TOP 15 best sharpeners for kitchen knives: 2022 rating and which electric sharpener is best to buy for your home

A sharp knife is half the success in preparing any dish. At the same time, time costs are reduced, ingredients are cut more aesthetically, and the chef’s work is easier and more enjoyable. The industry offers many options for modern knives with blades made of different materials. Some of them are positioned as self-sharpening. Unfortunately, even they need to adjust the sharpness of the blade over time. For use at home, no complicated installation is required as there are a small number of knives available. To work in cafes and restaurants, you must always keep only sharp knives at hand, so increased demands are placed on sharpeners.

All knife sharpening devices are divided into three types: mechanical, electrical and professional. The first ones are most familiar to the buyer and are found in every home. Electric sharpeners can be purchased for the home, but they are most needed for working with large volumes of products. Professional ones have the highest productivity and are designed for frequent sharpening of kitchen knives and other cutting tools. After analyzing various types of sharpeners, our experts ranked the best of them.

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Battery or mains? The vast majority of electric cutters operate on mains power. Some have the ability to operate from other power sources, such as a car battery. Models with their own battery are not so common, and rarely does anyone use a knife outside the kitchen.

We sharpen the scissors. Not all scissor blades can straighten scissor blades. However, there are models that are designed for a wide range of household utensils. Such devices can not only sharpen knives and scissors, but also straighten drills, electric knives and other cutting objects.

TOP 2 best sharpeners for ceramic knives

Work Sharp WSGPS

A compact mechanical sharpener for pocket-type knives, with which you can sharpen not only durable steel

blades, but also fragile ceramic knives that require special care. It can be used at home or at work, or taken with you fishing, hunting or hiking. The sharpener body is made of durable plastic, two types of abrasive are available - a diamond sharpening plate and a ceramic honing rod.

Thanks to the special shape, the sharpening angle is 20 degrees; the user does not need to control the tilt of the blade; the direction is set independently due to the guard. A fine-grain ceramic rod allows for high-quality finishing of the blade. It is also suitable for regularly maintaining sharpness, carefully caring for the surface and preventing its destruction.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used for ceramic knives.
• The abrasive material is ceramic.
• Grain size - fine and coarse.
• Features: diamond coating.

pros

• sharpening angle 20 and 25 degrees;
• compactness, ease of use;
• durability;
• light weight, only 45 grams.

Minuses

• no significant ones were found.

Winner WR-7514

A mechanical knife sharpener, which, due to its design and the fine grain size of the ceramic abrasive, is suitable

for sharpening not only steel blades, but also ceramic knives.

The convenient handle and plastic stand make the sharpening process as simple and comfortable as possible. The diamond coating polishes the surface and does not cause harm, does not leave chips or nicks, even if the user overdoes it.

Available in two stages of sharpening, the main body is inserted into the stand compartment and in this form is ideal for compact storage or transportation. The sharpener is suitable for working with tourist or hunting knives, is capable of regularly maintaining razor sharpness and will last for many years, remaining a functional and useful assistant.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used for ceramic knives.
• The abrasive material is ceramic.
• Grain size is fine.
• Features: Diamond coating.

pros

• comfortable stand and handle;
• soft sharpening that does not destroy the material;
• low cost;
• compact, does not take up much space when stored.

Minuses

• not detected.

What's the end result?

As follows from the above article, the 21st century market is replete with a wide variety of sharpening machines that differ in purpose, which provokes users to make strict demands on them. However, in some cases the popularity of models depends on the cost of the device. In this situation, it will be more profitable to order online, including from the Ali Express website, after first reading the reviews of happy, or not so happy, owners. A large selection is presented on various platforms, including branded ones, where you can buy both simple electrical gadgets and those with a number of add-ons. This solution makes the systems suitable for any knife. And the above rating and recommendations will help you decide which one is better to buy.

How to choose a knife sharpener and what to look for?

First of all, experts recommend deciding on the type of sharpener. There are two of them: mechanical and electrical.

Mechanical models do not depend on the availability of electricity, so they are convenient to take with you, for example, while relaxing outdoors. It is compact, easy to use and reliable. It’s good if such a sharpener has several levels of grit, this will allow you to bring the sharpness and appearance of the blade to perfection.

Electric sharpeners connect to a 220 W network, are larger in size, but are capable of restoring the blades of even the oldest and dullest knives. Such devices are often used in the professional field. An electric sharpener is more expensive, but the sharpening procedure requires less time and effort.

