kitchen & cooking

Best Knife Sharpener

Kim
19th November, 2021 | 18 minute read

Are you looking for the best knife sharpener on the market but not sure where to start in your search?

Well, you've come to the right place! We've taken all the hard work out of searching for a knife sharpener and created this handy guide with everything you need to know.

Knife sharpener

Here you will learn what a knife sharpener is, how it works, the difference between different types of knife sharpeners, and some of the things that you should consider when buying a knife sharpener. We have also created a list of best knife sharpener reviews to help you find exactly what you need.

What Is a Knife Sharpener?

A knife sharpener is a tool that you would usually find in the kitchen. It is used to cleanly file down or hone the cutting edges of steel blades that are usually found on your kitchen knives.

Knife sharpening

Some knife sharpeners can also be used to sharpen other utensils that have cutting edges.

How Does a Knife Sharpener Work?

A knife sharpener usually consists of two pieces of tungsten carbide in a 'V' shape. You insert the knife into this 'V' shape, and the tungsten carbide works to wear away the metal on either side of the blade, essentially creating a new sharp edge.

Sharpening a knife

Sharpening your knives can give them a new life and will make them much more effective cutting tools that can be used to assist you with your daily kitchen tasks.

Types of Knife Sharpener

There are several different types of knife sharpeners, and the one you choose will usually depend on your personal preferences and what you intend to use it for. Below is a list of the different types of knife sharpeners and the advantages and disadvantages of each type:

Electric Knife Sharpener

Most electric knife sharpeners use a 2 or 3 step process for sharpening and honing the edge of a blade. The first step uses a coarse grit to sharpen extremely dull blades, and the last step uses a fine grit to hone sharp blades.

Electric knife sharpener

When an electric knife sharpener is switched on, it will spin the sharpening stones, which sharpen the blade when passed through the device. Most electric knife sharpeners have guides that allow the user to get the perfect angle. This makes them a popular choice as it makes the sharpening process much easier.

Handheld Knife Sharpener

Handheld knife sharpeners are similar to electric sharpeners as they simplify the sharpening process. However, handheld sharpeners are usually limited on the number of slots to sharpen with. An advantage of these sharpeners is their portability, so they're perfect for people who like to cook on the go.

Handheld knife sharpener

The sharpener is usually drawn down the length of the blade while the knife is carefully held spine down on the counter. Some models require the sharpener to be placed on a surface, and the knife is drawn through it that way.

Sharpening Stone

A sharpening stone is one of the most common ways to sharpen knives. These tend to be made from Novaculite, aluminium oxide, or silicon carbide. Sharpening stones can differ in their abilities, and some are more suited to sharpening blunt knives.

Sharpening stone

Others are more suited to honing sharp knives. Some stones have diamonds mixed into them to get an optimal cutting edge.

Knife Sharpening Steel

Sharpening steels are usually used for honing a knife blade. There are various types of honing steels for different jobs, so you can find one to suit your needs.

Knife sharpening steel

It is recommended that you choose a knife sharpening steel that matches the brand of your knives, and many knife manufacturers will specifically design steels to hone their particular knives.

Serrated Knife Sharpener

Serrated knives can be difficult to sharpen with traditional knife sharpeners due to the shape of the blade. Most ordinary sharpeners will damage the blade on a serrated knife as they are not suitable for sharpening that particular type of knife.

Serrated knife sharpener

However, there are certain knife sharpeners that are made for sharpening serrated knives. So if you are planning on sharpening this specific type of knife, you should look for a serrated knife sharpener.

Best Knife Sharpener

As you can see, there are many different types of knife sharpeners. Hopefully, the list above has given you some insight into which knife sharpener is best for you.

To help you on your search for the best knife sharpener, we have created this list of reviews of the best knife sharpeners on the market along with a pros and cons list of each type:

Best Electric Knife Sharpener

AnySharp World's Best Knife Sharpener with Powergrip

 AnySharp World's Best Knife Sharpener with Powergrip

The AnySharp knife sharpener boasts about being the best knife sharpener in the world. This particular knife sharpener can sharpen knives with diamond precision and can also sharpen hardened knives such as global knives or Sabatier knives.

