Best Kitchen Tongs: America’s Test Kitchen Top Picks

Optimizing culinary performance hinges on reliable utensil selection, particularly for essential tools like kitchen tongs. America’s Test Kitchen has rigorously evaluated numerous models to identify the best kitchen tongs that meet exacting standards for durability, precision, and ergonomic design. Understanding the nuances of heat resistance, grip security, and locking mechanisms is crucial for chefs and home cooks alike seeking superior control.

Understanding the nuances of heat resistance, grip security, and locking mechanisms is crucial for chefs and home cooks alike seeking superior control. The subtle differences in stainless steel construction and silicone coating can significantly impact maneuverability during high-heat cooking or delicate plating. This deep dive into America’s Test Kitchen’s findings on the best kitchen tongs will illuminate the standout performers, ensuring your kitchen arsenal is equipped with tools that truly elevate your culinary endeavors.

Discover Top Kitchen Tongs Now!

Image	Product	Price
Best Pick 1	KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch	Check Price
Best Pick 2	OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs with Silicone Heads	Check Price
Best Pick 3	KitchenAid Universal Utility and Serving Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, Set	Check Price
Best Pick 4	OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs with Nylon Heads	Check Price
Best Pick 5	OXO Good Grips 9 Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs	Check Price

1. KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch

Upgrade your culinary arsenal with the KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, a reliable and versatile tool designed for kitchens of all sizes. Perfect for flipping delicate fish, securely gripping roasts, or serving salads, these 12-inch tongs offer the precision and control every home cook needs for effortless meal preparation and presentation.

Crafted from durable 430 stainless steel, these utility tongs provide a robust and long-lasting solution for all your cooking tasks. The intelligent locking mechanism ensures safe and compact storage, while the spring-loaded arms offer a comfortable 30-degree opening range for optimal handling. Enjoy the convenience of effortless cleanup, as these kitchen essentials are fully dishwasher safe.

Enjoy the convenience of effortless cleanup, as these kitchen essentials are fully dishwasher safe.

Pros

• Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with high-quality 430 stainless steel for longevity and resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring dependable performance through countless cooking sessions.
• Convenient Locking Mechanism: Features an easy-to-use lock that secures the tongs when not in use, allowing for safe storage in drawers or utensil crocks without accidental opening.
• Ergonomic Design & Size: At 11.57 inches, these cooking tongs provide an ideal balance of reach and maneuverability for grilling, sautéing, baking, and serving, reducing the risk of burns.
• Dishwasher Safe for Easy Cleaning: Streamline your post-meal routine with tongs that can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher, saving you time and effort.
• Built to Last with Warranty: Backed by a 1-year Hassle-Free replacement and lifetime limited warranty, offering peace of mind and confidence in your kitchen tool purchase.

Cons

• A more robust locking mechanism might be preferred by some users for heavy-duty, frequent locking and unlocking.

The KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs are an essential addition to any kitchen, offering a blend of durability, functionality, and ease of use. Whether you’re an aspiring chef or a busy home cook, these versatile tongs will quickly become your go-to tool for a wide range of culinary tasks, from everyday meal prep to elaborate entertaining.

2. OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs with Silicone Heads

Elevate your culinary creations with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs, the kitchen essential praised for its superior handling and durability. Whether flipping delicate fish or serving a hearty roast, these high-performing cooking tongs offer precision and control, making them a must-have for any home chef seeking reliable kitchen tools.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, these versatile tongs feature heat-resistant silicone heads that shield your cookware and withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Their ergonomic, non-slip handle with comfortable thumb rests ensures a secure grip, while the convenient locking mechanism simplifies storage for your essential cooking utensil.

