We’ve all been there: struggling to open a can with a rusty manual can opener that can barely pierce the metal anymore. It’s usually not until those moments that we realize we need a can opener upgrade. The problem is that many can openers have a short lifespan—they’re great until suddenly they aren’t. But the best electric can openers solve these issues and make opening a can the easy kitchen task it should be.
We tested some of the top-rated options in our home kitchens, then evaluated each on ease of use, design, ease of cleaning, performance, and value. Dozens of cans ranging in size from 8 to 28 ounces, containing beans, tuna, and more were opened to make sure these options are the best. We also tested the openers on dented cans to asses the true efficacy and strength of these gadgets.
Best Overall
Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Can Opener
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/hamilton-beach-76380z-classic-chrome-heavyweight-can-opener-black-03fc013775e64e1f9121724fe10c5573.jpg)
- Easy to use
- Cuts cleanly and without sharp edges
- Includes knife-sharpening feature
- Fairly priced
- Sometimes tips with oversized cans
This heavyweight can opener from Hamilton Beach is a top seller because of its durability and overall performance. It features SureCut patented technology that makes sure the can opens on the first try, every time. Besides opening cans, it has a knife-sharpening feature. The opener plugs into the wall, but it has cord storage to keep it tidy and out of sight when you’re not using it. When it’s time to clean up, you can conveniently remove the cutting unit to wash it.
This can opener is a proven workhorse. We found that it was able to open up both small and large cans well. However, a word of warning: there were issues with the device tipping when working with oversized cans. We advise holding the base of the device steady with your hands when opening larger cans. Nevertheless, we love how clean the cuts are, how long the unit lasts, and how easy it is for people with arthritis or stiffness in their hands to use.
Dimensions: 6.9 x 5.1 x 10.2 inches | Weight: 2.09 pounds | Power source: Plug In
Best Design
Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless Steel Can Opener SCO60C
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Cuisinart-Deluxe-Stainless-Steel-Can-Opener-SCO60C-505c5ee78179428a9265d6d41378975a.jpg)
- Opens cans without any stalling or jumping
- Hands-free operation
- Plugs in so you never need to change batteries
- Doesn’t take up too much counter space
- Blade is exposed when cleaning lever
- Leaves sharp edges on the lid
Cuisinart pulled out all the stops with its Deluxe Electric Can Opener. This countertop model has a sleek, slim design that takes up minimal space and a brushed stainless steel finish that makes it the best-looking option on this list (in our opinion). Of course, looks aren’t everything but it gets high marks in performance, too. During our testing, this can opener produced precise, even cuts, even on cans that were slightly dented. It has a one-touch operation and a magnet that holds cans in place, so you just have to set the can up and press the lever, and it will do the work even if you walk away.
During testing, we were impressed by how easy it was to align the can and clamp it into place. It doesn’t require you to hold onto the can; this device will hold onto it securely for you and makes clean smooth cuts. Even with a dented can, this opener handled the task with ease and had no issues. It holds any size of can, too. We tested 6-ounce tomato paste cans all the way up to 28-ounce crushed tomato cans, and the results were consistent each time. This can opener quickly, cleanly, and easily cut through cans of any size, making it well worth the price tag.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ses-electric-can-openers-test-cuisinart-deluxe-stainless-steel-sco60c-bailey-fink-02-63a89fb75e7249d29b7510d76c55262f.jpg)
Dimensions: 4.47 x 4.62 x 9.35 inches | Weight: 2.65 pounds | Power source: Plug In
Best Budget
Handy Can Opener Automatic One Touch Electric Can Opener
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/handy-can-opener-automatic-one-touch-electric-can-opener-b680ae5577c34a518812e925fbff9691.jpg)
- Cuts without sharp edges
- Ergonomic design fits nicely in your hand
- Compact enough to store in a drawer
- Easy to operate
- Jams on dented cans
- Occasionally stops mid-cut
Electric can openers aren’t especially cheap, but the Handy One Touch is a budget-friendly option with impressive performance for the price. While it struggled a little on dented cans during our testing, it was able to produce clean cuts most of the time. Another handy (pun intended) feature, is that the can opener attaches to the can with a magnet, so the lid stays put when it’s cut, and you can just lift it right off without having to dig into the can. It also has an automatic timer, so you just have to push the button rather than hold it down as it goes. Once the can is open, the blade will stop on its own. Of all the handheld models, this one fit in our hand most comfortably. We also noted that this opener was a bit harder to wipe clean than others, due to the nooks and crannies, but fortunately it did not tend to get dirty very easily.
