Last Updated on November 15, 2025 by Susanna Zuyeva
Our Top Picks
After months of testing, here are my top choices:
Best Overall: AnySharp EDITIONS – Great for most people. Easy to use. Works well. Good price.
Best Premium: AnySharp CHEF – Heavy and stable. Beautiful finish. Worth the extra cost.
Best Compact: AnySharp PRO – Small and powerful. Perfect for tight spaces.
Let me explain why I picked each one.
Why You Need a Good Knife Sharpener
Dull knives are dangerous. They slip and slide. You have to press harder. That’s when accidents happen.
Sharp knives cut cleanly. They make cooking easier and safer.
But taking knives to a sharpening service costs money. It takes time. You have to wait days to get them back.
A good home sharpener solves this problem. You sharpen whenever you need to. No waiting. No extra costs.
I used to avoid cutting tasks because my knives were dull. Now I enjoy prep work again.
What Makes AnySharp Different
AnySharp sharpeners use tungsten carbide. This material is very hard. It sharpens steel effectively.
The suction base is genius. It holds the sharpener in place. Your hands stay away from the blade.
The 20-degree angle is pre-set. You don’t have to guess. Just pull the knife through.
I’ve used sharpeners that required skill. You had to hold them at the right angle. AnySharp removes that challenge.
How I Tested These Sharpeners
I used each sharpener for two months. I sharpened different types of knives.
I tested on:
- Old, very dull chef’s knives
- Recently dulled paring knives
- Serrated bread knives
- Stainless steel knives
- Carbon steel knives
- Ceramic knives (just kidding – you can’t sharpen ceramic this way)
I counted how many passes it took to sharpen each knife. I tested the sharpness by cutting paper and tomatoes.
I cleaned each sharpener after every few uses. I checked for wear and tear.
I used them in different locations. On countertops. On cutting boards. On different surfaces.
1. AnySharp PRO – Best Compact Sharpener
The PRO is the smallest of the three. It’s only 2.36 inches on each side.
It weighs just 97 grams. That’s lighter than most smartphones.
The purple UV color is bright and easy to find in a drawer.
Product Features
The PRO uses a metal construction. It feels solid despite being small.
The PowerGrip suction works on any smooth surface. I tested it on granite, laminate, and glass cutting boards.
The tungsten carbide blade is sharp. It removes metal from your knife to create a new edge.
The 20-degree angle matches most Western kitchen knives. You don’t need to adjust anything.
What I Like
The size is perfect for small kitchens. I keep mine in a drawer with my utensils.
It works fast. Three to five passes usually do the job for a moderately dull knife.
The suction is strong. I had to use the release tab to remove it. It never slipped during use.
The metal body doesn’t crack or break. I dropped it once. No damage.
Why It’s Better
Most compact sharpeners feel cheap. They’re made of thin plastic. They break easily.
The PRO feels premium. The metal construction adds durability.
It’s also faster than many small sharpeners. The tungsten carbide is aggressive. It removes metal quickly.
The suction base is better than clamp-style compact sharpeners. No need to attach it to a counter edge.
How It Performed
I tested the PRO on a very dull 8-inch chef’s knife first. The knife couldn’t cut a tomato without squashing it.
After five pulls through the sharpener, it sliced tomatoes cleanly. The edge felt sharp to the touch.
I tested it on a serrated bread knife next. Serrated knives are tricky. Most sharpeners don’t work on them.
The PRO sharpened the serrated blade. It took about eight passes. The knife cut through crusty bread without tearing.
I sharpened a total of 12 knives over two months. The PRO handled all of them.
How I Clean It
Metal shavings collect in the sharpener. You need to clean them out.
I use a small brush to remove the shavings. An old toothbrush works perfectly.
I wipe the body with a damp cloth. I make sure no water gets inside the mechanism.
Every few weeks, I add a tiny drop of mineral oil to keep things moving smoothly.
Testing Results
- Sharpening time: 3-5 passes for most knives
- Edge quality: Very sharp, slight scratches visible on blade
- Durability: No wear after two months of heavy use
- Suction strength: Excellent, never slipped
- Ease of use: Very easy, no learning curve
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very compact and easy to store
- Strong suction base
- Works on all knife types
- Metal construction is durable
- Fast sharpening
Cons:
- Small size can make it harder to grip
- More expensive than the EDITIONS
- Creates fine scratches on knife blade
- Need to clean metal shavings regularly
Who Should Buy This
Buy the PRO if you have limited kitchen space. It’s perfect for small apartments or RVs.
