Quick Summary: The Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener our pick for the best electric can opener because it received top reviews in terms of safety, durability, and ease-of-use. You don’t need much strength to operate it, so anyone with limited hand strength should be able to open standard-sized regular and pop-top cans with minimal effort.
The best electric can openers should be able to open cans of different sizes, have a sturdy base so that they don’t tip over (if they are freestanding models), be easy to use, and of course have a sharp blade for maximum cutting power.
Some are battery-operated and so the number of batteries required as well as the weight of the handheld unit are important factors to consider.
You want to be able to open cans quickly, safely and easily, without any mess, and you will want to attach cans easily without having to make several attempts.
If your can is left with a smooth edge, all the better. You will also want to consider the durability of your chosen model – some will last longer than others. Some come with a manufacturer guarantee or warranty for added peace of mind.
The top electric can openers can do the job well with minimum effort on your part. But are these models as good as the manufacturers promise they are? Which one should you choose?
In this extensive review, we have researched the best models of can openers, electric in particular, so that you can make the most informed choice.
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- Comparison of 10 Best Electric Can Openers
- Reviews of 10 Top Electric Can Openers
- How to Choose the Best Electric Can Opener
Comparison Of 10 Best Electric Can Openers
 | 1. Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Can Opener (Best Overall)This Hamilton Beach model features an easy push-down lever and is one of the best for opening cans of all standard sizes, including pop-top cans. Extra tall, with cord storage inside. | Read Our Review |
 | 2. Handy Can Opener: Automatic & One Touch (Best Budget)This compact can opener 'walks' around cans to open them easily and quickly, and then automatically shuts off. Powered by 2 AA batteries (not included), simple to grip and to use safely. | Read Our Review |
 | 3. BLACK+DECKER Spacemaker Multi-Purpose Can OpenerA multi-tool that is a can opener, bag cutter, bottle opener, and knife sharpener. Fits underneath cabinets to save space on your countertop, with the tools behind a sleek swing-open door. | Read Our Review |
 | 4. Cuisinart CCO-50BKN Deluxe Electric Can OpenerThis standing electric can opener features a precision power-cut blade, magnetic lid holder, a removable activation lever for easy cleaning, and can open any standard-sized can. | Read Our Review |
 | 5. Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless Steel Electric Can OpenerRemove can lids at the touch of a button, with the Power Cutâ„¢ blade of this attractive can opener. Works with any standard size can and has a removable activation lever. | Read Our Review |
 | 6. Hamilton Beach 76388R Classic Chrome Heavyweight Can OpenerAn extra-tall, beautiful red can opener that includes a knife sharpener, automatic shutoff, and a heavy base for added stability. The removable cutting unit is dishwasher-safe. | Read Our Review |
 | 7. Cuisinart SCO-60 Deluxe Stainless Steel Can OpenerThis modern style can opener will look good in any kitchen, with its Power Cut blade, one-touch operation, and removable activation lever. Comes with a limited 3-year warranty. | Read Our Review |
 | 8. Instecho, Smooth Edge Automatic Electric Can OpenerA can opener that works hands free at the touch of a button, thanks to the magnet holding the lid. No sharp edges here - the opener leaves rounded edges every time, for maximum safety. | Read Our Review |
 | 9. Electric Can Opener with Bottle Opener & Pop Top Opener KnifeFeaturing an attractive chrome coating to match other kitchen appliances, you'll get a 4-in-one tool that opens bottles, sharpens knives, opens standard cans and pop-top cans too. | Read Our Review |
 | 10. Kitchen Mama Electric Can OpenerOne of the best can openers for anyone struggling to use their hands. The ergonomic grip and hands-free feature makes this opener easy to use. Push the button to start and stop. Simple! | Read Our Review |
Reviews of 10 Top Electric Can Openers
After considerable research, we narrowed it down to these ten electric can openers. Here they are:
Best Overall
1. Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener with Easy Push Down Lever
What You Will Love: The Hamilton Beach (76606ZA) Smooth Touch Electric Automatic Can Opener easily opens all standard-sized cans, even those with pop-top lids. Its side-cutting system leaves a smooth edge.
The can opener’s ergonomic push-down lever makes the device incredibly easy to operate.
All you have to do is fit the rim of the can to the cutting mechanism, hold down the lever until the blade makes a full rotation, and lift off the lid.
The can opener’s attractive black and chrome design goes with any kitchen. Measuring 5″x4″x9″, it won’t take up much space.
