Struggling with a dull knife? No matter how good your knives are, eventually, they will lose their sharp edge. However, it's possible to get that sharpness back with the help of a knife sharpener! An electric knife sharpener is the quickest, easiest, and most reliable way to bring your knives back to their sharpest edge. That way, you can use your knives safely and easily.
To help you find the best one, we researched the options available and scoured customer reviews. Our favorite choice is the Chef's Choice Electric Knife Sharpener for 15 and 20-Degree Knives. It works for Eastern, Western, and serrated knives. It's also quiet and easy to use. We've put together a list of 10 great products for you to consider and created a handy buying guide reviewed by a chef to help you make your choice!
Quick List - Top Electric Knife Sharpeners
Chef's Choice
Best for Sharpening Both 15 and 20-Degree Angled Knives
Chef's Choice
Best for Changing Regular Knives to a 15-Degree Angle
Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!
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Before purchasing an electric knife sharpener, there are a few points you should take into consideration. To help you with this, we've put together this handy buying guide!
Since knives have different shapes, thicknesses, blade angles, and shapes, you need to make sure that your sharpener is made for the blades that you have. We'll outline the most common blade types and sharpeners that suit those blades. There will also be details on specialty blades and other tools below.
Kitchen knives can differ in several important ways. The first thing you need to consider is the blade angle of your knives. The angle is sometimes called the bevel angle and it refers to the angle of the knife’s edge. Most kitchen knives have an angle between 15 and 20 degrees, but they can have other angles.
There are two common types of knives: European knives and Japanese knives. European knives, also called German or Western knives, usually have a 20-degree angle. Japanese knives are also called Eastern knives, and they normally have a 15-degree angle. If you sharpen a knife at the wrong angle, you risk permanently damaging the blade.
So, before you buy any sharpener, make sure that it sharpens at the correct angle for your knives. You can also get models with adjustable angles that can sharpen both European and Japanese knives. The more helpful sharpeners will even have labeled stages for European and Japanese knives.
Knives can be single-beveled or double-beveled. A bevel on a knife refers to the shape of the blade edge. If both sides of the blade have been shaped to be sharp, then it is a double-beveled knife.
If your knives are double-beveled, then it’s best to buy a double-sided knife sharpener. You can sharpen them in a one-sided sharpener, but it will take longer as you’ll have to do each side individually. Double-sided sharpeners have slots to sharpen both sides in each stage simultaneously.
Some single-beveled knives can be sharpened in a double-sided sharpener, but not all can. Single-beveled knives with bowl-shaped bevels, for example, are too thin to be sharpened on both sides. One-sided sharpeners usually create a flat bevel, which is the sturdiest type of bevel.
Most sharpeners have two slots per stage to sharpen each side separately. These types of sharpeners are capable of sharpening both single and double-bevel knives. Be sure to check the product description or with the manufacturer if you're unsure of whether the sharpener is for single or double-bevel knives.
Some electric sharpeners have settings or separate compartments that allow you to sharpen other angles and kitchen tools. They have adjustable angles to sharpen blades at a 25- or 30-degree angle and higher. These different angles can allow you to sharpen scissors, pocket knives, drill bits, and more.
The thickness of the blade also factors in. Hunting knives are thicker and require a sharpener that can handle thicker knives. Paring and filleting knives are thinner and require a sharpener better suited to thinner knives. A few sharpeners have settings based on the knife's thickness. Check instructions to learn which setting sharpens which type of knife.
If you’re looking to sharpen ceramic knives or knives with a serrated edge, make sure you get a sharpener that specifically states it can sharpen them. Many sharpeners that aren't specifically built to handle certain blades aren't able to sharpen anything outside of kitchen knives.
If you want the best results, then you need a sharpener that has multi-stage sharpening. Single-stage sharpeners will sharpen your knives, but they won't hone or polish them. Honing and polishing your knives makes a smooth finish and removes imperfections and burrs, the small leftover metal that forms from sharpening.
Two-stage sharpeners will usually have a coarse or crude grit and a fine grit. A coarse grit is a rough edge to sharpen your knife in stage one. This stage also hones knives and will probably be sufficient for most home use. The second stage will have a medium or fine grit to finish honing and polishing knives.
However, if you want a more precise cutting blade, look at a sharpener with three stages. This third stage buffs the knife to make the surface even finer. Some three-stage models also sharpen serrated blades in their third stage. Just be sure to follow instructions carefully, so you don’t overuse your sharpener and damage your knives.
