Slicing vegetables and fruits uniformly is a culinary skill honed by chefs, ensuring dishes are not only visually appealing but also cooked evenly. While professional chefs develop this skill over years of practice, home cooks often find it challenging to achieve consistent cuts with just a knife. Unevenly sliced food can lead to inconsistent cooking textures, with some pieces becoming mushy while others remain undercooked. A Mandoline Food Slicer emerges as an invaluable kitchen tool to overcome this hurdle, allowing anyone to create perfectly even slices effortlessly. Particularly useful for producing paper-thin slices for homemade potato chips or delicate vegetable preparations, tasks that are notoriously difficult with a knife, a mandoline elevates both the presentation and cooking quality of your meals.
To guide you in selecting the ideal mandoline for your culinary adventures, we rigorously tested a range of models, evaluating each on critical aspects such as design, user-friendliness, convenience, size, cleaning, and overall value. Our comprehensive testing process involved slicing dozens of tomatoes, radishes, potatoes, carrots, zucchinis, and bell peppers into various cuts—from straight and julienne to crinkle-cut and wavy—to thoroughly assess their versatility and confirm which tools truly stand out as the best mandoline food slicers available.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Benriner Jumbo Hand-Held 13 x 6.5 Mandoline at Amazon $50
Best Budget:
OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer at Amazon $19
Best Multi-Function:
fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer at Amazon $40
Best for Safe Cutting:
SALE
OXO Good Grips Chef’s Mandoline Slicer 2.0 at Amazon $112 $90
Best Professional:
Bron Coucke Original Stainless Steel Mandolin Slicer at Amazon $187
Best for Beginners:
Progressive International Prepworks Adjust-A-Slice Mandoline at Amazon $22
Best Compact:
Swissmar Borner V-Slicer Hand-Held Mandoline at Amazon $60
Best Overall
Benriner Jumbo Hand-Held 13 x 6.5 Mandoline
Pros:
- Wide slicing surface for large vegetables
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Replaceable blade for long-term use
- Smooth, snag-free cutting
Cons:
- Limited to straight cuts
The Benriner Jumbo Hand-Held Mandoline is a top choice in professional kitchens for good reason. This Japanese-made mandoline food slicer is celebrated for its simple yet highly effective design, making it a true workhorse in any kitchen. If your culinary needs involve slicing larger vegetables, such as hefty russet potatoes for chips or substantial heads of cabbage for coleslaw, this is the perfect tool. Its generous 6.5-inch-wide cutting surface is equipped with a large stainless steel blade that effortlessly slices through almost any produce. The adjustable knob underneath allows for variable thickness settings, though it lacks precise measurement markings. We found it exceptional for slicing cabbages and daikon radishes, while still performing admirably with smaller vegetables like radishes and potatoes—always ensuring to use the included hand guard for safety. The wide-body construction provides ample space for unrestricted cutting, and the hand guard is designed to be non-obtrusive. The cuts produced are consistently even and clean, with no snagging, thanks to the blade’s exceptional sharpness.
While the Benriner Jumbo is primarily designed for straight cuts and doesn’t offer a variety of blade options, it excels if straight slicing is your main requirement. It’s conveniently dishwasher safe (top rack), though hand washing is recommended to maintain the blade’s sharpness over time. The availability of replacement blades is a significant advantage, ensuring the longevity of your mandoline for years to come.
Blade Style: Japanese | Thickness Settings: Variable Knob | Blades Included: Straight
Best Budget
OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer
Pros:
- Non-slip handle and base for stability
- Effective hand guard for safe slicing
- Ideal for quick, small slicing tasks
Cons:
- No julienne or French fry blade options
The OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer is an excellent budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality for basic slicing tasks. This hand-held mandoline offers three adjustable thickness settings for slicing fruits and vegetables. It features a comfortable, non-slip handle and a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place on your countertop. The clear body design allows for easy monitoring of slices as you work, letting you see exactly how much you’ve sliced. It’s also dishwasher safe, adding to its convenience, and comes with a hand guard for enhanced safety. However, it’s worth noting that this model is limited to straight slices and does not offer blades for julienne, wavy, or French fry cuts.
During our testing, we observed that the OXO mandoline performed best with firmer produce, delivering clean, even slices. Softer produce proved slightly more challenging to manage at times. It excelled at creating thin potato slices and effortlessly sliced through a full-sized cucumber in about 30 seconds. Tomato slices were slightly less uniform but still held their shape well. We were particularly impressed with the secure and comfortable grip, especially considering its compact size. The three thickness options effectively covered a range of slicing needs with minimal effort. The non-slip feet are a standout feature, making it even easier to slice directly over a bowl or cutting board, adding to its practicality as a mandoline food slicer for everyday use.
