Best Cooking Tongs: Top 10 Wirecutter Picks

Precision engineering meets culinary necessity when selecting the best cooking tongs Wirecutter has evaluated. Understanding the nuanced differences in material, locking mechanisms, and grip surfaces is crucial for any serious home cook. From heat resistance to ergonomic design, the optimum cooking tongs are an extension of the chef’s hand.

This deep dive into the best cooking tongs Wirecutter has tested explores grip strength and heat-safe materials, essential for seamless food handling. We investigate critical features like spring-loaded action and dishwasher-safe construction.

Prepare to elevate your kitchen performance by uncovering the top-tier tools that consistently outperform.

Which Tongs Will Make the Cut?

Image	Product	Price
Best Pick 1	KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch	Check Price
Best Pick 2	OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs	Check Price
Best Pick 3	KitchenAid Universal Utility and Serving Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, Set	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs Dishwasher Safe Grill	Check Price
Best Pick 5	OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs with Silicone Heads	Check Price

1. KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch

Elevate your kitchen tasks with the KitchenAid 12-Inch Stainless Steel Utility Tongs. Designed for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, these kitchen tongs offer superior grip and control, making flipping, serving, and handling food effortless. Experience the difference quality construction makes in your everyday cooking and entertaining.

Crafted from durable 430 stainless steel, these utility tongs promise longevity and reliable performance. The clever locking mechanism ensures compact storage, while the spring-loaded design provides an optimal 30-degree opening for versatile use, from barbecues to delicate pastry handling. Their

57-inch length keeps you at a safe distance from heat.

Pros

• Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with high-quality 430 stainless steel for robust use and extended lifespan, resisting rust and bending.
• Convenient Locking Mechanism: Features an easy-to-use lock for secure storage in drawers or crocks, preventing accidental opening and saving space.
• Ergonomic and Versatile Size: The 11.57-inch length is ideal for grilling, serving, flipping pancakes, or grasping hot items, offering a safe and comfortable reach.
• Dishwasher Safe for Easy Cleanup: Simplify your post-cooking routine as these tongs are fully dishwasher safe, ensuring hassle-free sanitation.
• Trusted KitchenAid Quality: Backed by a 1-year Hassle-Free replacement and lifetime limited warranty, reflecting KitchenAid’s commitment to excellence.

Cons

• The spring mechanism, while generally effective, might require a slight adjustment period for users accustomed to tongs with a different opening style.

The KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs are an indispensable tool for any modern kitchen. Their combination of sturdy build, user-friendly design, and easy maintenance makes them a top choice for everyday cooking needs, from elaborate meals to simple snacks. Invest in reliable kitchen essentials that simplify your culinary journey.

Invest in reliable kitchen essentials that simplify your culinary journey.

2. OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs

Discover the ultimate kitchen companion that transforms everyday cooking. The OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs are designed for effortless handling, offering superior control and comfort whether you’re searing steaks, tossing salads, or plating delicate dishes. Experience the difference quality makes in your culinary adventures.

Experience the difference quality makes in your culinary adventures.

Crafted from sturdy, brushed stainless steel, these versatile cooking tongs are built to last. Their scalloped edges provide a secure grip on various foods, from slippery vegetables to thick cuts of meat.

The innovative locking mechanism ensures compact storage, making them an indispensable tool for any home cook looking for reliable kitchen gadgets.

Pros

• Secure Food Handling: Scalloped edges offer a firm hold on ingredients, preventing slips and ensuring precise maneuvering of food during cooking and serving.
• Comfortable & Ergonomic Design: Soft, non-slip grips and thumb rests provide exceptional comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during extended use, a key feature for busy cooks.
• Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with robust, brushed stainless steel, these kitchen tongs are resistant to rust and corrosion, promising longevity and reliable performance.
• Convenient Locking Feature: The easy-to-use locking mechanism allows the tongs to snap shut securely for simplified storage in drawers or hanging solutions.
• Versatile Culinary Tool: Ideal for flipping, turning, lifting, tossing, and transferring a wide array of foods, making them an essential part of your grilling accessories, baking tools, and everyday meal prep.

Cons

• While generally robust, the locking mechanism, like any mechanical part, could potentially wear over extended, very heavy-duty use.

For those seeking a dependable and comfortable solution for handling food, the OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs are an excellent choice. They offer a blend of functionality, durability, and user-friendly design that excels in various kitchen tasks, from stovetop cooking to backyard barbecues.