Who It’s For
Anyone looking for an easy, effective way to open regular and `op-top cans, especially those with arthritis or limited hand strength.
Pros:
- This model is easy to use, has a classic look, and opens virtually all types of cans.
- Since it cuts from the side and doesn’t come in contact with food, the blades don’t get very dirty, so clean-up is a snap. The cord can be stored inside the appliance for added convenience.
Cons:
- A few reviewers reported that small pieces of metal from the cans broke off in the unit. They also warned users not to let the blade go around the can more than once.
- Multiple rotations resulted in flecks of metal leaving a mess on countertops and getting into the can’s contents. Mark the blade’s starting point so you know when it’s gone around the can once.
- The machine also makes a different sound when starting a second rotation, which indicates that it’s time to shut it off. While the device opens most cans, there are some that it can’t handle.
- Reviewers recommend tearing off any paper around the can if the blade gets hung up on it. Even then, it may occasionally be necessary to resort to a manual opener.
Best Budget
2. Handy Can Opener: Automatic One Touch Electric Can Opener
What You Will Love:
With a blade that “walks” around the can before automatically shutting off, this little device allows you to open cans safely and efficiently.
This battery-powered device leaves no sharp edges as it effortlessly slices through virtually all types and sizes of cans.
Who It’s For
Since this appliance does all the work for you, it is highly-recommended by and for seniors suffering from arthritis, and others who have limited use of their hands.
It’s also a good fit for busy people who don’t have a lot of time for meal-prep. You can concentrate on other tasks while your can opener glides its way through tinned foods.
Pros:
- It’s affordable and easy to operate. The lid basically removes itself when you disengage the can from the machine.
- Since it’s battery-driven, you can use it even when the power’s out- a time when you may be especially likely to rely on canned foods such as canned beans, canned sardines, canned chili, etc.
Cons:
- Some reviewers warn that while their appliance does its job effectively, it can take a long time for the blade to rotate around the can.
- It may be tempting to try to “help it along” with a little manual intervention, but it’s best to just leave the unit alone to work at its own pace.
- Some users also reported that this can opener’s longevity is limited, while others noted that theirs has lasted a long time.
- Be sure to follow the instruction when using it, and to change the two AA batteries regularly to keep it in good working order.
Best Under Counter Electric Can Opener
3. BLACK+DECKER Spacemaker Multi-Purpose Can Opener, Black, CO100B
What You Will Love: We selected the BLACK+DECKER Space maker Multi-Purpose Can Opener, Black, CO100B as the best under counter electric can opener because of its versatility and ease-of-use.
Its power pierce cutter effectively slices through lids and essentially removes them for you. And it shuts off automatically when you’re not using it.
This handy appliance conveniently attaches to the undersides of counters, so it saves space while remaining within easy reach. It’s also designed with built-in cord storage.
If that’s all we had to say about this compact device, it would still rank among the best of its kind. But what really sets it apart is that it’s more than just a can opener.
Swing open its metal door to see what’s inside and you’ll find a treasure chest of tools to make your work in the kitchen simpler: a built-in bag-cutter, knife-sharpener, and bottle opener. Its simple style goes with virtually any kitchen decor.
Who It’s For
Anyone looking for a versatile can opener. It’s great for apartments, campers, RVs, and other settings where space is limited.
Pros:
- It opens cans efficiently and is easy to use. It’s ideal if you’re trying to avoid countertop clutter or have limited space.
- This culinary tool box serves multiple purposes, so you don’t have to buy implements separately and keep track of them.
Cons:
- Two-person installation is recommended, and you’ll need some tools to get the job done: a ruler, tape, an electric drill, and a screwdriver.
- This can be a challenge if you don’t easily have someone else on hand to set it up, you’re not comfortable with power tools, or you just want something that’s easier to install.
- This unit can only be used on flat-bottom cabinets (those without light rail molding on the bottom), and may not fit certain cabinet sizes.
Best for One-Touch Operation
4. Cuisinart CCO-50BKN Deluxe Electric Can Opener
What You Will Love: Looking for a can opener that requires almost no effort to operate? Look no further than the Cuisinart CCO-50BKN Deluxe Electric Can Opener. Its precision Power Cut blade quickly separates lids from cans to make meal-prep faster and easier.
Activated by a press-and-release lever, this deluxe can opener lives up to its name by doing all the work for you. An added bonus: Its sturdy, extra-wide base prevents sliding and tipping.
