Best Manual Can Openers for 2026
Discover expert reviews and ratings for the best manual can openers that combine durability, ergonomic design, and effortless operation for your kitchen. Our comprehensive guides help you find reliable, easy-to-use can openers that make meal preparation safer and more efficient.
Updated January 2026 • 17 Products Analyzed
The Good
- Razor-sharp cutting wheel opens cans smoothly and effortlessly
- Ergonomic handles reduce hand strain and fatigue
- Durable stainless steel construction resists rusting and wear
- 2-in-1 design includes convenient bottle opener function
KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener
The KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener delivers reliable, effortless performance with its razor-sharp stainless steel cutting wheel and ergonomic design. Users consistently praise its smooth operation, durability, and built-in bottle opener functionality, making it a trustworthy kitchen staple. This well-regarded tool combines quality construction with user-friendly operation, backed by strong customer satisfaction.
The Bad
- Handle length slightly longer than expected for some users
- Limited color options compared to competitor models
The Good
- Ergonomic, oversized handles eliminate hand strain
- Sharp cutting wheel produces smooth, safe edges
- Durable construction lasts 10+ years reliably
- Works on wide cans; includes bottle opener
OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Manual Can Opener
The OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Manual Can Opener is an ergonomic, well-engineered kitchen tool praised by many for its ease of use and durability. Its oversized cushioned handles and sharp stainless steel cutting wheel make opening cans effortless, while the sturdy construction withstands years of regular use without rust or degradation. With exceptional quality and reliability, it's a premium choice that justifies its price point.
The Bad
- Steep price compared to basic models
- Learning curve for users with arthritis
The Good
- Safe smooth-edge cutting eliminates sharp hazards
- Exceptional durability, lasts years without wear
- Ergonomic design makes opening effortless
- Hygienic touch-free lid removal and gripping
Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety LidLifter Can Opener
The Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety LidLifter is a premium Swiss-engineered can opener that cuts along the outer rim of cans, leaving a safe, smooth edge without sharp burrs. Its patented side-cut design combined with ergonomic features and a built-in lid gripper makes opening cans effortless and hygienic. Users consistently praise its exceptional durability and performance, with many reporting years of reliable use that outlasts standard can openers.
The Bad
- Learning curve on proper technique required
- Ring-pull lid tool occasionally ineffective
The Good
- Smooth, effortless cutting action with precision
- Heavy-duty construction built to last years
- Comfortable oversized handles reduce hand fatigue
- Made in USA with excellent value
EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener
The EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener is a heavy-duty, American-made manual opener featuring carbon steel blades and comfortable rubberized handles. Users consistently praise its smooth gear-driven operation and effortless cutting performance, comparing it favorably to competitors. While the design appears basic and aesthetics may not appeal to everyone, the exceptional durability and reliable operation make it an outstanding value.
The Bad
- Basic, old-fashioned appearance may seem dated
- Handles lack aesthetic appeal or style
The Good
- No sharp edges on cans or lids for safe handling
- Reusable lids perfect for food storage and cleanup
- Smooth seam-cutting operation requires minimal effort
- Durable chrome construction built to last years
Good Cook Safe Cut Manual Can Opener
The Good Cook Safe Cut Manual Can Opener cuts along the can's seam rather than the top, creating smooth, burr-free edges that won't cut hands. This innovative design allows lids to be reused for storage and eliminates food contamination risks. Users consistently praise its durability, ergonomic comfort, and superior safety compared to traditional can openers.
The Bad
- Requires significant torque with larger cans like #10 coffee cans
- May struggle with unusual can profiles or aluminized cardboard cans
The Good
- Cuts smoothly with no sharp edges on lid or can
- Effortless operation requires minimal hand strength and effort
- Durable construction lasts for years with consistent performance
- Ergonomic design with soft-grip handles and built-in pliers
OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener
The OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener revolutionizes can opening with its innovative side-cutting mechanism that leaves no sharp edges on lids or cans. Featuring an oversized side-wind mechanism, soft-grip handles, and built-in pliers for safe lid removal, this well-engineered tool excels at effortless operation and durability. Backed by overwhelmingly positive reviews and OXO's reputation for quality, it delivers exceptional value for a manual can opener.
The Bad
- May struggle with smaller, flimsy cans or heavily crimped lids
- Requires learning curve for proper technique and attachment
The Good
- Smooth, easy operation with minimal effort
- Exceptional durability lasting decades
- Solid construction with respected brand reputation
- Affordable pricing for premium quality
Swing-A-Way Can Opener Steel Black
The Swing-A-Way is a highly respected manual can opener praised for its smooth operation, durability, and exceptional value. Most users report years of reliable performance with effortless cranking, though some recent purchasers have noticed potential quality inconsistencies compared to older models. Overall, it remains a top choice for those seeking a dependable, long-lasting can opener.
The Bad
- Potential quality variance in recent batches
- Cutting components may show discoloration over time
The Good
- Heavy-duty construction built to last years
- Easy-turn crank reduces hand and wrist strain
- Made in USA and sold by veterans
- Sharp carbon steel blade grips all can sizes
Manual Can Opener
This USA-made manual can opener delivers exceptional durability and ease of use with its easy-turn crank mechanism and carbon steel blade, earning widespread praise from customers tired of cheaply-made alternatives. The heavy-duty construction, non-slip grip, and ability to handle various can sizes make it a reliable kitchen essential, though some users report minor rust and grip durability issues.
