Best Nut Crackers of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2026

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Nut crackers are a handy tool for cracking open various types of nuts. They come in different shapes and sizes, from the traditional metal pliers to more modern designs made of wood or plastic. Some nut crackers even come with additional features, such as a built-in nut bowl or a mechanism for removing the shell. Nut crackers are not only useful for snacking on nuts, but they can also be used for cooking and baking. They are a must-have kitchen tool for anyone who enjoys nuts and wants an easy and efficient way to crack them open.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Nut Cracker Set with Picks Cover #TOP 1
Nut Cracker Set with Picks
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hiware 20-piece Seafood Tools Set Cover #TOP 2
Hiware 20-piece Seafood Tools Set
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Chef Craft Stainless Steel Nut Crackers and Picks Set Cover #TOP 3
Chef Craft Stainless Steel Nut Crackers and Picks Set
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Nut Crackers

#TOP 1

Nut Cracker Set with Picks

Chrome
Nut Cracker Set with Picks Cover
Nut Cracker Set, Nutcracker Tool, Lobster or Crab Cracker

This Nut Cracker Set with Picks is an all-metal and sturdy zinc construction that will last a long time. The machined teeth provide a better grip on nuts, and the two picks included make it easier to get the nuts out of their shells. The classic design has been passed down through generations, and it is also dishwasher safe.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Easy to use
Bonus pick utensils included
Good value
Fast delivery
What We Don't Like
Limited strength for tough nuts
Smaller size

Hiware 20-piece Seafood Tools Set

NE-XHT
Red/Silver
19-Piece
Hiware 20-piece Seafood Tools Set Cover
Hiware 20-piece Seafood Tools Set includes 6 Crab Crackers, 6 Lobster Shellers, 6 Crab Leg Forks/Picks and 2 Seafood Scissors & Storage Bag - Nut Cracker Set

The Hiware 20-piece Seafood Tools Set is a must-have for any seafood lover's kitchen. This professional set includes 6 crab crackers, 6 lobster shellers, 6 crab leg forks/picks, 2 seafood scissors, and 1 cotton storage case. Made of heavy-duty and durable materials, this set is safe, mess-free, and dishwasher safe. It is perfect for eating whole lobster and crab without worrying about the waste. This versatile and beautiful seafood tool set makes an ideal gift for housewarming parties, Thanksgiving, Christmas or birthdays.

What We Like
Durable and sturdy construction
Complete set for seafood
Comfortable ergonomic grip
Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
Convenient storage bag
What We Don't Like
Only one pair of scissors
Packaging could be improved
#TOP 3

Chef Craft Stainless Steel Nut Crackers and Picks Set

21629-2PK
White
Chef Craft Stainless Steel Nut Crackers and Picks Set Cover
Chef Craft 21629-2PK Stainless Steel Set, 2 Nut Crackers and 4 Picks

This Chef Craft Stainless Steel Set includes 2 nut crackers and 4 picks, all made of durable stainless steel material. The set comes in a classic white color and is perfect for cracking nuts of all sizes. The nut crackers and picks are easy to use and clean, making them a convenient addition to your kitchen tools. This set is an ideal choice for those who enjoy snacking on nuts or need a reliable tool for recipes that call for nuts.

What We Like
Versatile for nuts and shellfish
Stainless steel construction
Attractive design
Effective and sharp picks
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Handles slightly shorter
Metal plating may rust
#TOP 4

Artcome Seafood Tools Set

cracker6-fork7
Silver
Seafood Tools Set
Artcome Seafood Tools Set Cover
Artcome Seafood Tools Set including 7 Forks and 6 Lobster Crab Crackers Nut Cracker Set

This Artcome Seafood Set includes 6 zinc alloy crackers and 7 stainless steel forks, perfect for enjoying seafood like lobster, shellfish, oysters, crab shells, and nuts. The stylish and ergonomic design makes it great for restaurants, picnics, and home use. The durable and dishwasher safe materials ensure easy cleaning and long-lasting use. Plus, if you're not completely satisfied, Artcome offers a prompt refund or replacement with no questions asked.

