KitchenIQ 50009 2-Stage vs. Mueller 4-Stage Manual Sharpener Side-by-Side Comparison
Wondering which one is the better choice between the KitchenIQ 50009 2-stage vs. Mueller 4-stage manual sharpener? Read our detailed comparison.
Specifications
Design
Other than the inadequate size, there’s nothing to complain about in the design of the KitchenIQ. The device is symmetrical, sturdy, and has a decent fit and finish. It’s smart, simple, versatile, and highly function-oriented.
Despite its affordable price, the Muller 4-stage sharpener has a strong, solid build, substantial abrasives, and tightly-fitting parts. It has a nice fit and finish and a spacious grip that’s comfortable to the touch. However, a lower working section would offer better control and stability.
Usability
With only two sharpening slots and a basic design, it doesn’t require a high IQ to understand how the KitchenIQ works. The device’s small size may, however, mean you have to pay extra attention every time you use it or risk hurting yourself by misplacing the knife.
Though the Mueller is a bit tall, it offers decent balance and stability. Its large size and substantial abrasives give you a lot of confidence when sharpening. The slot layout could be improved, in our opinion, but it doesn’t pose much of a problem in terms of usability.
Performance
The KitchenIQ failed the speed test and offered mediocre results in all other performance tests. Its rather small sharpening elements will sharpen your knives enough that you’ll be able to feel the difference, but not significantly. It will shave a lot of metal off your knives and leave a barely passable edge.
It won’t make your knife razor-sharp, but the Mueller takes little time getting a dull edge ready for common cutting tasks in the kitchen. Contrary to its twin, the Longzon, however, it eats away the blade and leaves a rough, uneven edge.
Overall Scores
Pros & Cons
- Easy storage
- Affordable price
- Base works on both counter edge and flat surfaces
- Simple, sturdy design
- Strong construction, pretty coloring
- Quick sharpening
- Scissor slot
- Ease of use
- Awkward small size
- Long sharpening time
- High center of gravity
- Harsh on the knife edge
Conclusion
The KitchenIQ 50009 and the Mueller 4-stage manual sharpeners are both decently built devices, and they differ as much in functionality as their looks suggest.
The KitchenIQ 50009 features a small, compact body with an ‘edge grip’ base that allows it to attach firmly to the edge of your countertop when sharpening. Its working section sports tungsten carbide blades for sharpening and ceramic rods for honing.
Unfortunately, probably due to their modest sizes, these abrasives didn’t perform very well in our tests: They removed a lot of knife material but took way too much time to sharpen. The sharpness level was mediocre, though serviceable. The knife edge was left with more deformities than typically expected.
Despite having three sharpening slots for knives, the Mueller wasn’t any kinder to the edge; however, it sharpened faster and more effectively. With its large, ergonomic handle, the sharpener is easier and safer to work with. We didn’t test the scissor slot, but it can be handy for those who use kitchen shears.
Behind the Comparison
Anh Ngo is a writer with 9 years experience at different media outlets, covering from public news and events to product testing and analysis. At HealthyKitchen101, she works across different departments, communicating closely with its network of writers, editors, and health, tech, and search engine experts to provide a meaningful and pleasant reading experience for visitors.
Lap is Head of the Research, Testing, and Review Team (RTR Team) at HealthyKitchen101.com, where he directs and supervises the testing of kitchen gadgets and appliances.
