Top 10 Knife Sharpeners Reviewed and Rated

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
PriorityChef
Test Winner: PriorityChef
Amazon Link
Using dull knives is a pain even if the current task doesn’t require a lot of motion. More force is needed for a good cut, and safety concerns rise since there is a higher chance of human error with that additional force. Some consumers buy brand new sets of knives each year so they don’t have to deal with the pain of sharpening the old ones. Sharpening knives is easier than it has ever been thanks to an uptick in the technology used. Buyers with minimal experience can now maintain their knife set without damaging them or lowering the value. Here you will find the best knife sharpeners available to consumers in 2020.

Standout Picks

LINKYO Electric Knife Sharpener
In order to beat the superiority of Priority Chef, Linkyo had to bring their absolute best to the table. They didn’t fail with their electronic sharpener that has nothing but upside.
Amazon Link
PriorityChef Knife Sharpener for Straight and Serrated Knives
Seeing a non-mechanical sharpener in the top three is a good thing, with a showing of quality materials over mechanical superiority. This Priority Chef model is used by a lot of professional cooks that want consistent sharpening.
Amazon Link
$12.95
Chef's Choice 15
Things get a little more interesting when you add the Chef’s Choice 15 Trizor XV to the list. Its functional design and clear instructions turn it into an instant winner for consumers.
Amazon Link
$179.95
Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener Ken Onion Edition
The design of the WSKTS leaves a lot to be desired, but what it lacks in visual appeal it makes up for with usefulness. Having this as your knife sharpener gives you a product that works for a lot more than knives.
Amazon Link
$139.95
SunrisePro Supreme Knife Sharpener for all Blade Types
The popular SunrisePro Knife Sharpener usually ends up on a lot of top lists for sharpeners. It is user-friendly, often copied and an all-around great way to sharpen your knives.
Amazon Link
$9.99
Chef’sChoice 4643  ProntoPro Diamond Hone Manual Knife Sharpener
When seeking the perfect knife sharpener, it’s all about getting a quality product that will get the job done effectively every single time. Having a sharp knife not only allows you to make effective cuts but it ensures you get the most out of the food you eat. The Chef’sChoice 4643 ProntoPro Diamond Hone Manual is not only effective, but it gets the job done in record time. Say goodbye to knife sharpeners that get stuck or need to be used excessively.
Amazon Link
Zulay Premium Quality Knife Sharpener for Straight and Serrated Knives Stainless Steel Ceramic and Tungsten
Knives will never be dull again thanks to this top tier sharpener from Zula Kitchen. It looks great and performs as expected for a product in this price range.
Amazon Link
Wüsthof - 2 Stage Hand-Held Sharpener
The Wüsthof - 2 Stage Hand-Held is the first modern option on the list, and it doesn’t disappoint. The dual-stage performance is equal to a lot of higher tier sharpeners and without the extra cost.
Amazon Link
$25.00
KitchenIQ 50009 Edge Grip 2-Stage Knife Sharpener
When most of us think about knife sharpeners we picture a large item with multiple slots; however, that isn’t always the case and this sharpener proves it. The KitchenIQ 50009 Edge Grip 2-Stage Knife Sharpener might be smaller in size but it's mighty and powerful right when you need it most. Whether you use it to sharpen dull knives, or you are simply refreshing the sharp ones you have, this one will get the job done.
Amazon Link
$9.22
Kitchen Knife Sharpener
With all of the two-stage knife sharpeners on the list, the inclusion of this updated Kitchellence kitchen knife sharpener was a must. It provides everything the previous knife sharpeners had out of the box while including its own set of specialized features.
Amazon Link
$14.99

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Value

Most of the prices on the list are low, with only a few averages to high. Products that were added to the list with a high price showed great quality and features that were incredible for their current market value. A lot of medium to high priced sharpeners were left off of the list due to their lack of originality. They provided a lot of the same features of the lower-priced items, so the high priced products that made the list are truly exceptional. Their ability to sharpen knives caught our attention and set the bar for some of the other products. We took on branding next, criteria that looked at how the company marketed their sharpener.

