Below you'll find a quick comparison, then a longer look at each opener with pros and cons. Further down, a short buying guide and answers to the questions we get asked most. Useful background reading also lives on our Kitchen Aids page and across our other product guides.
Quick comparison
| Opener | Best for | Type | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Otstar Jar Opener & Ring Pull Can Opener | Best overall | Multi-function jar, bottle and can opener | Amazon |
| Otstar Jar Opener and Bottle Opener, Orange | Best budget | Handheld jar and bottle opener | Amazon |
| Otstar Latest Jar Opener, 5 in 1 Multi Function | Best multi-function | 5-in-1 multi opener | Amazon |
| YUET Electric / Automatic Jar Opener | Best electric option | Battery-powered automatic opener | Amazon |
| GOLDTREE Under Cabinet Jar Opener | Best under-cabinet option | Under-cabinet mounted opener | Amazon |
Otstar Jar Opener & Ring Pull Can Opener
Otstar Jar Opener and Bottle Opener, Orange
Otstar Latest Jar Opener, 5 in 1 Multi Function
YUET Electric / Automatic Jar Opener
GOLDTREE Under Cabinet Jar Opener
The five best jar openers
Otstar Jar Opener & Ring Pull Can Opener
A versatile kitchen tool that combines jar opening, bottle opening and ring pull can opening in one compact design. The textured grip surface can help when lids are slippery.
- Combines three useful functions in one tool
- Compact size, easy to store in a drawer
- Textured grip surface for better hold
- May need both hands for larger jars
- Not electric-powered
Otstar Jar Opener and Bottle Opener, Orange
A straightforward, affordable opener with a simple design for everyday jars and bottles. The bright colour makes it easy to spot in a busy drawer.
- Very affordable price point
- Simple design with no moving parts
- Easy to wipe clean
- Requires some hand strength to use
- Single-function compared to multi-tools
Otstar Latest Jar Opener, 5 in 1 Multi Function
Offers five different functions in one handheld tool, covering jars, bottles, ring pulls and more. Useful if you want one tool that handles several lid types.
- Covers most everyday lid types
- Small enough to fit in a kitchen drawer
- Good value for the number of features
- Multiple parts to keep track of
- Plastic construction
YUET Electric / Automatic Jar Opener
A battery-powered opener that grips the lid and twists it off automatically at the press of a button. Can be useful when twisting motion is tiring or uncomfortable.
- Simple press-button operation
- Adjusts to fit different lid sizes
- No manual twisting required
- Requires AA batteries
- Takes up more drawer or shelf space
GOLDTREE Under Cabinet Jar Opener
Mounts underneath a kitchen cupboard to hold the lid steady while you turn the jar with both hands. Keeps worktops clear and is always in the same place.
- Hands-free once installed
- Works with a wide range of jar sizes
- Always in the same place, easy to find
- Needs a sturdy cupboard to fit under
- Fixed location, not portable
What to look for in a jar opener
Grip type
A rubber pad needs hand strength. A lever opener trades strength for leverage. An electric opener does the twisting for you.
Weight
Lighter is usually better. A heavy handheld tool gets tiring quickly.
One-handed use
Under-cabinet and electric openers are easiest if only one hand is doing the work.
Cleaning
Rubber pads go in the dishwasher. Mechanical and electric openers should just be wiped with a damp cloth.
Storage
A pad lives in a drawer. An under-cabinet opener stays out of the way. Electric models need a bit of shelf space.
Sealed jars
For very stiff vacuum-sealed lids, a lever opener gives the most mechanical advantage.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of jar opener is easiest to use?+
For most people, an electric one-touch opener takes the least effort because you only press a button. Under-cabinet openers are a close second since they hold the lid while you turn the jar with both hands.
Are jar openers worth buying for older adults?+
Many older adults find lids harder to twist as grip strength changes. A simple opener can make daily tasks like opening a jar of jam or sauce far less frustrating.
Can these be used with one hand?+
Yes. Electric openers and under-cabinet openers are the most one-hand friendly because they hold the lid for you.
Will a jar opener fit all jar sizes?+
Most adjustable and electric openers handle small to large jars. Rubber pads work on almost any lid but need more hand strength.
Do electric jar openers need mains power?+
No. The popular models run on batteries, usually 4 x AA, so they can be kept in a drawer and used anywhere.
Are they easy to clean?+
Rubber pads are dishwasher safe. Handheld and electric openers should be wiped with a damp cloth, not submerged.
Keep reading
Senior Home Help offers general suggestions only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for medical questions.