Electric Can Opener
Eighty years and counting
When the electric can opener was introduced in 1931, it operated on a wheel blade and a second, serrated wheel. The concept is still the basis of today's electric openers, but manufacturers continuously refine and enhance this nearly 80-year-old design.
More than power on the counter
Sore hands? Better go electric. Don't want to clutter your counter? You can still go electric. Black & Decker's CO85BM is just one example of space-saving, under-cabinet appliances. It also doubles as a knife sharpener. If you don't like the idea of bolting anything under your cabinet, today's openers also come in compact, stylish designs from stainless steel, traditional black or white, and fun colors to match your kitchen's scheme.
Look for these features:
- adjustable magnets to catch lids
- removable blades for easy clean-up and sanitation
- hands-free feature
- bottle opener
- balanced to prevent tipping
- hideaway cord for tidiness
Price and value
Decide what you need and want from your appliance. Do you want a multi-tasking tool? How often will you use it? How crowded are your counters? Do you want it to match your other appliances?
With a West Bend, you get auto-shut-off, bottle opener, knife sharpener, dishwasher-safe cutting wheel, and your choice of red, blue, or silver, for $24.99. Sunbeam offers an adjustable product for different can heights, pricing between $24-30. Under-cabinet openers are comparable around $13-25. Lower-priced Hamilton Beach products ($12+) are suitable for the casual user.
If you're uncertain, read reviews, ask friends, and ask to test display appliances.
Where's dinner?
Your old electric opener may be noisy, but modern designs should soothe that high-pitched grind. Of course, if this shriek is your cat's dinner bell, you might have to find him yourself!