Also pay attention to the following parameters:

• abrasive - diamond is the hardest and most durable; corundum and silicon are inferior in few respects. Ceramics has the properties of natural stone and is more gentle on the blade;
• grain size - fine for polishing, medium and coarse for finishing and sharpening. If the sharpener has several grit options, you can be sure of the quality of sharpening;
• purpose - some sharpeners can only work with small steel blades, others are suitable for kitchen utensils and scissors, some varieties will help in caring for ceramic knives.

A high-quality knife sharpener can be purchased from both domestic and foreign manufacturers. The following brands are considered the best: Victorinox, Zigmund & Shtain, Chef's Choice, Ganzo, Tojiro, Caliber, ZUBR, Vikhr, Samura. Their products will last a long time and provide high-quality care for your devices and tools.

TOP 3 best electric knife sharpeners

SITITEK Mistress 40M

Bright red professional electric sharpener for household and kitchen knives with a power of 60 W. Connects to a regular outlet

with voltage 220 W. Quickly sharpens not only steel knives to razor sharpness, but also screwdrivers or scissors. For the latter, the manufacturer has provided special slots.

Reliable assembly and compact dimensions often make this model a leader in popular ratings; the device does not take up much space when stored.

The lower part of the body has a thin rubber gasket that serves as protection against slipping of the sharpener during startup and work with tools. The device does not irritate with loud noise and does not require special care. The abrasive used is artificial corundum, which is durable and strong; it does not crumble under load and quickly brings the blade to the desired sharpness.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: electric.
• Can be used for scissors.
• The abrasive material is artificial corundum.
• Grain size - coarse and fine.
• Features: anti-slip base.

pros

• simultaneous sharpening of the knife on both sides;
• power 60 W;
• simple principle of use;
• quickly sharpens the blades of scissors, including professional ones.

Minuses

• Due to power surges, it may not always turn on.

Chef's Choice Trizor CC15XV

An electric sharpener with a 75 W motor, which was created for sharpening Japanese (Asian) knives that

processed at an angle of 15 degrees.

Sharpening here is gradual, three-level, the user does not need to adjust the tilt of the blade, the device copes with this independently. The first step uses cone-shaped diamond blades to create tiny grooves along the sides of each blade. Then an even finer diamond coating makes a second bevel, slightly more inclined than the first stage.

Very fine abrasive discs create a third bevel, polish and grind the blade. Razor sharpness is achieved, with the help of which any product is cut in one easy and quick movement. An American-made model, an official guarantee is provided, and can withstand power surges well.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: electric.
• Can be used for serrated blades.
• The abrasive material is corundum.
• Grain size - three types: fine, medium, coarse.
• Features: Diamond coating.

pros

• quick sharpening and polishing of knives;
• three types of grain;
• strength, durability of the abrasive;
• simple principle of use.

Minuses

• not detected.

Chef's Choice CC1520

Another model of electric sharpener from this brand, designed for sharpening tourist, hunting and kitchen

knives of different types.
Two types of sharpening angle are available: 20 and 15 degrees. Excellent for working with expensive and high-quality blades, it does not chip or nick, and perfectly polishes and grinds steel.
It also uses a three-level sharpening principle using abrasive (diamond-coated corundum) of three types of grit. At all stages, the bevel angle varies in size, the third, smallest stage brings the sharpness and appearance of the blade to ideal.

The spring guide provides precise control of the blade angle, so no special knowledge or effort is required from the user to use this electric sharpener.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: electric.
• Can be used for serrated blades.
• The abrasive material is corundum.
• Grain size - three types: fine, medium and coarse.
• Features: Diamond coating.

pros

• suitable for knives of any size;
• abrasive resistance, does not wear off for a long time;
• there is no vibration during operation, the sharpener does not jump on the table.

Minuses

• no significant ones were found.

GALAXY GL2441

Our rating ends with the GALAXY GL2441. This electric sharpener will provide you with a perfect sharpening of steel kitchen knives for a long time.

The abrasive discs installed in it will ensure quick sharpening of any steel knife in 2 stages. First, precise sharpening is carried out, and then the cutting edge of the knife is finished for a clean finish.

As users note, the device sharpens knives well and quite quickly. Of the minuses, the owners note that the suction cups on the legs are not the best quality. Therefore, while working, you should hold the knife with one hand so that it does not move around the table.