Dimensions: 7.76 x 5.39 x 2.8 inches | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Power source: AA Batteries (2)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ses-electric-can-openers-test-handy-automatic-one-touch-ashley-bayley-01-27ee67f808b842cc9000a243fa0eea40.jpg)
Best Rechargeable
Hamilton Beach Walk ‘n Cut Can Opener
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/hamilton-beach-walk-n-cut-electric-can-opener-for-kitchen-use-on-any-size-automatic-and-hand-free-cordless--rechargeable-easy-clean-removable-a8b75c86edd14438b229501df11afc7c.jpg)
- Rechargeable battery
- Hands-free operation
- Cutting blade assembly is removable
- Doesn’t work on pop-top cans
- Larger than expected
The Hamilton Beach Walk ‘n Cut Can Opener combines the best of both worlds. It operates on a battery, so you don’t have to plug it in, but that battery is rechargeable, so it doesn’t need replacing. The rechargeable battery is also smaller than the AA batteries that the other handheld models use, so this can opener is considerably lighter than some of the other handhelds. However, we were expecting it to be a bit smaller than it is. We wouldn’t necessarily call it “compact” as the listing states, but because this is a walk and cut model, you don’t have to hold it while it’s cutting.
During testing, we found that its performance was powerful and fast, opening all sorts of cans in a matter of seconds and without a mess. The opener glides across the can, resulting in seamless cuts. Another standout feature: the cutting blade is removable, so it’s easier to clean than other handheld models. One downside is that, because of the way the magnet is positioned, it doesn’t work well on pop-top cans. We also noted during our tests that this opener could get loud at times.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ses-electric-can-openers-test-hamilton-beach-walk-n-cut-abby-moore-02-b43e7866dd864c958fc87358ab8ebae9.jpg)
Dimensions: 8.5 x 4.5 x 5.8 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Power source: Rechargeable batteries
Best Multifunction
Hamilton Beach OpenStation Electric Automatic Can Opener
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/hamilton-beach-openstation-electric-automatic-can-opener-for-kitchen-with-multi-tool-and-jar-lid-remover-auto-shutoff-cord-storage-and-sure-cut-0c7aa5562436429888b80e9c6c98c516.jpg)
- Sleek appearance
- Reasonably priced
- Comes with extra features
- Had issues with some heavier cans
This slim powerhouse of a can opener is actually a few different tools in one. Aside from seamlessly opening cans, it can open jars and bottles and cut through hard plastic packaging. The nonslip jar opener is stored on top of the can opener, and the handy little multitool fits perfectly into the base of this gadget.
We like that the cutting unit itself is removable to make for easy cleaning every time. We did find that this opener has some issues with heavier cans—when testing with a 28-ounce, the gadget couldn’t handle the weight and required a hand to stabilize it and keep it upright. Overall, testing confirmed that this can opener made a smooth job of opening cans and beyond, making it an ideal all-in-one kitchen essential.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ses-electric-can-openers-test-hamilton-beach-open-station-stephanie-lewis-04-2879e6e3e6f348e793d7628a4d25db77.jpg)
Best Hands Free
Bangrui Professional Electric Can Opener
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/kitchen-automatic-safety-cordless-one-tin-touch-electric-can-openerbangrui-professional-electric-can-openerone-touch-switch-smooth-can-edgebeing-b43f3e3602d64ae0b11757db1d968685.jpg)
- Leaves no jagged edges
- Easy one-button function
- Compact size doesn’t take up counter space
- Does not pull the lid off for you
- Batteries not included
This electric can opener is small but mighty. Fitting comfortably into one hand, it needs only a push of a button to quickly and cleanly slice open the lids of cans. It doesn’t leave behind any rough or jagged edges, making it a safe tool for any age. During testing, we loved how easy this can opener was to use—it required no effort and worked smoothly, even on dented cans. In fact, on the first test, we mistakenly thought it had not actually cut the can, since there was no visible seam. This was because the cut was just so perfect and imperceptible.
One thing we noted was that the device does not stop itself automatically once it’s done going around the lid. We had to press the button again to get it to stop. That certainly is not a dealbreaker, as the can opener still remains a reliable and quick-working tool, complete with a compact size that is easy to stow away.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ses-electric-can-openers-test-bangrui-smooth-soft-edge-ashley-bayley-02-eaea5176c56543ccbd87cb1653269a8f.jpg)
Dimensions: 7.05 x 2.72 x 2.46 inches | Weight: 0.5 pounds | Power source: AA Batteries (4)
Best Compact
Bella Electric Can Opener
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Bella-Electric-Can-Opener-17c0d3315a76415baf971e7bb27f3241.jpg)
- Cord storage works well
- Comes in fun colors
- Includes knife sharpener and bottle opener
- Auto start feature
- Liquid may spill from can
For an effortless and versatile tool that hardly takes up any counter space, look no further than this sleek model here. Its got a small footprint, handy extra features, and convenient cord storage that’s easy to figure out. It comes in pretty colors, like sage green and spring yellow, that you’ll be proud to display on your countertops.
