When looking for the best knife sharpener, the most important factor is its ability to sharpen the edge of a blade effectively. However, there are also other factors to consider when choosing the right device for your needs. Different types of knives require different sharpening methods, so it is important to consider the versatility of the sharpener. While some sharpeners are specifically designed for serrated blades, others offer more flexibility for different types of knives, such as chef’s knives, paring knives, boning knives, fillet knives, cleavers, utility blades, pocket knives, or hunting knives. Devices like the Chef’s Choice sharpeners are great for chef’s knives, while the Presto Three Stage and Work Sharp sharpeners offer more flexibility for a variety of blades. The Presto sharpener can adjust its slots to accommodate different blades effectively, while the Work Sharp uses attachments and belts of varying coarseness for different types of knives.
Another consideration when choosing a knife sharpener is the cleanliness of the device. Some sharpeners may produce steel filings that can be messy, especially if you are sharpening in a kitchen setting. The Chef’s Choice Trizor and the AnySharp Pro sharpener were found to be the cleanest options, requiring minimal cleanup. While the Work Sharp and Presto sharpeners may produce some filings, the cleanup is still manageable. Additionally, the noise level of a sharpener may be a concern for some users. Electric sharpeners like the Chef’s Choice Trizor and Presto sharpeners can be louder compared to non-electric options, so if noise level is a consideration, a non-electric sharpener would be a better choice.
During testing, it was found that the $8 Kadell 3 Stages Sharpener did not perform well and was not as affordable as other options like the KitchenIQ sharpener. However, most knife sharpeners performed well and any sharpener is better than no sharpener at all. Whether you invest in a high-end sharpener or opt for a more affordable option, having a sharpener will make food preparation much easier. It is important to consider factors such as the type of knives you will be sharpening, the cleanliness of the sharpener, and the noise level before making a decision on which sharpener to purchase. Ultimately, choosing a knife sharpener that meets your needs and preferences will ensure that your blades always stay sharp and ready for use.
