Looking to upgrade your kitchen tools? A reliable pair of kitchen scissors is a must-have for any chef or home cook. After testing top-rated options, we’ve identified the best kitchen scissors for every need, focusing on functionality, durability, and design.

Our Editor’s Pick, the OXO Good Grips Kitchen & Herb Stainless Steel Scissors, stands out with its sharp, micro-serrated blades, built-in herb stripper, and cushioned handles for comfort during meal prep.

For premium performance, the MITSUMOTO SAKARI Japanese Kitchen Scissors deliver razor-sharp, titanium-coated blades and a sleek, durable design. On a budget? The Magnificent Kitchen Scissors impress with versatility, including a bonus pair of precision scissors for delicate tasks.

Not every pair made the cut. The LUMOUS ROLA 3 PCS Kitchen Scissors disappointed with uncomfortable handles and lackluster durability, making them one to avoid.

Whether trimming herbs, tackling tough cuts, or slicing packaging, our guide has the right choice for your kitchen. With options for every budget and cooking style, you’re sure to find the perfect scissors to make meal prep faster and easier. Read on to discover your next essential kitchen tool!

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What Makes a Good Pair of Kitchen Scissors?

When shopping for kitchen scissors, certain features should be considered standard to ensure they meet the demands of daily food prep. Here are the essential expectations:

Features That Should Be a Given

1. Sharp, Stainless Steel Blades: High-quality scissors should have durable, rust-resistant stainless steel blades that remain sharp for effortless cutting.
2. Micro-Serrated Edges: These ensure better grip on slippery or tough materials like chicken skin or herbs.
3. Ergonomic Handles: Comfortable, non-slip handles are a must for safe, fatigue-free use.
4. Ease of Cleaning: Scissors should separate easily or have a straightforward cleaning process to maintain hygiene.
5. Multipurpose Functionality: A reliable pair should handle various tasks, from trimming meat even raw meat to cutting herbs and even slicing packaging.

Norms to Look Out For

• Ambidextrous Design: Scissors that are comfortable for both left- and right-handed users.
• Built-in Safety Features: Blade covers or locking mechanisms for safe storage.
• Durability: High-quality materials should ensure the scissors last through frequent use.

Design and Build Quality

The design and construction of kitchen scissors directly impact their functionality and longevity.

• Blade Construction: Look for forged or laser-cut blades, as they tend to be more durable and precise. Titanium or black-coated blades are often more resistant to rust and wear.
• Grip Comfort: Cushioned, non-slip grips made from durable plastic or silicone are ideal for reducing hand fatigue during long use.
• Weight and Balance: Scissors should feel sturdy but not too heavy, with a well-balanced design that allows precise control.
• Hinge and Assembly: Strong, smooth-operating hinges ensure effortless cutting without wobbly or uneven performance over time.

Extra Functions That Add Value

Premium kitchen scissors often include bonus features that enhance their versatility and convenience.

1. Herb Stripper: A small addition for removing leaves from stems like thyme or rosemary.
2. Bottle Opener: Some scissors double as a bottle or jar opener, adding functionality to a single tool.
3. Removable Blades: For thorough cleaning and maintenance, scissors with separable blades are ideal.
4. Bonus Herb Scissors: Sets that include a second, smaller pair for precision tasks like trimming herbs or flowers.
5. Blade Covers: Protective covers for safe storage and to maintain blade sharpness.
6. Rust-Resistant Coating: A coating like titanium or Teflon can protect blades from wear and prolong their lifespan.

By keeping these aspects in mind, you can ensure your kitchen scissors are not only functional but also a reliable companion for all your cooking needs.

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Editors Pick

OXO Good Grips Kitchen & Herb Stainless Steel Scissors

The OXO Good Grips Kitchen & Herb Stainless Steel Scissors are an essential tool for any kitchen. After using them extensively, we’ve found they combine functionality, durability, and thoughtful design.

Key Features

• Stainless Steel Blades: These sharp, micro-serrated blades make cutting through everything from chicken breasts to tough herbs seamless. The micro-serrations ensure items are securely gripped while cutting, minimising slips.
• Herb Stripper: A handy addition that efficiently removes herbs like thyme and rosemary from their stems. It’s a small feature but incredibly useful for meal prep.
• Comfortable Grip: The cushioned handles absorb pressure, making these scissors easy to use even for extended periods. The design feels sturdy and balanced in hand.
• Easy to Clean: The blades separate effortlessly, allowing thorough cleaning and helping maintain hygiene in the kitchen.

