.

Adding to the convenience that this model offers, you can add the wood chips without opening the door and losing heat. Masterbuilt electric smokers have a unique patented side wood chip loading system, which means you only need to add wood chips from the side, and the electric smoker will automatically load it in.

Cons:

It’s hard to find a downside to this model, but if you plan to use it indoors, you might be disappointed to know that it’s for outdoor use only. However, because it’s well insulated, you can still use it in cold weather.

Another thing we should mention is that the wood tray is very small, around 6×6 inches. Once you feed the electric smoker with wood chips, they’ll last around 30 minutes, before you have to refill it.

The Verdict:

The Masterbuilt MB20073519 30-inch model made the list of our top picks because it’s a well-rounded product with great construction, and advanced digital features, plus it’s highly practical. The fact that you can get all that for such a fair price makes this product the best electric smoker overall.

Best Quality: Masterbuilt 40” Electric Smoker

Masterbuilt Bluetooth 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with App Control, Side Wood Chip Loader and Chrome-Coated Smoking Racks in Stainless Steel, Model MB20074719, 40 inchThe Masterbuilt MB20074719 is an upgraded version of our top overall pick, suited for anyone who wants the best of the best. This model is a little pricier, but it will definitely make your life easier, as it comes with a variety of convenient cooking features and larger cooking space.

Pros:

The 40-inch Masterbuilt MB20074719 has a very durable and sturdy construction. It’s made from stainless steel and it’s well insulated. You can use it all year round without worry.

The model is extremely practical and perfect for BBQ enthusiasts who want to please their friends or family. It also comes with four chrome-coated smoking racks, but with much more cooking space. You can cook up to 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts.

Just like it’s smaller cousin, this device comes with Bluetooth Smart technology that allows you to monitor and control your meat and smoker temperature from your smart device or digital control panel. Plus, to make sure your meat is smoked to perfection, the product also comes with a built-in meat probe thermometer. It actually supports two, but if you want another one, you need to purchase it additionally.

The patented side wood chip loading system is another feature it shares with our best overall pick. You can easily add wood chips from the side, without opening the door and losing heat.

The 40-inch Masterbuilt MB20074719 sets itself apart from the competition with a bunch of special features that make the smoking experience even better. The MB20074719 model comes with:

  • an interior light that illuminates food in low light when the door is open;
  • an air damper for moisture and smoke control;
  • a removable water bowl for even more moisture;
  • a rear-mounted handle and wheels that make moving the smoker very easy.

Cons:

The product itself doesn’t have any major drawbacks, but some customers had expressed disappointment with the customer service when they tried to contact Masterbuilt about the product.

The Verdict:

The Masterbuilt MB20074719 40-inch smoker is your go-to product if you’re looking for the highest quality. It won’t disappoint you as it has a sturdy and durable construction, a very large cooking space, and an abundance of special features to take your smoking to the next level.

Best On Budget: Little Chief Front Load Smoker

Smokehouse Little Chief Front Load Smoker, Low to Mid Temperature Smoker for Fish, Sausage, Cheese, & Other meats, Smoke Up to 25 Pounds of Meat & FishIf you’re thinking of buying an electric smoker for the first time, the Little Chief Front Load Smoker is our recommendation. It’s small, convenient, and budget-friendly, and comes packed with all the essential features that the occasional BBQ-chef will need.

Pros:

If you were concerned that cheaper models might not be durable, the Little Chief Front Load Smoker is here to change your mind. It has embossed aluminum construction, which also means you won’t lose any heat.

While talking about heat, the model has a consistent low-temperature setting (165 degrees Fahrenheit), so you can smoke your food slowly. This feature is particularly beneficial to beginners because it will ensure you don’t overburn or ruin your food. Plus, slow-cooking is healthier.

Another reason why the Little Chief smoker is very easy-to-use is because it comes with an instruction booklet to get you started, and there’s no assembly required.

With the Little Chief, there’s no doubt you’ll get that deep smoke flavor. It’s engineered for premium smoke ventilation, including smoke circulation and proper dehydration – two separate phases that ensure proper flavor and drying of meat.