Pros

• Durable Construction: Built with sturdy stainless steel for long-lasting performance, providing a reliable grip for all your cooking needs.
• Cookware-Safe Silicone Heads: The scalloped, angled silicone heads are gentle on non-stick surfaces and can handle high heat (up to 600°F), making them ideal for various cooking methods.
• Comfortable and Secure Handling: Featuring a soft, non-slip grip with thumb rests, these tongs offer exceptional comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
• Easy Storage: The built-in locking mechanism ensures the tongs stay securely closed, making them compact and easy to store in any kitchen drawer or utensil holder.
• Hygienic and Convenient: Designed for ease of cleaning, these tongs are completely dishwasher safe, simplifying post-meal cleanup.

Cons

• The 9-inch length might be less ideal for reaching into deeper pots or while handling food over a very hot grill compared to longer tong options.

The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs with Silicone Heads are an excellent investment for anyone seeking dependable, user-friendly cooking tools. Their thoughtful design and quality materials make them a standout choice for everyday meal preparation, from delicate tasks to robust grilling.

3. KitchenAid Universal Utility and Serving Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, Set

Elevate your culinary experience with the KitchenAid Universal Utility and Serving Stainless Steel Tongs. Engineered for performance and durability, this essential kitchen duo combines elegant design with practical functionality, making every cooking and serving task a breeze.

This set includes two versatile stainless steel tongs: a utility tong for food handling and flipping, and a dedicated serving tong. Their robust stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the scalloped edges offer a superior, non-slip grip on various food items. Experience confident maneuverability, from delicate garnishes to robust roasts.

Experience confident maneuverability, from delicate garnishes to robust roasts.

Pros

• Dual Functionality: The set provides both a utility tong for active cooking and a serving tong, catering to a wider range of kitchen needs and making it an excellent addition to your cooking utensils.
• Enhanced Grip and Control: Scalloped edges on the tong heads provide exceptional grip, preventing food from slipping and offering greater precision when turning, lifting, or plating your culinary creations.
• Built to Last: Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, these kitchen essentials are designed for everyday use, resisting rust and corrosion and promising enduring performance.
• Convenient Storage: An integrated easy-lock feature securely keeps the tongs closed when not in use, ensuring compact and organized storage in your kitchen drawers or utensil holders.
• Effortless Cleaning: Both tongs are dishwasher safe, making post-meal cleanup simple and allowing you more time to enjoy your food.

Cons

• While generally well-received, some users might find the serving tong slightly less rigid than professional-grade alternatives for extremely heavy lifting, though it performs admirably for standard serving portions.

For home cooks seeking reliable and easy-to-use kitchen tongs, this KitchenAid set is an outstanding choice. Its combination of sturdy construction, user-friendly features like the easy-lock mechanism, and superior grip makes it ideal for grilling, sautéing, and serving.

4. OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs with Nylon Heads

Elevate your culinary endeavors with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs, a favorite among home cooks for their exceptional control and durability. Engineered for precision in the kitchen, these tongs deliver reliable performance whether you’re searing steaks, sautéing vegetables, or serving salads.

Crafted from sturdy, brushed stainless steel, these 9-inch kitchen tongs feature scalloped edges for a secure grip on various foods. The high-heat resistant nylon heads are safe for non-stick cookware, preventing scratches. Their integrated locking mechanism ensures compact storage, making them essential grilling tongs and everyday cooking tools.

Pros

• Durable brushed stainless steel construction provides long-lasting use for all your cooking needs, from flipping burgers to serving pasta.
• Soft, non-slip grips and comfortable thumb rests offer superior control and reduce hand fatigue during extended preparation or grilling sessions.
• Nylon heads are heat-resistant up to 400°F and safe for delicate non-stick pans, protecting your cookware investment.
• Convenient locking mechanism allows for easy, one-handed closure, simplifying storage in drawers or hanging on a utensil rack.
• Scalloped edges provide a firm hold on slippery items like fish or vegetables, preventing accidental drops.

Cons

• While the 9-inch length is versatile, some users might prefer longer tongs for high-heat grilling to maintain a greater distance from the heat source.

For those seeking reliable and effective kitchen gadgets, the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs are an outstanding choice. They are ideal for everyday cooking, barbecues, and a variety of food handling tasks, offering both functionality and comfort.