But in general, given the low cost, you can turn a blind eye to such a drawback. And for use at home to sharpen steel knives, such an electric sharpener will be an excellent purchase.

• Power: 20 W.
• Discs: diamond.
• Dimensions: 244 x 117 x 122 mm.
• Weight: 1.31 kg.

TOP 3 best mechanical knife sharpeners

Lansky Blademedic PS-MED01

This is one of the smallest knife sharpeners in the brand's range. Belongs to the mechanical type, is universal, weighs

only 142 grams. Due to its length of 14 cm, the sharpener can easily be put in a backpack or pocket and taken with you fishing or hiking.

There are four working surfaces for sharpening different blades. Two of them are V-shaped inserts, consisting of two plates at an angle of 22.5 degrees. They allow you to sharpen both kitchen and travel knives as quickly as possible, without much effort.

One abrasive insert is made of carbide, and the second is made of ceramic. There is also a ceramic block used to sharpen a serrated knife. And the diamond rod located on the reverse side will quickly sharpen any blade without chips or nicks. The diameter of this rod decreases from the base to the edge, so it can be used to sharpen serrated teeth of a wide variety of sizes.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used for serrated blades.
• Abrasive material: carbide and ceramic.
• The grain size is fine and very fine.
• Features: Diamond coating.

pros

• wide possibilities for adjusting the sharpening angle;
• convenient use;
• two types of grain.

Minuses

• Due to the small size it is not suitable for everyone.

matrix 79105

A reliable and very popular model of a mechanical sharpener with a rubber sole for secure fixation on a flat surface.

The main body is made of high-quality plastic; a carbide rod is used as an abrasive.
Suitable for different types of knives, capable of sharpening scissors for household, kitchen or professional use.
Weighs only 115 grams, compact in size and with the simplest principle of use. It pleases customers with an adequate price and can last for several years even with regular use, several times a week. It does not slip, there is a small comfortable handle for more comfortable work, therefore it is often found in various ratings of 2020-2021.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used for scissors.
• The abrasive material is carbide.
• Grain size is medium.
• Features - no.

pros

• There is a rubber suction cup for reliable fixation to a flat surface;
• quality of execution;
• compactness;
• quickly sharpens even the dullest knives.

Minuses

• not detected.

Joseph Joseph Rota 10048

A universal mechanical sharpener for various types of knives, equipped with a convenient rotating lid that

used for additional fixation of the device on a table or other work surface. Also used for sharpening scissors, including professional tools.

The main body contains two slots with different grain sizes, thanks to which knives of various formats can be sharpened accurately and finely, without damaging the cutting edge.

After completing the procedure, the lid returns to its original position and the instrument can be conveniently stored in a drawer or on a shelf. There is a thin rubber gasket at the bottom of the body that will prevent the sharpener from sliding while the knife is moving. Ceramic is used as an abrasive, which does not wear off for a long time and is not clogged with small fractions and dust.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used for scissors.
• The abrasive material is ceramic.
• Grain size is medium.
• Features: anti-slip base.

pros

• capable of polishing, grinding and sharpening;
• comfortable to hold in hand;
• can be placed on the table, the sharpener will not slip;
• compact sizes.

Minuses

• not detected.

How to use

Using an electric sharpener is not difficult: to master this device, you just need to carefully read the included instructions once. But to understand how long a device needs to be processed, you need to understand the “state” of this device. If the knife is only slightly dull, then it is enough to process it just a little, a few seconds. But if the device is completely dull, then more fiddling with it will be required:

• Is there anything that doesn't need to be sharpened at all? In fact, such products exist. For example, it is contraindicated to sharpen devices that have a diamond coating or a magnetic layer. A sharpener can damage this coating and ruin the blade.
• The electric sharpener is very easy to use
• Devices with a jagged, jagged blade can only be sharpened with special sharpeners. Ordinary ones are not suitable, as they will disrupt the structure of the teeth.
• It is important to maintain the sharpening angle. The smaller it is, the sharper the knife will be, but it will also quickly become dull. If the angle is large, the knife will dull more slowly, but will not be as sharp. Changing the sharpening angle of any knife is not as difficult as it seems. And the easiest way to do this is with an electric sharpener, and not, for example, on a sharpening machine.