It even features settings that allow it to sharpen serrated knives such as bread knives or hunting knives.

This knife sharpener really can do it all. It is very safe to use and can be used with one hand, thanks to the PowerGrip suction that securely attaches the device to any flat surface. This amazing knife sharpener also has the benefit of coming with a two-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • Sharpens knives with diamond precision
  • Can sharpen almost any knife
  • Settings to sharpen serrated knives
  • Easy to use
  • PowerGrip to keep it secure
  • 2-year warranty
Things we didn't like
  • N/A

VonShef Electric Two Stage Knife Sharpener

 AnySharp World's Best Knife Sharpener with Powergrip

This machine allows you to professionally sharpen your knives from home. The two-stage sharpening system grinds, hones and defines your knives for a razor-sharp finish.

It is suitable for sharpening a range of kitchen and sporting knives that are made from alloy, carbon, or stainless steel. With two grinding wheels and two slots per wheel, you can easily sharpen both sides of your knives.

This machine also features a scissor sharpening groove and a screwdriver sharpening port. For safety, there are non-slip suction feet attached to the bottom. This model also has the benefit of coming with a two-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • Easily sharpens and hones your knives
  • Suitable for sharpening a range of knives
  • Scissor sharpening feature
  • Screwdriver sharpening feature
  • Non-slip suction feet
  • 2-year warranty
Things we didn't like
  • No option to sharpen serrated knives

Best Handheld Knife Sharpener

Kitchen Knife Sharpener by Amesser

 AnySharp World's Best Knife Sharpener with Powergrip

This handheld kitchen knife sharpener can give knives a razor-sharp edge within seconds. It is very easy to use – simply give your knife a few pulls in each slot in one direction, and your knife will come out super smooth and sharp.

The device is very safe and has a range of safety features. The ergonomic handle and slip-resistant mat provide you with optimum safety. As a bonus, this particular knife sharpener also comes with a cut-resistance glove for when you're using it.

The small, portable, compact size makes it the perfect choice for taking with you on camping trips or for when you're doing outdoor cooking.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Slip-resistant mat
  • Cut-resistant glove included
  • Small and compact
  • Easily portable
Things we didn't like
  • Limited capabilities

Sharpal 6-in-1 Pocket Knife Sharpener

This portable pocket knife sharpener is the perfect handheld tool for those who need to sharpen their knives on the go. It has six different functions, so it's so much more than a knife sharpener.

It also includes a tapered diamond rod for sharpening serrations, a diamond rod with grooves for fishhooks, a fire starter, and even a high-pitched emergency whistle.

With so many additional features, this handheld knife sharpener is the perfect companion for anyone who is interested in things such as camping, hiking, and fishing. This versatile device is easy to use and has the benefit of coming with a three-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • 6-in-1 device
  • Easy to use
  • Ability to sharpen serrations
  • Various additional features
  • Versatile
  • 3-year warranty
Things we didn't like
  • N/A

Kitchen Outdoor Handheld Knife Sharpener

This high-quality handheld knife sharpener allows you to easily sharpen your knives with minimal effort. The diamond abrasive on this sharpener provides very sharp finishes.

The compact design won't take up too much room in your home and can easily be transported from place to place – perfect for if you want to cook outdoors or for when you are camping.

The device is very easy and safe to use, and it is also easy to clean. If you're looking for a simple device that can sharpen your knives very quickly and easily, then this is the tool for you!

Things we liked
  • High-quality
  • Diamond abrasive
  • Provides sharp finishes
  • Easily portable
  • Easy to use
  • Safe to use
  • Simple design
Things we didn't like
  • Very basic model
  • Limited capabilities

Best Knife Sharpening Stones

Sharp Pebble Complete Sharpening Stone Set

This complete sharpening stone set contains everything you need for sharpening your knives. It comes with dual grit whetstone, a non-slip bamboo base for holding the stone, a knife sharpening angle guide and a classic bamboo leather strop with honing green compound.

It also comes with a simple instruction manual & a detailed eBook with tips and tricks for helping you use your knife sharpening set.

The set is easy to use, safe, and user-friendly, thanks to the elevated non-slip bamboo rubber base. The stones are designed to be used with water, so you don't need to worry about expensive knife sharpening oils, and there is no mess.