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

Elevate your kitchen tasks with the KitchenAid Universal Utility and Serving Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, a set designed for both everyday cooking and elegant plating. These precisely engineered kitchen tools offer superior control and durability, making them indispensable for flipping, serving, and a multitude of culinary endeavors.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, this essential cooking utensil set includes two versatile tongs. The scalloped edges provide an extra-strength grip, ensuring food stays securely in place whether you’re searing steaks or arranging delicate garnishes.

An intuitive easy-lock feature simplifies storage, keeping your drawers neat and organized.

Pros

• Dual-Purpose Set: Receive two essential kitchen tools – a utility tong for active cooking and a serving tong for presenting dishes, offering excellent value and versatility for any home chef.
• Superior Food Handling: The scalloped edges are specifically designed to enhance grip, allowing for confident handling of everything from hot proteins on the grill to delicate vegetables on the stovetop, reducing slips and spills.
• Long-Lasting Durability: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, these durable kitchen tongs are built to withstand rigorous daily use, resisting rust and corrosion for years of reliable performance.
• Convenient Storage: The integrated easy-lock mechanism provides a secure way to keep the tongs closed when not in use, making them compact and easy to store in utensil drawers or hang on a hook.

Cons

• While excellent for most tasks, extremely heavy or bulky items might require a more specialized, larger tong for optimal leverage.

This KitchenAid tong set is an exceptional value, providing reliable performance for a wide range of kitchen activities. For home cooks seeking dependable, easy-to-clean, and stylish kitchen gadgets that simplify both preparation and serving, these stainless steel tongs are an outstanding choice. They represent a significant upgrade from flimsy alternatives, making them a must-have addition to any well-equipped kitchen.

They represent a significant upgrade from flimsy alternatives, making them a must-have addition to any well-equipped kitchen.

4. 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 durability and performance, these 5-inch chef tongs offer the perfect blend of reach and control, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor cooking experience.

5-inch chef tongs offer the perfect blend of reach and control, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor cooking experience. Turn up the heat and master your barbecue with confidence.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, these durable BBQ tongs are built to withstand high temperatures. The convenient locking mechanism keeps them securely closed for easy storage, while the integrated hanging loop adds to their practicality.

Pros

• Extended Reach & Safety: The 16.5-inch length provides ample distance from the grill’s heat source, protecting your hands from burns while flipping steaks, burgers, or vegetables.
• Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel, these outdoor cooking tongs are designed for longevity and resistance to rust and warping, ensuring reliable performance meal after meal.
• User-Friendly Design: A secure locking mechanism simplifies storage and handling, while the integrated loop allows for convenient hanging on your grill or in your kitchen, keeping them readily accessible.
• Effortless Cleanup: Experience unparalleled convenience with the dishwasher-safe feature, allowing for quick and thorough cleaning after every grilling session.

Cons

• While the locking mechanism is a significant advantage, some users might find it takes a moment to engage or disengage compared to simpler designs, though it ensures a secure closure.

For those seeking reliable and long-lasting grilling tools, the Traeger Grills BAC790 tongs stand out. Their robust build, thoughtful features, and ease of maintenance make them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced barbecue enthusiasts looking to enhance their outdoor culinary adventures.

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

Elevate your kitchen experience with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs, designed for precision and durability. These versatile kitchen utensils offer superior grip and heat resistance, making them an indispensable tool for everyday cooking and culinary adventures.

They are a top choice for home cooks seeking reliable, high-performance kitchen gadgets.

Crafted from sturdy stainless steel, these OXO tongs feature heat-resistant silicone heads that can withstand up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring safety for non-stick cookware. The ergonomic, non-slip handle with thumb rests provides exceptional comfort and control, while the convenient lock-closed mechanism simplifies storage. Ideal for grilling, flipping, serving, and more.

Pros

• Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built to last with robust stainless steel, these tongs promise longevity for all your cooking needs, rivaling other high-quality kitchen tools.
• Heat-Resistant Silicone Heads: Safely handle hot foods and protect your delicate non-stick pans with silicone heads rated for extreme temperatures.
• Comfortable, Non-Slip Grip: The soft, non-slip handle offers secure handling and control, preventing slips even when hands are wet.
• Easy Storage with Lock Feature: The integrated lock keeps the tongs securely closed, making them compact and easy to store in any kitchen drawer or utensil holder.
• Dishwasher Safe: Cleanup is a breeze with these tongs, as they are fully dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience.

Cons

• Limited Color Options: While functional, the color choices might be limited for those seeking a specific aesthetic in their kitchen accessories.

The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs are a superb addition to any kitchen arsenal, offering a blend of functionality, safety, and user-friendly design. Whether you’re searing steaks on the grill, tossing a salad, or serving pasta, these reliable kitchen tongs provide the control and performance you need. They stand out as a practical and premium cooking utensil for both novice and experienced home chefs.