Apex similar sharpening systems

The APEX EDGE PRO sharpening system was developed in the 90s of the last century, and gave rise to a whole class of sharpening devices. It is one of the best samples for professional and amateur knife sharpening.

It is a plastic frame with a pressure table, on which you can use a pressure screw and a stop to adjust the position of the knife for sharpening. In the original system, the knife must be held by hand; numerous replicas began to use powerful neodymium magnets, which makes the sharpening process more comfortable.

There is a rotating unit on the rod, to which an abrasive holder is attached. The sharpening angle varies over a wide range with high accuracy, using a protractor or an application on a smartphone. The kit usually uses high-quality abrasive stones from Boride. A set that allows you to form a cutting line from scratch and polish the leads to a mirror finish.

The only drawback of the system is the rather high cost. Which, in fact, first gave rise to numerous Chinese counterfeits, and then to a whole range of sharpening systems of varying costs and quality levels.

TOP 4 best knife sharpeners by price/quality for 2022

Zigmund & Shtain ZKS-911

Electric sharpener from a German company, which is famous for the quality and reliability of household appliances and a wide range

for every taste.

This model is rightfully included in the list of the best sharpeners in terms of price and quality ratio; it makes it possible to quickly sharpen household and kitchen knives without any specific skills. The discs rotate at a speed of 2800 revolutions per minute, this leads to high sharpening results on soft alloy or hard carbon steel.

The abrasive has three levels of grit, they quickly return the blade to its original sharpness, and also help with polishing and finishing. The blades do not crumble and no nicks form. Adjustable guides allow you to set the correct angle of the knife. Compact dimensions and a rubber sole complete this device, making it comfortable and suitable for regular use.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: electric.
• Can be used for ceramic knives.
• The abrasive material is corundum.
• Grain size - medium, coarse, fine.
• Features: anti-slip sole.

pros

• duration of operation;
• three levels of sharpening;
• build quality;
• good power.

Minuses

• There is slight vibration during operation.

VICTORINOX 4.3323

Lightweight and convenient double-sided sharpener for pocket and multifunctional knives. Due to its compact size, it can be taken

take with you on a trip or hike. The sharpener can also be used to sharpen scissors and similar cutting tools. Presented as a tool with a cap, it quickly sharpens hard steel and does not damage the cutting edge.

Thanks to the specially designed handle, the sharpener is comfortable to hold in your hand. Ceramic is used here as an abrasive; medium grit quickly brings the blade to a sharp edge, and with proper movements, it additionally polishes the working surface. It has an affordable price and can last a long time without abrasive wear or clogging. Often also used for sharpening fish hooks.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used to sharpen scissors.
• The abrasive material is ceramic.
• Grain size - Medium.
• Features - no.

pros

• compact, does not take up much space in the drawer;
• lightweight, comfortable to hold;
• Great for sharpening pocket knives.

Minuses

• not suitable for large knives.

BISON 47502

A mechanical universal sharpener from a popular brand that has captivated many users with its quality of workmanship and

its functionality. Quickly sharpens knives of various types with a metal blade; it is also used for sharpening kitchen, household or professional scissors.

Diamond-coated rods quickly restore the edge of heavily damaged knives, so the device can handle even old and very dull tools.

The model has an ergonomic handle with a rubber coating, thanks to which it will not slip in the palm. And the rubber sole allows you to securely place the sharpener on a smooth surface and protect it from slipping during use. There is a ceramic rod with which the blades are polished and polished. The model is convenient, safe and easy to use.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used to sharpen scissors.
• The abrasive material is ceramic and carbide.
• Grain size - Medium.
• Features: anti-slip sole.

pros

• firmly installed, does not slip;
• quality of execution;
• low cost;
• high-quality sharpening of even very dull knives.

Minuses

• No sharpening instructions included.

Tojiro FK-407/408

Another model of a universal mechanical knife sharpener that does an excellent job of sharpening and correcting

serious flaws and flaws on the knife blade.

The groove of the equipment contains abrasive elements (zirconium ceramics, characterized by strength and durability), which are located at a certain angle and can independently monitor the accuracy and fidelity of the user’s movements. The correct sharpening angle when editing the blade allows you to quickly obtain the desired result.

