Best Kitchen Tongs: ATK’s Top 10 Picks

Precision engineering in culinary tools is paramount; even the humble kitchen tongs significantly impact cooking efficiency and safety. America’s Test Kitchen rigorously evaluates dozens of models to identify the best kitchen tongs, focusing on superior grip, ergonomic design, and robust construction.

Understanding the nuances of materials like stainless steel and silicone-coated tips, alongside locking mechanisms and heat resistance, helps discern true quality. This deep dive into the best kitchen tongs, as championed by the experts at America’s Test Kitchen, unpacks the critical features that distinguish exceptional kitchen essentials from the ordinary.

Prepare to uncover the ultimate implements that will redefine your culinary experience.

Master Your Cooking: Top Tongs Await!

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

Elevate your culinary tasks with the KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, designed for both everyday cooking and advanced meal preparation. These reliable kitchen essentials offer a perfect blend of durability and user-friendly design, making them a must-have for any home chef.

Crafted from robust 430 stainless steel, these 12-inch tongs provide the strength and resilience needed for a variety of kitchen jobs. The integrated locking mechanism ensures secure storage, while the comfortable grip offers excellent control when flipping, serving, or transferring food items.

Enjoy effortless handling and quick cleanup.

Pros

• Constructed with durable 430 stainless steel for long-lasting kitchen performance and resistance to rust and corrosion.
• Features a convenient locking mechanism that allows for compact storage in drawers or utensil crocks, keeping your kitchen tidy.
• The 12-inch length provides an ideal reach, keeping your hands safely away from heat sources while cooking or grilling.
• Dishwasher-safe design simplifies post-meal cleanup, saving you valuable time and effort in the kitchen.
• Backed by a 1-year Hassle-Free replacement and lifetime limited warranty, offering peace of mind with your purchase.

Cons

• Some users might prefer tongs with silicone tips for added grip on delicate foods or non-stick cookware.

The KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs are a versatile and dependable tool for everyday cooking and serving. Whether you’re flipping pancakes, turning burgers on the grill, or plating salads, these tongs offer the control and durability you need.

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

Unlock culinary perfection with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs, a kitchen essential trusted for its superior grip and gentle handling. Designed for precision and durability, these tongs are your go-to tool for flipping, serving, and maneuvering food with confidence, making them a star performer in any kitchen arsenal, akin to recommendations from esteemed culinary authorities.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, these OXO tongs boast heat-resistant silicone heads offering unmatched versatility, safe up to a scorching 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Their scalloped, angled design ensures a secure grasp on delicate items without scratching non-stick cookware. The ergonomically designed, soft, non-slip handle with comfortable thumb rests provides exceptional control and fatigue-free use, while the convenient locking mechanism ensures compact storage.

Pros

• Durable Construction with Gentle Silicone Heads: Built with sturdy stainless steel and featuring heat-resistant silicone heads (up to 600°F), these kitchen tongs are ideal for everything from searing to serving delicate fish, safeguarding your non-stick pans.
• Superior Grip and Control: The scalloped, angled silicone heads provide an excellent, non-slip grip on various food items, while the soft, non-slip handle with thumb rests ensures maximum comfort and precise maneuverability, reducing strain during extended use.
• Convenient Storage and Maintenance: A simple lock mechanism keeps these cooking tongs securely closed for easy storage in drawers or hanging, and they are completely dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup after meal preparation or hosting.

Cons

• Shorter 9-inch length may require closer proximity to heat sources for some tasks compared to longer tong options.

The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs with Silicone Heads are a standout choice for home cooks seeking reliable performance and thoughtful design. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or simply flipping pancakes, these versatile kitchen tongs deliver the quality and ease of use that elevates everyday cooking.

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

Elevate your everyday cooking and serving with the KitchenAid Universal Utility and Serving Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs. This essential duo, designed for versatility and durability, offers superior grip and effortless handling for a range of culinary tasks, making meal preparation and presentation a true pleasure.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, this set includes both utility and serving tongs, each engineered for optimal performance. The scalloped edges are meticulously designed to provide an extra-strength grip on various foods, from delicate salads to hearty roasts. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to their dishwasher-safe nature, and the easy-lock feature ensures convenient storage.

