When selecting a can opener, ease of operation, size and intended use are all factors to consider. Although electric can openers are easier on the hands than manual ones, they take up more space and are limited in the size of cans they can open. Some electric can openers offer a removable, dishwasher-safe cutting mechanism for easy cleaning. Manual can openers can be more difficult to use, take longer to operate and are difficult to clean, but they can open almost any size can. Can openers that cut on the side create smoother edges, while those that cut the top of the lid tend to leave sharp edges around the lid and the rim of the can.

Reviewers offer the following tips for choosing the best can opener:

  • Look for a magnet to hold the lid in place. A magnet keeps the lid from falling into the food after it has been removed, so you don't have to fish the lid out.
  • Choose can openers with stainless-steel blades and carbon content. The carbon content prevents corrosion, while stainless steel is durable and resists rust.
  • For manual can openers, be sure the handles are comfortable. Some manual can openers have nonslip or rubbery grips on the handles for comfort and ease of use. Hold a manual can opener in your hand before purchasing to feel how comfortable it is.
  • Choose manual can openers with longer handles if you have weak hands. Longer handles provide more leverage and require less hand strength to grip a can.
  • People suffering from arthritis or who have difficulty using their hands will find electric can openers easiest to use.
  • Side-cut can openers leave smoother edges. Can openers that cut just below the rim of the lid around the side of the can leave no sharp edges.
  • Manual can openers can open the largest variety of can sizes. Unlike most electric can openers, which are limited to cans shorter than the unit itself, manual can openers can generally open cans of any size.

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