5. OXO Good Grips 9 Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs

Elevate your culinary endeavors with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs. Designed for precision and comfort, these kitchen essentials are perfect for flipping, serving, and tossing everything from delicate fish to robust roasts, making meal prep a breeze for home cooks and aspiring chefs alike.

Crafted from durable, brushed stainless steel, these cooking tongs offer robust performance for all your kitchen tasks. The scalloped edges ensure a secure grip on food, preventing slips and spills. Integrated soft, non-slip grips and thumb rests provide exceptional control and comfort during extended use, while the locking mechanism ensures compact storage.

Integrated soft, non-slip grips and thumb rests provide exceptional control and comfort during extended use, while the locking mechanism ensures compact storage. Dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup.

Pros

• Versatile Food Handling: The 9-inch length and scalloped edges make these tongs ideal for a wide range of cooking applications, from turning steaks on the grill to tossing salads and plating desserts.
• Secure and Comfortable Grip: Featuring soft, non-slip grips and thumb rests, these OXO tongs offer excellent dexterity and reduce hand fatigue, even during prolonged cooking sessions.
• Convenient Locking Mechanism: A simple push-and-pull locking feature keeps the tongs securely closed for compact storage in drawers or hanging on a utensil rack, maintaining kitchen organization.
• Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with sturdy, brushed stainless steel, these cooking utensils are designed for longevity and resist rust and corrosion, ensuring reliable performance meal after meal.
• Easy Cleanup: Being dishwasher safe simplifies the post-meal cleanup process, allowing you more time to enjoy your culinary creations.

Cons

• While versatile, some users might prefer longer tongs (e.g., 12-inch) for tasks involving very hot grills or deep fryers to maximize safe distance.

For home chefs seeking reliable and comfortable kitchen tools, the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs are an outstanding choice. They offer superior control, durability, and convenient storage, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen arsenal for everyday cooking and entertaining.

6. Sur La Table Kitchen Essential Steelhaus 8.5 Inch Stainless Steel

Elevate your culinary experience with the Sur La Table Kitchen Essential Steelhaus 5 Inch Stainless Steel Tongs. Designed for both everyday cooking and elegant serving, these tongs offer a perfect blend of professional quality and homey charm, making them a must-have tool for any home chef seeking precision and style.

Crafted from durable, non-reactive stainless steel, these 5-inch tongs are built to last.

Their versatile design makes them ideal for flipping delicate fish, tossing salads, or serving hot dishes directly from the grill or oven. The scalloped head ensures a secure grip on food, preserving its integrity for beautiful presentations.

Pros

• Professional-Grade Material: Constructed from high-quality, non-reactive stainless steel for excellent durability and hygiene.
• Secure Grip & Precision: The expertly designed scalloped head provides a firm hold on ingredients, preventing slippage and ensuring precise handling during cooking and serving.
• Space-Saving Storage: Features a convenient pull-tab lock that keeps the tongs securely closed, making them easy to store neatly in drawers or utensil crocks.
• Versatile Kitchen Companion: Suitable for a wide range of kitchen tasks, from flipping burgers on the barbecue to serving pasta at the table, enhancing your collection of essential kitchen gadgets.
• Elegant Presentation: The refined stainless steel finish adds a touch of sophistication, transitioning seamlessly from kitchen prep to tabletop presentation, much like highly-rated tongs found on America’s Test Kitchen reviews.

Cons

• Size Limitation: For very large items or deep pots, a longer tong might offer better reach, though the 8.5-inch size is ideal for most common cooking and serving needs.

The Sur La Table Steelhaus Tongs are a superb addition to any kitchen arsenal, offering robust performance and elegant design. For those who appreciate quality kitchen tools and enjoy making and sharing meals, these tongs are a practical and stylish choice for a happy, hands-on cooking experience.

7. Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs Dishwasher Safe Grill

Elevate your grilling game with the Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs. Engineered for both durability and precision, these tongs are designed to be your go-to tool for flipping, turning, and serving your favorite barbecue creations with confidence and ease.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, these 5-inch kitchen tongs offer superior longevity and resistance to the elements.

The integrated locking mechanism ensures compact storage, while the dishwasher-safe design simplifies post-grill cleanup, making them an essential accessory for any backyard cook or grill master looking for high-performance barbecue tools.

Pros

• Robust Stainless Steel Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of frequent outdoor cooking and high temperatures, ensuring long-lasting reliability for all your grilling needs, from searing steaks to handling delicate fish.
• Secure Locking Mechanism: Features an intuitive locking clasp that keeps the BBQ tongs securely closed when not in use, preventing accidental opening and allowing for convenient, space-saving storage in your utensil drawer or on your grill station.
• Dishwasher Safe & Strong Handle: Enjoy effortless cleaning as these grill tongs are fully dishwasher safe. The strong, reinforced handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for excellent control when manipulating food over direct heat.
• Extended Length for Safety: The 16.5-inch length provides ample distance from the heat source, protecting your hands and arms from burns while grilling, making them ideal for use with smokers, charcoal grills, and propane grills.
• Convenient Hanging Loop: A handy loop is integrated into the handle design, allowing for easy hanging on grill hooks or utensil racks, keeping your workspace organized and your essential grilling tools readily accessible.

Cons

• While the 16.5-inch length is advantageous for most grilling tasks, some users might prefer an even longer tong set for extended reach on very large grills or when dealing with exceptionally hot coals; however, this size offers a good balance of reach and maneuverability.

For those seeking reliable and easy-to-maintain barbecue utensils, the Traeger Grills BAC790 offers exceptional value. These durable stainless steel tongs are perfectly suited for a variety of outdoor cooking scenarios, from casual backyard BBQs to more involved smoking sessions, ensuring efficient food handling and a cleaner grilling experience.

8. OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs

Elevate your grilling experience with the OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs, designed for superior performance and durability. Whether flipping burgers at a backyard barbecue or tending to delicate vegetables on the grill, these tongs offer exceptional control and safety, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time. Discover why they are a top choice for discerning outdoor chefs seeking reliable grilling tools.

Discover why they are a top choice for discerning outdoor chefs seeking reliable grilling tools.

Crafted for longevity, these OXO tongs boast rust-resistant construction ensuring they withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. Their innovative design features angled, scalloped heads for a secure grip on various food items, from thick cuts of meat to tender produce.

A convenient built-in bottle opener adds to their multi-functional appeal for any cookout.

Pros

• Durable & Rust-Resistant: Built with robust materials to ensure a long lifespan and reliable performance even with frequent use in outdoor environments.
• Superior Grip & Control: The angled and scalloped heads are expertly designed to securely grasp a wide range of foods, from hefty steaks to slippery ingredients, preventing drops and ensuring even cooking.
• Enhanced Safety: The extra-long design keeps your hands safely away from the intense heat of the grill, reducing the risk of burns.
• Comfortable Handling: The soft, non-slip handle provides an ergonomic and secure grip, offering excellent maneuverability and reducing hand fatigue.
• Convenient Storage: A clever tab locks the tongs closed, making them easy to store neatly in your kitchen drawer or grilling accessories.
• Grill-Side Convenience: Features an integrated bottle opener, adding functionality for enjoying beverages while you cook.

Cons

• While generally effective, some users might find the locking mechanism slightly stiff initially.

The OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs are an essential addition to any grilling arsenal, offering exceptional usability and robust construction. Perfect for home chefs and barbecue enthusiasts alike, they simplify the process of handling food over high heat, making every grilling session more enjoyable and successful.

9. Tongs For Cooking – Heat Resistant 600 Degrees Stainless Steel

Elevate your cooking experience with the EDDEAS Stainless Steel Tongs, a versatile set designed for precision and durability. Whether you’re flipping steaks on the grill, tossing salads, or maneuvering delicate ingredients, these heat-resistant tongs offer unparalleled control and comfort, making them an indispensable tool for any home chef seeking reliable kitchen essentials.

