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Chef's Choice 4643 vs Smith's 50264 Sharpener Side-by-Side Comparison
Overall Verdict
Both the Chef's Choice 4643 and the Smith's 50264 sharpener are decent devices, so the choice boils down to your priority: If sharpness is more important, the Smith’s wins by a landslide. If you want something more stable and reliable, the Chef’s Choice is the one to go for.
The Smith’s sharpens much faster and more effectively — it doesn’t take more than a few swipes before your knife becomes highly serviceable. It also offers more choices of grind angle, and thus, covers more types of knives. The problem with it is instability both in the sharpening slots and the device as a whole, which results in damages on the edge and potential mishaps.
The Chef’s Choice doesn’t necessarily create a better edge, but it surely is more reliable in terms of safety. Its wide base, low working section, and substantial grip make it extremely stable and easy to work with. Sharpness isn’t one of its strongest points, but it’s still above average in that respect.
Pros & Cons
- Works with 20° and 15° edges
- Compatible with serrated blades
- Grippy handle
- Neat, ergonomic overall design
- Angle-adjustable sharpening
- Sharpening slot for serrated blades included
- Wide slot inserts
- Replaceable abrasives (sold separately)
- Expensive price
- Awkward slot layout
- Shears off a considerable amount of metal
- Awkward slot structure
- Long, narrow base
Key Specs
Where to Buy
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Analysis and Test Results
Performance
Sharpening Time to Cut a Lemon
Material Retention
Maximum Sharpness Achieved
Edge Smoothness
Design
In the Box
Dimensions
Build Quality
Working Section
Base
Grip
Usability
Slot Arrangement
Insertion
Pulling Through
Stability on a Clean Surface
Stability on a Wet and Dirty Surface