The Bad
- Rubber grips can slip off with use
- Susceptible to rust without proper maintenance
The Good
- Sharp stainless steel blade cuts smoothly with minimal effort
- Leaves no jagged edges on cans for safer handling
- Ergonomic soft-touch grip with oversized handles and knob
- Built-in bottle opener adds multi-functionality
GORILLA GRIP Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Manual Can Opener
The GORILLA GRIP manual can opener combines heavy-duty stainless steel construction with an ergonomic design featuring oversized handles and a smooth-turning knob for effortless operation. Users consistently praise its sharp blade, smooth cutting action that leaves no jagged edges, and durable build quality. With great ratings from over 32,000 reviews, it delivers exceptional value as a reliable kitchen essential.
The Bad
- Hand wash only; not dishwasher safe
- May not work optimally on heavily dented or severely damaged cans
The Good
- Effortless turning with oversized knob design
- Smooth, clean cutting performance
- Comfortable grip for arthritis-friendly use
- Durable construction built to last years
UHIYEE Manual Can Opener
The UHIYEE Manual Can Opener delivers effortless, smooth cutting performance with its gear-driven design and oversized knob, making it ideal for seniors and those with limited hand strength. Built from durable double-layer steel with a comfortable cushioned grip, it efficiently opens cans while an integrated magnetic lid lifter and bottle opener add practical convenience. Most users praise its quality and reliability, though occasional quality control issues with the magnet feature have been reported.
The Bad
- Magnetic lid lifter inconsistently functional
- Premium features don't always perform as advertised
The Good
- Effortless operation with ergonomic curved handle design
- Excellent value with strong user satisfaction
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Works smoothly on various can sizes
Cuisinart CTG-01-COR Manual Can Opener, Red
The Cuisinart CTG-01-COR is a reliable manual can opener featuring an ergonomic curved handle design that makes opening cans effortless, even for those with arthritic hands. Users consistently praise its ease of use, smooth operation, and excellent value. While most feedback is positive, the product's made-in-China construction and occasional durability concerns warrant consideration.
The Bad
- Made in China with durability concerns
- Some users prefer a smaller, more compact size
The Good
- Comfortable soft-touch handles reduce hand strain
- Multi-functional with bottle opener included
- Handles multiple container sizes easily
- Durable construction for long-term use
Tovolo Elements Manual Can and Jar Opener Set
The Tovolo Elements is a versatile two-in-one manual can and jar opener designed with user accessibility in mind. Its soft-touch handles and multiple size settings make it ideal for opening everything from spice containers to oversized jars without pain or frustration. With durable construction, a built-in bottle opener, and convenient hanging loop, this is a reliable kitchen tool for everyday use.
The Bad
- Limited customer reviews for verification
- Two-tool design may require more storage space
The Good
- Cuts from side leaving smooth, safe edges
- No squeezing required; ideal for arthritis sufferers
- 3-in-1 design with bottle and jar openers
- Works on cans of all sizes and shapes
Soft Edge 3-in-1 Ambidextrous Safety Can Opener
The Soft Edge 3-in-1 Can Opener delivers an innovative no-squeeze cutting mechanism that automatically locks onto cans and cuts from the side, leaving smooth safe edges on both lid and can. This ambidextrous design works for all hand types and includes convenient built-in bottle and jar openers. Most users praise its ease of use and durability, though some report longevity concerns after extended use.
The Bad
- Requires firm grip on can during lid removal
- Some durability issues reported after 6+ months
The Good
- Heavy-weight cast construction ensures durability
- Soft grip handles for comfortable operation
- Dual-purpose top loop bottle opener
- Smooth, effortless can opening performance
Good Cook Touch Locking Can Opener
The Bradshaw Good Cook Touch Locking Can Opener delivers solid, sturdy performance with its heavy-weight cast construction and comfortable soft grip handles. This reliable manual opener features a dual-purpose design with a top loop bottle opener, making it a practical kitchen tool. Users praise its effortless operation and durable build quality.
The Bad
- Limited review data with only single review
- No information on long-term durability or warranty
The Good
- Large knob makes opening cans effortless and comfortable
- Durable chrome head withstands rigorous use and extended storage
- Sharp blades cut smoothly through cans with minimal effort
- Built-in bottle opener adds practical two-in-one functionality
Farberware Pro 2 Can Opener
The Farberware Pro 2 is a sturdy, user-friendly manual can opener with an easy-turn knob and ergonomic handles that appeal to users with limited strength. Most reviewers praise its smooth operation and durable chrome construction, though some report inconsistent performance on certain can types and occasional quality control issues.
The Bad
- Performance inconsistent with certain lid types and can designs
- Quality control issues reported including handle separation and rust
The Good
- Smooth, effortless operation with minimal hand strain
- Comfortable grip and locking mechanism ensures stability
- Sharp stainless steel blade makes clean cuts
- Built-in magnet lifts lids hands-free
Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener
The Zyliss Lock N' Lift Can Opener combines ergonomic design with a locking mechanism that reduces hand strain, making it an excellent choice for users with arthritis or limited grip strength. Reviewers consistently praise its smooth operation, comfortable grip, and sharp stainless steel cutting edge. While durability concerns emerge in some longer-term reviews, the overall design prioritizes ease of use and user-friendly operation.
The Bad
- Durability issues reported after 1-2 years
- Magnet lid lifter somewhat weak and awkward
The Good
- Compact, space-saving design perfect for storage
- Smooth twist mechanism requires minimal effort
- Produces clean cuts with safe, smooth edges
- Easy-to-use lid-release button for convenient removal
Joseph Joseph Can-Do Plus Compact Can Opener
The Joseph Joseph Can-Do Plus is a compact, easy-to-use manual can opener featuring an innovative twist mechanism and automatic grip design. Most users praise its space-saving profile, smooth operation, and clean cutting action that produces minimal sharp edges. However, some users report durability issues after extended use and potential stability concerns with certain hand positions.
The Bad
- Durability concerns—some units fail after 1-2 months
- Can wobble or slip in certain hand positions