Crafted from robust, 1mm thick food-grade stainless steel, these kitchen tongs are built to withstand extreme heat up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Their one-piece construction ensures exceptional strength, preventing bending or breaking, while the rust-resistant finish guarantees longevity.

The ergonomic design, featuring comfortable silicone cushioning, provides a secure grip, minimizing hand fatigue and preventing accidental slips during intense culinary tasks.

Pros

• Exceptional Durability & Heat Resistance: Constructed from 1mm thick, food-grade stainless steel, these cooking tongs are incredibly sturdy and can safely handle high temperatures up to 600°F, making them ideal for grilling, frying, and boiling.
• User-Friendly Locking Mechanism: The innovative pull-ring design allows for easy one-handed locking and unlocking, ensuring the tongs stay securely closed for storage or open for use, preventing accidental activation and offering superior handling control.
• Ergonomic Comfort & Safety: Silicone-padded handles offer a comfortable, non-slip grip, protecting your hands from heat and providing enhanced maneuverability for precise food handling. They are also dishwasher-safe for effortless cleaning.
• Versatile Application: This set includes 7, 9, and 12-inch tongs, catering to a wide range of tasks from delicate salad serving and baking to heavy-duty grilling and boiling, making them your go-to kitchen and outdoor cooking companions. The different sizes offer flexibility for various cooking scenarios.

Cons

• While the silicone handles offer excellent grip, prolonged exposure to extremely high direct heat without caution might still require careful handling to prevent potential degradation over extended periods compared to all-metal alternatives.

As a top-rated choice for kitchen tongs, the EDDEAS set impresses with its robust build and thoughtful design. They are an excellent alternative to flimsy or poorly designed grabbers, offering a secure and comfortable way to manage food during any cooking endeavor. Invest in this reliable set for confident culinary creations.

Invest in this reliable set for confident culinary creations.

10. KitchenAid Silicone Tipped Side Locking Tongs, Black, 9 Inch

Elevate your culinary tasks with the KitchenAid Silicone Tipped Side Locking Tongs, designed for precision and ease in every kitchen. These 9-inch tongs are your go-to utensil for everything from delicate serving to robust grilling, blending functionality with KitchenAid’s signature reliability.

Crafted for versatility, these black tongs excel at flipping or serving a wide array of foods, ensuring a secure grip without damage. The innovative side locking mechanism allows for effortless one-handed operation, making them a standout choice among everyday kitchen tools and a favorite for grill masters and home cooks alike.

Pros

• Versatile Application: Perfect for flipping burgers and steaks on the grill, tossing salads, serving pasta, and lifting delicate items like seafood.
• One-Handed Convenience: The intuitive side-mounted slide lock enables quick locking and unlocking with a single hand, ideal for busy cooking scenarios.
• Food-Safe Silicone Tips: Scalloped, heat-resistant silicone tips ensure a firm, non-slip grip on food, preventing punctures, tearing, or bruising delicate ingredients.
• Space-Saving Storage: When locked, these tongs maintain a compact form, easily fitting into kitchen drawers or utensil crocks, keeping your cooking station organized.
• Effortless Cleanup: Designed for convenience, they are completely dishwasher safe, streamlining your post-meal cleanup routine.

Cons

• While excellent for most tasks, the 9-inch length might be less ideal for very deep pots or for cooks preferring extended reach when grilling over high heat.

The KitchenAid Silicone Tipped Side Locking Tongs offer a superb balance of performance and convenience for everyday cooking. For anyone seeking reliable cooking gadgets for flipping, serving, and general kitchen prep, these tongs prove to be an indispensable and highly functional addition.

Your Guide to the Best Kitchen Tongs

Material matters for your tongs

The material composition of your kitchen tongs significantly dictates their performance, durability, and suitability for various culinary tasks.