The shape of the sharpener is extremely simple, it is light and small in size, and will not take up much space in a drawer or on a cabinet shelf. Can also be used for sharpening thin blades of professional scissors. But it’s not always possible to handle large knives. But buyers praise this sharpener model for its durability; the abrasive surface does not wear off for a long time and is capable of sharpening knives regularly for several years. The plastic handle, with a comfortable grip, allows you to securely fix the sharpener while working.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: mechanical.
• Can be used for - sharpening knives.
• The abrasive material is ceramic.
• Grain size - Medium.
• Features - no.

pros

• compactness, lightness;
• durability, does not wear off;
• no need to think about the sharpening angle.

Minuses

• Due to its small size, it is not suitable for large palms and large knives.

TOP 3 best sharpening stones

Samura SWS-8000

The SAMURA brand is popular and beloved by many customers. The company produces not only

high-quality knives, but also all the necessary accessories to care for them.

This whetstone can be used not only for sharpening knives of various types, but also for processing household and professional scissors. The stone is a single-layer water stone; the abrasive fractions are declared by the manufacturer to be ultra-fine, so the stone not only sharpens, but also polishes steel without compromising its integrity.

This sharpening stone can be used at the very end of sharpening, eliminating the use of felt and additional polishing lubricants. The stone is sold in a convenient branded box, which is suitable for its further storage. The delivery set also includes a rubber platform that ensures the stone remains stationary during operation and movement of the knife.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: whetstone.
• Can be used for scissors.
• The abrasive material is water stone.
• The grain size is ultra-fine.
• Features: anti-slip base.

pros

• not only sharpens, but also polishes and polishes;
• does not scratch the blade, does not leave nicks;
• Due to the rubber platform, it does not slip on the table surface.

Minuses

• some users think that the price is too high.

GANZO D600

The manufacturer claims this model of whetstone as a portable diamond whetstone. It is light and compact, fits

in a pocket or compartment of a backpack, you can always take it with you on a hike, fishing or hunting.
Using this stone, you can sharpen to razor sharpness not only knives of different directions and different sizes, but also scissors and other tools with a cutting edge.
This whetstone is best used as a finishing sharpener to give the blade a final sharpness, shine and polish the surface. The medium grit will not damage the edge and is suitable for regular sharpening to keep the knife sharp at all times. The stone can also be installed in a universal sharpening machine from the same brand.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: whetstone.
• Can be used for scissors.
• Grain size is fine.
• Features: diamond coating.

pros

• plastic stand included;
• stone strength, durability;
• neat sharpening, without nicks;
• Suitable even for professional scissors.

Minuses

• under strong pressure it may crack due to its small thickness.

BISON 33397-150-50

A lightweight and compact sharpening stone from a well-known and respected brand that

can be used not only for sharpening knives and other tools with a cutting edge, but also for grinding various products made of granite or stone.
It has four sides with several types of grain, so it can be used to carry out both preparatory and final surface treatments.
All working surfaces are painted in different colors for convenience; the manufacturer includes detailed instructions with recommendations for working with this sharpening stone. To securely fasten the bar to the tabletop, a convenient plastic stand is offered that protects it from sliding and moving while the knife or tool is moving.

Main characteristics:

• Sharpener type: whetstone.
• Can be used for scissors.
• Grain size - medium, fine, coarse.
• Features: Diamond coating.

pros

• three stages of sharpening;
• workmanship;
• wide platform for stability;
• reasonable price;
• does not wear off, the abrasive does not clog.

Minuses

• not detected.

Knife manufacturers

Despite the large number of manufacturers, it is better to buy products from those companies that have proven themselves:

• Nadoba is a Czech company that specializes in the production of kitchen utensils. It has been operating since 2004, offering its products in the EU and CIS.
• Ladomir is a Chinese brand, known since 1999. The main sales market is Russia. The products are of high quality, but the cost is low.
• Samura is a Japanese brand that has existed since 2003. If you believe the manufacturer, only the highest quality components are used during work.
• Swiss Diamond is an excellent company from Switzerland that is focused on producing premium quality kitchen products. Thus, the prices of the products are quite high.
• Chef'sChoice is one of the few companies that specializes only in the production of knife blades. It is on the list of the best, but the products are rarely purchased for home use due to the high price. But in the food industry, such knives are considered one of the best.
• Darex is an American manufacturer that has been operating for more than 10 years. According to user reviews and assurances from the company itself, all models can work stably for 2-3 years, which is actually quite a long time.
• Victorinox is another company from Switzerland that produces premium quality kitchen products. Many professional chefs know this brand and are happy to work with it.