They stand out as a practical and premium cooking utensil for both novice and experienced home chefs.

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

Elevate your kitchen tasks with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs. Designed for superior control and comfort, these versatile kitchen tools are a must-have for every home chef seeking efficiency and precision in their culinary endeavors. Discover why these tongs are a top choice for cooking, serving, and grilling.

Discover why these tongs are a top choice for cooking, serving, and grilling.

Expertly crafted from sturdy, brushed stainless steel, these 9-inch tongs offer the ideal balance for everyday cooking. The scalloped edges provide a secure grip on everything from delicate vegetables to robust meats, while the high-heat resistant nylon heads ensure safety for all your cookware, including non-stick surfaces.

Effortlessly transition from flipping burgers on the grill to tossing pasta, all with one reliable cooking utensil.

Pros

• Secure Handling: The scalloped edges offer exceptional grip, preventing food from slipping, whether you’re handling delicate fish or sturdy roasts.
• Comfortable & Safe Use: Features soft, non-slip grips and thumb rests for a secure and comfortable hold, reducing hand fatigue during extended cooking sessions.
• Durable & Versatile: Constructed from robust stainless steel with heat-resistant nylon heads, these tongs are built to last and safe for use with non-stick cookware, making them ideal for sautéing and flipping.
• Convenient Storage: The easy-to-use locking mechanism keeps the tongs securely closed, simplifying storage in drawers or hanging them neatly on a utensil rack.

Cons

• While the 9-inch length is suitable for most tasks, some users might prefer a longer tong for grilling or reaching into deep pots.

The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs are an indispensable kitchen companion, offering a blend of functionality, durability, and user-friendly design. Their reliability makes them a standout option, earning high marks from users looking for dependable kitchen gadgets for everyday meal preparation and special occasion feasts.

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

Elevate your culinary adventures with the EDDEAS Kitchen Tongs, meticulously crafted from robust, food-grade stainless steel designed to withstand extreme heat up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. This versatile set, featuring three essential sizes, offers unparalleled control and comfort for all your cooking, grilling, and serving needs, making them a must-have for any kitchen arsenal or outdoor BBQ enthusiast.

Engineered for durability and ease of use, these cooking tongs boast a 1mm thick, one-piece stainless steel construction that ensures excellent heat resistance and rust-proof performance. The ergonomic handles, complete with silicone cushioning, provide a secure, comfortable grip, preventing slips and burns. A convenient pull-ring locking mechanism allows for easy one-handed operation and compact storage, ensuring your kitchen tools are always ready when you are.

A convenient pull-ring locking mechanism allows for easy one-handed operation and compact storage, ensuring your kitchen tools are always ready when you are.

Pros

• Superior Durability and Heat Resistance: Constructed from 1mm thick, food-grade stainless steel, these heavy duty kitchen tongs are built to last and safely handle temperatures up to 600°F, perfect for flipping steaks on the grill or serving hot dishes directly from boiling water.
• Enhanced Control and Safety: The intuitive pull-ring locking mechanism allows for effortless opening and closing, preventing accidental snaps and providing precise grip on food items. Ergonomic, cushioned handles offer a non-slip, comfortable hold, minimizing heat transfer and maximizing user safety during extended cooking sessions.
• Versatile Set for Every Task: This 3-piece set (7-inch, 9-inch, and 12-inch) provides the ideal size for a multitude of cooking applications, from flipping delicate fish in a pan to serving salads, grabbing hot vegetables, or managing food on a smoky BBQ grill.
• Hygienic and Easy to Clean: The seamless stainless steel design lacks any crevices where food can get trapped, making cleanup a breeze. These multi-purpose tongs are conveniently dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience.

Cons

• While the silicone handles offer excellent grip, some users might prefer entirely metal tongs for tasks requiring extreme precision or where silicone might come into contact with very high, direct heat on the handle itself for prolonged periods.

For home cooks and barbecue aficionados seeking reliable and comfortable kitchen utensils, the EDDEAS Stainless Steel Tongs deliver exceptional performance. Their robust construction, user-friendly design, and comprehensive set sizes make them a standout choice for everyday culinary demands and specialized grilling tasks, offering great value and proven dependability.

8. OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs

Elevate your grilling game with the OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs, designed to offer superior control and comfort. These reliable kitchen tools are crafted for the demands of outdoor cooking, ensuring every flip, turn, and grab is executed with precision.

Constructed from durable, rust-resistant materials, these OXO tongs boast angled, scalloped heads perfect for securely grasping everything from delicate vegetables to thick steaks. The extended length provides a safe distance from the heat, while a non-slip handle ensures a firm grip.