This set is great for sharpening and honing many different styles of knives.

Things we liked
  • Complete set
  • Non-slip bamboo base included
  • Easy to use
  • Safe to use
  • No messy oils needed
  • Great for sharpening a variety of different knives
Things we didn't like
  • Fairly expensive

BearMoo 2-in-1 Sharpening Stone

This thick, solid and large whetstone is made from professional-grade white corundum. This is perfect for sharpening large chef's knives. The two grit sides ensure that you achieve the perfect level of sharpening according to your needs. The stone can sharpen almost any type of knife or blade.

The only blades that this stone cannot sharpen are serrated blades and ceramic knives. The set comes with a silicone mat that provides a non-slip base to keep the stone firmly in place and ensure your safety when you're sharpening your knives.

Things we liked
  • Professional-grade stone
  • Great for sharpening a variety of knives
  • Silicone non-slip mat included
  • Safe to use
  • Easy to use
  • Low price
Things we didn't like
  • Not able to sharpen serrated knives

Best Knife Sharpening Steel

SHAN ZU Professional Honing Steel Knife Sharpening Rod

This knife sharpener rod is designed to ensure higher sharpening efficiency. The hard steel is suitable for honing all kinds of steel knives, including kitchen, sporting, household, and pocket knives.

A stainless steel protective ring is in place at the bottom of the handle to keep your hands safe when using the rod.

The sharpening rod is very easy to use and much simpler than a sharpening stone. It provides fast sharpening and honing whenever you need it. For your peace of mind, this steel sharpening rod comes with a twelve-month guarantee.

Things we liked
  • Efficient tool
  • Great for sharpening and honing a range of knives and blades
  • Protective ring on the handle
  • Easy to use
  • 12-month guarantee
Things we didn't like
  • More expensive than some other models

Sharpal 117N Knife Sharpening Honing Steel Rod

The Sharpal knife sharpening and honing steel rod great for providing maximum sharpness. Using this steel rod can increase the life of your cutlery. The magnetic steel collects tiny little fibres to allow for less mess.

The handle features a large safety guard to protect your hands when in use. The handle also features a built-in hole so you can hang the tool if needed.

If you're looking for a simple knife sharpening rod, this is the tool for you. It comes at a great price and also has the benefit of coming with a three-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • Magnetic steel attracts fibres for less mess
  • Large safety guard
  • Built-in hole for hanging
  • 3-year warranty
Things we didn't like
  • The plastic handle may not be as comfortable as some other models
  • Basic model

Best Knife Sharpening System

PRO Sharpener A Professionals Choice Manual Knife Sharpener

With this particular knife sharpening set, you can buy with confidence as it comes with amazing customer service. If you're not completely happy with your new knife sharpener, the manufacturer will give you your money back with no questions asked.

This easy to use knife sharpener provides you with everything you need to easily sharpen your knives. The mechanism for sharpening is one of the most reliable and durable on the market. The device is easy to use and suitable for people of all abilities.

This sharpener is ergonomically designed to be safe and efficient and goes well in most modern kitchens. The two-step design ensures that your knives are completely sharpened to a high level.

This model has the benefit of coming with a lifetime guarantee, so if you're not happy with the product, the company will give you your money back.

Things we liked
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Reliable
  • Durable
  • Easy to use
  • Safe to use
Things we didn't like
  • N/A

Best Serrated Knife Sharpener

AnySharp World's Best Knife Sharpener with Powergrip

The AnySharp knife sharpener boasts about being the best knife sharpener in the world. This particular knife sharpener can sharpen knives with diamond precision and can also sharpen hardened knives such as global knives or Sabatier knives.

It also has the ability to sharpen serrated knives such as bread knives, making it the perfect kitchen knife sharpener.

It is very safe to use and can be used with one hand, thanks to the PowerGrip suction that securely attaches the device to any flat surface. The compact design is great if you want to move it around easily.

