Best kitchen gadgets and tools
Buy the small tools you will use weekly: a scale, a thermometer, a peeler, tongs and a spatula do more than a drawer of novelty gadgets.
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Compare all 10 at a glance
Prices are estimates and change often. Amazon shows the current one.
| Product | Best for | Est. price | Biggest plus | The catch | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Box GraterOXO | Box Grater | $22-$29 | Four grating sides | Takes space | Amazon |
| Lodge Silicone Handle HolderLodge | Handle Cover | $7-$10 | Protects hands from hot iron handles | Specific to certain sizes | Amazon |
| Pyrex Prepware 2 Cup Glass Measuring CupPyrex | Measuring Cup | $17-$23 | Microwave safe glass | Glass can chip | Amazon |
| OXO Good Grips Silicone SpatulaOXO | Spatula | $11-$15 | Heat resistant and flexible | Can stain from sauces | Amazon |
| OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Locking TongsOXO | Tongs | $16-$21 | Locking hinge for storage | Not for very hot grills | Amazon |
| OXO Good Grips Garlic PressOXO | Garlic Press | $18-$24 | Comfortable and sturdy | Bulky in a drawer | Amazon |
| Microplane Classic Zester GraterMicroplane | Zester | $11-$15 | Fine grating for citrus and cheese | Sharp on knuckles | Amazon |
| OXO Good Grips Swivel PeelerOXO | Peeler | $11-$15 | Sharp and comfortable | Blade dulls over years | Amazon |
| Escali Primo Digital Kitchen ScaleEscali | Kitchen Scale | $22-$29 | Accurate and compact | Needs batteries | Amazon |
| OXO Good Grips Salad SpinnerOXO | Salad Spinner | $22-$29 | Pump action spins greens dry | Bulky to store | Amazon |
Every kitchen gadgets & tools pick, in detail
Common questions
Which kitchen gadgets are actually worth buying?
The ones you use often: an instant-read thermometer, a digital scale, a good peeler, tongs and a silicone spatula. Skip single-use gadgets that only do one rare job.
Do I need a kitchen scale?
It is not essential, but it makes baking more consistent and helps with portions. A simple digital scale is inexpensive and small.
General information only. Follow each maker's instructions and safety notes, and check current specs and prices on Amazon.