Integrated bottle opener for added convenience.

Pros

• Exceptional grip for various food items thanks to the angled and scalloped heads, making flipping burgers or turning corn on the cob effortless.
• Enhanced safety during grilling due to the extra-long design, keeping your hands a comfortable distance from active flames and hot surfaces.
• Comfortable and secure handling even during extended use with the soft, non-slip handle, preventing slippage and reducing hand fatigue.
• Convenient built-in bottle opener offers a practical solution for enjoying beverages at the grill, consolidating your barbecue accessories.
• Easy, space-saving storage via the simple locking tab, keeping your grilling utensils tidy when not in use.

Cons

• While durable, the locking mechanism may require careful handling over prolonged periods to maintain optimal functionality.

For barbecue enthusiasts seeking reliable, long-lasting grilling accessories, the OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs are an excellent investment. They provide the essential functionality and thoughtful design needed for a superior outdoor cooking experience, whether you’re a novice griller or a seasoned pitmaster.

9. JETKONG 2 Pcs 12-Inch Kitchen Tweezers Fine Tweezer Tongs, Extra-Long

Elevate your culinary precision with the JETKONG 12-Inch Kitchen Tweezers. Designed for the discerning home cook and professional chef alike, these extra-long tweezers offer unparalleled control and dexterity for a variety of kitchen tasks, from delicate plating to intricate food preparation.

Crafted from premium, food-grade stainless steel, these robust yet lightweight cooking tongs are built for durability and safe food handling. Their rust and corrosion-resistant properties ensure longevity, making them a reliable addition to any kitchen arsenal.

The ergonomic design prioritizes comfort and control during extended use.

Pros

• Superior Durability & Material: Constructed from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel, these tweezers are rust-resistant, non-toxic, and uncoated for safe food interaction and impressive longevity without compromising on a lightweight feel.
• Ergonomic Comfort & Control: The long, comfortable handle provides excellent grip and an extended reach, protecting your hands while the precisely designed blunt tips securely grip food, minimizing slips and ensuring confident handling.
• Versatile Multi-Purpose Use: Ideal for a wide range of applications beyond cooking, including intricate plating, picking up small garnishes, restaurant service, buffets, crafting, basic electrical repairs, and even delicate tasks around the home or garden.
• Dishwasher Safe Convenience: Effortlessly clean these kitchen tweezers thanks to their dishwasher-safe design, saving you time and ensuring hygienic storage.

Cons

• While the blunt tip is safe and secure for food handling, it may be less suitable for piercing or manipulating very small, delicate items where a sharper point might be preferred for extreme precision in niche applications like intricate mechanical work.

The JETKONG 12-Inch Kitchen Tweezers are an exceptional choice for anyone seeking precise control and reliable performance in their culinary endeavors and beyond. Their durable construction, comfortable design, and extensive utility make them a standout tool for both amateur and professional environments.

10. OXO Good Grips 14-Inch Silicone Flexible Tongs

Unlock culinary precision with the OXO Good Grips 14-Inch Silicone Flexible Tongs, engineered for effortless handling of delicate ingredients. These kitchen essentials are a revelation for home cooks seeking control and care when flipping fish, sautéing scallops, or serving tender asparagus.

Designed with a flat head and exceptionally thin, flexible edges, these OXO tongs masterfully glide under even the most fragile foods. The perforated head efficiently drains excess grease and oil, while the straight front edge acts as a perfect scraper for pan bottoms, making them indispensable grilling tongs and versatile kitchen tools.

Pros

• Seamlessly glides under delicate items like fish fillets and scallops due to its thin, flexible edges, preventing breakage.
• The perforated design effectively removes excess grease and oil, promoting healthier cooking outcomes and cleaner plating.
• Silicone heads are heat-resistant up to 600°F and safe for use on non-stick cookware, protecting your pans and ensuring longevity.
• Their 14-inch length provides optimal distance from heat, making them ideal barbecue tongs for grilling and turning food on a hot stovetop.
• The comfortable grip and easy-to-use locking mechanism make them superior cooking aids for any kitchen task.

Cons

• While generally excellent, some users might find the thinness of the flexible edge slightly less robust for extremely heavy or dense items compared to broader, stiffer tongs.

For anyone seeking exceptional control and tender care for their cuisine, the OXO Good Grips 14-Inch Silicone Flexible Tongs are a top-tier choice. They offer a superior alternative to standard metal tongs for a wide array of cooking and serving needs, earning their reputation among discerning home chefs.

How to Choose the Best Cooking Tongs

Material and durability

The foundational material and overall construction are paramount to a kitchen tool’s longevity and performance.