Connected to the detachable lever are the blade and magnetic lid holder, which allows them to be removed for easy, fast cleaning.
Some can openers have to be turned off manually or they’ll just keep going round and round, possibly causing unnecessary tearing or shredding of the can.
This unit shuts off automatically when it has done its job, making it especially low-maintenance. Its chrome design adds a bit of unique style to your kitchen.
Who It’s For
This can opener is an ideal addition to your kitchen if you’re a busy cook looking for a way to quickly, effectively open cans so you can get on with the business of meal-preparation.
If you have arthritis or other issues affecting manual dexterity, this one-touch appliance won’t put your hand strength to the test.
Pros:
- One-touch operation makes using this appliance hassle-free.
- It can handle any standard-sized can and is easy to clean.
- Its compact size means it won’t clutter your countertop.
Cons:
- Users recommend that you hold the can while it’s being opened, which isn’t always convenient, but it’s certainly easier than manual can-opening.
- According to customer reviews, this can opener is also known to shred the labels on cans, littering the area beneath the blade with scraps of paper.
Best Stainless Steel Electric Can Opener
5. Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless Steel Electric Can Opener
What You Will Love: Stainless steel can openers are generally known for their durability. In our search for the best electric opener in this category, we came up with the Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless Steel Electric Can Opener.
Like other can openers bearing the Cuisinart label, this unit allows you to open standard-size cans with one-touch operation.
The magnetic lid holder secures the can in place while the precision Power Cut blade makes slicing through the lid effortless.
With its extra-wide base, this freestanding can opener is designed to prevent sliding and tipping.
Its stainless steel design is durable and the removable lever makes for easy cleaning, making this appliance low-maintenance.
Who It’s For
This is for anyone looking for a can opener that doesn’t take much work to operate or maintain-busy cooks, people with arthritis, those who would rather not spend a lot of time opening cans so they can concentrate on other tasks.
Pros:
- It’s easy to use, opens cans easily, and is heavy-duty. You don’t have to hold the can while the machine cuts off the lid, and you don’t have to worry about the can or the unit being thrown off-balance.
- Plus it looks good on just about any countertop, especially alongside other premium appliances. This device is low maintenance.
Cons:
- Some reviewers reported that the can opener didn’t last as long as they expected it to, or that after a short time it would cut only an inch or so around the can at a time, at which point it had to be restarted.
- One customer also reported that the device drops cans after opening them, causing their contents to spill all over the counter.
Best Heavy-Duty Electric Can Opener
6. Hamilton Beach 76388R Extra-Tall Classic Chrome Heavyweight Can Opener
What You Will Love: We had to give the award for best electric can opener in the heavyweight division to the Hamilton Beach 76388R Ensemble Electric Can Opener. This extra-tall appliance triples as a can opener, bottle-opener and knife-sharpener.
Its design allows for hands-free operation when opening cans.
You can remove the whole cutting mechanism for easy cleaning, and it’s dishwasher-safe, so it’s low-maintenance.
Sure Cut action means you can open cans on the first attempt. It shuts off automatically when not in use.
You can store the cord inside the unit, so no worries about cords getting tangled or taking up space on counters or inside drawers or cabinets.
Who It’s For
This is for anyone looking for a convenient, versatile, sturdy can opener. If you don’t have a lot of space on your counters, you will especially appreciate the internal cord storage and 3-in-1 capacity of this appliance (bottle opener, can opener, and knife-sharpener).
This item is good for apartments, campers, RVs, or other places with compact kitchens. Reviewers gave it exceptionally high ratings across the board.
Pros:
- This electric can opener is sturdy and durable, versatile, and easy to operate, clean, and store.
- For small- and medium-size cans (those that don’t exceed the distance between the cutter and the counter), you don’t have to hold the can when opening; a magnet keeps it in place.
- Reviewers gave it high ratings in terms of ease-of-cleaning, ease-of-use, and durability.
Cons:
- It may have trouble oping larger cans. For cans of all sizes, the blade can get caught on the paper wrapped around the can.
- When the size of the can exceeds the distance between the blade and the counter, you may have to support the bottom of the can with your hand as it’s turning.
Best Countertop Electric Can Opener
7. Cuisinart SCO-60 Deluxe Stainless Steel Can Opener
What You Will Love: When it comes to the best countertop electric can opener, the gold medal goes to the Cuisinart SCO-60 Deluxe Stainless Steel Can Opener.