Unlike the Masterbuilt models, which have an only 1-year limited warranty (with conditions), Little Chief comes with a 2-year warranty.

Cons:

Little Chief doesn’t have the advanced digital features that both Masterbuilt models have. Plus, you can’t control the temperature, which might be a limitation for some cooks who want to experiment.

Another drawback might be its smaller cooking space. The Little Chief can smoke up to 25 pounds of meat or fish.

The Verdict:

All things considered, Little Chief is a wonderful little electric smoker constructed from high-quality materials. It’s convenient and easy-to-use, without losing any smoking quality, although for some people it might be a little small. The low price makes it a real bargain.

Best For Professionals: Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker

Smokin-It Model #2 Electric SmokerThe Smokin-It Model #2 is a real monster with its amazing construction and large cooking space. It’s the top pick for professionals and restaurant use.

Pros:

The Smokin-It model #2 is an electric smoker made to last. It’s made with 18-gauge stainless steel construction, and it looks like a small safe. Plus, because of its construction, it can be used indoors. It actually comes with an NSF certification for restaurant use.

Best of all, the Smokin-It is really efficient and will save you a lot of wood chips. You only need to insert around 2 to 5 oz of wood chips at the bottom of the electric smoker where the electric heating element will slowly burn the chips by gradually releasing smoke and heat into the chamber.

Moving this large electric smoker is no problem as it comes with a long power cord and wheels on the bottom. This feature is especially beneficial for people who have limited kitchen space or need a portable electric smoker.

Although it doesn’t have fancy Bluetooth features, the Smokin-It comes with an automatic rheostat for temperature control. You can adjust the rheostat and walk away.

When it comes to warranty, the Smokin-it wins with its 3-year warranty, as opposed to the previous three recommendations.

Cons:

The only drawback to this model is that it doesn’t have digital features for remote cooking, although you can set the rheostat and walk away.

The Verdict:

When it comes to professional use, the Smokin-it is the best electric smoker for you. Unlike the other models, it can be used safely indoors. Plus, its durability, efficiency, and portability make this model the perfect option for frequent use for longer periods.

Conclusion

We chose the Masterbuilt 30 inch smoker as the best electric smoker overall. With so many options on the market it’s hard to choose just one, but we believe the Masterbuilt MB20073519 will be a good fit for most people.

It has a durable aluminum and stainless steel construction, with decent cooking space and amazing digital features for remote control. You can monitor the smoking process from your phone while you’re focusing on other things. And, although it can’t compare in some aspects with the 40-inch Masterbuilt model, its fair price gives this product amazing value for money.

The best high-quality electric smoker is the Masterbuilt 40 inch smoker. We believe it deserves this title because it has everything that the Masterbuilt 30″ has, plus a variety of digital and practical features that set it apart. If you’re willing to pay the extra money, the Masterbuilt MB20074719 will really transform your smoking experience and make it much more enjoyable.

However, if you’re on a budget, then don’t hesitate to go for the Little Chief Front Load Smoker. It’s a decent, high-quality smoker, that will give a deep smoky flavor to any meat or fish. It’s a tad smaller than the other recommendations, and it only comes with a few basic features, with no digital control, but as a beginner or an occasional smoker, you really don’t need anything else.

Finally, we chose the Smokin-It model #2 as the best electric smoker for professionals and restaurant use. It’s an NSF-certified smoker for indoor and restaurant use, so its features are focused on providing the best experience in a professional setting. It’s durable, very efficient, portable, and comes with a very long cord, so you can easily fit it in a busy kitchen.

The Advantages of Having an Electric Smoker

Electric smokers are definitely considered more of a luxury, rather than a commodity – unless you’re a professional chef or you own a restaurant. So, do you really need an electric smoker in your backyard?

To answer this question, we’ll take a look at all the advantages of having an electric smoker. Once you know how this device can help or advance your cooking practices, you’ll feel more confident in making the right buying decision.

No mess at all! When you use an electric smoker, you don’t need to go through the hassle of making a fire and go through the trouble of controlling the smoke. Simply plug in the device, set the temperature, and you’re already smoking.