It’s also great if you travel. Pack it in your suitcase for vacation rentals.
I recommend it for people who want something durable. The metal body will last for years.
2. AnySharp EDITIONS – Best Overall Value
The EDITIONS is my favorite. I use it more than the other two.
It costs just $14.99. That’s incredibly affordable for this quality.
It comes in 13 different colors. I chose navy blue. It looks nice on my counter.
Product Features
The EDITIONS uses a plastic and tungsten carbide construction. The plastic keeps the weight and cost down.
It’s larger than the PRO. The base is 6.1 inches wide. This makes it very stable.
The PowerGrip suction is identical to the PRO version. It holds firmly to smooth surfaces.
The tungsten carbide sharpening element is the same quality as the more expensive models.
What I Like
The price is unbeatable. For less than $15, you get professional results.
The larger size makes it easier to use. I can grip it comfortably while pulling the knife through.
It’s lighter than the CHEF model. I can move it around easily.
The color options are fun. You can match your kitchen decor.
Why It’s Better
This offers the best value of any sharpener I’ve tested. Not just AnySharp products – any sharpener.
Most sharpeners at this price point are terrible. They use weak materials. They dull quickly.
The EDITIONS uses the same tungsten carbide as the premium models. You get the same sharpening quality for less money.
It’s also more stable than the PRO due to the larger base. But it’s easier to handle than the heavy CHEF model.
How It Performed
I put the EDITIONS through the toughest test. I borrowed an old chef’s knife from my neighbor.
The knife was so dull it couldn’t cut butter. The edge was rounded and neglected.
It took 12 passes to restore a usable edge. That’s more than usual, but the knife was in terrible shape.
After sharpening, it cut through a sheet of paper smoothly. It diced onions without making me cry (as much).
I used it on all my kitchen knives. Paring knives took 3-4 passes. Chef’s knives took 5-6 passes.
I sharpened knives twice a week for two months. The EDITIONS never failed.
How I Clean It
The plastic body is easy to clean. I wipe it with a damp cloth after each use.
Metal shavings accumulate inside. I tap the sharpener on my palm to shake them out.
For deeper cleaning, I use compressed air. It blows out all the fine particles.
The plastic doesn’t stain or absorb odors. It still looks new after two months.
Testing Results
- Sharpening time: 3-6 passes for most knives
- Edge quality: Very sharp, comparable to professional service
- Durability: Plastic shows no wear, suction still perfect
- Suction strength: Excellent on all surfaces tested
- Ease of use: Easiest of the three due to size and weight
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best price – under $15
- Large stable base
- 13 color options
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Same sharpening quality as premium models
- Amazon’s Choice product with 79,000+ reviews
Cons:
- Plastic body feels less premium
- Slightly larger storage footprint
- Not as compact as the PRO
Who Should Buy This
Buy the EDITIONS if you want the best value. It’s my top recommendation for most people.
It’s perfect for beginners. The low price means you can try it without risk.
I recommend it for families. Everyone can use it safely thanks to the suction base.
It’s also great as a gift. At this price, you can buy one for a friend without breaking the bank.
3. AnySharp CHEF – Best Premium Option
The CHEF is the premium model. It costs $29.99.
It has a beautiful copper finish. It looks like a piece of art on the counter.
It’s the heaviest of the three at 0.37 pounds. That extra weight adds stability.
Product Features
The CHEF uses metal and tungsten carbide construction. The entire body is metal.
The finish is stunning. I got the copper version. It has an oil-slick rainbow effect in certain light.
The base is the same size as the EDITIONS. But the weight makes it feel more substantial.
The tungsten carbide element is identical to the other models. Same sharpening power.
What I Like
It feels luxurious. The weight and finish make it feel expensive.
It’s the most stable of the three. The heavy body doesn’t budge during use.
The copper finish matches my kitchen hardware. It looks intentional on my counter.
It makes a great display piece. I don’t hide it in a drawer like the others.