The magnetic lid holder keeps the can balanced and in place while the precision Power Cut blade seamlessly slices through the top of standard-size cans, so you can use the lid to drain the contents.
When you release the can from the opener, a small magnetic piece removes the lid. It’s activated by a press-and-release lever. You can easily remove the lever to clean it and the blade.
Its style accents a luxury chef’s kitchen, or any other culinary decor you happen to have. At 9.75″x4.5″x4.5″, it’s compact enough that it won’t take up much counter space, but it packs a lot of power into one small appliance.
Who It’s For
If you have weakness in your hands, this can opener is a good choice because it’s sturdy and does all the work for you.
If you already have a lot of stainless steel appliances, this one will match the rest of your kitchen. If you’re busy and don’t want to spend a lot of time on clean-up, this machine is low-maintenance.
Pros:
- It’s easy to use and its stainless steel design gives it a classy appearance. It’s tall and heavy so it isn’t prone to tipping.
- Another plus: It doesn’t make too much noise. Clean up is virtually effortless.
Cons:
- If you’re opening a gallon-size can, you will need to support it with your hand during opening.
- Some customers reported that the opener cuts for a short time, then stops and has to be restarted multiple times to get it to slice all the way around the lid.
- Others noted problems with getting the device to grasp the can, or that it would drop the can in the middle of opening, splattering its contents.
Best Automatic Electric Can Opener
8. Instecho Electric Can Opener, Restaurant Can Opener, Smooth Edge Automatic Electric Can Opener
What You Will Love: We wanted to find an automatic can opener that’s reasonably-priced and requires no effort to operate, and the Electric Can Opener, Restaurant Can Opener, Smooth Edge Automatic Electric Can Opener met all our criteria.
At the touch of a bottom, this device cuts off lids with rounded edges so you don’t risk cutting yourself when handling them.
Another safety feature that we like: the blade is recessed within the unit so your hands won’t come into contact with it, minimizing the risk of injuries. It’s incredibly easy to use.
All you have to do is position the rim of the can between the blade and the metal gear. Press the on/off switch to activate, and the gear takes over, easily bringing the can full-circle as it slices it open.
Press the switch when you’re ready to stop the machine, and simply lift the can opener off the can. When you do, its magnetic component will take off the lid.
Who It’s For
This is ideal for people who have arthritis or other conditions that limit hand strength. It’s also recommended for those whose kitchens pose space constraints- apartment-dwellers and RV-travelers, for instance.
Pros:
- This best automatic can opener is well-known for its user-friendliness and safety features.
- Since the magnetic part removes the lid so you don’t have to stick your fingers in the can, this unit offers a more hygienic solution to can-opening. Its compact size makes it easy to store.
Cons:
- The can opener sometimes does not stop rotating when it’s supposed to. When that happens, it can be difficult to remove the can from the machine.
- Some customers reported that they had to restart the opener several times to go completely around the can. The unit is also very loud.
Best Smooth Edge Electric Can Opener
9. Electric Can Opener with Bottle Opener and Pop Top Opener
What You Will Love: The Electric Can Opener with Bottle Opener, Pop Top Opener Knife Sharpener Extra-Tall for All Standard Size, Smooth Edge Can Opener, Chrome Coating got top marks as the best smooth edge can opener because of its thoughtful design and versatility.
You can open cans in a variety of sizes and heights with this model.
Use the bottle opener to easily open drink lids, and give your dull knives their original keen edges with the built-in blade sharpener.
The machine’s safe smooth-edge cut system slices cleanly along the side of the can and the top, so you aren’t left with any metal shavings.
A magnet holds the lid in place keeping it and your fingers out of the food when the can is open. The blade cuts cans from the top.
When its done cutting through a can, it shuts off automatically. Its sleek style looks good in any kitchen, and its compact design saves space.
The removable lever is dishwasher safe, so clean-up is a snap. An extra bonus: it comes with built-in cord storage, reducing countertop or cabinet clutter.
Who It’s For
This is a good buy if your hands aren’t up to exerting a lot of effort when opening cans.
It’s also recommended if you have limited kitchen space or don’t like keeping track of a lot of tools, since it’s a multi-purpose appliance.
Pros:
- You can perform several functions with one appliance. It doesn’t require any manual labor to operate, and it’s easy to clean.