When put to the test, this can opener performed well. It created seamless cuts, and the auto start and off feature is an added perk. One caveat that we noticed is that some liquid spilled from the can when removing the can from the device. Fortunately, cleanup is quite easy—a simple wipe and it was good as new. Plus, with this can opener’s included knife sharpener and bottle opener, it is a three-in-one value that can’t be beaten.
Dimensions: 4.52 x 3.93 x 7.87 inches | Weight: 1.96 pounds | Power source: Plug in
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Can Opener, because it’s durable and easy to use, and it performs well every time. For a top-performing, budget-friendly pick, we recommend the Handy Can Opener.
How We Tested
We sent several electric can openers to our team of editors and writers, who tried each out with different-sized cans containing tomato sauce, beans, tuna, and more, to determine which were the very best. Each electric can opener was rated on ease of use, design, ease of cleaning, performance, and overall value. Our testers then offered additional insights on each electric can opener’s strengths and weaknesses. The tests included:
- Opening 8, 15, and 28 oz. cans
- Trying the openers on dented cans
- Hand cleaning each can
What to Look for in an Electric Can Opener
Power Source
When shopping for an electric can opener, power source is an important consideration.
Plug-in can openers are always ready to be used, so you’ll have to deal with dead batteries. The downside is that you’re limited as to where you can use them, since you’ll need to be close to an electrical outlet, which also limits travel capabilities. If you’re solely using the electric can opener at home, it’s not an issue, but if you like to go camping, a plug-in model can limit you.
The other options are battery-operated can openers. They’re very portable, since they don’t require a separate power source, and they’re handy when the power goes out. The downside, of course, is that you’ll have to replace the batteries occasionally.
Size/Storage
On a related note, you’ll want to think about the size and where you’ll be storing the can opener when it’s not in use. If you don’t open a lot of cans, you might want to store your can opener in a drawer or in a cabinet, so it’ll be handy when you need it, and hidden when you don’t. The other option is a countertop model that stays on your kitchen counter, even when you’re not using it. That is when size becomes an important factor. If you want to stow your can opener away in a drawer, you’ll need a smaller, handheld model. If you’re okay with giving up some counter space, a plug-in model will work for you.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Can_Openers_Hamilton_Beach_Walk_n_Cut_03-23435d471a944cc98b223689b2d4671f.jpg)
Type of Cut
There are two ways electric can openers cut into a can: on the side or into the top. Side-cut openers cut below the can’s rim, unsealing the top and leaving a smooth, safe edge. That also creates a lid that you can use to cover the can temporarily, and it prevents you from having to dig the piece of metal out of the can.
Traditional can openers cut the lid just inside the rim, leaving a circle of metal with sharp edges. That type of cut can be handy when you’re draining the liquid from the can. And while manual can openers drop the lid into the top of the can, electric can openers typically have a magnet that holds onto it so you can carefully remove and discard it.
FAQs
How do you operate an electric can opener?
All electric can openers are slightly unique, but the methods of operation are similar. When using an electric can opener, the first step is lining up the lid of the can with the blade and gear assembly. With handheld models, the next step is to engage the opener by pushing the power button. Standing models usually have a lever that you clamp down to signal the can opener to start.
Once the can opener is started, the blade will cut along the can, until the lid is completely removed. Both types of electric can openers typically have a magnet that securely holds onto the lid, so you can then safely discard it without having to dig around inside the can to grab it.
How do you clean an electric can opener?
Unlike manual can openers that you can submerge in a water-and-vinegar solution, electric can openers require more focused care. Every time you use the can opener, wipe down the body and the blade with a clean cloth to remove debris. That helps to prevent buildup and ensures that the can opener is ready for its next use.
If your can opener needs a deeper clean, you can use a toothbrush or a cotton swab to get into hard-to-reach areas. Soak the cotton swab in vinegar, and carefully clean the blade and assembly, or use mild dish soap and hot water with a toothbrush to scrub away any buildup.
If the blade or assembly is removable, you can (carefully) take it off and soak it in a 1:1 water-and-vinegar solution, or in some hot water with mild dish soap, for a few minutes and then dry it off completely before reassembling the can opener.
No matter how you clean, always make sure the blade is completely dry afterward. That will help prevent rust from forming.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Can_Openers_Oster_Tall_Electric_06-bf51d801cf344a1a94069bec589a2189.jpg)
Does an electric can opener need to be sharpened?
Like any other blade, an electric can opener can eventually go dull, but there’s an easy trick you can use to sharpen it: Tear off a strip of aluminum foil, and fold it over on itself twice to quadruple the thickness. Carefully run the aluminum foil along the blade, turning the blade as you go, to make sure the entire thing is covered. Repeat two to three times, and test the blade. If necessary, repeat the process until the blade sharpens.
If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the can opener instead. In some cases, it’s possible to order replacement parts, but it may be more cost-effective to simply buy a new one.