Blade Style: Japanese | Thickness Settings: 3 | Blades Included: Straight
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Best Multi-Function
fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer
Pros:
- Versatile multi-purpose functionality
- Dishwasher safe components
- Integrated vegetable catch drawer for convenience
Cons:
- Dicing feature requires significant force
The fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer is more than just a mandoline; it’s a comprehensive kitchen tool that chops, grates, spiralizes, and stores food, making it a fantastic asset for vegetarian cooking enthusiasts and a thoughtful gift for vegetarians. This model comes equipped with five easily interchangeable blades and an adjustable thickness dial, ensuring precise cuts every time. The separate spiralizer attachment can create both large and small julienne strips or ribbon slices, while the dicing blades are available in two different sizes. As a mandoline food slicer, it handles julienne and straight cuts along with grating.
In our tests, the slicing blade efficiently cut through a variety of vegetables, producing quick and uniform slices. The included hand guard was effective for medium to smaller vegetables, though it might feel cumbersome for larger, bulkier items. Fortunately, a cut-resistant glove is also included for added safety. For smaller vegetables like radishes and mini potatoes, the hand guard worked exceptionally well, although it does leave a small portion of the vegetable uncut at the end.
The mandoline and dicing attachments fit neatly atop a catch tray within a non-slip base, providing stability during use. The catch tray is removable and doubles as a storage container for prepped foods. Cleaning is a breeze, as all parts are top-rack dishwasher safe.
Blade Style: Japanese | Thickness Settings: 3 | Blades Included: Straight, Julienne, Grater, Dicing
Best for Safe Cutting
OXO Good Grips Chef’s Mandoline Slicer 2.0
Pros:
- Stable tabletop design for secure slicing
- Includes straight and julienne blades
- Wide range of thickness adjustments
Cons:
- Bulkier design makes cleaning slightly cumbersome
The OXO Good Grips Chef’s Mandoline Slicer 2.0 is designed with safety and versatility in mind, offering a comprehensive slicing experience in a single unit. This mandoline excels at creating straight cuts, waffle and wavy cuts, fine julienne, and even thicker French fry cuts. It boasts an impressive 21 different thickness settings, ranging from 1 to 9 millimeters in precise half-millimeter increments. It includes a straight blade for harder vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a serrated blade that’s more effective for softer items such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions. Thickness adjustments are easily made with a knob, and the julienne and French fry blades remain safely covered when not in use.
While this model is bulkier than handheld mandolines, the added stability and multifunctionality justify its size. In our tests, the hand protector securely held food in place while slicing and effectively protected hands from injury. We particularly appreciated the millimeter adjustment slider for its accuracy in achieving desired slice thickness without wasting produce.
Constructed with angled Japanese stainless steel, this mandoline is built for durability. It comes with a robust hand guard and sturdy legs that provide a comfortable slicing angle. The blades are designed for easy removal, facilitating cleaning, though hand-washing is recommended to maintain their condition. For those prioritizing safety and a wide range of cutting options, the OXO Chef’s Mandoline Slicer 2.0 is a top-tier mandoline food slicer.
Blade Style: Japanese | Thickness Settings: 17+ | Blades Included: Straight, Julienne, Fry, Crinkle Cut
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Best Professional
Bron Coucke Original Stainless Steel Mandoline Slicer
Pros:
- Robust stainless steel construction for durability
- Includes multiple cutting blades for versatility
- Folds flat for space-saving storage
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for setup and use
- Potential injury risk when making waffle cuts without guard
From the creators of the original mandoline, the Bron Coucke Original Stainless Steel Mandoline Slicer is a professional-grade tool capable of producing straight, wavy, and julienne cuts from paper-thin up to 1/2-inch thickness. Additional blades are available for different julienne sizes, enhancing its versatility. This is a substantial, well-engineered unit weighing 5 pounds, which might be considered hefty for those preferring a more compact option. However, it commendably folds flat for storage, occupying minimal space despite its robust build.
Setting up and using the Bron Coucke mandoline involves a slight learning curve. The instructions are somewhat unclear, and adjusting the blades initially feels stiff, though they tend to ease with use. The included stainless steel hand guard rides along rails, offering a secure feel, although it may feel awkward at first and produce a metal-on-metal scraping sound when new. While getting accustomed to this tool requires practice, it delivers consistent, even cuts and feels exceptionally stable on the countertop.