Pros

• Dual Functionality: Receive a set of two high-quality stainless steel tongs – one for general utility in cooking and one specifically designed for elegant serving, offering comprehensive kitchen solutions.
• Exceptional Food Security: The finely scalloped edges on both utility and serving tongs ensure a firm, non-slip grip on all types of food, preventing accidental drops and enhancing precision during cooking and plating.
• Built to Last: Constructed from durable stainless steel, these kitchen essentials are made to withstand the rigors of daily use, resisting rust and corrosion for long-term reliability.
• Convenient Storage: An integrated easy-lock mechanism allows the tongs to be securely clasped shut, making them compact and simple to store in any kitchen drawer or utensil organizer.
• Effortless Maintenance: Both the utility tongs and serving tongs are completely dishwasher safe, simplifying the post-meal cleanup process and saving you valuable time in the kitchen.

Cons

• While the scalloped edges enhance grip, some users might prefer a silicone-tipped option for handling very delicate items or non-stick surfaces to avoid potential scratching, though these stainless steel tongs are well-finished.

This KitchenAid tong set is a worthy addition for anyone seeking reliable, well-crafted kitchen tools that simplify both cooking and serving. Ideal for home cooks and entertainers alike, these stainless steel tongs promise to be a go-to utensil for countless culinary creations, from precise flipping to stylish buffet displays.

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

Elevate your culinary skills with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs, designed for precision and comfort in every kitchen task. Whether flipping delicate fish or searing the perfect steak, these tongs offer unparalleled control and a secure grip, making them an indispensable tool for home cooks seeking reliable performance.

Crafted from durable, brushed stainless steel with high-heat resistant nylon heads, these 9-inch tongs are built to last. Their scalloped edges enhance food security, while the comfortable, non-slip grips and thumb rests ensure effortless maneuvering. The convenient locking mechanism simplifies storage, making them a tidy addition to any kitchen arsenal.

Pros

• Versatile Food Handling: The scalloped edges provide a secure hold on a wide variety of foods, from delicate vegetables and pasta to robust meats, preventing slippage during cooking, serving, and tossing.
• Ergonomic Comfort & Control: Featuring soft, non-slip grips and contoured thumb rests, these tongs offer superior comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during extended use and ensuring precise manipulation of ingredients.
• Durable & Safe Construction: Constructed from sturdy brushed stainless steel with nylon heads that are safe for non-stick cookware and resistant to high heat, ensuring longevity and protecting your valuable pots and pans.
• Convenient Storage: A smart locking mechanism allows the tongs to be secured when closed, facilitating easy and compact storage in drawers or utensil crocks, keeping your kitchen organized.

Cons

• While the 9-inch size is generally ideal for most everyday tasks, some users might prefer a slightly longer tong for grilling over very high heat or handling extremely large items to maintain maximum distance.

The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs are a testament to thoughtful kitchen tool design, offering a blend of durability, functionality, and comfort. For anyone seeking reliable kitchen essentials that simplify cooking and enhance usability, these tongs are an excellent investment. Their robust build and intuitive design make them a top choice for everyday meal preparation and gourmet endeavors alike.

5. OXO Good Grips 9 Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs

Elevate your cooking experience with the OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs. Designed for precision and comfort, these kitchen essentials offer unparalleled control for flipping, serving, and tossing your favorite dishes.

Crafted from sturdy, brushed stainless steel with scalloped edges, these 9-inch tongs provide a secure grip on everything from delicate vegetables to hearty meats. The innovative locking mechanism ensures compact storage, while soft, non-slip grips with thumb rests offer superior comfort during extended culinary tasks.

Experience effortless food handling with these essential cooking tools.

Pros

• Durable brushed stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to rust, ideal for everyday kitchen use.
• Scalloped edges provide a firm, non-slip hold on food, preventing accidental drops and ensuring precise transfers.
• Comfortable, non-slip grips with thumb rests maximize control and reduce hand fatigue, even during prolonged cooking sessions.
• Convenient locking mechanism allows for easy, compact storage in drawers or hanging on hooks.
• Dishwasher safe for effortless cleaning, making post-meal tidying a breeze.

Cons

• While versatile, the 9-inch length may be slightly less ideal for very deep pots or grilling tasks compared to longer tongs.

The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs are a standout choice for home cooks. Their balanced design, secure grip, and convenient features make them perfect for a wide array of kitchen tasks, from sautéing vegetables to plating desserts.

Invest in a reliable utensil that simplifies your culinary endeavors.

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

Elevate your culinary adventures with the Sur La Table Kitchen Essential Steelhaus 5-Inch Stainless Steel Tongs. Designed for both precision in the kitchen and elegance at the table, these tongs are a testament to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design, making them an indispensable tool for any home cook.