The OXO Good Grips Kitchen & Herb Stainless Steel Scissors are a must-have for any kitchen. These versatile scissors impressed us with their sharp, micro-serrated blades that make cutting through meat, vegetables, and herbs effortless (even sinewy chicken parts are no match).

The built-in herb stripper is a thoughtful touch, especially when prepping fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. We also appreciated the comfortable, cushioned handles that absorb pressure, making them easy to use for longer tasks.

The ability to separate the blades for cleaning is not only practical but ensures top-notch hygiene. However, we did find that the large handles might feel less ideal for smaller hands, and hand washing is preferable to maintain sharpness.

Overall, these scissors are a standout in performance, durability, and thoughtful design. Whether you're slicing, trimming, or prepping herbs, they deliver consistently excellent results, making them a reliable kitchen companion.

Runner up

MITSUMOTO SAKARI Japanese Kitchen Scissors All-Purpose

When it comes to versatile kitchen tools, the MITSUMOTO SAKARI Japanese Kitchen Scissors stand out. We’ve tested these all-purpose scissors, and they deliver on functionality, design, and ease of use.

Key Features

• Sharp, Micro-Serrated Blades: The titanium-coated blades are razor-sharp and easily tackle kitchen tasks. The micro-serrations ensure a firm grip, cutting through food without slipping.
• Durable and Rust-Resistant: The black titanium plating not only adds a sleek look but also offers enhanced resistance to rust and wear. This makes them a long-lasting investment.
• Removable Blades: Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the removable blade design. A simple twist separates the two parts, allowing thorough cleaning and maintenance.
• Comfortable Grip: The ergonomic handles are soft yet sturdy, providing a secure grip even during extended use. They’re designed to prevent slipping, offering both safety and comfort.

We tested the MITSUMOTO SAKARI Japanese Kitchen Scissors, and they exceeded our expectations. These scissors are incredibly sharp, thanks to their titanium-coated, micro-serrated blades, making them perfect for tackling tough kitchen tasks like trimming meat and slicing packaging.

Their precision also shines with delicate jobs like cutting herbs. The removable blade design is a standout feature, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance (a thoughtful touch for hygiene). The ergonomic handles are comfortable and non-slip, making them safe and effortless to use.

One downside is their price, which is slightly higher than average. Additionally, the handles are plastic rather than metal, which may not appeal to everyone. However, the exceptional performance and durability make up for these minor drawbacks.

Overall, these scissors are a fantastic addition to any kitchen. They’re versatile, reliable, and built to last—worth the investment for anyone seeking premium-quality kitchen tools.

Budget Pick

Magnificent Kitchen Scissors Heavy Duty Scissors for Kitchen Use

We tested the Magnificent Kitchen Scissors and found them to be an essential tool for any kitchen. Designed with practicality and durability in mind, these scissors excel in both performance and versatility. Here’s why they stood out during our experience:

Key Features

• Exceptional Cutting: Stainless steel blades with serrated edges ensure clean cuts through meat, poultry, herbs, and packaging.
• Versatile Use: Built-in bottle and jar opener adds convenience for meal prep.
• Bonus Scissors: Includes a smaller, sharp pair for delicate tasks like trimming herbs or flowers.
• Safety Cover: Protects blades and hands, making storage secure and easy.
• Ergonomic Design: Soft handles provide comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue for extended use.

We tested the Magnificent Kitchen Scissors and found them to be an exceptional addition to any kitchen. The stainless steel blades (with serrated edges) make cutting through meat, poultry, herbs, and even packaging effortless.

We were impressed by their versatility—doubling as a bottle and jar opener—and the inclusion of a bonus precision scissors set, perfect for smaller tasks like snipping herbs.

Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the rust-resistant stainless steel construction, which also ensures durability over time. The ergonomic handles provide excellent comfort and control, making extended use fatigue-free.

However, we did notice that the smaller pair of scissors could feel a bit average compared to the main pair. Despite this, the safety cover and sturdy design make the overall set a standout.

For those seeking a reliable, multi-functional tool, these scissors are a fantastic choice (whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook).

Poultry Shears Pick

LIVINGO Kitchen Scissors 2 Pack 9.25" Utility Multipurpose Poultry Shears

The LIVINGO Kitchen Scissors 2 Pack is a versatile and durable tool designed to simplify kitchen and household tasks. With sharp, detachable blades, ergonomic handles, and multipurpose functionality, these scissors are perfect for home or outdoor use.