This amazing knife sharpener also has the benefit of coming with a two-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • Sharpens knives with diamond precision
  • Can sharpen almost any knife
  • Settings to sharpen serrated knives
  • Easy to use
  • PowerGrip to keep it secure
  • 2-year warranty
  • Compact design
Things we didn't like
  • N/A

Sharpal 191H Kitchen Chef Knife and Scissors Sharpener

This knife and scissors sharpener not only quickly sharpens very dull or damaged blades, but it also hones for razor-sharpness. As well as sharpening straight knives, this knife sharpener also sharpens serrated knives such as bread knives.

It also comes with a scissor sharpening tool so you can sharpen your scissors quickly and easily.

The entire device is durable and easy to use. It features safe one-handed use thanks to this suction force underneath that grips the device to any flat surface. This device also has the benefit of coming with a three-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Things we liked
  • Sharpens serrated knives
  • Scissor sharpening option
  • Quickly sharpens dull blades
  • Durable
  • Suction grip underneath
  • Easy to use
  • 3-year warranty
Things we didn't like
  • N/A

Best Compact Knife Sharpener

Kitchen Knife Sharpener by Amesser

This handy kitchen knife sharpener can give knives a razor-sharp edge within seconds. It's very easy to use – simply give your knife a few pulls in each slot in one direction, and your knife will come out super smooth and sharp. The device is very safe and has a range of safety features.

The ergonomic handle and slip-resistant mat provide you with optimum safety.

As a bonus, this particular knife sharpener also comes with a cut-resistance glove for when you're using it. The small, portable, compact size makes it the perfect choice for taking with you on camping trips or for when you're doing outdoor cooking.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Slip-resistant mat
  • Cut-resistant glove included
  • Small and compact
  • Easily portable
Things we didn't like
  • Limited capabilities

Uulki Knife Sharpener Small and compact Sharpening Tool

This special two-step sharpening design can sharpen dull knives quickly and achieve final edge honing. The innovative V-grip base provides a smooth and effective sharpener for your kitchen knives.

The device is easy to use - simply place the device on the edge of a table or countertop and then drag your knife through the slits.

The non-slip base maximum safety and stability while the knife sharpening takes place. The compact design means that this particular device can be transported easily, making it perfect for camping. If you are looking for a small, simple knife sharpener, this is the one for you.

Things we liked
  • Effective knife sharpening
  • Safe to use
  • Portable
  • Non-slip base
  • Compact design
  • Simple knife sharpener
Things we didn't like
  • Limited capabilities

AnySharp World's Best Knife Sharpener with Powergrip

The AnySharp knife sharpener boasts about being the best knife sharpener in the world. This particular knife sharpener can sharpen knives with diamond precision and can also sharpen hardened knives such as global knives or Sabatier knives.

It even features settings that allow it to sharpen serrated knives such as bread knives or hunting knives.

This knife sharpener really can do it all. It is very safe to use and can be used with one hand, thanks to the PowerGrip suction that securely attaches the device to any flat surface. This amazing knife sharpener also has the benefit of coming with a two-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • Sharpens knives with diamond precision
  • Can sharpen almost any knife
  • Settings to sharpen serrated knives
  • Easy to use
  • PowerGrip to keep it secure
  • 2-year warranty
Things we didn't like
  • N/A

Best Knife Sharpener for Outdoor Cooking

Kitchen Outdoor Handheld Knife Sharpener

This high-quality handheld knife sharpener allows you to easily sharpen your knives with minimal effort. The diamond abrasive on this sharpener provides very sharp finishes.

The compact design won't take up too much room in your home and can easily be transported from place to place – perfect for if you want to cook outdoors or for when you are camping.

The device is very easy and safe to use, and it is also easy to clean. If you're looking for a simple device that can sharpen your knives very quickly and easily, then this is the tool for you!

Things we liked
  • High-quality
  • Diamond abrasive
  • Provides sharp finishes
  • Easily portable
  • Easy to use
  • Safe to use
  • Simple design
Things we didn't like
  • Very basic model
  • Limited capabilities

Kitchen Knife Sharpener by Amesser

This handy kitchen knife sharpener can give knives a razor-sharp edge within seconds. It's very easy to use – simply give your knife a few pulls in each slot in one direction, and your knife will come out super smooth and sharp.

The device is very safe and has a range of safety features. The ergonomic handle and slip-resistant mat provide you with optimum safety.