This mandoline food slicer works optimally with peeled vegetables, and larger items like potatoes may need pre-cutting to fit the feed chute. We found it less suitable for very small radishes, as the hand guard didn’t securely hold them, and slicing bell peppers resulted in the skin catching, making it less smooth than other models. Furthermore, waffle cuts cannot be made with the guard due to the need to rotate the vegetable. Extreme caution or cut-resistant gloves are recommended for waffle cuts. Although dishwasher safe due to its stainless steel construction, hand washing is advisable for easier cleaning and to prolong blade sharpness.
Blade Style: French | Thickness Settings: Variable | Blades Included: Straight, Julienne, Wavy
Best for Beginners
Progressive International Prepworks Adjust-A-Slice Mandoline
Pros:
- Simple thickness adjustment settings
- Includes a julienne blade for added versatility
- Hand guard for stable and safe food slicing
Cons:
- Julienne blade may require hand washing for optimal cleaning
For those new to using a mandoline or who prefer simplicity without sacrificing functionality, the Progressive International Prepworks Adjust-A-Slice Mandoline is an excellent choice. This model efficiently handles vegetable slicing without being overly complex or expensive. It offers three thickness settings and includes julienne blades that conveniently pop up for preparing vegetables like zucchini and carrots for salads and stir-fries. Safety features include a hand guard and a non-skid base. It is dishwasher safe, although hand washing may be more effective for cleaning all the nooks and crannies, especially around the julienne blades.
We found the blades to be surprisingly sharp, comparable to more expensive models, and capable of quickly slicing denser vegetables such as sweet potatoes, radishes, and carrots. The julienne function worked effortlessly with onions and was very easy to adjust. This mandoline food slicer provides a straightforward and effective way to achieve uniform slices, making it ideal for beginners.
Blade Style: Japanese | Thickness Settings: 3 | Blades Included: Straight, Julienne
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Best Compact
Swissmar Borner V-Slicer Hand-Held Mandoline
Pros:
- Multiple slicing blades and thickness options
- V-style blade excels with softer foods
- Includes a compact storage holder
Cons:
- Hand washing recommended for cleaning
The Swissmar Borner V-Slicer Hand-Held Mandoline is an excellent compact option that doesn’t skimp on features. It comes with a variety of blades for julienne, straight, and French fry cuts. This model features a V-shaped blade, which offers an advantage over straight-blade slicers, particularly for softer foods like tomatoes. However, it performs effectively with a wide range of fruits and vegetables.
We appreciate the simplicity of its design, which includes grooves for fitting over a bowl, eliminating the need for a separate cutting surface. In our testing, it sliced through peppers and tomatoes with ease, although larger potatoes required a bit more pressure. With only two thickness settings for straight cuts (3.5 and 7 millimeters), it’s not ideal for paper-thin slices, but it’s perfect for cucumbers, carrots, and more, suitable for dishes from potato gratin to salad toppings.
Cleaning the Swissmar Borner V-Slicer is best done by hand. The blades are easily removable and interchangeable, and all components fit neatly into a compact holder for convenient storage, making it a space-efficient mandoline food slicer for smaller kitchens.
Blade Style: V-shaped | Thickness Settings: 2 | Blades Included: Straight, Julienne, Fine Shred
Final Verdict
Our top recommendation for an all-around excellent mandoline food slicer is the Benriner Jumbo Hand-Held Mandoline. It achieved a perfect 5/5 score in all our testing categories, thanks to its multiple thickness settings, clean and precise cuts, and dishwasher-safe design. For those seeking a more robust, professional-grade option, we highly recommend the Bron Coucke Original Stainless Steel Mandoline Slicer, from the company that originally invented the mandoline.
How We Tested Mandolines
To determine the best mandoline food slicers, we sent 10 different models to experienced home chefs and product testers. They evaluated each mandoline using a variety of vegetables—including potatoes, radishes, tomatoes, zucchinis, carrots, and bell peppers—utilizing their various blade sizes and styles. Each mandoline was assessed based on design, ease of use, convenience, size, cleaning process, and overall value. Our testers provided detailed feedback on each mandoline’s strengths and weaknesses, contributing to our comprehensive review.
