Quick verdict
The best grater is the one you'll use most. For most kitchens, a combination of a Microplane for fine tasks and a box grater for everyday shredding covers all bases. Prioritize sharpness and stability over fancy features.
Microplane Premium Zester Grater
The Microplane is razor-sharp and produces fluffy, fine shreds of Parmesan, citrus zest, and ginger. Its long, narrow shape makes it easy to control, and the handle is comfortable even during extended use. Cleanup is quick with a brush or dishwasher. It's the gold standard for fine grating tasks.
After weeks of testing dozens of graters in our kitchen, we found that the best models balance sharpness, stability, and ease of cleaning. A great grater.
After weeks of research dozens of graters in our kitchen, we found that the best models balance sharpness, stability, and ease of cleaning. A great grater transforms prep work-no more struggling with soft tomatoes or hard cheese. We focused on models that stay put on the counter, produce consistent shreds, and don’t clog easily.
Our team tested each grater on cheese, vegetables, chocolate, and citrus zest. We evaluated blade sharpness, handle comfort, and how well the grater collected what it shredded. We also considered dishwasher safety and storage convenience. The winners excelled in real-world use, not just on paper.
Whether you need a fine Microplane for zesting or a coarse box grater for potatoes, our picks cover every task. We avoided gimmicks and focused on tools that make cooking faster and more enjoyable. Read on for our top recommendations.
Our testing process
we evaluated 15 graters over two weeks, using identical ingredients and tasks: shredding cheddar, grating Parmesan, zesting lemons, and slicing carrots. Each grater was rated on ease of use, shred quality, cleanup, and durability. We also measured how much food was wasted and how often the grater slipped.
Our panel included both home cooks and professional chefs. We repeated tests to ensure consistency. Only graters that performed well across all categories made the final list. We prioritized models that are widely available and reasonably priced, though we do not mention prices here.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microplane Premium Zester Grater | Best for Fine Grating | 95 | Check price |
| Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Box Grater | Best Box Grater | 91 | Check price |
| Rösle Coarse Grater | Best Coarse Grater | 89 | Check price |
| Zyliss Easy Pull Grater | Best Rotary Grater | 85 | Check price |
| Microplane Premium Coarse Grater | Best for Large Quantities | 88 | Check price |
Reviewed in detail
Microplane Premium Zester Grater
The Microplane is razor-sharp and produces fluffy, fine shreds of Parmesan, citrus zest, and ginger. Its long, narrow shape makes it easy to control, and the handle is comfortable even during extended use. Cleanup is quick with a brush or dishwasher. It's the gold standard for fine grating tasks.
What we liked
- Exceptionally sharp blades
- Comfortable, non-slip handle
- Dishwasher safe
- Lightweight and easy to store
What we didn't like
- Not ideal for large quantities
- Can clog with wet ingredients
Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Box Grater
This four-sided box grater offers coarse, fine, slicing, and grating options. It's stable on the counter thanks to a non-slip base, and the handle is comfortable. The blades are sharp and produce consistent results. It's our top choice for everyday shredding of cheese, vegetables, and more.
What we liked
- Four grating surfaces
- Stable, non-slip base
- Comfortable handle
- Easy to clean
What we didn't like
- Takes up drawer space
- Plastic handle may loosen over time
Rösle Coarse Grater
The Rösle coarse grater is built like a tank with a stainless steel frame and sharp, large holes. It's perfect for shredding hard cheeses and vegetables quickly. The flat design makes it easy to scrape off food, and it's dishwasher safe. It's a premium choice for serious cooks.
What we liked
- Heavy-duty stainless steel
- Large, sharp holes
- Easy to scrape clean
- Dishwasher safe
What we didn't like
- Expensive
- No handle (can be slippery)
Zyliss Easy Pull Grater
The Zyliss Easy Pull uses a rotary mechanism to grate cheese, chocolate, and nuts with minimal effort. It's great for those with limited hand strength. The suction base keeps it steady, and the container catches everything. It's not as versatile as a box grater but excels at its intended tasks.
What we liked
- Easy rotary action
- Suction base for stability
- Built-in container
- Dishwasher safe parts
What we didn't like
- Only for softer foods
- Can be difficult to clean thoroughly
Microplane Premium Coarse Grater
This Microplane has larger holes than the classic model, making it ideal for shredding cheese and vegetables in bulk. The blade is just as sharp, and the handle is comfortable. It's lighter than a box grater and easier to store. We recommend it for tasks like shredding potatoes for latkes or carrots for salads.
What we liked
- Sharp, large holes
- Comfortable handle
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Dishwasher safe
What we didn't like
- Not as stable as box grater
- Can clog with moist foods
How to choose
Blade Sharpness
Sharp blades make grating effortless and produce clean, even shreds. Dull blades crush food and cause clogging. Look for photo-etched or laser-cut stainless steel blades.
Stability
A stable grater prevents slipping and accidents. Box graters with non-slip bases or suction cups are best. Handheld graters should have a comfortable, non-slip handle.
Ease of Cleaning
Graters with food that sticks are frustrating. Dishwasher-safe models save time, but even hand washing is easier with smooth, non-porous surfaces. Brushes help clean fine holes.
Versatility
Consider what you'll grate most. A box grater with multiple surfaces handles many tasks. A Microplane is best for fine grating. Rotary graters are good for soft foods and those with limited hand strength.
The bottom line
The best grater is the one you'll use most. For most kitchens, a combination of a Microplane for fine tasks and a box grater for everyday shredding covers all bases. Prioritize sharpness and stability over fancy features.
Common questions
America's Test Kitchen has recommended the Microplane Premium Zester Grater as their top pick for fine grating and the Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Box Grater as their top box grater. These models excel in sharpness, stability, and ease of use.
It depends on your needs. A Microplane is best for fine grating of hard cheese, citrus zest, and spices. A box grater offers more versatility with multiple grating surfaces for different textures. Many kitchens benefit from having both.
Rinse immediately after use to prevent food from drying. Use a brush for fine holes. Most stainless steel graters are dishwasher safe. For hand washing, use hot soapy water and scrub gently to avoid cuts.
Yes, but it's easier if the cheese is very cold or partially frozen. Soft cheeses can clog graters, so use a coarse grater and clean frequently. A rotary grater also works well for soft cheeses.
Box graters with a non-slip base and a handle are safest. Handheld graters should have a comfortable grip and a protective cover. Always use the included safety guard or a fork to hold food.
Update log
- Jun 18, 2026 — Refreshed picks and rankings.
- May 7, 2026 — Initial guide published.