As a bonus, this particular knife sharpener also comes with a cut-resistance glove for when you're using it. The small, portable, compact size makes it the perfect choice for taking with you on camping trips or for when you're doing outdoor cooking.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Slip-resistant mat
  • Cut-resistant glove included
  • Small and compact
  • Easily portable
Things we didn't like
  • Limited capabilities

Uulki Knife Sharpener Small and compact Sharpening Tool

This special two-step sharpening design can sharpen dull knives quickly and achieve final edge honing. The innovative V-grip base provides a smooth and effective sharpener for your kitchen knives.

The device is easy to use - simply place the device on the edge of a table or countertop and then drag your knife through the slits.

The non-slip base maximum safety and stability while the knife sharpening takes place. The compact design means that this particular device can be transported easily, making it perfect for camping and outdoor cooking.

If you are looking for a small, simple knife sharpener, this is the one for you.

Things we liked
  • Effective knife sharpening
  • Safe to use
  • Portable
  • Non-slip base
  • Compact design
  • Simple knife sharpener
Things we didn't like
  • Limited capabilities

What to Consider Before Buying a Knife Sharpener

There are several things that you may need to consider when choosing a knife sharpener to purchase. Below is a list of the things that you may need to think about before making your final decision:

Cost of Sharpener

Knife sharpeners can range in cost by quite a large amount. With this in mind, it's a good idea to think about how much you're willing to spend on a knife sharpener before you start looking for one. If you have a budget in mind, you'll be able to avoid overspending.

Type of Sharpener

As you can see from above, there are several different types of knife sharpeners. The type you need will depend on your preferences and what you intend to use it for.

buying a knife sharpener

We have provided some information above about the different types of knife sharpeners to help you determine which type would be best for your needs.

Ease of Use

Some knife sharpeners are easier to use than others. If you are looking for an easy knife sharp with minimal effort, then an electric knife sharpener is probably the best option for you.

However, if you are used to using other types of knife sharpeners or prefer a certain style, you may be better off getting one that's a little more difficult to use but does the trick.

Sharpness

Different knife sharpeners offer different levels of sharpness. Before deciding which knife sharpener to get, it's always worth looking at the sharpness levels to ensure that you can achieve your desired level of blade sharpness with that particular model.

FAQs

Can you sharpen scissors with a knife sharpener?

You can sharpen scissors with some knife sharpeners. However, it is recommended that you choose a sharpener that is specifically designed for scissors for optimum sharpening and safety.

How do you use a knife sharpener stone?

Sharpening your knives with a sharpener stone may seem like a daunting and difficult task to anyone who has never used on before. If you are new to sharpening your knives with a sharpener stone, take the steps below to get the best results:

  • Put the sharpening stone on a moist towel on a flat surface.
  • Start with the coarse side of the stone on top.
  • Lubricate the stone according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
  • With your knife at a 22.5-degree angle, slowly move the knife down across the stone in a smooth motion, starting at the heel and finishing at the tip.
  • Repeat the above step five times or more depending on how dull the knife is.
  • Flip the knife over and do the same thing on the other side the same number of times as the first side.
  • Return the knife to the original side and repeat the motion but this time move from the tip to the heel.
  • Repeat the above step five times or more depending on how dull the knife is.
  • Flip to the reverse side and do the same thing again on that side.
  • Turn your sharpening stone over to the fine side and repeat those same steps again.

Is a sharp knife safer?

Many people believe that sharper knives are less safe, however, this isn't true. It is true that a sharper knife is more likely to cut you. However, dull knives lead to very bad cutting techniques, which can cause many more accidents than a sharp knife. So yes, sharp knives are actually safer than dull knives.

How do I sharpen a bread knife?

Most bread knives have serrated edges. These types of knives require a specific serrated knife sharpener that can sharpen the blade without damaging it.

Are electric sharpeners safe for my knives?

Yes, electric sharpeners are safe for your knives as long as you use them correctly.

Sources

  1. https://www.webstaurantstore.com/guide/653/knife-sharpeners-buying-guide.html
  2. https://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/Are-electric-sharpeners-safe-for-my-knives-W10C55.aspx
  3. https://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/Sharpening-FAQs-C55.aspx