Key Features

• Sharp, Detachable Blades: High-density stainless steel blades cut through poultry bones, vegetables, and packaging with ease. The micro-serrated edge grips slippery items, while detachable blades simplify cleaning and resharpening.
• Multipurpose Utility: The toothed grip cracks nuts, the serrated edge scrapes fish scales, and the built-in bottle opener adds convenience.
• Ergonomic Handles: Non-slip, large grips reduce fatigue and suit both left- and right-handed users. Dual-color handles improve food prep hygiene.
• Heavy-Duty Performance: Perfect for cutting chicken bones, herbs, or packaging, these robust scissors ensure reliable, everyday use.

We found the LIVINGO Kitchen Scissors 2 Pack to be an incredibly versatile and practical tool for daily use. The sharp, durable blades (made from high-density stainless steel) effortlessly cut through everything from poultry bones to vegetables.

We loved how the detachable design made cleaning and resharpening simple, ensuring excellent hygiene. The non-slip, ergonomic handles were comfortable to use and reduced hand fatigue, even during extended tasks.

The scissors' multipurpose features, like the toothed grip for cracking nuts and the built-in bottle opener, added convenience. While the scissors are dishwasher safe, we noticed that handwashing is better for maintaining blade quality.

One minor downside is that they’re slightly heavier than some alternatives, but this weight adds to their robust performance.

Overall, these scissors are a kitchen must-have. Their combination of sharpness, comfort, and versatility makes them a fantastic choice for cooking and household tasks. They exceeded our expectations!

Meat Shears Pick

DRAGON RIOT Meat Shears, Sharp Kitchen Scissors Heavy Duty

The DRAGON RIOT Meat Shears are a reliable and practical tool for any kitchen. After testing them, we found that these heavy-duty kitchen scissors are versatile and durable, making food preparation more efficient. Here's what stood out:

Key Features

• Premium Stainless Steel Blades: Sharp, thick blades easily cut through poultry, fish, and tough ingredients. The serrated edge is ideal for scraping fish scales.
• Ergonomic Handle Design: The seahorse arc handle ensures a secure, comfortable grip, reducing slips and strain. Suitable for both right- and left-handed use.
• Safety Lock: Built-in safety lock adds protection for safer handling and storage.
• Easy Maintenance: Stainless steel shears are simple to clean. Proper care prevents rust and ensures long-term durability.
• Cost-Effective: Their versatility reduces the need for additional tools, offering both efficiency and durability.

We found the DRAGON RIOT Meat Shears to be a standout addition to any kitchen. The premium stainless steel blades cut effortlessly through poultry, fish, and even tough ingredients. The serrated edge adds versatility, making tasks like scraping fish scales seamless.

The ergonomic seahorse arc handles provide an excellent grip (whether you're left- or right-handed), reducing hand strain and ensuring safety. The built-in safety lock is a thoughtful touch, offering added protection during storage.

While these shears are highly durable and maintain their sharpness with proper care, they do require careful handling during cleaning (especially around small parts like the spring). However, this minor inconvenience is easily outweighed by their exceptional performance.

Beautifully packaged, they make an excellent gift for cooking enthusiasts. Overall, these shears are a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective tool that simplifies food preparation, making them a must-have for any home or professional kitchen.

One To Avoid

LUMOUS ROLA 3 PCS of Kitchen Scissors Heavy Duty

We found the LUMOUS ROLA 3 PCS Kitchen Scissors set to be disappointing overall despite a few redeeming qualities. These scissors are lightweight and versatile, performing well for simple tasks like cutting herbs, slicing vegetables, or opening packages.

However, their limitations became apparent during more demanding kitchen jobs. The stainless steel blades, while marketed as heavy-duty, struggled with tougher materials, making them unreliable for cutting tasks that require strength and durability.

The handles, although designed to be ergonomic, felt too small and uncomfortable for extended use, particularly for those with larger hands. (This can lead to noticeable hand fatigue.)

The advertised "pack of three" initially seemed convenient for multitasking in the kitchen. However, the scissors appear better suited for occasional, light use rather than regular or heavy-duty kitchen work. Their overall build quality raises doubts about long-term durability, especially in a busy cooking environment.

Although these scissors have some positives, such as ease of handling and versatility for basic tasks, their lack of cutting power and uncomfortable design make them a poor choice for reliable kitchen shears.

In our experience, we wouldn’t recommend this product to anyone looking for quality and durability.

How We Evaluated and Chose the Best Kitchen Scissors

When it comes to selecting the best kitchen scissors, we didn’t just snip a few herbs and call it a day. We put each pair through rigorous testing to evaluate their performance, durability, comfort, and bonus features. Here’s a detailed look at how we tested each product to bring you the best options.

