Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener Review

The Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch electric can opener promises automatic operation, smooth-edge cutting, and easy cleaning. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to see if it delivers on these claims for everyday use.

Design and Build

The Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch features a sleek, modern design with a stainless steel and black plastic body. It measures about 11.5 x 5.5 x 6 inches, making it one of the larger electric can openers on the market. The base is weighted for stability during operation. The cutting mechanism is housed under a pivoting arm that lifts to place the can. While the plastic construction feels sturdy enough for home use, some users note it doesn't have the premium heft of all-metal models like the Cuisinart CCO-50BKS. The cord is about 30 inches long but lacks a retractable feature, which can be a minor annoyance for countertop storage.

Performance

Performance is where the Smooth Touch shines. With a simple press of a lever, the opener automatically grips, cuts, and stops when the lid is fully separated. The side-cutting mechanism leaves both the lid and can rim completely smooth, eliminating sharp edges. This is a significant safety advantage, especially for households with children. The magnetic lid holder reliably grabs the lid, preventing it from falling into the food. The opener handles standard cans (like soup, vegetables, and beans) effortlessly. However, it struggles with very tall cans (e.g., 28-ounce tomatoes) or those with irregular rims. Some users report that the opener may slip on dented cans, though this is common among electric models. Compared to the KitchenAid KCO2WH, the Hamilton Beach is quieter and more consistent in its automatic stop.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is a major selling point. The one-touch operation requires minimal effort: just place the can under the cutting wheel, lower the lever, and press the start button. The opener does the rest. The large, tactile buttons are easy to press even for those with arthritis. The automatic shutoff prevents over-cutting. The only drawback is that you must manually hold the can in place until the cut begins, which can be slightly awkward for larger cans. The OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge manual opener offers a similar smooth cut but requires hand cranking, making the Hamilton Beach much more convenient for frequent use.

Cleaning

Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the removable cutting lever and gear. These parts can be rinsed under running water or placed in the top rack of a dishwasher (though hand washing is recommended to preserve sharpness). The base should be wiped clean with a damp cloth; it is not waterproof. The smooth, crevice-free design of the base prevents food buildup. Some users note that the magnetic holder can occasionally trap small food particles, but these are easily dislodged with a toothpick. Overall, the cleaning process takes less than a minute, making it one of the easiest electric openers to maintain.

Common Buyer Complaints

Despite its strengths, the Smooth Touch has recurring complaints. The most common is that the opener may fail to cut completely after extended use, requiring manual intervention. Some units have reported the cutting wheel dulling faster than expected, though Hamilton Beach offers a warranty. Another issue is that the base can slide on smooth countertops during operation; adding rubber feet or a non-slip mat helps. A few users mention that the lid magnet loses strength over time, but this is not widespread. Finally, the large footprint is a frequent criticism for those with limited counter space.

Comparison with Alternatives

Compared to the Cuisinart CCO-50BKS, the Hamilton Beach is more affordable and offers automatic operation, while the Cuisinart is manual but built with all-metal construction. The KitchenAid KCO2WH is similarly automatic but costs more and has a smaller footprint. The OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge manual opener is a budget-friendly alternative if you don't mind hand cranking. For most home users, the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch strikes the best balance of convenience, safety, and value.

Final Verdict

The Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch electric can opener is a reliable, user-friendly appliance that delivers on its promises of smooth-edge cutting and easy cleaning. It is ideal for everyday use, especially for those who prioritize safety and convenience. While it has minor drawbacks like size and occasional cutting issues, its overall performance and price point make it a top recommendation. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your kitchen needs.