Can Openers

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West Bend Can Opener

The Electrifier

West Bend Can Opener $46 // westbend.com

Plus: We tested almost a dozen electric openers, and the West Bend beat them all hands (or hands-free) down. It was easy—and quiet—to operate, with magnets that gripped cans faster than the competitors, and the modest size and stow-able cord made it easy to stash. It sliced into all sizes of can, not just the standard 16-ouncer.

Minus: While smaller than most electric can openers, the West Bend is still a pretty big piece of none-too-attractive plastic.

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Rösle Can Opener

The Cadillac Plan

Rösle Can Opener $50 // rosleusa.com

Plus: This easy-on-the-eyes number opens cans from the top, eliminating the risk of potentially dangerous sharp edges. The built-in pliers let you lift the lid without touching the grimy can (though getting the hang of this feature takes a little bit of practice).

Minus: Yes, the smooth stain-less steel is nice, but with a price tag of almost $50, we'd hope the Rösle would also pick locks or tidy our eyebrows. No such luck, alas.

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OXO Magnetic Locking Can Opener

The Stepping Stone

OXO Magnetic Locking Can Opener $22 // oxo.com

Plus: The OXO strikes a balance between the traditional and the innovative. Like an old-fashioned can opener, it attaches right onto the side of the can and locks tight, but it has some nifty extra features, including a magnetic arm that catches the lid to prevent it from dipping into your beans.

Minus: As with many other can openers, the lid comes off sharp, but this wasn't a huge issue since fingers never came in contact with the lid.

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Kuhn Rikon SlimSafety LidLifter

The Fashion Plate

Kuhn Rikon SlimSafety LidLifter $16 // kuhnrikon.com

Plus: While we admired several Kuhn Rikon models, this top-opening one was our favorite for its affordable price, ease of use and stylish appearance. It was a cinch to use, with no sharp edges to contend with.

Minus: As with other open-from-top models, we couldn't always discern when we'd completed the circuit around the can. While operating it didn't require an engineering Ph.D., we do wish the instructions were easier to decipher.

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IKEA STÄM Can Opener

The Big Bargain

IKEA STÄM Can Opener $2 // ikea.com (available only in stores)

Plus: If you don't regard your can opener as a potential heirloom, you could do much worse than the STÄM. It operates like a newer-fangled model, opening from the top instead of the side, but unlike some more expensive openers, it clamped on effortlessly. And it comes in a range of kitchen-brightening colors.

Minus: Wrenching the can top from the opener after the fact wasn't always effortless, but for the price of half a latte, we'll put up with the minor inconvenience.