Crafted from durable, non-reactive stainless steel, this versatile cooking gadget offers lasting performance and a refined aesthetic. The scalloped head ensures a secure grip for delicate handling of ingredients during prep and serving, embodying the Sur La Table philosophy of creating memorable meals and shared moments.

Pros

• Secure Handling: The precisely engineered scalloped head effectively grips, lifts, and turns a wide variety of foods, from delicate fish to robust vegetables, ensuring they remain intact for beautiful presentations.
• Durable & Elegant Construction: Made from high-quality, non-reactive stainless steel, these tongs offer excellent durability for everyday use while also possessing a sleek, elegant design suitable for serving directly from the grill or stovetop.
• Convenient Storage: Featuring an easy-to-use pull-tab lock, the tongs can be securely fastened for compact storage, saving valuable space in your utensil drawer or organizer.
• Versatile Kitchen Tool: Perfectly suited for a range of cooking tasks, including grilling, flipping, tossing salads, and serving, these tongs are a true multitasker that simplifies food preparation and serving.

Cons

• Limited Size Range: While 8.5 inches is ideal for many tasks, users requiring longer tongs for extensive grilling or deep fryer use might find this size less suitable.

The Sur La Table Steelhaus 5-Inch Stainless Steel Tongs are an excellent choice for home chefs seeking reliable quality and sophisticated style. Whether you’re turning burgers on the grill, tossing a fresh salad, or serving a favorite dish, these essential kitchen tools deliver functional excellence and aesthetic appeal for joyful cooking experiences.

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

Elevate your grilling experience with the Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs. Engineered for durability and precision, these tongs offer superior control and safety for all your outdoor cooking adventures, solidifying their place as a must-have barbecue accessory for any grill master.

Crafted from robust stainless steel, these 5-inch grill tongs provide excellent heat resistance, keeping your hands safely away from open flames. The integrated locking mechanism ensures compact storage, while the convenient hanging loop adds to their practicality.

The integrated locking mechanism ensures compact storage, while the convenient hanging loop adds to their practicality. Designed for convenience, they are also dishwasher safe, simplifying post-cook cleanup.

Pros

• Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built to withstand rigorous use and high temperatures, ensuring longevity for your grilling needs.
• Secure Locking Mechanism: Effortlessly keep the tongs closed for easy storage and to prevent accidental opening.
• Dishwasher Safe Convenience: Enjoy hassle-free cleanup after every barbecue session with this dishwasher-compatible design.
• Extended Reach for Safety: The 16.5-inch length provides ample distance from grill heat, protecting your hands and arms.
• Integrated Hanging Loop: Offers convenient storage options, allowing you to hang your tongs when not in use.

Cons

• While the 16.5-inch length offers good reach, some users might prefer even longer tongs for managing extremely hot grills or larger cooking areas.

For those seeking reliable and easy-to-maintain barbecue tools, the Traeger Grills BAC790 tongs are an excellent choice. Their sturdy build, thoughtful design features, and simple cleaning process make them ideal for regular backyard grilling or for those tackling larger outdoor cooking events.

Enhance your grilling arsenal with these dependable BBQ tongs.

8. OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs

Elevate your outdoor cooking with the OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs, designed for superior control and safety. These innovative tongs provide a secure grip on everything from delicate vegetables to substantial cuts of meat, ensuring perfect results every time you fire up the grill.

Crafted for durability and rust resistance, these grilling essentials boast angled, scalloped heads that expertly grasp food. The extra-long design is a game-changer, keeping your hands safely away from the intense heat of the barbecue, while the soft, non-slip handle ensures comfortable handling even during extended grilling sessions.

Pros

• **Exceptional Grip and Control**: Angled and deeply scalloped heads securely hold a wide variety of foods, from flipping burgers to turning corn on the cob, offering precise maneuverability on the grill.
• **Enhanced Hand Safety**: The generous extra-long design significantly increases the distance between your hands and the heat source, providing peace of mind and protecting your skin from burns.
• **Durable and Convenient Design**: Constructed with rust-resistant materials for longevity, these tongs also feature a built-in bottle opener for added convenience and a locking tab for compact, easy storage.
• **Comfortable and Secure Handling**: The soft, non-slip handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue and enhancing overall control during cooking.

Cons

• While ideal for most grilling tasks, extremely heavy or bulky items might require a sturdier, dedicated meat-handling tool.

The OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs are a superb choice for any grill master seeking reliable performance and safety. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a weeknight meal, these tongs deliver the control and comfort needed for excellent outdoor cooking, making them a top contender among grilling tools.

