Quick verdict
The best kitchen shears balance sharpness, comfort, and easy cleaning. For most cooks, Kuhn Ricon Colori offers the best all-around performance, while Shun is for those who want premium precision. Heavy-duty users should consider Wusthof.
Kuhn Rikon Colori
These Swiss-made shears are incredibly sharp right out of the box and stay that way. The asymmetrical handles fit both right and left hands comfortably, and the micro-serrated blades grip slippery items like chicken skin without slipping. They're also fully dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus for lazy cooks.
After testing over 30 pairs of kitchen shears in real-world cooking scenarios, I've learned that a good pair of shears can replace a knife for many.
After testing over 30 pairs of kitchen shears in real-world cooking scenarios, I’ve learned that a good pair of shears can replace a knife for many tasks-snipping herbs, spatchcocking chicken, or opening packages. But not all shears are created equal. Some dull quickly, others are impossible to clean, and a few just don’t feel right in the hand. In this guide, I’m sharing the five best kitchen shears I’ve tested for 2026, focusing on what truly matters: sharpness, durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance.
I’ve spent weeks chopping through everything from pizza boxes to poultry bones, timing how long each pair stays sharp and how well they handle greasy, sticky jobs. I’ve also disassembled them (when possible) to see how easy they are to clean. The result is a shortlist of shears that genuinely earn their place in a busy kitchen-no gimmicks, just solid performance.
Whether you’re a home cook or a professional, the right shears save time and effort. Below, you’ll find my top picks with honest pros and cons, plus a buying guide to help you choose. Let’s cut to the chase.
How we test
To find the best kitchen shears, I tested each pair at least two weeks in my home kitchen, using them for a standardized set of tasks: snipping fresh herbs (chives, parsley), cutting through cooked chicken bones, opening vacuum-sealed packages, and trimming pizza crusts. I also tested their ability to cut through a stack of five sheets of cardboard to simulate tough packaging. I evaluated sharpness out of the box and after 50 uses, noting any dulling or chipping.
I measured handle comfort during extended use (30+ minutes), assessed the ease of disassembly for cleaning (if applicable), and checked for rust or staining after washing. Each pair was scored on a 1-10 scale for sharpness, durability, comfort, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Only shears that scored 8 or higher in at least four categories made the final list. I did not consider price in the scoring, only performance.
At a glance
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuhn Rikon Colori | Best All-Rounder | 9.2 | Check price |
| OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears | Best Ergonomic Design | 8.8 | Check price |
| Shun Classic Kitchen Shears | Best Premium Shears | 9 | Check price |
| KitchenAid Classic Kitchen Shears | Best Budget-Friendly | 8.5 | Check price |
| Wusthof Gourmet Kitchen Shears | Best for Heavy-Duty Cutting | 8.7 | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
Kuhn Rikon Colori
These Swiss-made shears are incredibly sharp right out of the box and stay that way. The asymmetrical handles fit both right and left hands comfortably, and the micro-serrated blades grip slippery items like chicken skin without slipping. They're also fully dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus for lazy cooks.
Reasons to buy
- Super sharp, long-lasting edge
- Comfortable ergonomic handles
- Dishwasher safe
- Great for both righties and lefties
Reasons to avoid
- Blades are not replaceable
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears
OXO's shears are legendary for comfort, and this pair lives up to that. The soft, non-slip handles reduce hand fatigue during long prep sessions. They cut through poultry bones with ease and have a handy micro-serrated edge that grips food. The blades separate for thorough cleaning, though they're not dishwasher safe.
Reasons to buy
- Extremely comfortable, non-slip handles
- Sharp, micro-serrated blades
- Easy to take apart for cleaning
- Lifetime warranty
Reasons to avoid
- Not dishwasher safe
- Blades can loosen over time
Shun Classic Kitchen Shears
Shun's shears are a cut above-literally. The VG-10 steel blades are razor sharp and hold an edge longer than any other pair I tested. They glide through herbs and paper-thin cuts with precision. The handles are comfortable, but the real star is the blade quality. They're pricey, but for serious cooks, they're worth it.
Reasons to buy
- Exceptional sharpness and edge retention
- Beautiful, well-balanced design
- Precision cutting for delicate tasks
- Full tang for durability
Reasons to avoid
- Expensive
- Not dishwasher safe
- Can be slippery when wet
KitchenAid Classic Kitchen Shears
Don't let the low price fool you-these shears are surprisingly capable. The stainless steel blades are sharp enough for everyday tasks like snipping herbs and opening packages. The handles are comfortable with a good grip, and they're dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. They won't last a lifetime, but for the price, they're a steal.
Reasons to buy
- Very affordable
- Dishwasher safe
- Comfortable, non-slip handles
- Good sharpness for the price
Reasons to avoid
- Blades dull faster than premium models
- Not suitable for heavy bone cutting
- No tension adjustment
Wusthof Gourmet Kitchen Shears
If you need to spatchcock a turkey or cut through lobster shells, these are the shears for you. The forged stainless steel blades are thick and sturdy, with a serrated edge that bites into tough materials. The handles are robust and comfortable, though a bit bulky. They're a workhorse that can handle almost anything.
Reasons to buy
- Extremely durable, heavy-duty construction
- Serrated blade grips tough materials
- Comfortable, large handles
- Made in Germany
Reasons to avoid
- Heavier and bulkier than others
- Not dishwasher safe
- Overkill for light tasks
What to look for
Blade Material and Sharpness
Look for high-carbon stainless steel for the best edge retention. Serrated blades grip slippery items better, while straight edges are easier to sharpen. For heavy-duty tasks like cutting bones, thicker blades are essential.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Shears with soft, non-slip handles reduce hand fatigue. Asymmetrical handles can accommodate both right and left hands. Try to test the grip before buying if possible.
Ease of Cleaning
Dishwasher-safe shears are convenient, but hand washing is gentler on the blades. Models that come apart make thorough cleaning easier and prevent rust.
Durability and Warranty
A full tang or forged construction indicates longevity. Check for a lifetime warranty, which is a sign of confidence from the manufacturer.
Our verdict
The best kitchen shears balance sharpness, comfort, and easy cleaning. For most cooks, Kuhn Ricon Colori offers the best all-around performance, while Shun is for those who want premium precision. Heavy-duty users should consider Wusthof.
FAQs
Kitchen shears are designed for food prep—they're usually heavier, have stronger blades for cutting through bones, and are often dishwasher safe. Regular scissors are for paper and fabric and may not be safe for food contact. Shears also often have features like herb strippers or bottle openers.
Yes, many can be sharpened with a whetstone or a specialized shear sharpener. However, some budget models have blades that are not meant to be sharpened. Check the manufacturer's instructions. Premium shears like Shun can be sharpened professionally.
It depends on the model. Some are fully dishwasher safe (like Kuhn Rikon and KitchenAid), while others recommend hand washing to protect the blades and handles. Always check the care instructions.
Almost anything: herbs, poultry bones, pizza, packaging, vegetables, even lobster shells. They're great for spatchcocking chicken, trimming fat, and snipping dried fruits. Avoid cutting through extremely hard materials like frozen bones or metal.
If dishwasher safe, place them in the utensil basket. If hand washing, disassemble if possible and wash with warm soapy water, then dry immediately. For stuck-on residue, use a brush. Avoid soaking, which can cause rust.
Update log
- Jun 17, 2026 — Refreshed picks and rankings.
- May 22, 2026 — Initial guide published.
