Space Saver Can Openers: Which Should You Get?

The first problem that you may face when trying to select a can opener isn’t finding the one that saves the most space, but trying to find an electric or manual one that opens cans properly and remains in working condition long enough to satisfy your appetite.

So we’re going to go over some ideas that might help you out on your quest to find the can opener that works for you. But first, let’s mention the different types of can openers available.

The Different Types of Can Openers on the Market

Besides your basic manual and electric can opener, you’ll also have the option of choosing from wall mounted can openers, handheld can openers, countertop can openers, under the cabinet can openers and clamp base can openers.

Wall Mounted Can Openers

Usually manual. Sometimes these are not only useful for the wall but can be mounted under the cabinet as well. The space saving advantage is that it can be pulled out when needed and hide away discreetly when not in use.

If you want one of these, then you’re likely to find the Swing Away Can Opener dominates the market in this area. And luckily it’s got pretty good reviews so you can be confident you’re getting a good product if you decide to purchase it.

Handheld Can Openers

Usually manual. The real bonus with these is not only that they can easily hide out of sight in drawers, but that they don’t require electricity to work. So when the power is out, you still have your can opener!

The bad news is some may not work well for you if you have arthiritis. So you’ll want to be aware of that if you decide to get one.

If you do decide to get one, the easiest way to keep it simple with handheld can openers is by letting the majority rule. Seek out one in which the majority of consumers have good things to say, but also be sure to look at the bad reviews as well since those are the ones that tend to pinpoint the often, overlooked details.

Countertop Can Openers

Usually electric. These are your basic electric can openers. The advantages only come if you can find one that isn’t a countertop hog, or if you can find a crafty spot to place it out of sight when it’s not in use—like in your cubbards.

When you’re looking to buy an electric countertop can opener, this is another circumstance in which you could put the idea of the “majority rules” into practice. You could go with something almost everyone has good things to say about if you want to play it safe.

When I shop for a product I always look at the negative consumer reviews first and then move on to the positive ones. This then gives me a balanced outlook and keeps me from making a rash purchase and later having to deal with buyers remorse or having to return it.

Under the Cabinet Can Openers

Usually electric. The advantage with these is that they don’t take up countertop space, which is a biggy when you have a small kitchen and very little space to go on.

The bad news is when you’re trying to find an under the cabinet can opener, just about all of them have a bad report. Negative reviews usually outweigh the positive or coincide with them.

So, a lot of under the cabinet can openers just don’t make the cut. Personally I would avoid them at all costs because manufacturers haven’t quite mastered how to make a good product line of under the cabinet can openers just yet.

However, if you do decide to go with one, take it slow and do your research. I also recommend that you follow suggestions (below) under the topics Manual or Electric… Which is Better and Put it to the Test. This will offer you a simple safety net if things don’t work out with your under the cabinet can opener.

Clamp Base Can Openers

Usually manual. These are professional/commercial, restaurant quality type can openers that clamp onto the countertop or tabletop. And they aren’t cheap. They usually range around $200-up.

However, if you want something really reliable that will last you a long time, the clamp base can opener might be for you. They are fairly compact but keep in mind since they clamp on the countertop or tabletop, complete discretion is unlikely.

And now that you know what’s out there, the question still stands. Which type should you choose?

Manual or Electric… Which is Better?

Personally, I prefer manual can openers and feel they’re the better choice between the two. But, if you feel differently or you’re not sure and you can’t decide which one to get, get both. Neither takes up much space.

And you can bet if your electric can opener is a little bulky, you’ll have absolutely nothing to worry about when it comes to the manual one.

Put it to the Test…

But the question is, why would I recommend two? Well, besides the obvious, if you can’t make up your mind, getting two will allow you to put them both to the test. The truth is a lot of people have had problems with both so they get nervous when they’re trying to figure out which one to get.

So owning both would allow you time to figure out which one works best for you and it will allow you to test them properly. Especially since there are so many different brands out there and each one works a little differently.

Not to mention, if you have more than one person living in your household, chances are good one of you might prefer manual and the other, electric.

The good news is also that manual can openers come in use when the power is out–so if your electric one is useless you can turn to the manual one. You may remember me saying that a little earlier.

And there’s one more important detail to consider…

Sometimes manual can openers open some cans better than electric ones and vice versa. If you pair them off, you might find that owning both takes care of your problem with opening all kinds of different can types and sizes. Especially if you’ve had a history of bad luck with can openers.

But now that I’ve said all of that, keep in mind you don’t have to keep both indefinitely, you could just simply buy both until you’ve tested them out and then donate the other one if it hasn’t died on you by the time you’ve decided to get rid of it.