Easy-to-use! Smoking meat on the grill is a lot harder, and it takes a lot of experience before one can smoke food to perfection. However, this is not the case for electric smokers. They’re beginner-friendly, but still able to perform at the level of other smokers. Set the temperature, then forget about it while the meat is being cooked. And, since you’re not dealing with charcoal or wood directly, once you’re done with smoking, simply remove the wood chip tray and throw it in the trash.

Control temperature with ease! Each electric smoker comes with an advanced temperature controlling system. You’ll only need to push a button to set the temperature you want, and the smoker will maintain it throughout the cooking process. Electric smokers also come with a thermometer placed inside the device, so you can monitor and adjust the temperature at all times.

Save time! Although most electric smokers cook the food slowly, once you’ve set up everything (which takes 2 minutes), you can focus on other things and get everything else ready before the meat is ready for serving. Plus, electric smokers come with a large cooking space, which means you can smoke all of your meat at once.

Although these are the biggest advantages of electric smokers, there are many other reasons why one would invest in an electric smoker. For example:

  • Electric smokers are the safest option of all the other smoking units.
  • They don’t release harmful emissions, unlike traditional charcoal smokers.
  • Electric smokers function well in cold and windy areas because they’re well insulated.
  • Some electric smokers can be used indoors.

It’s hard to say no to an electric smoker when you consider all the benefits they have over traditional smokers. However, depending on how frequently you smoke food and how much food you’re smoking, you can decide whether an electric smoker is the right product for you.

Tips When Smoking Food With An Electric Smoker

You might be a little insecure in using an electric smoker at first, but with these tips in mind, every meal will be smoked to perfection.

  • Use an acidic marinade. Vinegar, citrus, and other acidic items prevent the formation of nitrates that can form when smoking foods, which can be harmful to one’s health. For example, lemon juice gives such a nice flavor to some smoked foods.
  • Prepare the food before smoking. For example, marinating the food before smoking will keep it from drying out during the cooking process. This works because the salt in the brine makes the meat more water-absorbent.
  • Keep the temperature low. Slow-cooking your smoked meats is the way to go. Overheating protein on the grill can encourage nitrates to form even if the other two steps have been properly followed.

Follow these steps to make sure all of your smoked food is cooked to perfection.

How to Choose the Best Electric Smoker?

There are many different electric smokers available on the market today, which means looking for an electric smoker that suits your needs and preferences can be a confusing and overwhelming experience when you’re. Fortunately, we’ll be sharing the most important factors to consider when looking for an electric smoker.

Construction

The construction of the electric smoker must be taken into consideration. Some electric smokers are made of cheap cast iron, which allows the smoke and heat to escape. They also need to be covered or put into the garage during cold weather because the iron might rust. To avoid this, consider investing in a ceramic, aluminum, or stainless steel smoker instead.

Aluminum and stainless steel retain heat better, can be used in cold weather, and are a lot more durable. We made sure that all of our recommendations are made of aluminum and stainless steel materials because the material also affects the durability of the product.

Size

The cooking space is one of the first things you should consider when choosing an electric smoker. For example, if you need an electric smoker to make delicious smoked meat for when your family or friends come to visit, you should be okay with a smaller smoker, like our budget pick, Little Chief. However, if you plan to feed a larger group of people, then you should consider investing in a larger smoker, like the Masterbuilt MB20074719 or Smokin-it  #2.

Portability

Depending on the construction and your cooking needs, you might need to move the electric smoker from one place to another. If this is the case, choose an electric smoker that comes with wheels on the bottom so you can easily move it.

Price

Shopping for name-brand products boosts the price, but you’re getting a sturdy and durable device. Also, the size of the cooking space affects the price significantly. Think about the quantity of the food you’ll be smoking when making a decision about your acceptable price range. Many electric smokers today are priced at around $300. However, large models with many additional features can easily get to $500 and more. This is why our budget pick costs around $100, while the best smoker for professionals, the Smokin-It Model #2, costs over $500.

Before You Go

We hope that by now you found an electric smoker among our recommendations that fits your budget, needs, and preferences. However, if you’re still in doubt, feel free to visit the links above to check for current prices, in-depth specifications, as well as customer reviews.