What We Like
Sturdy metal construction
Works well for crab and nuts
Dishwasher safe
Great value for the price
Comes with storage bag
What We Don't Like
Joint may rust if not dried
Pokers bend under heavy pressure
#TOP 5

OXO Seafood & Nut Cracker

OXO
11350300
Black
One Size
OXO Seafood & Nut Cracker Cover
OXO Good Grips Seafood & Nut Cracker

The OXO Seafood & Nut Cracker, also known as the OXO Cracker, is a versatile tool designed to make cracking tough shellfish and nuts a breeze. With its ridged teeth, it provides a firm grip on shellfish, allowing you to easily crack open crab claws and lobster claws of all sizes. The ergonomic design helps reduce pressure and hand strain, ensuring a comfortable cracking experience. The non-slip handles, even when wet, provide a secure grip. In addition to shellfish, this cracker is also great for cracking walnuts, almonds, and other nuts. With the OXO Cracker, you can enjoy your favorite seafood and nuts without the hassle and strain on your hands.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable construction
Comfortable grip
Easy to use
Effortless cracking of hard nuts
Prevents hand pain and blisters
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavier than basic models
#TOP 6

Chef Craft Classic Nut Cracker with Picks

21629
Stainless Steel
5 inches in Length
Chef Craft Classic Nut Cracker with Picks Cover
Chef Craft Classic Nut Cracker with Picks, 6.75 inch, Stainless Steel

The Chef Craft Classic Nut Cracker with Picks is a durable tool with machined teeth for a better grip on nuts. Its classic design has lasted generations and includes two picks for easier nut extraction. The all-metal zinc construction ensures longevity and it is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

What We Like
Durable and sturdy construction
Cracks hard shell nuts easily
Easy to use and store
Includes nut picks
Attractive design
What We Don't Like
Not as heavy duty as expected
Perceived lower value by some

Anwenk Heavy Duty Nutcracker Pecan Walnut Plier Opener Tool with Wood Handle

Nutcracker-011
Wood Handle
Anwenk Heavy Duty Nutcracker Pecan Walnut Plier Opener Tool with Wood Handle Cover
Anwenk Heavy Duty Nutcracker Pecan Walnut Plier Opener Tool with Wood Handle

Anwenk Nutcracker Plier is a heavy duty tool designed to make cracking nuts a breeze. With its spring loaded mechanism, you can easily crack a variety of nuts such as pecans, hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts. The high quality wood handles provide a comfortable grip, making it more convenient and enjoyable to crack nuts compared to traditional crackers. The enameled die casting aluminum construction ensures durability and the plier hole diameter of 2" allows for cracking nuts of various sizes. Not only does this tool excel at cracking nuts, but it can also double as a bottle opener. Say goodbye to struggling with hard shell nuts and hello to effortless nut cracking with the Anwenk Nutcracker Plier!

What We Like
Strong and durable build
Comfortable wooden handle
Cracks nuts cleanly
Works well for large batches
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
No instructions included
Handles may loosen over time
#TOP 8

Texan York Tempered Steel Nut Sheller

Texan Nut Sheller
Texan - 027097000010
Texan York Tempered Steel Nut Sheller Cover
The Texan York Nut Sheller – One Nut Cracker, Tempered Steel Pack of 1

The Texan York Nut Sheller is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for you to crack nuts without any complicated steps. Its tempered steel construction ensures it is strong and durable, so it will last through many uses without breaking. The smart design helps you open most nuts smoothly, saving you time and effort compared to traditional nut crackers. Plus, you don’t need much strength to use it; just a little pressure will do the job, so it’s convenient even if you don’t have a lot of hand power. This tool is perfect for anyone looking for an easy, reliable way to crack nuts.

What We Like
Easy to use
Preserves intact pecan halves
Sturdy build quality
Saves time and effort
Comfortable grip
What We Don't Like
Takes practice to master
Not ideal for hard shell pecans
#TOP 9

HLARTNET 8-Piece Stainless Steel Lobster and Nut Cracker Set

Nut Crackers
Silver
8pcs
HLARTNET 8-Piece Stainless Steel Lobster and Nut Cracker Set Cover
8 Pcs Lobster Crackers and Picks Set, Crab Leg Cracker Tools, Stainless Steel Seafood Crackers & Forks Nut Cracker Set for Eating Stake Support

The HLARTNET Lobster Nut Crackers set includes 8 stainless steel tools, featuring 4 nut crackers and 4 picks, making it perfect for your seafood parties. This set is an excellent gift for seafood lovers, offering a thoughtfully designed tool to enjoy crab legs, lobster, and more with ease. Its versatile design means you can use it not only at home but also at restaurants or outdoor picnics, helping you crack open various shellfish and nuts effortlessly. Made from sturdy zinc alloy and stainless steel, this set is durable, resistant to rust, and built to last, ensuring safety and long-term use.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good value for price
Comes with storage pouch
Works for most shellfish
Quick delivery
What We Don't Like
Build quality a bit flimsy
Crackers large for small shellfish
#TOP 10

Norpro Nut/Topping Chopper

Clear
One Size Fits All
Norpro Nut/Topping Chopper Cover
Norpro Nut/Topping Chopper

The Norpro Nut Chopper is a handy kitchen tool designed to make your food prep faster and easier. With a compact size of just over 7 inches and a capacity to hold 1.25 cups, it’s perfect for chopping soft nuts like walnuts and pecans. You can also use it to quickly crush toppings such as graham crackers or cereal, ideal for adding texture to ice cream or desserts. Operating it is simple—just fill the hopper, secure the lid, and turn the handle. The chopped pieces conveniently collect in the glass base, making cleanup a breeze and keeping your workspace neat.

