The 4 Best Meat Slicers, According to Our Tests - Food & Wine

Not all of us have the counter space for a meat slicer. But if you’ve got some room and are passionate about perfectly sliced meats, this is a luxury appliance worth splurging on. It can bring the convenience of mediocre pre-packaged deli meats to your kitchen without sacrificing quality and significantly cut your prep time for delicious weeknight dinners.

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Slicing by hand can be tedious, repetitive, and potentially dangerous when you’re on slice number 22 and perhaps not paying as much attention as you were when you started. But the best meat slicer will produce consistent, even slices and let you adjust the thickness. If you’ve already secured the best panini press and bread knife and want the ultimate sandwich upgrade for deli-quality sliced prosciutto, consider investing in a meat slicer.

To test the best meat slicers, we sliced deli meats and bread, noting any inconsistencies and keeping a close eye on safety. We also washed them, noting how difficult or easy it was to break them down and get them clean. Ultimately, we rounded up four meat slicers for different kitchen setups and budgets. These are the best meat slicers, according to our tests.

Our Favorite Meat Slicer

The Beswood 10-inch Premium Meat and Cheese Slicer is a strong, easy-to-use at-home meat slicer that is simple to clean and safe to operate. While large, it feels sturdy and won’t slip or struggle when used for long periods.

Pros

• This aluminum and steel meat slicer is well-made and sturdy.

Cons

• This commercial-style model is heavy and requires two people for safe transport.

The Beswood meat slicer looks and performs like a larger commercial model. It’s large, with a heavy base that gives it a strong foundation that feels sturdy and safe. The rubber feet also aid with stability. Because of its large size, it would be best stored on a countertop since moving it safely requires two adults. It comes with one non-serrated, resharpenable blade.

The setup for this slicer is straightforward, as it comes with most of its parts already installed. There’s an optional splash guard for juicy items like roast beef, and a plastic slicing guide for bread, which we found helpful for handling softer breads. The dial for slice thickness is accurate and corresponds to millimeters for easy measuring. However, we found thickness varied if we applied pressure to the product handle.

In our tests, slicing felt simple and consistent for bread, ham, and cheese. Cleaning was easy since the manufacturer recommends simply wiping everything down. We liked this machine’s value, versatility, and consistency, and we believe it’s appropriate for any volume that a homeowner might need.

Dimensions: 20 x 17 x 14.75 inches | Weight: 33 pounds | Blade: High-carbon and chromium-plated steel

Pros

• This slicer is large and heavy-duty; perfect for high-volume slicing.

Cons

• Because of its size, you need two people to safely move this slicer.

If you want a commercial-grade slicer for your home, we recommend this one. It is large enough to accommodate large loaves of bread and pieces of deli meat. It effectively created thin, delicate slices.

Of all the slicers we tested, this model was best able to create super delicate slices of meat and cheese. The system has serrated and non-serrated blades and the thickness settings are marked and easily changed. We liked the consistency of the slices. This unit’s ability to produce the thinnest slices we saw across our tests. The motor got bogged down when trying to cut thicker cheese slices; a problem we attributed to the motor not being strong enough for the task.

We liked this machine’s stainless steel construction, though we noted that it requires a brush to clean all its nooks and crannies. If you’ve got the budget or super-thin slices are your top priority, we recommend this meat slicer.

Dimensions: 20.1 x 18.5 x 15.5 inches | Weight: 37 pounds | Blade: Stainless steel

Pros

• It is compact and easy to move around.

Cons

• This slicer moved around slightly when in use.

The Ostba 200W Electric Deli Slicer is a great value if you want a deli slicer at home but don’t want to spend a ton. It doesn’t take up a lot of counter space and is light enough to move without strain. In our tests, we encountered a minor problem with its lightweight construction. The suction cups made to keep the slicer in place sometimes became unstuck, allowing the slicer to move around slightly while in use. While this didn’t make us feel unsafe during our tests, it’s important to note. We like the safety lock to prevent accidentally turning it on. It comes with two blades, one serrated for bread, and one unserrated for meats and cheeses.

The setup was simple since the blade comes installed. This slicer has the smallest blade of those we recommend, which some people may find limiting in terms of what they can slice. Like our other more affordable picks, we found this slicer less adept at producing super-thin slices and found that the motor struggles with thicker items like hard cheeses. Our tests found that 3-4 millimeters was the thinnest this slicer could go while still producing uniform slices. Cleaning was straightforward, and we found this slicer a good value for its affordable price.