Companies that made compatibility, clear were moved to the top of the list. That means brands that mentioned how theirs worked for more than knives, or when they listed the type of knives their product worked with. This is an overlooked perk for new and experienced users that potentially buy the wrong sharpener due to a lack of information.

What was interesting about these criteria is the number of companies that didn’t list all compatible tools even when their product was compatible. Information is power in the buying process, so branding had a big impact on the overall top ten rankings.

Model

The design was a criterion that truly benefited the Lansky model, the only sharpener on the list with multiple color options. Lack of variety was a letdown for multiple top choices on the list that opted to go with a single design. Lansky thought outside of the box and proved that a small variation could make them a favorable contender for consumers, and even some professionals.

It’s not the most robust design lineup, but they provided more choices than any other competitor on the list. Earlier on in the ranking process, there were two other sharpeners with multiple designs that failed to make the cut due to price or branding. Their removal put Lansky in a league of its own among the other products on the top ten. When using a knife sharpener, ease of use is important for all experience levels. In a slow or fast-paced environment, no one wants to deal with a confusing sharpener getting in the way of their current task.

Our list was ordered in a way that took out products with unnecessary steps in their sharpening process. This was easier for electronic sharpeners since they’re fully automated. For the traditional ones, we looked at the most widely used models and how people interacted with them.

Protection

Warranties weren’t always straightforward and required a little digging. After looking at the fine print, we made a decision to only keep products on the list that had a good policy to back it. Mistakes happen, and it isn’t out of the ordinary to have defects with a product lineup. Customers don’t want to be on the hook when this happens, so having a good warranty is important. For buyers that are new to knife sharpening, this is especially true, as it isn’t out of the ordinary to have them break both their tool and the product through mishandling.

That is why the next topic we looked at was instructions and their clarity. Even if the product is electric, clear instructions help out buyers that want the best experience. It also prevents accidents and damaging knives or tools. In-depth directions were praised, helping products to move up on the top ten list over the sharpeners with less clear manuals. To meet consumer satisfaction requirements, we didn’t include online manuals. Customers are more likely to read directions out of the box, so it made more sense to focus on printed materials.

Features

The last three things we looked at was sharpening features, extras, and safety. Sharpening features were related to selling points like the number of stages, coating used and size of tools that can be used. For reference, sharpeners that allowed the use of larger blades were viewed favorably.

At this point, it was all a balancing act, as the top ten was already filled with products that had similar sharpening features. A small shuffle was made at the bottom of the list, but nothing too drastic since the products were so close in performance. Extra was a topic that focused on the sets or products that included extra items. There wasn’t a lot of activity in this area, with two products, in particular, gaining a big advantage. Work Sharp was the only sharpener on the list to include an instructional DVD, a move that earned it double points for both the extras and instructions criteria. With a better design, it could have easily been in the top #2 on the list.

Safety was the last topic, although not the least important. It was a heavy priority in our calculations that prioritized the safety of the customer. Products had to have a base that was steadied by suction, weight or through the use of a handle with the freehand. The more safety measures that were present, the high a score the sharpener received. This became an important score for the electronic sharpeners, with the bulk of them relying heavily on suction and weight safety measures. Electronic models that had a clear on/off switch gained points and was considered a safer option in a family home.

10 Best Knife Sharpeners 

1. LINKYO

Where to buy
Amazon Link
LINKYO Electric Knife Sharpener
Amazon Link

In order to beat the superiority of Priority Chef, Linkyo had to bring their absolute best to the table. They didn’t fail with their electronic sharpener that has nothing but upside.

Fast And Easy
There is nothing complicated about using this knife sharpener since it requires technical prowess equal to that of a pencil sharpener. Safety, cleanup, and even advanced settings are simple enough to manage for all levels.

Features
No hassle or worry blade positioning with this two-stage equipment, this model offers automatic positioning. There is also no need to stress over the unit sliding around on the countertop. It comes complete with suction cups to hold it in place during use.

Cost and Value
For the average consumer, the low price of this product will work out well. For high-level chefs or cooks, the value may be slightly diminished based on its long-term handling of professional knives.

Amazon Link

2. PriorityChef

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$12.95
PriorityChef Knife Sharpener for Straight and Serrated Knives
Amazon Link

Seeing a non-mechanical sharpener in the top three is a good thing, with a showing of quality materials over mechanical superiority. This Priority Chef model is used by a lot of professional cooks that want consistent sharpening.