Also, don’t forget to use our buying advice when shopping for the best electric smoker, to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

Want to see our favorite electric smokers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Professionals
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Four Chrome-Coated Racks and Broiler in Black, Model MB20073519
Masterbuilt Bluetooth 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with App Control, Side Wood Chip Loader and Chrome-Coated Smoking Racks in Stainless Steel, Model MB20074719, 40 inch
Smokehouse Little Chief Front Load Smoker, Low to Mid Temperature Smoker for Fish, Sausage, Cheese, & Other meats, Smoke Up to 25 Pounds of Meat & Fish
Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts), digital control.
Features: 4 chrome-coated smoking racks, (space for 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts), digital control.
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for up to 25 pounds of meat or fish).
Features: 4 smoking racks (space up to 35 pounds of meat or seafood), 12-foot power cord.
Best Overall
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Four Chrome-Coated Racks and Broiler in Black, Model MB20073519
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts), digital control.
Best Quality
Masterbuilt Bluetooth 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with App Control, Side Wood Chip Loader and Chrome-Coated Smoking Racks in Stainless Steel, Model MB20074719, 40 inch
Features: 4 chrome-coated smoking racks, (space for 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts), digital control.
Best on a Budget
Smokehouse Little Chief Front Load Smoker, Low to Mid Temperature Smoker for Fish, Sausage, Cheese, & Other meats, Smoke Up to 25 Pounds of Meat & Fish
Features: 4 smoking racks (space for up to 25 pounds of meat or fish).
Best for Professionals
Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker
Features: 4 smoking racks (space up to 35 pounds of meat or seafood), 12-foot power cord.

Reviews of the Best Mandoline Slicer

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Mandolin Slicer

If you want to incorporate a salad into your meals but you’re dreading the whole process of slicing the vegetables every single day, we’ve got just the solution. Having a mandoline slicer in your kitchen means having a fast and effective method of slicing vegetables, fruits, and other food items. This handy tool will cut your work in half and give you perfectly sliced pieces of food without using a knife, a cutting board, or any other tool! Plus, cleaning it afterward is a piece of cake.

But, how to choose the best mandoline slicer for your specific needs and preferences? No worries! We went over the best mandoline slicers available on the market today and reviewed the best of the best in four different categories. Whether you’re looking for the highest quality, a good budget option, or want a multi-use mandoline slicer, we’ve got your back.

We also included a practical buying guide at the end of the article so you know which factors to consider when shopping for the best mandoline slicer. But first, let’s go give you an overview of the mandole slicers we’ll be reviewing in this guide.

The Best Mandoline Slicers

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Professionals
OXO Good Grips V-Blade Mandoline Slicer, White
BRON COUCKE - Professional Mandoline - Stainless Steel - Slices Fruits and Vegetables, Makes French Fries and Julienne - Straight Blade + Waffle Blade - Adjustable Thickness - Includes Safety Carriage
OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer,White
Norpro Deluxe Mandoline Slicer, Grater, Shredder, Julienne and Juicer w/ Safety Guard White
Features: stainless steel "V" cut blade, 4 cut styles, 4 thickness settings, safety grip food-holder, folding stand.
Features: 3 stainless steel straight cut blades, 4 cut styles, up to 1/2-inch maximum thickness, safety-grip food-holder, adjustable folding stand.
Features: stainless steel straight cut blade, 1 cut style, 3 thickness settings, safety grip food-holder, hand-held.
Features: 5 stainless steel straight cut blades, 5 cut styles, 3-7mm thickness settings, safety grip food-holder, folding stand.
Best Overall
OXO Good Grips V-Blade Mandoline Slicer, White
Features: stainless steel "V" cut blade, 4 cut styles, 4 thickness settings, safety grip food-holder, folding stand.
Best Quality
BRON COUCKE - Professional Mandoline - Stainless Steel - Slices Fruits and Vegetables, Makes French Fries and Julienne - Straight Blade + Waffle Blade - Adjustable Thickness - Includes Safety Carriage
Features: 3 stainless steel straight cut blades, 4 cut styles, up to 1/2-inch maximum thickness, safety-grip food-holder, adjustable folding stand.
Best on a Budget
OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer,White
Features: stainless steel straight cut blade, 1 cut style, 3 thickness settings, safety grip food-holder, hand-held.
Best for Professionals
Norpro Deluxe Mandoline Slicer, Grater, Shredder, Julienne and Juicer w/ Safety Guard White
Features: 5 stainless steel straight cut blades, 5 cut styles, 3-7mm thickness settings, safety grip food-holder, folding stand.