Dimensions: 14.6 x 9.4 x 10.2 inches | Weight: 10.12 pounds | Blade: Stainless steel

Pros

• This slicer is small enough to store in a cabinet between uses.

Cons

• We wished the thinnest setting was even thinner.

For home cooks looking for a meat slicer to move between a cabinet and tabletop easily, the LEM Mighty Bite 8.5-inch Meat Slicer is our most compact choice. It’s a manageable size without compromising on sturdiness. The slicer has two blades, one non-serrated and one serrated for bread. You’ll need a flathead screwdriver to change the blades.

The setup and blade installation for the LEM is simple and easy. The thickness dial is marked but difficult to turn. Our tests found that even the thinnest setting made ham and cheese come out a bit thicker than a standard deli cut. Due to its smaller size, larger items like a loaf of bread needed to be cut into more manageable pieces before they could be safely sliced. Cleaning this slicer is easy, and can be done by wiping down the blade or removing the blade.

This slicer is louder than the other slicers we tested, though we could have conversations while listening to music and using it. Our tests of this slicer produced nice slices without tearing or shredding, though it performs better at thicker settings.

Dimensions: 18.13 x 18.13 x 12 inches | Weight: 13.4 pounds | Blade: Stainless steel

How We Tested Meat Slicers

To determine the best meat slicers, we tested six top-rated models. In our tests, we sliced bread, cheese, and ham, noting the thickness of the slices, how well the blade and motor operated, and whether the slices produced were even in thickness. We also observed if any slices tore or broke. We thoroughly cleaned each unit to ensure they were simple and safe. Finally, we rated all the slicers on design, ease of use, performance, and cleaning.

Factors to Consider

Footprint

The size of the slicer you buy will determine where you store it. If you don’t have space on your countertop, stow it in a cabinet or pantry between uses. In these situations, you may want to make sure you choose a slicer that is easier to move between locations since some are heavier and larger. 

Ease of Use

For safety, a great meat slicer should be easy to use. A smooth-gliding carriage and sharp blade offers a much more enjoyable experience than the alternative. And, easy to use typically also means easy to clean.

Power

A meat slicer’s motor determines how quickly and efficiently it can slice. It also contributes to how much you can slice, because a weaker motor is more likely to overheat or otherwise exhibit symptoms of overwork than a more powerful version. If you have lots of slicing to do, look for a motor that is 200W or above. 

Blade

Blades can always be sharpened, but it’s nice when you don’t have to before every use. Some meat slicers include a built-in blade sharpener to make maintaining the blade a breeze. Also, keep in mind that larger blades will allow for larger cuts. So if you’re trying to slice a whole ham, you might opt for a 10-inch blade over a 6-inch blade.

You should also look out for the type of blade your meat slicer uses. Most come standard with a smooth-edged blade, but if you'll also be cutting a lot of bread you may want to look for a model that includes a serrated blade to use as a bread knife.

Safety Features

It doesn’t take a culinary expert to understand that meat slicers can be dangerous. Look for one with a tilted food carriage that offers a clear grip for your hands, and never force food through the slicing blade. Some models also come with a child-lock feature, which is important if small children are in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I need to know before buying a meat slicer?

  If you buy bulk deli meats or want to produce thin slices without breaking a sweat, a meat slicer might be for you. You’ll also want to consider where to store it since most slicers are relatively large. Consider whether there are children in the house who will need to be kept away from the slicer’s sharp blades.

• What type of blade is ideal for the best meat slicer?

  Most meat slicers come with one or two blades. All slicers come with a non-serrated blade that can be used for slicing regular items, including cheese and meat. Some also include a serrated blade that is better for bread.

• What size meat slicer do I need for home use?

  The size of the meat slicer you’ll need depends on the size and quantity of meat you’ll cut. A 7-inch blade is good for smaller cuts of meat, while industrial or commercial slicers start around 12 inches. Look for a blade somewhere between 7 and 9 inches.

  If you want to learn more, please visit our website fresh meat slicer supplier.

• What is the best way to slice raw meat?

  While you can use a slicer to cut raw meat, you’ll want to fully disinfect the unit after use. Refer to manufacturer cleaning recommendations.