Opting for robust stainless steel is a wise investment for any culinary enthusiast. This versatile metal offers exceptional heat resistance, ensuring your tongs won’t warp or degrade when used over high flames or hot griddles.

Its inherent strength also translates to superior rust and corrosion resistance, preventing unsightly blemishes and ensuring hygienic use even with acidic ingredients like tomatoes or citrus. Look for a solid, well-riveted or welded build quality; this prevents loose parts and guarantees a comfortable, secure grip through countless flipping, turning, and serving tasks.

A high-grade stainless steel composition, often featuring alloys that enhance durability, means your tongs will stand up to the rigors of daily cooking. This material choice directly contributes to the tool’s ability to withstand repeated exposure to heat, moisture, and cleaning agents without compromising its structural integrity or aesthetic appeal. Essentially, the material and build quality dictate how reliable and long-lasting your kitchen tongs will be, directly impacting your cooking experience and long-term value.

Grip and control

Secure handling is paramount for any kitchen tool that manipulates hot food, directly influencing your ability to maneuver ingredients with precision and safety.

A well-designed grip allows for confident manipulation of everything from delicate fish fillets to heavy braises. Consider the tong head’s configuration: spatula-style ends offer broad support for flipping larger items, while finely serrated edges provide extra purchase on slippery foods like vegetables or small pieces of meat. Nonslip handles are essential for preventing accidental drops, especially when hands might be wet or greasy.

Nonslip handles are essential for preventing accidental drops, especially when hands might be wet or greasy.

Furthermore, evaluate the locking mechanism’s ease of use and reliability; a stiff or ineffective lock can impede quick deployment and storage. The overall weight and balance of the tongs in your hand also play a significant role in fatigue reduction during extended cooking sessions. Properly weighted tongs feel like an extension of your arm, enabling effortless flips, turns, and transfers around the stovetop or grill, ultimately enhancing your culinary dexterity.

Properly weighted tongs feel like an extension of your arm, enabling effortless flips, turns, and transfers around the stovetop or grill, ultimately enhancing your culinary dexterity.

Size and length

The dimensions of your kitchen grabbers significantly influence their utility and comfort.

The appropriate length is paramount for safety and maneuverability, especially when working over a hot grill or deep pan. Extended tongs provide a crucial buffer, keeping your hands away from direct heat and preventing burns, which is essential for peace of mind during outdoor cooking adventures or stovetop searing.

Conversely, shorter, more compact models offer greater precision for delicate tasks or when working in a confined kitchen space.

The width of the tong heads also plays a vital role in food handling. Narrower jaws are ideal for flipping smaller items like shrimp, asparagus spears, or individual pieces of chicken, ensuring a secure grip without overwhelming the food. Wider, more robust heads provide superior stability for larger cuts of meat, whole fish, or bulky vegetables, preventing slippage and ensuring even cooking.

Consider also how the tongs will be stored; excessively long or wide designs can become cumbersome in utensil drawers, so a balanced approach considering both in-use functionality and convenient storage is key to finding the perfect pair for your culinary arsenal.

Quick Best Cooking Tongs Wirecutter Buying Checklist

• Tong Material: Opt for durable stainless steel for longevity.
• Grip Type: Look for comfortable, non-slip handles.
• Locking Mechanism: Ensure it’s easy to engage and disengage.
• Tong Head Style: Choose between slotted, solid, or specialized heads.
• Length: Select a length suitable for your cooking space.
• Dishwasher Safe: Check for easy cleaning convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Best Tongs For Grilling?

For grilling, tongs with longer handles offer safety from heat, while sturdy, wide heads can manage larger items like steaks or burgers effectively.

Are Silicone-Tipped Tongs Better Than Metal?

Silicone-tipped tongs are gentler on non-stick surfaces, preventing scratches. Metal tongs generally offer more rigidity and heat resistance.

How Do I Clean Stainless Steel Cooking Tongs?

Most stainless steel tongs can be washed by hand with soap and water or placed in the dishwasher for convenient cleaning.

What Size Tongs Do I Need?

Consider the size of your cookware and grill. Longer tongs are safer for high heat, while shorter ones offer more precision for stovetop cooking.

Are Locking Tongs Worth The Extra Cost?

Locking tongs are convenient for storage and one-handed use, making them a worthwhile investment for many home cooks.

Final Words

Ultimately, the best cooking tongs can significantly improve your kitchen experience, offering control and ease when handling food. Investing in a high-quality, durable pair ensures versatility and longevity. Make your next meal prep a breeze by selecting tongs that fit your needs.