Diamond Coated
There are other diamond coated products on the list, but none of them have gone through the rigorous testing of this model. Priority Chef made it a point to add how much time they spent on making their coating different than the competitors.

Comfort
Designed to be ergonomic, you can easily get a comfortable grip on this unit to sharpen up those blades. Perfect for those seeking a more manual approach to keeping their knives in pristine cutting order.

Cost and Value
For a low price, this can be the best addition to any kitchen. The diamond coating is durable and will last for years without wearing out.

Amazon Link
$12.95

3. Chef's Choice 15

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$179.95
Chef's Choice 15
Amazon Link

Things get a little more interesting when you add the Chef’s Choice 15 Trizor XV to the list. Its functional design and clear instructions turn it into an instant winner for consumers.

Different Colors
One thing that is lacking with most units is the choice for colors. This model remedies that and is available in Black, Brushed Metal and White.

Perfect
This system comes with three stages of sharpening. Giving you the perfect edge each and every time. The directions are clear and precise so that even a first-timer can have professional-grade edges.

Cost and Value
The high price might scare off some buyers looking for a cheaper solution. But the extra cost is worth it, especially for a top-three product.

Amazon Link
$179.95

4. Work Sharp WSKTS

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$139.95
Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener Ken Onion Edition
Amazon Link

The design of the WSKTS leaves a lot to be desired, but what it lacks in visual appeal it makes up for with usefulness. Having this as your knife sharpener gives you a product that works for a lot more than knives.

Multiple Uses
Knives are not the only thing this sharpener can handle, as it has shown great flexibility with scissors and even tools. Serrated blades receive the same professional treatment, and all from a single sharpener.

Belt Driven
This is the first belt-driven option on our list. I personally have this one at home and we all love it. It works quickly and efficiently. Keeping our knives in perfect slicing order.

Cost and Value
The price is about average and aligns well with the rest of the electronic sharpeners on the list. For only a little bit more, users can also get a replacement belt kit with their purchase.

Amazon Link
$139.95

5. SunrisePro

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$9.99
SunrisePro Supreme Knife Sharpener for all Blade Types
Amazon Link

The popular SunrisePro Knife Sharpener usually ends up on a lot of top lists for sharpeners. It is user-friendly, often copied and an all-around great way to sharpen your knives.

No Skill Required
That is the main tagline for using this product and it holds up well. Along with hands-free sharpening, it is the safest product on the list to use for all ages.

Keep it in Place
There is nothing worse than an appliance that slides all around the counter while you are using it. Sort of makes you want to bust out the superglue to keep that thing in place. You don't have to do that with this model, the manufacturer has included a suction cup system for keeping it in place.

Cost and Value
The price is low, which is just about right for what this product offers. Since it works with serrated knives, it gains some extra value points in that category.

Amazon Link
$9.99

6. Chef’sChoice 4643

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Chef’sChoice 4643  ProntoPro Diamond Hone Manual Knife Sharpener
Amazon Link

When seeking the perfect knife sharpener, it’s all about getting a quality product that will get the job done effectively every single time. Having a sharp knife not only allows you to make effective cuts but it ensures you get the most out of the food you eat. The Chef’sChoice 4643 ProntoPro Diamond Hone Manual is not only effective, but it gets the job done in record time. Say goodbye to knife sharpeners that get stuck or need to be used excessively.

Advanced CrissCross Technology
One of the features that makes this a top contender is its crisscross technology. The technology itself is not only innovative but it helps sharpen your knife from all angles. It delivers a sharp edge due to its diamond abrasive wheels, which sharpen simultaneously for superior cutting without any burr.

3-Stages
Though most knife sharpeners contain one sharpening system, this one has 3 stages. Having three distinctive stages ensures your knife gets sharpened in more than one way. Furthermore, 100% diamond abrasives are used in all three stages. You are getting a sharper knife, that is polished without any rough edges. It's all about getting your knife sharpened evenly throughout.