What We Like
Sturdy glass collection cup
Easy to use and clean
Works well with soft nuts
No electricity required
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Plastic top somewhat flimsy
Not ideal for hard nuts
Best Nut Crackers Feature Image

Deciding which Nut Crackers is Best for Your House

Nuts are not only healthy but delicious too. They consist of healthy fats and hence can be consumed anytime without worrying much about calories. You can eat them either by roasting, toasting, or coat them with salt or sugar. Not all nuts are easy to crack and hence the nut crackers came into existence. They are available in distinct patterns and qualities. If you are planning to purchase a nut cracker, here are some styles to check out. 

Factors to consider before purchasing nut crackers

  • Single Lever

This type of nutcracker is quite common nowadays. You can place the kernel on a flat surface and with the help of a lever, you can crack the nut open.

  • V-Shaped or the Pliers

The nutcracker is made using two arms of the same length and the pivot point is at the top of both arms.

  • Turn Screw

Simply place the shell in a holder as is and the screw keeps turning until it gets cracked open.

  • Percussion Style

You need to hold the hull of the kernel and the pressure hits it with the adequate force for breaking it open.

Factors to Look for Before Purchasing a Nutcracker

  • Safety

Consider nutcrackers with curved arms as these help in preventing pinching. The straight-armed nutcrackers are mostly unsafe as most users have pinched their fingers.

  • Comfort

Choose handles that are wider with a comfortable grip for the best comfort. Narrow handles often lead to hand pain and exertion especially when you have a huge number of shells to crack.

  • Capacity

Choose the V-shaped nutcrackers instead of table-top lever-style when you have a whole lot of nuts to crack.

  • Storage

Nowadays, there are space constraints in most households. If you have the same concern, you must choose nutcrackers that come with an easy storage option. The V-shaped plier ones can be easily stored in your drawer and take minimal space in your kitchen.

  • Durability

If you are looking for a nutcracker with high durability, there are many options available. Avoid nutcrackers made of resin and plastic as they can easily split while cracking harder shells like macadamias or hazelnuts.

Frequently asked questions

Why Do We Need a Nutcracker?

It is the most effective and safest way to remove shells from nuts. When you use a hammer or other hard tools, it may be injurious to your hands and fingers. Therefore, a nutcracker is specifically designed to crack nuts in a safer manner.

What Are the Benefits of a Nutcracker with a Single Lever?

The key benefit of choosing the single lever nutcracker is that you can easily mount it on a flat surface or the kitchen counter. It is more stable and can be used with a single hand to operate the unit. Besides, this type of nutcracker is less messy when compared to other styles.

Conclusion

These are some of the factors and suggestions to consider that will help you purchase the right type of nutcracker. There are economical to expensive models to choose from. A nutcracker is quite a useful tool, especially for nut lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of nuts are in a nutcracker?

A nutcracker tool can crack various types of soft to medium-hard shelled nuts. Some examples include pecans, Brazilian nuts, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and more. Nutcrackers are designed to handle a range of nuts, making it easier to enjoy their delicious kernels.

2. Why are nutcrackers so expensive?

The cost of nutcrackers can vary depending on factors such as the brand, material, rarity, and craftsmanship. Similar to collectible items, the value of a nutcracker is determined by these qualities. Higher-quality materials and intricate designs can contribute to the higher price of nutcrackers.

Editor's Notes

During our nut cracker research, we found 24 nut cracker products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 166,850 customer reviews through our big data system to write the nut crackers list. We found that most customers choose nut crackers with an average price of $11.82.

The nut crackers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of nut crackers, including BNYD, HIWARE, Chef Craft, Artcome, OXO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 566 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Nut Crackers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand BNYD HIWARE Chef Craft Artcome OXO Chef Craft Anwenk Texan Nut Sheller HLARTNET Norpro
Item Weight 4.6 ounces 1.96 pounds 9.6 ounces 1.5 pounds 5.6 ounces - 0.44 Pounds 0.4 Pounds 0.32 Kilograms 0.77 Pounds
Material - - - Stainless Steel - Stainless Steel Aluminum Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Blades with Glass Base
Color - - - Silver - Stainless Steel Wood Handle Red Silver Clear
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
ftb score rating icon 8.3
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