Best Overall: OXO Good Grips V-Blade Mandoline Slicer

OXO Good Grips V-Blade Mandoline Slicer, WhiteOur best overall pick is the OXO Good Grips V-Blade mandoline slicer, as it’s a well-rounded product with a lot to offer for a fair price. The model is very handy for slicing softer fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and peaches, but the “V” cut blade can also handle tougher ingredients like potatoes. Whether you’re a complete amateur or an experienced cook, the OXO Good Grips V-Blade is the perfect choice for home use.

Pros:

The OXO Good Grips V-Blade has a thick plastic platform with textured ridges on top that prevents your food from sticking. Slicing the food will go smoothly, even if you apply more pressure.

You can slice straight slices, crinkle cuts, French fries, and julienne strips in four different thickness levels thanks to the stainless steel blades. That’s plenty of variety to satisfy the slicing needs of every home cook.

Another advantage of this model is how easy it is to change the blades or adjust the slice thickness. To change the slice thickness, simply rotate the dial on the side. When you want to change blades, press the button on the dial and unlock the safety guard. After the guard is unlocked, you can open up the bottom of the runway and change the “V” shaped plastic piece with whatever blade you want to use. Once you get the hang of it, it won’t take you more than 10 seconds to change blades, which is pretty impressive.

The product comes with a safety grip food-holder that can be securely attached to the sides of the mandoline slicer. Plus, the food holder has four metal tines that secure the food inside the holder, so it doesn’t slip away, while your hand and fingers are safe and away from the blade at all times.

The non-slip feet make the OXO Good Grips V-Blade even more secure and safe.

Cons:

To be able to offer all these handy features, the device itself is a little complex, and for some, this can be an overkill. The blades must be hand-washed, while the body and foot holder are dishwasher safe.

Plus, because the body is made of white plastic, people have noticed carrot stains using this mandoline slicer for a while.

The Verdict:

There are many reasons why we picked the OXO Good Grips V-Blade as our favorite mandoline slicer.

First, the product has an amazing value considering the price and everything it has to offer. It’s hard to find such a high-quality product from one of the most reputable brands in the industry without being overpriced. Second, the slicer offers a lot of versatility and can handle all of your slicing needs. Finally, safety is number one priority for this model, which we praise.

Check out our detailed product review so you can find out more about the OXO Good Grips V-Blade mandoline.

Best Quality: Bron Coucke Stainless Steel Classic Chef's Mandoline

BRON COUCKE - Professional Mandoline - Stainless Steel - Slices Fruits and Vegetables, Makes French Fries and Julienne - Straight Blade + Waffle Blade - Adjustable Thickness - Includes Safety CarriageBuilt for professionals, the Bron Coucke Stainless Steel Classic Chef’s Mandoline is the ultimate slicer for home use that’s perfectly suited for restaurant kitchens as well. If you’re looking for a mandoline of sturdy construction that’s high-quality and durable, this might be the one for you.

Pros:

The first thing most people notice about the Bron Coucke Classic Chef’s mandoline is that it’s incredibly sharp. There are three different blades spread out over the platform surface – each providing a different style cut (straight slices, French fries, waffled cuts, and julienne strips), and a handle for each blade plate you can use to lower the blades you’re not using. The same handle can be used to bring the blade higher so you can increase the slice thickness.

Contrary to other models, like our overall best, where the slice thickness settings are fixed to three or four options, here you can adjust the thickness infinitely – from paper-thin to the maximum thickness of 1/2-inch.

Additionally, thanks to the various built-in settings, you won’t need accessories with this device. You can carry out all of your activities on the same device without spending time to change blades.

The biggest advantage of the Chef’s mandoline, however, is its construction. It’s made of 100% stainless steel material. It’s heavy and sturdy with small rubber disks on the bottom to prevent it from slipping or moving while slicing.

