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Electric knife sharpeners offer a modern solution to the age-old task of maintaining razor-sharp blades. Designed for efficiency and precision, these devices utilize automated mechanisms to swiftly sharpen various types of knives with minimal effort. With adjustable settings catering to different blade angles and grit preferences, electric sharpeners ensure consistent results, even for novices. Their compact size makes them suitable for both home kitchens and professional settings, providing a convenient alternative to traditional manual sharpening methods. Embracing technology, electric knife sharpeners, like our top choice, the Presto Electric Knife Sharpener, streamline the sharpening process, extending the lifespan of knives and enhancing kitchen efficiency for enthusiasts and culinary experts alike.

  

Buying Guide: Electric Knife Sharpener

The sharpening of stone artifacts such as knives and spearheads is an art that can be dated back to 75,000 years ago. In modern times our knives are much more durable and require a sharper edge which can only be acquired using a quality electric knife sharpener. When choosing an electric knife sharpener, there are several features to consider. In this guide, we will tell you all you need to know when buying electric knife sharpeners for your kitchen. 

Benefits of Using an Electric Knife Sharpener

Requires less effort

If you are using a whetstone or a manual knife sharpener, you will need to put in a lot of effort to sharpen your knives. If you have to sharpen multiple knives, you will end up with a sore arm. An electric knife sharpener, on the other hand, allows you to sharpen as many knives as you want without putting in any significant effort. The machine does the hard work for you. 

It is much easier to use

Sharpening your knives using a traditional sharpener or a whetstone requires a lot of skill. You need to maintain the right angle and use the correct materials. With an electric knife sharpener, anyone can sharpen a knife like a pro. No need to hold the knife at an angle or learn how to properly slide the knife across a whetstone to get the perfect results. 

Top Features of an Electric Knife Sharpener

Sharpening quality

The sharpening quality is the most crucial factor when purchasing an electric knife sharpener. Look for products that offer efficient, effective, and durable sharpening capabilities. You should go for the options with a high-end, reliable sharpening apparatus, such as diamond abrasive surfaces that provide the highest-quality sharpening.

Compatible knife materials

You should choose an electric knife sharpener that can be used on many knife materials, such as stainless steel, high carbon steel, and ceramic blades. If you have knives made using a specific material, check if the electric knife sharpener you are buying can sharpen those knives safely. You can do this by looking at the compatible knife materials in the product description of the electric knife sharpener.

Tips for Buying an Electric Knife Sharpener

Go for a compact design

An electric knife sharpener should be compact. It shouldn’t take up excessive counter space. A smaller size also makes the electric knife sharpener much easier to store in a drawer or a cabinet. 

Keep safety in mind

When handling knives, safety should always be a top priority. An option that comes with suitable safety features is imperative for a good knife sharpener. It is a good idea to go for an electric knife sharpener with blade guards and rubber feet to prevent accidental injury or damage to surfaces while using it. 

Honing features

The electric knife sharpeners we chose for our list had a honing apparatus for honing your knives after sharpening them. With this, you can get a finer edge for better performance. You can check if an electric knife sharpener can hone your knife by looking at its product description.

Quick sharpening speed

Quick knife-sharpening speed is a crucial feature to look for in your new device. With a fast operating speed, you won't have to wait too long to have your knife sharpened. In the long run, a quicker sharpening speed will save you time and effort during your cooking activities. 

Top Picks

  • Best Overall: Presto Electric Knife Sharpener
  • Sharpens Quickly: Chef’S Choice Electric Knife Sharpener
  • Lightweight Build: Mueller Electric Knife Sharpener
  • Budget Option: Smith's Electric Knife Sharpener
  • Best Warranty: Secura Electric Knife Sharpener

Reviews

Best Overall
Presto Electric Knife Sharpener

Presto Electric Knife Sharpener

Pros Cons
  • Easy to set up and use 
  • Highly durable construction 
  • Very compact to save counter space 
  • Not compatible with serrated blades and knives
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Sharpens Quickly
Chef’s Choice Electric Knife Sharpener

Chef’S Choice Electric Knife Sharpener

Pros Cons
  • Spring guides ensure a full-length edge
  • Sharpens your knives very quickly
  • Produces a much more durable edge
  • It is a bit expensive
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Lightweight Build
Mueller Electric Knife Sharpener

Mueller Electric Knife Sharpener

Pros Cons
  • Slots for coarse sharpening and fine honing
  • Built-in overheat protection
  • Very easy and safe to use 
  • Metal dust compartment for quick cleaning
  • The honing function is poor
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Budget Option
Smith's Electric Knife Sharpener

Smith's Electric Knife Sharpener

Pros Cons
  • Provides excellent value for money
  • Rubber feet to prevent slips
  • Super compact to fit smaller drawers
  • Ceramic rods to create a finer edge
  • Cannot sharpen multiple knives simultaneously
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Best Warranty
Secura Electric Knife Sharpener

Secura Electric Knife Sharpener

Pros Cons
  • Can sharpen multiple knives at once
  • Doesn't produce too much sound during use
  • Sharpens knives within seconds
  • Suction cups to keep it in place
  • It cannot be used with serrated blades
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FAQs

How does an electric knife sharpener work?
An electric knife sharpener works by grinding away the dull material from the blade with a rotating abrasive wheel. The sharpening stone is on a disk that spins at a predetermined speed and pressure while the blade passes over it. 
How often do I need to use an electric knife sharpener?
You should sharpen your knives at least once every few months, depending on how often you use them. For those who regularly use their knives for cutting or carving tasks, it is better to sharpen them more frequently to maintain a keen edge. Frequent sharpening also helps prevent accidents since blunt blades require more force, resulting in a more forceful impact in case of a slip.
Are there any safety precautions I should consider when using an electric knife sharpener?
Yes, always wear protective eyeglasses when using an electric knife sharpener, as sparks and debris can fly from the spinning wheel. Never put your hands near the moving parts of a sharpener. 
Are there any differences between types of electric knife sharpeners?
Yes, some electric knife sharpeners are specifically designed for certain types of blades, such as kitchen knives or pocket knives, while others can handle multiple knife sizes and shapes. Some models have stages with different levels of coarseness and honing to achieve custom levels of sharpness. Other models may feature built-in honing rods to maintain pre-set edges or extra features. 
How do I maintain and clean my electric knife sharpener?
To maintain an electric knife sharpener, always rinse any accumulated dust after using it each time. Unplug it from the power source and then wipe it with a damp cloth. Follow this up by drying it with a clean cloth. You can also use compressed air to get the debris and dust out. It is also critical to check for signs of wear, including loose screws and cracks in the body where moisture could enter. Some sharpeners require periodic lubrication, so consult your manual for instructions.
Do I need to remove the burr from a knife after sharpening it?
Most electric knife sharpeners leave a slight burr on the knife after sharpening. You should remove this burr before using the knife to ensure a sharp blade. Since burr produces resistance during cutting, leaving it on will cause your cuts to be imperfect.