• Can I use a meat slicer to cut bones and joints?

  You should not use a meat slicer to cut bones and joints, as doing so can damage the machine’s blade, and pose a potential safety threat. We recommend a heavy butcher knife or cleaver for slicing through bones and joints.

• How do you clean a meat slicer?

  For home use, you can lightly clean your slicer between products. Each slicer has different manufacturer cleaning recommendations, but to deeply clean and disinfect to prevent cross-contamination, remove the blade and fully disinfect it with hot water and dish soap. Be sure to fully dry the blade before reattaching.

Other Meat Slicers We Tested

We also tested the Meat! Electric Meat Slicer, 7.5-inch Serrated Blade, and the Cuisinart Kitchen Pro Food Slicer, 7.5-inch Serrated Blade, but we don't recommend them. The Meat! Slicer produced ragged, broken slices, while the Cuisinart slicer’s blade popped off during testing; a malfunction we felt was a safety hazard.

Our Expertise

Maddy Sweitzer-Lammé is a passionate and voraciously hungry home cook and eater. She's been writing about food in all its forms for more than a decade and is a big believer that anyone can and should love to cook. She also runs Tiny Table Tours, a boutique walking tour company based in her home of Philadelphia.

In today’s culinary world, precision and efficiency are key, especially when it comes to slicing meat. Whether you’re a home chef looking to elevate your kitchen skills or a professional in the food industry, investing in a quality meat slicer can revolutionize your cooking experience. But with so many options available, how do you know which meat slicer is right for you? Fear not! This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to consider before making your purchase.

Types of Meat Slicers

When exploring meat slicers, you’ll encounter three main types: manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic.

Manual Meat Slicers:

Ideal for occasional use and smaller quantities of meat, manual slicers offer hands-on control over slice thickness, making them popular for home kitchens. However, they come with some drawbacks to consider. One disadvantage is the time and effort required for operation, as slicing large quantities can be labor-intensive.

Semi-Automatic Meat Slicers:

Combining manual operation with automatic blade movement, these slicers offer a balance of control and efficiency, suitable for moderate usage. Customer can usually create a more consistent and effortless slices using a semi-automatic slicer compares to a manual slicer.

Fully Automatic Meat Slicers:

Designed for high-volume commercial settings, these premium slicers automate both the slicing and carriage movement, users can effortlessly achieve precise cuts with minimal manual intervention, maximizing productivity and consistency.

How to Choose a Quality Meat Slicer?

When it comes to purchasing a quality food slicer, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully, considering both the type and volume of slicing you’ll be doing. Different slicers are designed with varying capabilities for slicing meats, cheeses, and vegetables, so understanding your specific needs is key.

While entry-level slicers may seem appealing due to their lower price tag, it’s important to recognize their limitations. These models aren’t designed for heavy usage, particularly with cheese. Pushing them beyond their capacity can cause premature wear, affecting performance and lifespan.

On the other hand, heavy duty slicers provide superior durability, reliability, and advanced safety features. Despite a higher initial cost, they deliver increased productivity and enhanced safety, making them a wise long-term investment, especially for frequent use.

Blade Material

In the world of meat slicers, three primary blade materials reign supreme: carbon steel, stainless steel, and stainless steel coated with Teflon. Each material boasts unique properties that can significantly influence your slicer’s performance. It’s essential to grasp these differences to make an informed decision when selecting the right blade for your needs.

Dive deeper into the topic with our blog post: CARBON STEEL, STAINLESS-STEEL OR TEFLON COATED STAINLESS-STEEL BLADE: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Blade Size

Blade size significantly impacts slicer performance and versatility. Larger blades, typically ranging from 12 to 14 inches, are well-suited for heavy-duty or commercial use, effortlessly handling thicker cuts and larger quantities of food. In contrast, smaller blades, typically 6 to 10 inches, excel at precision slicing and are ideal for home use. The choice of blade size determines the slicer’s capability to meet specific slicing needs, making it essential to consider when selecting the right slicer for your kitchen.

Product Tray Size and Design

When considering a meat slicer, don’t overlook the size and design of the product tray—it’s crucial for both the size of meat you can slice and the effort required during slicing. Larger carriages are perfect for handling bigger cuts, ensuring smoother slicing with minimal exertion. If you’re planning to slice larger products, it’s essential to confirm that the slicer’s carriage can accommodate them before making a purchase.

