Benriner Mandoline Slicer Review

The Benriner Japanese mandoline has earned a cult following among professional chefs and home cooks alike. Known for its razor-sharp blade and simple, no-frills design, it promises precise, uniform slices that elevate any dish. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to bring you this honest review.

Design and Build Quality

The Benriner is a minimalist tool. It consists of a flat plastic body with a stainless steel blade set at an angle. The construction is lightweight yet sturdy, with no moving parts that could break. The plastic feels durable, though some users note it can crack if dropped. The blade is held in place by a simple locking mechanism, and the thickness dial on the side is easy to turn.

Compared to the OXO Good Grips, which has a more robust frame with a large food holder, the Benriner is more compact and easier to store. However, the OXO offers a safer design with a blade guard and a comfortable grip. The Swissmar Borner is another competitor, but it uses a V-string design that is less sharp and less precise.

Performance: Sharpness and Precision

The Benriner's blade is exceptionally sharp, producing clean cuts that don't crush or bruise vegetables. It can slice cucumbers paper-thin for salads, potatoes for chips, and even hard vegetables like carrots with ease. The adjustable thickness allows you to go from 0.5mm to 5mm, giving you control for various recipes.

In our comparison of buyer feedback, many users praise the Benriner for its ability to create uniform slices that cook evenly. The julienne blade is a bonus, perfect for stir-fries and garnishes. However, the blade is so sharp that it can be dangerous if not handled properly. The included hand guard is small and doesn't provide much protection, so we recommend using a cut-resistant glove.

Ease of Use

Using the Benriner requires a steady hand and some practice. You hold the handle with one hand and slide the vegetable across the blade with the other. The angle of the blade means you need to apply even pressure to get consistent results. After a few tries, it becomes second nature, but beginners may find it intimidating.

Compared to the OXO, which has a dial to set thickness and a large pusher to hold food, the Benriner is less forgiving. The OXO is more user-friendly, especially for those with limited hand strength. But for experienced cooks, the Benriner offers more control and precision.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Benriner is straightforward: rinse it under warm water and wipe the blade carefully. It is not dishwasher safe, as the high heat can warp the plastic. The blade can be removed for thorough cleaning, but be careful not to cut yourself. Some users find it easier to use a brush to clean the blade area.

The OXO is slightly easier to clean because it has a blade guard that covers the sharp edge. The Benriner has no such guard, so you must store it carefully. The plastic body is prone to staining from colorful vegetables like beets, but a quick rinse usually removes the color.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the Benriner has a high rating, some buyers have raised concerns. The most common complaint is the lack of a safety guard, leading to cuts if not careful. Another issue is the small hand guard, which many say is useless. Some users also mention that the plastic handle can crack if you apply too much pressure, though this is rare.

Another point of contention is the blade's sharpness. While it's a pro for performance, it's a con for safety. Several buyers recommend using a cut-resistant glove, which is an extra expense. Additionally, the mandoline doesn't come with a storage case, so you need to find a safe place to store it.

Comparison with Similar Models

The OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer is the Benriner's main competitor. The OXO has a larger platform, a comfortable handle, and a built-in safety guard. It also has a dial to adjust thickness, similar to the Benriner. However, the OXO's blade is not as sharp, and it can struggle with very thin slices. The OXO is easier to clean and store, but it takes up more counter space.

The Swissmar Borner V-String Mandoline uses a different cutting mechanism with V-shaped blades. It is safer because the blades are less exposed, but it doesn't offer the same level of precision. The Borner is also more expensive and harder to find replacement blades for.

Final Verdict

The Benriner Japanese mandoline is a top-tier tool for anyone serious about cooking. Its sharpness and precision are unmatched, making it a favorite among chefs. However, it requires careful handling and a learning curve. If you prioritize safety and convenience, the OXO might be a better choice. But if you want professional results and are willing to be cautious, the Benriner is worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Benriner mandoline dishwasher safe?

No, it is not dishwasher safe. Hand wash with warm soapy water and dry immediately.

Can you adjust the thickness of slices?

Yes, the dial on the side allows adjustments from 0.5mm to 5mm.

Does it come with a safety guard?

It includes a small hand guard, but it's not very effective. Use a cut-resistant glove for safety.

What vegetables can it slice?

It handles cucumbers, carrots, potatoes, zucchini, onions, and many other vegetables and fruits.

How does it compare to the OXO mandoline?

The Benriner is sharper and more precise, but the OXO is safer and easier to clean. Choose based on your priorities.