On top of that, you even get a 1-year warranty on the product and replacement parts.

Cons:

The Bron Coucke is not suited for amateurs in the kitchen because it’s too sharp and it can be hard to use. While some people praise its sharpness, others find it a bit of an overkill. Plus, a lot of people complain it took them a long time to figure out how to use it. If you’re thinking of buying a mandoline slicer for the first time, you might be better off with one of our other recommendations.

The Verdict:

The Bron Coucke Stainless Steel Classic Mandoline is many chefs’ favorite pick, and for a reason. It’s the best mandoline slicer for large amounts of food as it can slice through anything in a matter of seconds. Plus, it’s a simple kitchen appliance made to last. The Chef’s mandoline is a lot pricier than our other recommendations, but considering the construction and advanced functionalities, this product is well worth it.

Best on a Budget: OXO Good Grips Hand-Held Mandoline Slicer

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer,WhiteWhen we combine quality and affordability, we end up with the OXO Good Grips Hand-Held slicer as the best mandoline slicer on a budget. It’s a very simple, hand-held slicer with a high-quality blade. It’s perfect for people who don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen but still want to have a fresh salad or home-made French fries without much effort.

Pros:

Simplicity is the biggest advantage of this model. Although it comes at a low price, most people buy it because they don’t want a big and complex mandoline slicer for daily use. The whole device is a flat board with a straight cut blade and a handle on the top.

Although the body is plastic, the blade is stainless steel, which means it has the power to cut through a variety of vegetables without a problem.

Plus, the product comes with a safety grip food-holder that adjusts to the sides for easier and smoother slicing.

You can even adjust the thickness to three slice sizes, which is a rare find for a mandoline slicer within its price range.

Best of all, it’s dishwasher safe, so cleaning it is no problem.

Cons:

Perfectionists might be disappointed with this model, as some people have noticed the slices don’t have a consistent thickness. This flaw might be unnoticeable or not that important for most, but if you like perfectly cut slices, you might want to invest in a pricier model.

Another drawback of the OXO Hand-Held mandoline slicer is that it doesn’t come with different cut styles, so you’re limited in what you can do with it.

The Verdict:

If you’re on a budget or you want a simple mandoline slicer for quickly slicing your fruits and veggies, the OXO is the right choice for you. Even though it doesn’t have much to offer, it is a high-quality mandoline slicer that draws people with its simplicity and ease of use.

Most Versatile: Norpro Deluxe Mandoline Slicer

Norpro Deluxe Mandoline Slicer, Grater, Shredder, Julienne and Juicer w/ Safety Guard WhiteWe chose the Norpro Deluxe as the most versatile mandoline slicer because it offers five different cut styles, a variety of slice thickness levels, and it even transforms into a citrus juicer. It’s hard to imagine a slicing style that Norpro Deluxe can’t do. It’s the perfect tool for anyone who’s creative in the kitchen and wants to experiment with food.

Pros:

Talking about versatility, the Norpro Deluxe comes with five stainless steel blades for fine and coarse grating or shredding in different styles. You can make straight cut slices, wedge cuts, waffle cuts, julienne, and french fries cut.  You can also grate, shred, and even juice.

Thickness levels vary depending on the style cut. You can adjust the slice thickness from 3-7 mm for slicing, wedge, and waffle cuts, while from 6-9mm for french fries and julienne cuts.

The Norpro Deluxe comes with a safety grip food-holder that doubles as a citrus juicer. You can easily juice fresh lemons, oranges, or citrus, and make yourself a healthy and refreshing drink.

The product comes with an instruction booklet, so regardless of your experience with mandoline slicers, you’ll know exactly what to do and how to do it.

Cons:

Only disadvantage of this model is that it’s not dishwasher safe. You’ll need to hand-wash it to prevent damaging the blades.

The safety grip food-holder can hold larger pieces of food well, like potatoes and tomatoes, while carrots or cucumbers not so much. And since the blades are very sharp, you might need to buy additional slicing gloves or food-holder to prevent injuring yourself.