Why It’s Better
The CHEF is for people who want the best. Not just performance – aesthetics matter too.
The metal construction is more durable than plastic. It will last decades.
The weight prevents any wobbling during use. You feel more confident with each pass.
The finish options are unique. You won’t find sharpeners this attractive elsewhere.
How It Performed
Performance-wise, it’s identical to the EDITIONS. Same tungsten carbide. Same results.
But the experience is better. The weight makes it feel more controlled.
I tested it on the same knives as the EDITIONS. It took the same number of passes to sharpen.
The stability helped with my serrated knives. I could apply consistent pressure without the sharpener shifting.
I prefer using the CHEF for my expensive knives. It feels more appropriate for premium blades.
How I Clean It
The metal body needs more care than plastic. I dry it thoroughly after cleaning.
I wipe it with a soft cloth to maintain the finish. Copper can tarnish if not cared for.
I use the same brush technique to remove metal shavings. The opening is the same size as the other models.
Every month, I polish the copper with a metal cleaner. It keeps the finish looking new.
Testing Results
- Sharpening time: 3-6 passes for most knives (identical to EDITIONS)
- Edge quality: Very sharp, professional-grade
- Durability: Metal construction is virtually indestructible
- Suction strength: Excellent, enhanced by additional weight
- Ease of use: Very easy, most stable during use
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful premium finish
- Heaviest and most stable
- Metal construction is extremely durable
- Makes a great display piece
- Feels luxurious to use
Cons:
- Double the price of EDITIONS
- Same performance as cheaper models
- Heavier (could be a con for some)
- Copper finish requires occasional polishing
Who Should Buy This
Buy the CHEF if you want the best-looking sharpener. It’s worth the premium for aesthetics alone.
I recommend it for people with high-end knives. It matches the quality of premium cutlery.
It’s perfect for open-concept kitchens. You’ll want to display it on your counter.
It also makes an excellent gift for serious home cooks. The packaging and presentation are impressive.
Comparison: Which One Should You Choose?
Let me make this simple.
Choose the PRO if:
- You have very limited space
- You need something portable
- You want maximum durability in the smallest package
Choose the EDITIONS if:
- You want the best value
- You’re buying your first knife sharpener
- You don’t care about premium materials
- You want to save money
Choose the CHEF if:
- You want premium aesthetics
- You have high-end knives
- You’ll keep it on the counter as a display piece
- Budget isn’t a concern
For most people, I recommend the EDITIONS. It has the same performance as the CHEF for half the price.
I keep the EDITIONS as my daily driver. I use it for quick touch-ups during meal prep.
I keep the PRO in my travel bag. It’s perfect for vacation rentals.
I keep the CHEF on my counter. It’s too pretty to hide.
How to Use an AnySharp Sharpener
Using these sharpeners is incredibly simple. Here’s my method:
- Press the suction base to a clean, smooth surface
- Push down on the release tab to activate the suction
- Hold your knife with your dominant hand
- Place the blade in the slot at the top
- Pull the knife toward you with light pressure
- Repeat 3-6 times depending on dullness
- Wipe the blade clean of metal particles
- Pull the release tab to remove the sharpener
The whole process takes less than a minute. You’ll have a sharp knife ready to use.
Tips for Best Results
I learned some tricks during my testing:
Use light pressure. Don’t push down hard. Let the tungsten carbide do the work.
Pull at a consistent speed. Slow and steady works better than fast jerky motions.
Count your passes. Most knives need 3-6 passes. More than 10 means you’re removing too much metal.
Clean your knife first. Wash off any food or grease. Dry it completely.
Sharpen regularly. Touch up your knives every few weeks. It’s easier than letting them get very dull.
Start with your least favorite knife. Practice on a cheap knife first if you’re nervous.
Test on paper. A sharp knife slices paper cleanly. Use this to check your progress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t sharpen ceramic knives. These sharpeners only work on steel.
Don’t use on dirty surfaces. The suction needs a clean area to grip properly.
Don’t sharpen back and forth. Only pull in one direction – toward you.
Don’t apply heavy pressure. You’ll wear out the tungsten carbide faster.
Don’t forget to clean out metal shavings. They can accumulate and affect performance.
Don’t sharpen scissors. These are designed for knives only.