Knife sharpeners use different abrasive materials to sharpen knives. Diamond is the hardest material and can reshape knives the quickest. It’s often used in stages one and two on multi-stage sharpeners because of this. Diamond is best for coarse and medium grinding of knives, and will make even the dullest knife razor-sharp again.
Ceramic is commonly used to add final touches to a knife and is often seen at stage three. It’s made for polishing and honing knives, not quickly sharpening dull blades. Sapphire, or sapphirite, lies between diamond and ceramic. It can remove metal like diamond, though not as quickly or easily, and it can also hone and polish a blade.
Other sharpeners may use less common materials like corundum, a type of aluminum oxide gemstone. These materials are fine grits. Sharpeners may use different abrasive materials for each stage or variations of the same one for all stages.
Although electric knife sharpeners are easy to figure out, it can take some trial and error to get the best results. Make sure you read the instructions first, as they will give you tips on things such as the recommended number of passes through the grinding wheels or the best methods for different knives.
Most models have blade guides that place and hold your knives at the correct angle so you can slide your knives into the sharpener safely and easily. Some models even have auto angle features or adjustable blade guards to take the guesswork out of the equation. They may also have labels for different types of knives and tools on multi-stage sharpeners.
When you sharpen a knife, small metal filings are likely to be produced. This can cause a mess, so look for sharpeners with a compartment underneath the grinding wheels to catch filings or a magnet inside. Magnets can make cleanup much easier since they will attract the filings.
There is always a risk of injury when using an electric knife sharpener. Look for rubber feet attached to the bottom or a suction cup underneath so that the sharpener doesn't slip. Sharpeners that have a flat surface away from the grinding wheels are also good as this allows you to grip the sharpener and keep it in place.
When pulling the knife through the grinding wheels, make sure you have a firm grip and do it in a controlled, slow manner. You can't know for certain how sharp a knife will be after any single pull, so keep your fingers out of the way!
Also note that some models can overheat if they're used too long. Check for a built-in fan or cooling system to avoid this problem. Double-check the instructions for information on this issue, as well. The instructions for some models will state how long the product can be used before it overheats.
Most electric sharpeners are plug-in models but there are a few battery-operated options on the market. These sharpeners are easier to store and are more portable, since they are cordless. However, check to see if batteries are included with your sharpener. Some models tend to use AA batteries and they may not be included when you purchase your sharpener.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Chef's Choice Electric Knife Sharpener for 15 and 20-Degree Knives |1520 | ![]() | Best for Sharpening Both 15 and 20-Degree Angled Knives | |
2 | Presto EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener|08800 | ![]() | Best Sharpener for General Use | |
3 | Chef's Choice Professional Electric Knife Sharpener for Straight and Serrated Knives|15XV | ![]() | Best for Changing Regular Knives to a 15-Degree Angle | |
4 | Presto Professional Electric Knife Sharpener|08810 | ![]() | Best for Thick, Regular, and Thin Blades | |
5 | Chef's Choice Electric Knife Sharpener for Ceramic Knives and Stainless Steel Knives|250 | ![]() | Best for 20-Degree European Knives | |
6 | Shenzen Electric Knife Sharpener | ![]() | Best for Ceramic and Steel Knives | |
7 | Narcissus Electric Knife Sharpener |QN-M801 | ![]() | Best for Sharpening Scissors | |
8 | Smith’s 50005 | ![]() | Best Sharpener for Saving Space | |
9 | Edgekeeper Compact Electric Knife Sharpener | ![]() | Best for Leaving on Your Countertop | |
10 | Work Sharp Hybrid Electrical and Manual Sharpening | ![]() | Best Sharpener for Knives and Tools |
Pros:
Cons:
This Chef's Choice Electric Knife Sharpener has three stages that can hone European and Japanese knives with ease. It sharpens at 15 and 20 degrees and has a third stage for polishing away burs. The abrasive material is made from diamond, and it has knife guides for accurate use.
Some reviewers report issues with the plastic knife guides either coming off or being in the way, however. They also say that this sharpener is better suited to thinner knives. However, many customers find this product easy to use and like how it sharpens pocket knives and cleavers just as well as their kitchen knives.
Pros:
Cons:
This two-stage Presto EverSharp electric knife sharpener has an easy-to-use coarse and fine sharpening stage for most non-serrated kitchen knives. The compartments beneath the grinding wheels catch metal dust that comes off the knife. It can sharpen stainless steel, alloy, and carbon knives.