Stainless steel is a popular choice for good reason, offering excellent heat resistance, crucial for handling hot foods directly from the grill or pan, and a firm grip that inspires confidence when flipping delicate items or heavy roasts. Its inherent resilience also means superior rust and corrosion resistance, ensuring your tongs remain functional and hygienic through countless washes and demanding kitchen environments.

To mitigate this, many modern tongs incorporate BPA-free silicone coatings on the tips. This additive provides a gentler touch on delicate surfaces, prevents food from slipping, and can even offer enhanced heat resistance beyond that of plain metal. When evaluating options, consider how the material will interact with different cooking surfaces and the types of ingredients you frequently handle.

Size and grip considerations

The physical design of kitchen tongs directly influences their utility and safety across various cooking tasks.

Proper length is paramount for maintaining a safe distance from hot surfaces, whether you’re flipping steaks on a searing grill or retrieving items from a deep fryer. Comfortable handles are equally vital, preventing hand fatigue during extended use; a good nonslip grip is essential for secure maneuvering of slippery or delicate foods, ensuring no accidental drops or burns. The ability to achieve easy one-handed operation streamlines cooking, allowing you to manage ingredients and utensils simultaneously.

Furthermore, consider tongs with a well-designed locking mechanism that keeps them compactly stored without accidentally springing open, saving valuable drawer space.

Ultimately, the perfect pair will feel like an extension of your hand, offering confidence and control for everything from serving delicate salads to handling heavy roasts, ensuring your grip remains firm and your reach adequate for any culinary challenge.

Durability and ease of cleaning

Unwavering performance hinges on robust construction and effortless upkeep.

Kitchen tongs are subjected to daily rigors, from flipping thick steaks to carefully plating delicate appetizers. Therefore, opting for a pair built with heavy-duty materials like stainless steel ensures they won’t bend, break, or warp under pressure.

A truly practical tool integrates seamlessly into your kitchen routine, minimizing post-meal chores.

Look for features that simplify maintenance. Dishwasher-safe mechanisms are a huge advantage, saving you time and ensuring thorough sanitation. Superior tongs also resist staining from tomato sauces or marinades and won’t absorb stubborn odors from pungent ingredients like garlic or onions, keeping them looking and smelling fresh use after use.

To maintain your investment, a quick rinse after use, followed by either air drying or a cycle in the dishwasher, will keep them in prime condition. For deeper cleaning, a gentle brush can remove any stuck-on food particles, ensuring your reliable kitchen companion remains a joy to use for years to come.

Quick Best Kitchen Tongs America’S Test Kitchen Buying Checklist

• Material: Opt for durable stainless steel or heat-resistant silicone tips.
• Size: Choose a length appropriate for your cooking style and grill.
• Grip: Ensure comfortable, non-slip handles for secure handling.
• Locking Mechanism: A good lock makes storage easy and safe.
• Heat Resistance: Essential for safe use around stoves and grills.
• Dishwasher Safe: Look for easy cleanup after cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Kitchen Tongs Used For?

Kitchen tongs are versatile tools used for flipping, turning, serving, and moving food safely without burning your hands.

Are Silicone-Tipped Tongs Better Than Metal?

Silicone tips are gentler on non-stick cookware and offer a better grip, while metal tongs are often more durable for high-heat searing.

How Long Should Kitchen Tongs Be?

For grilling, longer tongs (12-16 inches) are recommended for safety. Shorter ones (9-10 inches) are great for everyday kitchen tasks.

Are Locking Tongs Important?

Yes, locking tongs make them easier and safer to store in drawers and are convenient for one-handed use.

Can I Put Kitchen Tongs In The Dishwasher?

Many stainless steel and silicone tongs are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Final Words

Investing in the best kitchen tongs can truly elevate your cooking and serving experience. With the right pair, you’ll gain confidence and control, making every flip and turn a breeze. Make your purchase today and discover how much easier meal prep can be!

Make your purchase today and discover how much easier meal prep can be!