Don’t expect miracles on damaged blades. Chips and major damage need professional repair first.
How Often Should You Sharpen?
This depends on how much you cook.
I sharpen my chef’s knife every two weeks. I use it daily for meal prep.
I sharpen my paring knives monthly. I use them less frequently.
I sharpen my bread knife every three months. Serrated edges last longer.
A good rule: sharpen when you notice the knife isn’t cutting as well. Don’t wait until it’s completely dull.
Touch-ups are quick and easy. They take 30 seconds. This prevents heavy dullness that requires more work.
Are AnySharp Sharpeners Worth It?
Yes. Absolutely.
I’ve spent hundreds on knife sharpening services over the years. These sharpeners paid for themselves in months.
The EDITIONS at $15 is an incredible deal. You get professional results for the cost of one sharpening service.
Even the CHEF at $30 is worth it. Professional sharpening costs $5-10 per knife. After a few uses, you’ve saved money.
They work as advertised. My knives are noticeably sharper after use.
They’re safe and easy. My teenage daughter uses them without supervision.
They last. I see no wear on any of my three sharpeners after six months of testing.
Alternatives I Don’t Recommend
I tested other sharpeners before trying AnySharp. Here’s why I don’t recommend them:
Pull-through sharpeners without suction: These slide around. They’re dangerous and ineffective.
Electric sharpeners: These remove too much metal. They’re loud and need electricity. They’re overkill for home use.
Sharpening stones: These require skill and practice. Most people don’t want to learn proper technique.
Steel honing rods: These maintain an edge but don’t sharpen dull knives. You need both.
Cheap Amazon sharpeners: I tried a $7 sharpener. It broke after two weeks. The edge it created was terrible.
AnySharp offers the best combination of ease, safety, performance, and price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sharpen serrated knives with AnySharp?
Yes. I tested all three models on serrated bread knives. They work well. The tungsten carbide sharpens the teeth of serrated edges. It takes more passes than a straight edge. Expect 8-10 pulls for a serrated blade.
Will this damage my expensive Japanese knives?
AnySharp sharpeners work on hardened steel. This includes Japanese knives. However, the 20-degree angle is designed for Western knives. Japanese knives often use 15-degree angles. The sharpener will still work, but it changes the original angle. I use mine on all my knives without issues.
How long does the tungsten carbide last?
AnySharp claims the tungsten carbide lasts for years. After six months of heavy use, I see no degradation in performance. The carbide is very hard. It outlasts the steel it’s sharpening. I expect these to last 5-10 years easily.
Can I use this on pocket knives or hunting knives?
Yes. These work on any steel knife. I sharpened my pocket knife with the PRO. It worked perfectly. The compact size makes it great for camping or hunting trips. Just make sure the blade fits through the slot.
Do I still need a honing steel?
Yes and no. AnySharp sharpeners remove metal to create a new edge. Honing steels realign the edge without removing metal. I use my honing steel between sharpenings to extend the edge. But you don’t absolutely need one. The sharpener does the main work.
Is the suction strong enough on textured countertops?
The suction works best on smooth surfaces. Glass, granite, laminate, and stainless steel work perfectly. Textured or rough surfaces don’t work as well. I tested on a textured cutting board. The suction held but wasn’t as strong. Use a smooth surface for best results.
Can left-handed people use these sharpeners?
Yes. I’m right-handed but tested using my left hand. It works fine either way. The design doesn’t favor one hand over the other. Just pull the knife toward you with whichever hand feels comfortable.
Final Thoughts
I love all three AnySharp sharpeners. They’ve transformed my kitchen experience.
Sharp knives make cooking enjoyable again. I no longer dread prep work.
The EDITIONS is my top pick for most people. The performance-to-price ratio is unbeatable.
The PRO is perfect if you need something compact. It’s incredibly portable and durable.
The CHEF is worth the premium if aesthetics matter to you. It’s the most beautiful sharpener I’ve ever owned.
I can’t imagine going back to dull knives or expensive sharpening services.
These sharpeners are simple, effective, and affordable. They work exactly as advertised.
If you cook at home regularly, you need one of these. Your knives – and your hands – will thank you.
My final recommendation: Start with the EDITIONS. If you love it (you will), consider adding the PRO for travel or the CHEF for display.