A dull knife can be frustrating and dangerous, whether slicing vegetables, carving meat, or preparing a quick meal. That’s why investing in a good knife sharpener is essential for keeping your kitchen tools in top condition. With a range of options available in 2024, choosing the right knife sharpener can be daunting. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best knife sharpeners on the market, from manual sharpeners to electric models, and highlight the most essential features.
Why You Need a Knife Sharpener
A sharp knife isn’t just more effective in the kitchen—it’s also safer. A dull knife requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of slipping and causing an accident. Sharp knives, on the other hand, cut through food with ease, offering more control and precision. Regularly sharpening your knives ensures they stay in good working order, prolonging their lifespan and improving your cooking experience.
Knife sharpeners come in various designs, each suited to different expertise and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional chef, there’s a sharpener that will meet your needs.
Best Overall: Lansky Deluxe 5-Stone Sharpening System
The Lansky Deluxe 5-Stone Sharpening System offers one of the most precise and versatile methods for those seeking a comprehensive knife sharpening solution. This manual sharpening system includes five high-quality stones with varying grits, allowing you to sharpen knives to the desired level of sharpness. The set consists of coarse, medium, delicate, and extra-fine stones and a polishing stone for a professional finish.
What sets the Lansky system apart is its clamp-and-angle guide mechanism, which ensures that your knives are sharpened at the correct angle every time. This makes it ideal for beginners, as it takes the guesswork out of sharpening. The durable construction and portable design make it a favourite for home cooks and professionals.
Best for Quick Use: Chef’sChoice 15 Trizor XV EdgeSelect
For those who prefer an electric sharpener, the Chef’s Choice 15 Trizor XV EdgeSelect is a top choice in 2024. This machine is designed to restore and maintain the sharpness of straight-edge and serrated knives. It features a three-stage sharpening process, with each stage fine-tuning the edge and delivering a razor-sharp finish.
The Chef’s Choice 15 Trizor XV uses diamond abrasives known for their durability and precision. It’s easy to use, making it ideal for those who want to sharpen their knives quickly without sacrificing quality. The EdgeSelect feature also allows users to choose different sharpening angles, ensuring you can maintain the perfect edge for your knives. While it’s more expensive than manual models, its efficiency and professional results make it worth the investment.
Best Budget Option: AccuSharp Knife and Tool Sharpener
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable sharpener, the AccuSharp Knife and Tool Sharpener offers excellent value for money. This simple yet effective manual sharpener features a durable carbide sharpening surface that quickly restores a sharp edge to knives, scissors, and other tools. It’s designed with an ergonomic handle for comfort and safety, making it easy to use for people of all experience levels.
While the AccuSharp doesn’t offer the same level of precision as some of the more expensive models, it’s perfect for regular maintenance and quick touch-ups. Its compact size also makes it a great option for small kitchens or on-the-go sharpening needs, especially for outdoor enthusiasts or campers.
Best for Serrated Knives: DMT 8-inch Diamond Whetstone
Serrated knives, commonly used for cutting bread and tomatoes, require a specific type of sharpening. The DMT 8-Inch Diamond Whetstone is ideal for maintaining the sharpness of serrated edges. Unlike traditional sharpeners, which can damage serrations, the DMT whetstone is specifically designed to sharpen the cutting points without altering the serrated pattern.
Made with high-quality diamond abrasives, this whetstone is durable and effective, providing consistent results every time. Its large surface area allows for easy sharpening of long knives, and the fine grit ensures a smooth, razor-sharp edge. While it requires more skill than electric sharpeners, the DMT Whetstone is an excellent choice for those who want to maintain their serrated knives precisely.
Best Manual Sharpener: Sharpal 6-In-1 Knife Sharpener
If you prefer the control and simplicity of a manual sharpener, the Sharpal 6-In-1 Knife Sharpener is a versatile and portable option. This sharpener is designed for knives, including straight-edge, serrated, and hunting knives. It features a two-stage sharpening system—coarse and fine—that allows you to restore dull knives and maintain their sharpness over time.
The Sharpal 6-In-1 also includes a diamond-coated rod for honing, a ceramic rod for fine sharpening, and a built-in lanyard hole for easy storage. Its compact, lightweight design makes it ideal for use in the kitchen, at the campsite, or on the go. Despite its simple design, it provides impressive results, making it one of the best manual sharpeners available.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Knife Sharpener
Before you purchase a knife sharpener, consider the following factors to ensure you select the right one for your needs:
- Sharpener Type: Based on your preference and skill level, choose between manual, electric, or whetstone sharpeners. Manual sharpeners offer more control, while electric models are quicker and easier to use.
- Knife Type: Consider the types of knives you own. Some sharpeners are designed specifically for serrated knives or delicate blades, so make sure you choose the sharpener compatible with your collection.
- Sharpness Precision: Higher-end sharpeners offer greater precision, particularly those with adjustable angles. If you’re looking for professional-level sharpness, invest in a high-quality model.
- Ease of Use: Look for a sharpener that’s easy to operate, especially if you’re new to knife sharpening. Electric models and systems with angle guides can simplify the process.