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

Elevate your culinary experience with the Eddeas Kitchen Tongs, engineered for precision and durability. These versatile cooking essentials offer superior grip and heat resistance, making them the ideal companion for everything from delicate salads to sizzling grills, ensuring safety and confidence in every flip and serve.

Crafted from robust, food-grade 1mm thick stainless steel, these cooking tongs are built to last, resisting heat up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Their lightweight, ergonomic design and secure locking mechanism ensure comfortable and safe handling, whether you’re searing steaks or tossing pasta, providing an effortless cooking process.

Pros

• Constructed from heavy-duty, food-grade stainless steel (1mm thick) for exceptional durability and rust resistance, suitable for high-temperature cooking.
• Features an innovative pull-ring locking system that securely tucks away the arms, preventing accidental opening or closing and allowing for convenient, space-saving storage.
• Ergonomic handles with comfortable silicone cushioning provide a non-slip grip, enhancing control and protecting hands from heat during extended cooking sessions.
• Delivered as a set of three (7, 9, and 12-inch options), offering versatility for various tasks from flipping small items on the stovetop to turning larger cuts on the barbecue.
• Highly versatile for a wide range of culinary applications, serving effectively as grill tongs, salad servers, serving utensils, and for handling boiling ingredients.

Cons

• While generally well-received, some users might find the silicone cushioning on the handles to be slightly less heat-resistant than the all-metal tongs if exposed to extreme direct flame for prolonged periods.

The Eddeas Kitchen Tongs are an indispensable tool for any home chef, expertly balancing robust construction with user-friendly features. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, these stainless steel tongs provide the reliability and comfort needed for safe and efficient food preparation, making them a top choice for everyday kitchen tasks and outdoor grilling alike.

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

Elevate your everyday cooking and serving with the KitchenAid Silicone Tipped Side Locking Tongs. Designed for ultimate convenience and control, these 9-inch black tongs are your new go-to tool for everything from delicate salads to perfectly seared steaks, making meal preparation a breeze.

Experience superior handling and effortless operation thanks to the innovative side locking mechanism, allowing for one-handed control ideal for busy cooks. The scalloped silicone tips provide a secure grip on food without causing damage, ensuring presentation-perfect dishes every time, while the durable construction promises long-lasting performance in any kitchen setting.

Pros

• One-Handed Operation: The intuitive side-mounted slide lock allows for quick and easy locking and unlocking with a single hand, perfect for multitasking during meal prep or grilling
• Gentle Yet Secure Grip: Scalloped silicone-tipped ends firmly grasp food items, from slippery pasta to delicate proteins, without puncturing or bruising them, ensuring food integrity
• Versatile Kitchen Tool: Excellently suited for a wide range of tasks, including tossing salads, serving spaghetti, flipping meats, burgers, and vegetables on the grill or stovetop
• Easy Storage: When locked, these tongs maintain a compact form, fitting neatly into drawers and cabinets, contributing to a clutter-free kitchen environment
• Hygienic & Simple Cleaning: Being dishwasher safe makes cleanup after cooking incredibly convenient, saving you time and effort

Cons

• While the 9-inch length is ideal for most stovetop and countertop tasks, some users who frequently cook over a very large grill might prefer a longer tong for greater reach.

The KitchenAid Silicone Tipped Side Locking Tongs offer a superb blend of functionality and user-friendly design, making them an indispensable addition to any home cook’s arsenal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, these dependable kitchen utensils simplify cooking, serving, and storage.

America’s Test Kitchen: Your Tongs Guide

Material matters for durability

The construction material is the bedrock of a tong’s resilience and functionality.

Opting for high-grade stainless steel is paramount for ensuring your kitchen tools withstand the rigors of daily use and maintain their integrity over time. This material’s inherent resistance to heat provides a critical safety buffer when maneuvering hot foods over stovetops or grills, preventing accidental melting or warping that could lead to burns or damage to cookware. Furthermore, the subtle texturing or treatments applied to certain stainless steel tongs can significantly enhance grip, offering control and confidence even with greasy or delicate ingredients.

This combination of heat tolerance and secure handling directly translates to longevity. Stainless steel’s natural rust resistance means your tongs won’t degrade from exposure to moisture or cleaning agents, preserving their sharp edges and sanitary surface for years of reliable service.

Investing in tongs built from sturdy, food-safe stainless steel guarantees they will be a dependable part of your kitchen arsenal, resisting corrosion and maintaining their performance through countless cooking adventures. Look for designs that feel balanced in hand, a testament to quality craftsmanship and material selection.