The Verdict:

Choosing the Norpro Deluxe as the most versatile mandoline slicer was very easy considering how many people are impressed with everything it can do. Most importantly, it’s a high-quality slicer that cuts very efficiently and will save you a lot of time.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the Norpro Deluxe make sure to check out our detailed product review.

Conclusion

The OXO Good Grips V-Blade Mandoline Slicer is our top pick as the best mandoline slicer overall because we believe it will work wonderfully for most people. It has a sturdy construction that can satisfy even the most experienced cook, plus it comes with a lot of features for more versatility. Best of all, it’s designed with safety in mind, so beginners, as well as professionals, can use it with ease.

The Bron Coucke Classic Chef’s Mandoline is another amazing product that hit our best quality category. The device is made for professionals, as it can cut large amounts of food with its sharp blades. It’s a complex device that might be hard to use for amateurs, but professionals will appreciate the advanced functionalities.

For people who appreciate simplicity above all else, we recommend the OXO Hand-Held. Small, convenient, and budget-friendly, the OXO will cut your work in the kitchen in half without giving you a headache every time you want to set it up to slice a cucumber. However, it can be limiting for creative minds, which brings us to our final recommendation.

The Norpro Deluxe is the best mandoline slicer if you consider yourself a cooking enthusiast who wants to try the next fancy recipe. Also, it’s the perfect tool to show off in front of your friends with artistically decorated meals. Another reason why one might buy the Norpro Deluxe is that it’s the ultimate multi-use mandoline slicer. You can slice, grate, shred, and even juice, all with one device.

In case you still can’t decide on one of these four recommendations, feel free to check out our detailed product reviews where we shared our thoughts about the KitchenAid Classic Mandoline, and Swissmar Borner V-7000.

What You Need To Know About Mandoline Slicers Right Now

Mandoline slicers are one of the most affordable kitchen appliances you can own, and the value ratio is off the charts. These simple devices, either made of food-grade plastic or stainless steel in most instances, help you cut vegetables, fruits, and even cheese in precise slices. You’ll work faster, more efficiently, and food presentation will be top-notch.

Although mandoline slicers are small and most of them look very simple, they come with a multitude of parts designed to perform a variety of purposes.

The Mandoline’s Platform

The most basic part of a mandoline slicer is the platform on which you slide the food toward the blade. The platform is usually made from plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel. Cheaper models will have a plastic platform, while high-end slicers usually have a 100% stainless steel construction. The platform is not as important as the blade, but it does play a role in the quality and durability of the product.

Are plastic mandolines better than metal ones? For most home users, the answer is yes. The plastic mandoline slicers can be molded with ridges that naturally bring each cutting swipe into the best place on the kitchen appliance. Metal mandolines can do this as well, but the care options are often a little more extensive. For example, many plastic mandoline slicers can be thrown into the top shelf of your dishwasher, unlike models made out of metal.

The Mandoline’s Blade

The blade is probably the most important part of the mandoline slicer, which is why we’ll also discuss it later in the “How To Choose The Best Mandoline Slicer?” section. What you should know about the blades is that many slicers have interchangeable blades in different shapes and sizes, so you can cut the ingredients in a number of ways. A good mandoline slicer should come with a variety of strong and durable blades.

When it comes to blade design, there are usually two basic types of blades available: a standard straight blade or a “V” shaped blade. Both blades have their advantages. The straight-edge blades tend to give you a cleaner cut and a few extra aesthetic cuts for your fruits and vegetables. The “V” blade is better for mass production needs because you’ll be able to quickly get through a lot of food items in no time, yet still have consistent slicing.

With mandoline slicers, you can control the thickness of each slice. Therefore, another very practical part of a mandoline slicer is the dial for size adjustment. Depending on the model, there are different ways in which you adjust the size. The safest method is to have a dial attached to the side of the mandoline that will adjust the placement of the blade for you. For entry-level mandoline slicers, the blades themselves control the thickness of the slice, requiring you to pop out one blade to then insert another one which has the thickness you want.

Some very cheap models might only have one fixed blade, and that’s it – but try to avoid throwing money on a mandoline slicer that can’t do more than a regular knife.