- It doesn’t leave sharp edges, so you don’t have to worry about cutting your fingers on newly-opened cans. And the unit doesn’t make much noise.
Cons:
- You may have trouble opening especially large cans with this appliance. It may not be as durable as heavier models.
Related Reading: Top Electric Wine Opener
Best Handheld Can Opener
10. Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener, Food-Safe and Battery Operated Handheld Can Opener
What You Will Love: You’ll love how you can push a button and stand back from this can opener. Electric opening with no hands required!
This model makes a great present for anyone who wants to make opening lids easy. The manufacturer says it’s so simple to use, even your cat can do it!
Simple Operation
Push the button to turn it on, and it will cut 360 degrees along the lid, no hands needed. Push the button again to stop.
Safe Design
The blade cuts along the side of the lid without touching the food, and without leaving any sharp edges.
Who It’s For
Anyone who has challenges to hold onto things can hold this model, with its user-friendly and ergonomic design. Perfect for anyone with delicate or fragile hands.
Pros:
- Users say this model is really good for encouraging people to cook again, including those with arthritis or special needs.
- Works quickly and is good value for money.
- You get a can with smooth edges that you could recycle or use safely for other things.
Cons:
- Requires 4 AA batteries (not included).
- Some users say it can be difficult to remove the unit from the can.
How to Choose the Best Electric Can Opener?
According to Amazon, the average US household uses 600 steel cans per year. While manual can openers are a more durable, lower-tech solution, they can really put your hand strength to the test.
You might think that since they only have one simple job to do, all electric can openers are pretty much the same. But there are different types, and they vary in terms of safety, maintenance, and ease-of-use.
Here’s a quick overview of what to look for, as well as the different types of can-opening gadgets.
Top cutting can openers
With top-cutting can openers, the blade typically comes into contact with the can’s contents, so it has to be cleaned more often. One with a removable, dishwasher-safe lever and blade is probably your best option.
Another thing to note about the top-cutting can openers: unless there is a magnetic part to hold up the lid, it will fall into the can once it’s been cut off, which isn’t the most sanitary, especially if you have to dig it out with your fingers.
Top-cutting cans are especially handy, however, if you like using the lid to drain the contents of the can.
Side cutting can openers
As their name suggests, these cut along the side of the can without slicing into the top, which stops the blades from touching the food within.
Not only is this more hygienic, but it’s lower maintenance, since there’s less clean-up involved.
Another plus: The contents won’t splash or seep out of the top since the lid stays closed until you remove it, but you can’t use it to drain the can.
Countertop can openers
Freestanding countertop can openers can add style to your kitchen and can be placed within easy reach. Many of them come in stainless steel, or with a chrome finish, so they can match any decor.
Handheld and cordless can openers
Cordless can openers are helpful if you’re concerned about access to an outlet or you want more freedom to carry the can opener from one place to another.
Under the cabinet can openers
These are a convenient option if your storage space is limited. But they have some limitations.
Most can openers of this type can only be easily installed on flat-bottom cabinets, although some customers have found creative ways to secure them to cabinets that have a lip, such as using an extra piece of wood for support.
You’ll also need to drill holes in your cabinet and have some tools on hand for installation. However, the best can openers that go under the counter come with templates to show you where to drill.
Reviewers reported that it usually takes about 20 minutes to get the can opener in place, and it’s usually a two-person job.
Grip strength
If you have limited hand strength, can openers provide the leverage you need, because they do all or most of the work, at the touch of a button.
Some units require you to hold the can as it turns, while others balance it so you’re free to focus on other tasks.
Budget
Some of the best can openers can also be had at a fairly low price. Be prepared to pay more for an electric appliance than you would for a manual one, but you’ll reap the rewards of your investment by saving yourself time and trouble.
Functionality and versatility
Some of the models we looked at are more than can openers- they work as bottle-openers and knife-sharpeners, too.
If kitchen space is limited or you just want to cut down on clutter, having a three-in-one option is worth its weight in gold.
Safety
Openers that tear steel cans can leave shards of metal in the food, or they can get stuck in the machine, causing it to malfunction.
The best can openers won’t leave metal shavings behind. Sometimes, the extra cutting is more likely when openers rotate around the can multiple times.
You need to either carefully watch the blade and turn off the unit at the right time, or purchase a device that shuts off automatically when it has done its job.
High-quality can openers also leave smooth edges, so you don’t have to worry about sustaining injuries while preparing meals.
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