Learn More About How We Test Products
Other Options We Tested
What to Look for in a Mandoline
Blade Type
The blade is arguably the most crucial aspect of any mandoline. Mandolines typically feature one of three blade styles: French, Japanese, and V-shaped, each with unique capabilities. The best blade type for you depends on the types of food you’ll be slicing, how often you plan to use the tool, and whether you need specialty blades like julienne or waffle-cut.
While extra blades aren’t essential, they can significantly expand the functionality of your mandoline, allowing for more creative and diverse fruit and vegetable preparations. Opting for a mandoline with removable and replaceable blades is beneficial, as you can replace just the blade when it dulls instead of the entire unit. Note that some mandolines have a fixed thickness setting, while others are adjustable. For greater control over slice thickness, choose an adjustable model.
Handheld vs. Kickstand
Consider whether you prefer a handheld mandoline or one with a kickstand, as this design feature greatly influences usability. Some cooks prefer the direct control of a handheld mandoline, while others find a kickstand provides more stability. Handheld models offer enhanced control over the slicing angle and can be positioned directly over a bowl, reducing transfer steps.
Kickstand models, often found in French mandolines, free up your non-dominant hand during slicing, which many perceive as safer. However, this is largely a matter of personal preference. Some users find the rubber stand on kickstand models to be less secure, which is why handheld options might offer more perceived control.
Size
For mandolines, smaller and wider designs are generally preferable due to ease of storage and handling. Larger mandolines can be cumbersome and increase the risk of accidents. A wide blade is suitable for most vegetables; however, if a vegetable is wider than the blade, pre-cutting will be necessary. If you choose a mandoline with interchangeable blades, consider storage space to keep the blades organized and safe.
Accessories
Depending on the mandoline model, you may have the option to purchase additional interchangeable blades for various cuts like julienne, waffle, French fry, and straight slices. If a hand guard isn’t included, investing in a mesh protective glove for your slicing hand is highly recommended. Hand guards can also be purchased separately to enhance safety.
FAQs
What are the different styles of mandolines?
French mandolines represent the classic design, typically consisting of multiple metal parts and a straight blade that requires assembly before use. While they can be somewhat cumbersome to set up, they are excellent if you intend to use a wide range of blade types.
Japanese mandolines, in contrast, are lighter, smaller, and easier to operate. Their blade is positioned at a diagonal angle, offering slightly more control and precision. The blade is exceptionally sharp and durable, and their compact size makes them ideal for home kitchens with limited space.
While both French and Japanese mandolines use a single angled blade, V-shaped mandoline blades are gaining popularity. These feature two entry points for vegetables, reducing the pressure needed to slice, making them particularly effective for larger, rounder vegetables. However, due to their shape, V-blades are typically not interchangeable with other blade shapes but usually offer adjustable thickness settings.
How do you clean a mandoline?
Similar to chef’s knives, mandoline blades are delicate and should ideally not be cleaned in a dishwasher. Hand wash them with hot, soapy water, using a gentle brush to remove any food residue from the blades. Always wipe the blade in the opposite direction of its sharp edge, just as you would with a knife.
Proper storage is also crucial. Storing a mandoline where it might be bumped can dull or damage the blade. When disassembling or changing blades, handle them slowly and carefully, always avoiding direct contact with the sharp edge. The better you maintain the blades, the longer they will remain sharp and effective.
How do you use a mandoline safely?
Most mandolines come with a food holder or hand guard that secures to the food being sliced, preventing slippage and keeping your fingers safely away from the blade. These guards can be made of plastic, rubber, or metal, with simpler plastic guards often being just as effective and less cumbersome than metal versions.
If your mandoline doesn’t include a hand guard, you can use a clean kitchen towel or a mesh protective glove as alternatives. Always remember that mandoline blades are extremely sharp. Even if you are experienced with using a mandoline, taking extra safety precautions is always advisable.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats
This article was originally written by Donna Currie, a seasoned food writer, recipe developer, and kitchen gadget expert. Donna has been reviewing kitchen tools for The Spruce and The Spruce Eats since July 2016 and authors the cooking blog “Cookistry,” as well as the cookbook “Make Ahead Bread.”
Bernadette Machard de Gramont, who updated this article, is a Los Angeles-based writer specializing in global food and wine content. With experience at Williams-Sonoma Headquarters, she tests cookware, bakeware, and wine tools, and interviews industry experts. Bernadette personally tested seven mandolines for this review.
Additional reporting was contributed by Sara Tane, a food writer and private chef with a culinary arts degree from the Institute of Culinary Education. Sara covers food for The Spruce Eats, bringing her culinary expertise to product reviews and food-related content.