The Mandoline’s Design

Mandoline slicers can be designed in two different ways – as a flat handheld slicer or with a folding stand. Handheld mandoline slicers usually have a handle you can hold while resting the blade against the working surface. The advantage of a handheld slicer is that you control the slicing angle. Models with folding stands are usually sturdier and feel safer.

Another feature that makes mandoline slicers safer is the food prep holders or a safety guard. Some models come with it, while you can choose to buy it additionally for others. Depending on the model, a mandoline slicer can also come with small nuts, bolts, hinges, levers, and/or handles.

If you’re looking for a mandoline today, you’ll want to look for a kitchen appliance that offers you a number of thickness options and a number of different blades so you can maximize your purchasing value. More blades means more variety, and more thickness options means you can refine your dishes to produce gourmet results with just minutes of effort.

Best of all, many of today’s best mandolines can be found online on websites like Amazon for around $50 or less. If you do a lot of prep work, eat several vegetarian meals per week, or just want an easy way to make fries or chips that will keep your fingers out of the way, then this is the perfect appliance to pick up today.

Just a final note: make sure to use the food prep holders that are included with the mandoline at all times. If you choose not to do so because the food you are preparing is too long, too large, or too awkward, be sure to invest in a pair of slicing gloves that will help to protect your fingers from an accidental slice as you’re working. It’s a small price to pay now to avoid a massive medical issue for that one moment when your hand slips!

How Do You Choose the Best Mandoline Slicer?

There are some good mandoline slicers on the market today, but you want to purchase the very best for your kitchen. Here are some things you should pay attention to as you take a look at each product and its comprehensive review.

Blades

We mentioned that the most important aspect of a good mandoline slicer are strong and durable, stainless steel blades, but what else? Well, “V” cut shaped blades are much more common for home-use because they’re faster and puncture the food with little needles before the two diagonal blades slice it – allowing for fruits and vegetables with thick skin to be sliced smoothly without using too much force. Choosing a “V” cut would probably be a good choice unless you’re already used to using a straight-blade slicer.

Additionally, choosing a mandoline slicer with a variety of interchangeable blades with different cuts is always an advantage. If you want to make ribbed chips, aesthetically pleasing salads, or if you’re a professional cook, this feature is a must. Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose a mandoline slicer with more or fewer cut styles and thicknesses options.

Typical blade cut styles:

  • The slice – a basic cut with a variety of thickness options.
  • The crinkle – makes small vertical lines in the slice, just like ribbed potato chips.
  • The julienne – makes thicker strips. The thickness can be adjusted.
  • The waffle – makes vertical and horizontal cuts, where the pattern is just like a typical waffle.
  • The matchstick – makes thin and short strips.

Mandoline Slicer Style

The design of the product is really important as it can limit some of its functionalities, or make it more or less comfortable when working. Aside from the blade, this is the second most important factor when shopping for the best mandoline slicer.

Some mandoline slicers have flat design and require you to hold them with your hand while slicing. Some people love this because it gives them more control, and they change bowls and ingredients within the second. On the other hand, this model won’t be good for people who work with tough ingredients or are slicing a large amount of food every day. Hand-held models require a lot of force from both hands, which becomes tiring after a while. In this case, choose a mandoline slicer with an adjustable platform or a folding stand.

Price

The good news is that you can find a good quality mandoline slicer on Amazon today for less than $50. Some higher-end models may approach or exceed the $150 mark, but the average home cook will benefit just as much from a good quality, affordable appliance. Replacement blades can often be purchased for less than $20 for many models and, with proper cleaning and maintenance, will last for several years.

Think about the above-mentioned functionalities and your needs when setting a budget for a mandoline slicer.

Before You Go

If you’ve never used a mandoline slicer before, the time to try one out is now. With budget-friendly prices and a lot of value coming back in return, you’ll find that you’ve got a lot more time on your hands when preparing your food with this kitchen appliance!

We hope that you’ve found your match in our recommendations. However, if you’re still in doubt, make sure to follow the links for each product and check out their in-depth specifications, specific prices, and customer reviews.

Also, don’t forget that you can find other product reviews, product guides, and even recipes on our blog, so check us out!

Want to see our favorite mandoline slicers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall
Best Quality
Best on a Budget
Best for Professionals