Cost and Value
When it comes to the cost and value of this you will be spending a little more money as it is on the pricier side. However, the product is well worth the price point due to the quality that you are getting. You aren’t only getting a knife sharpener, but you are paying to have your knives prepared to cut through anything including tough meat like butter.

Amazon Link

7. Zula

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Zulay Premium Quality Knife Sharpener for Straight and Serrated Knives Stainless Steel Ceramic and Tungsten
Amazon Link

Knives will never be dull again thanks to this top tier sharpener from Zula Kitchen. It looks great and performs as expected for a product in this price range.

Easy To Use
Unless you go for something smaller, there really aren’t a lot of models that are this easy to use. Consumers won’t need to spend time looking through the instruction manual thanks to the user-friendly design.

Backed by the Company
Everyone loves the feeling of safety when purchasing anything new for the first time. Afterall a lot of money gets wasted on items that just don't pan out. Upon purchasing this unit, you are backed fully by the manufacturer. If you are not satisfied, you can contact customer services for a full refund of your money.

Cost and Value
This product is available at a low price that challenges competitors in the same category. Being easy to use makes it a great gift idea over more complicated knife sharpeners.

Amazon Link

8. Wüsthof

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$25.00
Wüsthof - 2 Stage Hand-Held Sharpener
Amazon Link

The Wüsthof - 2 Stage Hand-Held is the first modern option on the list, and it doesn’t disappoint. The dual-stage performance is equal to a lot of higher tier sharpeners and without the extra cost.

Compact
This is a small product when you look at its dual-stage functionality. It can be stored anywhere or kept out in the open since the dimensions are so tight.

Dual-Stage
For those who have no clue what dual-stage performance means, let us explain it to you. One part will carbide for creating a rough edge on the blade. The final part will be ceramic for polishing up any spots that the carbide made too rough.

Cost and Value
With or without the bar board the price is low, but the true value comes with the inclusion of the board. That’s the package that consumers should look at if they want to purchase this model.

Amazon Link
$25.00

9. KitchenIQ 50009

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$9.22
KitchenIQ 50009 Edge Grip 2-Stage Knife Sharpener
Amazon Link

When most of us think about knife sharpeners we picture a large item with multiple slots; however, that isn’t always the case and this sharpener proves it. The KitchenIQ 50009 Edge Grip 2-Stage Knife Sharpener might be smaller in size but it's mighty and powerful right when you need it most. Whether you use it to sharpen dull knives, or you are simply refreshing the sharp ones you have, this one will get the job done.

Carbide Blades
Thanks to having carbide blades perfectly paired with the brand's elite edge grip The KitchenIQ 50009 is capable of sharpening a multitude of blades, regardless of how dull or damaged they might be. The beauty of having carbide blades is with the simple act of pulling your knife across from them you will get a sharp knife every time. Furthermore, finish your knives with the second slot that helps you polish any of the dullness that might remain from the first few swipes.

Compact
As previously stated, most knife sharpeners are large, on the contrary, this one is not. This sharpener offers a more compact design. Having a compact design ensures you always have a place for this sharpener on the top of your table, in your kitchen counter or you can travel with it if you decide to do so. Furthermore, it is paired with a firm base for sturdy and safe use.

Cost and Value
When it comes to the cost and value of this item it is extremely cost-effective, you can almost say it's pretty cheap. Furthermore, you are getting a quality product, that is compact and comes with superior blade sharpening for the price. It’s a win-win for all.

Amazon Link
$9.22

10. Kitchellence

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$14.99
Kitchen Knife Sharpener
Amazon Link

With all of the two-stage knife sharpeners on the list, the inclusion of this updated Kitchellence kitchen knife sharpener was a must. It provides everything the previous knife sharpeners had out of the box while including its own set of specialized features.

Extras
Included with the package is a pair of cut resistant gloves. For safety reasons these work great and are an essential part of the package. They prevent you from accidentally slicing into your hand or finger.

Comfort
Gripping this will seem naturally comforting to you. Designed for either those who are right or left-handed to use with ease. Making cleaning up the edges of your knife that much quicker.

Cost and Value
With the sharpener and glove in one package all for one low price, this is a steal. There won’t be any buyer’s remorse with the use of this three-stage system.

Amazon Link
$14.99