Grip and control for precision

A secure hold and adept maneuverability are paramount for achieving culinary accuracy, especially when handling delicate ingredients or turning hot items.

These aspects directly influence your ability to perform precise kitchen tasks, from plating visually appealing dishes to securely flipping fragile foods without damage.

Look for tongs featuring a well-designed locking mechanism that operates smoothly and intuitively, ensuring they remain closed for easy storage and open readily for immediate use. The handle’s contour should offer a comfortable grip, providing substantial leverage for effortless manipulation and reducing hand fatigue during extended cooking sessions. Consider tongs with silicone or rubberized tips for a nonslip grasp, preventing accidental slips and offering superior traction on slippery surfaces.

Consider tongs with silicone or rubberized tips for a nonslip grasp, preventing accidental slips and offering superior traction on slippery surfaces. Furthermore, having an assortment of tong sizes allows for versatility; smaller pairs are ideal for intricate tasks like turning individual shrimp, while larger ones offer the reach and strength needed to manage roasts or flip burgers in a crowded pan.

Ease of use and cleaning

Tongs that are cumbersome to grip or difficult to clean quickly become a source of frustration, hindering your cooking flow and potentially compromising hygiene. The best designs prioritize intuitive one-handed operation, allowing you to flip delicate fish or secure a hot dish with confidence, even while multitasking.

If a dishwasher isn’t an option, consider models with simple disassembly capabilities; components that detach easily allow for deep scrubbing of hard-to-reach areas, preventing grease buildup. Furthermore, smart spacesaving storage solutions, such as locking mechanisms that keep them compactly closed or hanging loops, will keep your drawers organized and your utensils readily accessible.

Investing in tongs that offer these conveniences streamlines your entire cooking experience. Whether you’re serving a barbecue feast or plating a sophisticated meal, the ability to maneuver food with precision and clean up with minimal effort significantly enhances your time spent in the kitchen.

• Dishwasher Safe Construction: Guarantees thorough sanitization and easy maintenance.
• Easy Disassembly: Enables deep cleaning to prevent food particle buildup.
• One-Handed Operation: Essential for multitasking and confident food handling.
• Compact Storage Solutions: Such as locking latches or integrated hanging rings, to keep your kitchen tidy.

Versatility in the kitchen

A truly exceptional kitchen utensil excels across a broad spectrum of culinary tasks, demonstrating true adaptability.

The ability to perform multiple functions means fewer tools cluttering your drawers and greater efficiency in the kitchen, translating directly to a more streamlined cooking experience.

Consider the fundamental actions: a versatile pair effortlessly grips and flips delicate fish fillets without tearing, securely turns thick steaks on a hot grill from a safe distance, and precisely serves everything from pasta to salad. It should inspire confidence when transferring searing hot pans or even retrieving items from deep fryers. This adaptability is key for everything from everyday meal preparation to hosting a barbecue, ensuring you have a reliable grab-and-go tool for nearly any situation at any temperature.

Quick Best Kitchen Tongs America’S Test Kitchen Buying Checklist

• Material: Opt for durable, food-grade stainless steel for longevity and heat resistance.
• Grip: Look for comfortable handles and non-slip tips (like silicone) for secure handling.
• Locking Mechanism: Ensure it’s easy to operate for one-handed use and compact storage.
• Size: Choose a length appropriate for your cooking style, from everyday tasks to grilling.
• Dishwasher Safe: Prioritize tongs that are easy to clean for convenience.
• Weight: A well-balanced tong that feels substantial but not overly heavy is ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Most Important Features Of Good Kitchen Tongs?

Key features include durable materials like stainless steel, a comfortable grip, a secure locking mechanism, and ease of cleaning.

Are Silicone-Tipped Tongs Better Than Metal Ones?

Silicone tips offer excellent grip and protect non-stick surfaces, while metal tongs are generally more durable and heat-resistant for high-temperature cooking.

How Do I Clean My Kitchen Tongs Effectively?

Many tongs are dishwasher safe, but regular hand washing with soap and water ensures longevity. Check for any joints or mechanisms that may trap food.

What Size Tongs Are Best For General Use?

Tongs around 9-12 inches long are versatile for most kitchen tasks, from flipping food in a pan to serving salads.

Are Expensive Tongs Worth The Investment?

Higher-priced tongs often use better materials and have more ergonomic designs, leading to greater durability and user satisfaction.

Final Words

Investing in the best kitchen tongs America’s Test Kitchen recommends can significantly elevate your cooking confidence. These tools offer control, safety, and versatility for countless culinary tasks.