The 4 Best Jar Opening Tools of 2024

The Bottom Line

The EZ Off Easy Grip Jar Opener is the best jar opening tool for a number of reasons. We love how it requires little effort to use and works for different-sized cans. We also appreciate the convenience of its under-cabinet design so it doesn’t take up space in a drawer. It’s sleek, out-of-the-way, easy to use, and efficient. 

What to Know About Jar Openers Before Shopping

Material

Jar opening tools can be made from a variety of materials such as durable plastic, rubber, silicone, metal, or a combination of materials. 

Somerall prefers silicone jar opener tools because they have a simple design and are often dishwasher safe. 

Type

Jar openers lie within two categories: automatic and manual. While both serve the same purpose, choosing which category works for your needs is important.

Somerall says automatic jar openers are a great option for those with limited strength or mobility in their hands, which can be caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis. 

“Automatic jar openers make the process of opening a jar as simple as possible for the user while only requiring batteries or access to an electrical outlet to work,” he says. “If you have trouble gripping a jar or lack the hand or finger strength required to twist open a tightly sealed jar (either brand new or previously opened), an automatic jar opener could be your new favorite kitchen tool.”

Manual jar openers, on the other hand, act as a sort of vise to aid with opening a jar and still require a bit of effort from the user. 

“There are lots of different designs when it comes to manual jar openers—some of which require more or less force to be applied in order to be effective,” Somerall says. “Most often, the simpler the design, the more effective, versatile, and easier the product will be to use while also being potentially more durable as well.”

Your Questions, Answered

How much are jar opener tools?

Jar opener tools range in price depending on how intricate the design is and whether they are automatic or manual. Prices of jar opener tools generally range from $5 to $60.

Since automatic openers tend to be more elaborate in their design, they’re a little more on the expensive side. The Instacan One Touch Electric Jar Opener typically retails for around $60, but they don’t require any physical effort from the user. 

Manual openers, like the Bloss Anti-Skid Jar Opener, tend to be more affordable because their design is simpler. 

What is the best jar opener tool for someone with arthritis or limited hand mobility? 

Somerall says the best type of jar opener for people with arthritis or limited hand mobility is an automatic (or electric) jar opener, like the Instacan One Touch Electric Jar Opener.

“Even the simplest of tasks, such as opening a tightly sealed jar, can be a challenge for somebody with limited mobility, strength, or arthritis,” he says. “Silicone and manual jar openers still require some strength to be applied by the user in order to be effective; however, automatic jar openers simplify the process and make the task as easy as possible.”

Who We Are

Michelle Love is a freelance commerce writer for Better Homes & Gardens. She has extensive experience as a freelance writer and has also worked in the restaurant, bar, and catering industries for the past 13 years. To find out what to look for in the best jar-opening tools, she spoke with John Somerall, who is a professional chef with over 12 years of experience. He is currently the editorial project manager, food, at Dotdash Meredith Corporation.