Performance Testing

We began by testing how well the scissors handled a variety of kitchen tasks. Cutting raw chicken was the first challenge, with an emphasis on sharpness and grip when slicing through bones, skin, and sinewy parts.

We then tested precision by trimming fibrous vegetables like celery and asparagus, followed by snipping both soft and woody herbs, including parsley and rosemary, to see how effectively the blades gripped and cut.

Finally, we assessed versatility by cutting through common kitchen materials such as plastic packaging, zip ties, and cardboard.

Durability Testing

To simulate long-term use, we performed repeated cuts on tough materials like thick cardboard to evaluate whether the blades dulled or lost alignment. We also exposed the scissors to water and acidic substances, such as lemon juice, to test their rust resistance.

The hinge strength was carefully examined by applying moderate twisting pressure to ensure the scissors maintained stability and smooth operation over time.

Comfort and Usability

Ergonomics were a key focus in our testing. We used each pair of scissors for extended periods to assess how comfortable they were to handle, particularly for users with different hand sizes.

Testing included checking the grip for security under wet or oily conditions and evaluating whether the handles were truly non-slip. For a comprehensive review, both right- and left-handed testers used the scissors to gauge their ambidextrous usability.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Hygiene is crucial for kitchen tools, so we evaluated how easy the scissors were to clean. We tested whether the blades could be easily separated for thorough cleaning and checked their compatibility with dishwashers, if applicable.

Build quality was scrutinised after multiple cleaning cycles to ensure the materials and blade connection remained intact without degradation.

Assessing Bonus Features

Many kitchen scissors come with added features, and we tested these for practicality. Herb strippers were evaluated for their effectiveness in removing leaves from stems like thyme and rosemary.

Bottle openers were put to the test on various caps, while blade covers were examined for how well they protected the blades and ensured safe storage. Each extra feature was analysed to determine whether it genuinely added value or was simply a gimmick.

Comparative Analysis

Finally, we compared each product based on value for money. We examined whether the performance, durability, and features justified the price. Aesthetic design was also considered, particularly for how the scissors complemented a modern kitchen setup.

Each pair was rated on a weighted scale, focusing on sharpness, comfort, durability, and overall utility.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Kitchen Shears and Kitchen Scissors?

The difference between kitchen shears and kitchen scissors lies in their design and functionality. Kitchen shears often have longer blades and additional features like bottle openers or herb strippers, making them more versatile.

Kitchen scissors, on the other hand, are typically simpler, with shorter blades meant for straightforward cutting tasks.

How to Sharpen and Maintain Kitchen Scissors?

To sharpen and maintain kitchen scissors, use a sharpening tool or whetstone, sliding the blades at the correct angle. Regularly clean them after use, dry them thoroughly to prevent rust, and occasionally apply oil to the hinge for smooth operation.

Proper maintenance ensures long-lasting sharpness and performance.

What Are the Metal Teeth on Kitchen Scissors For?

The metal teeth on kitchen scissors, often located near the handle, are designed for gripping and cracking tasks. They can help open bottle caps, crack nuts, or grip slippery items like jar lids. This feature adds versatility to kitchen scissors, making them more functional beyond cutting.

How Do You Know If Scissors Are Sharp Enough?

You know scissors are sharp enough if they cut through various materials smoothly and effortlessly without requiring excessive force. A simple test is to slice through a sheet of paper or trim herbs; dull blades will tear or crush instead of producing clean cuts.

How to Properly Clean Kitchen Scissors Without Damaging the Blades?

To properly clean kitchen scissors without damaging the blades, wash them by hand with warm, soapy water, avoiding harsh abrasives. If the blades are separable, take them apart for thorough cleaning.

Dry them immediately after washing to prevent rust, and avoid dishwashers unless specified as safe by the manufacturer.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the best kitchen scissors has helped you find the right pair for your needs. With so many great options, choosing wasn’t easy, but the OXO Good Grips Kitchen & Herb Stainless Steel Scissors stood out as our Editor’s Pick.

With sharp, micro-serrated blades, comfortable cushioned handles, and a handy herb stripper, it’s a reliable, versatile tool perfect for any kitchen.

While most of the scissors we tested impressed us, one model fell short. The LUMOUS ROLA 3 PCS Kitchen Scissors struggled with tougher materials, lacked durability, and had uncomfortable handles, making them a poor choice for regular use.

Have you found your perfect kitchen scissors yet? Let us know in the comments which one caught your eye or if you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen with our top pick. We’d love to hear from you!