For commercial use slicers, opting for a slicer with a 45° angled product tray is recommended. This design utilizes gravity to hold the product against the knife, reducing the pressure you need to apply while ensuring consistent slicing. Additionally, adjustable horizontal clamps secure irregularly shaped products, allowing for precise slicing of produce of any size. With these features, you can confidently slice any produce, large or small, to your heart’s content.

Motor Power

In electric meat slicers, motor power is pivotal for optimal performance. Opting for higher wattage motors not only ensures increased power and efficiency, effortlessly slicing through tough or frozen meats and preventing the machine from overheating during prolonged use, but also offers the advantage of quicker and more consistent slicing. This is particularly beneficial in high-volume settings, where swift and efficient meat preparation is essential for maintaining productivity and quality standards.

Adjustability and Thickness Control

Versatility in slice thickness is essential for various culinary creations. That’s why it’s crucial to look for a slicer with adjustable thickness settings to accommodate various slicing needs, from paper-thin to thicker cuts, depending on your recipe or preference. Ensure precise control over thickness adjustment for consistent results across different meats.

Certifications

In addition to considering the type, blade size, motor power, and other features of a meat slicer, it’s essential to prioritize certifications that guarantee safety and quality.

ETL Certification: Products with ETL certification have undergone rigorous testing and meet North American safety standards. This certification ensures that the slicer is safe to use and complies with all necessary regulations.

NSF Certification: NSF certification indicates that the slicer meets stringent standards for sanitation and food safety set by NSF International. This certification is particularly important for equipment that comes into direct contact with food, ensuring that it won’t contaminate food or compromise hygiene standards.

FDA Compliance: While not all meat slicers require FDA approval, ensuring FDA compliance is crucial for equipment that comes into direct contact with food. This certification guarantees that the slicer meets U.S. federal regulations, safeguarding both the health of your customers and the reputation of your business.

CE Certification: The CE mark indicates that a product complies with European Union (EU) safety, health, and environmental protection standards. Meat slicers bearing the CE mark meet stringent requirements for safety and performance, making them suitable for use in European markets.

RoHS Compliance: RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance certifies that a product does not contain certain hazardous materials, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and certain flame retardants. This certification ensures that meat slicers are environmentally friendly and free from harmful substances, promoting sustainability and consumer safety.

LFGB Certification: LFGB (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) is a German food and feed code that sets safety standards for food contact materials. Meat slicers with LFGB certification comply with strict regulations regarding materials used in food preparation, ensuring that they are safe for handling food items without risk of contamination.

By choosing a meat slicer with these certifications, you can be confident that you’re investing in a safe and high-quality product that meets the highest standards of safety and hygiene.

Safety and Design Features

Blade Guard: Prioritize slicers with reliable blade guards to prevent accidental contact with the sharp blade during operation.

Hand Guard: A crucial safety feature in meat slicers. Its primary purpose is to protect the operator’s hands and fingers from coming into contact with the sharp blade during slicing. By using a hand guard, users can securely hold the food being sliced and push it towards the blade without risking injury.

Various Interlocks: designed to prevent the blade from spinning if essential components necessary for maintaining the unit’s safety and functionality are either missing or not correctly attached. This ensures that the slicer operates safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring operator safety.

The gauge plate must be set at “zero,” the sharpener correctly installed, the product tray pushed to the left, and the blade cover securely tightened. Only when all these criteria are fulfilled can the slicer be turned on for operation. This protects the blade’s edge and the operator’s fingers!

Brand Reputation and Warranty

A reputable brand and a solid warranty offer peace of mind. Research brands with a reputation for producing high-quality slicers known for their performance and durability. Check the warranty period offered by the manufacturer and spare part availability to ensure long-term reliability and customer support.

Investing in a meat slicer can revolutionize your culinary experience, offering precision and efficiency in meat preparation. By considering factors like types, blade size, blade materials, product tray size and design, certification, motor power, adjustability, safety features, and maintenance, you can confidently choose the perfect slicer to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re a home chef crafting gourmet dishes or a professional in a bustling kitchen, the right meat slicer will undoubtedly become an invaluable tool in your culinary arsenal.

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