Some reviewers say that this sharpener does not produce very sharp knives and it takes some practice to achieve desired results. However, many reviewers find this product to be easy to set up and use. They also love the safety provided by the suction cups on the non-slip base.
Pros:
Cons:
The Chef's Choice Trizor XV sharpens at 15 degrees, perfect for most Japanese blades, or for turning your 20-degree blade into a sharper 15 degrees. It can also sharpen bread knives, hunting knives, and pocket knives. The third stage is specifically designed to sharpen serrated blades and extend their longevity.
A few reviewers remark that it scratches their knives and the longevity of the sharpener isn't great. Mostly, reviewers report that their knives were sharpened within three minutes. They also say that this machine improves the edge of even lower-quality knives.
Pros:
Cons:
The Presto Professional EverSharp has three settings for sharpening thin, medium, and thick knives. This feature provides service for a wide range of knives, from meat cleavers to thin filleting knives. It will adjust the angle to best sharpen each blade.
Some reviewers report that the adjustable blade guards aren't stable. They also say that the knives are a little rough post-sharpening. Mostly, customers love that this sharpener makes little noise, is safe, and is very quick. They also appreciate the adjustable blade angle.
Pros:
Cons:
This unique Hybrid Electric and Manual Knife Sharpener by Chef's Choice has a manual third stage for honing straight and serrated blades, giving them a fine finish. The manual third stage gives you more control over the sharpness of your knives. The non-slip rubber feet keep the sharpener in place for your safety.
Pros:
Cons:
The Shenzen Electric Knife Sharpener has a #600 coarse grit and #800 fine diamond wheel that can bring a fine edge to steel and ceramic blades. It can easily remove nicks and finishes the blade to a 20-degree angle. The wheel and cartridge can be removed for easy cleaning, and universal knife guide slots hold your knife in place.
Some reviewers comment that the sharpener motor is weak or the diamond wheels wear down quickly. However, most reviewers say that chips in their knives were easily removed. They also report that the motor is quiet, and they love that it can be used with both ceramic and steel knives.
Pros:
Cons:
The Narcissus Knife Sharpener is a two-stage sharpener with an additional slot for sharpening scissors and screwdrivers. The grinding wheels are made from corundum, a durable aluminum oxide gemstone. The company also provides replacement wheels with the sharpener.
A few reviewers mention that this product burns out quickly, and you have to hold the knife at the right angle, so it's not foolproof. For the most part, they like that it's very easy to use once they know how, and effective for knives, scissors, and screwdrivers. They also praise its small size.
Pros:
Cons:
A few customers say that the sharpener is underpowered and sharpens slowly. They also note that it does not sharpen thick, long knives very well. For the most part, customers say that this product sharpens their knives evenly and works well with stainless and high carbon steel.
Pros:
Cons:
Edgekeeper's Electric Knife Sharpener is an easy-to-use two-stage sharpener for fine-edged knives. The first stage provides a preliminary grind while the second stage polishes. There is a magnet and enclosed chamber to collect metal shavings for easy cleaning. Simply dump and wipe the chamber and you're ready to go.
Some reviewers say this product, while functional, will not put a professional edge on knives, and note that it is not for thicker knives. However, most customers love that this product is compact, runs quietly, and requires little effort. They also comment that it is simple to use.
Pros:
Cons:
Featured on America's Test Kitchen, the Ken Onion Work Sharp Knife and Tool Sharpener has several belts and an adjustable angle guide to sharpen everything from kitchen knives to lawnmower blades, hunting knives, and pocket knives. The speed control feature offers different settings for tools and knives.
Some customers comment that this product requires either an experienced hand or thorough following of instructions before use. But, many reviewers feel that this sharpener is quick, produces razor-sharp edges, and sharpens many tools very well.
Looking to build your collection of kitchen knives? We've put together some recommendations to help you choose your next knife!
No. 1: Chef's Choice|Electric Knife Sharpener for 15 and 20-Degree Knives |1520
No. 2: Presto|EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener|08800
No. 3: Chef's Choice|Professional Electric Knife Sharpener for Straight and Serrated Knives|15XV
No. 4: Presto|Professional Electric Knife Sharpener|08810
No. 5: Chef's Choice|Electric Knife Sharpener for Ceramic Knives and Stainless Steel Knives|250
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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