The 9 Best Spatulas , Tested and Reviewed

A spatula is a must-have tool in any kitchen, and most home cooks need a variety to tackle different culinary tasks. From flipping pancakes and smashing burgers to scrambling eggs and frosting cupcakes, there are countless uses for this versatile utensil. However, the overwhelming selection of types, designs, and materials can be daunting. Which spatula is best for pancakes? Which one excels at frosting a cake?

To find the best spatulas for every situation, we put 35 different styles to the test, evaluating their performance and suitability for various tasks. Whether you’re seeking a sturdy pancake flipper or a reliable ground beef chopper, our comprehensive review has you covered.

Taylor Murray

How We Tested

To uncover the best spatulas on the market, we began by thoroughly researching available products from various brands and retailers, paying close attention to customer reviews and feedback. We purchased over 30 spatulas spanning a wide range of styles and price points for our testing.

We categorized the spatulas into distinct groups, including turners and flippers, scraper spatulas, spoonulas, and icing spatulas. We evaluated their ease of storage, durability, flexibility, and overall comfort during use.

For flat, turner-style spatulas, we cooked pancakes, fried eggs, and burger patties to assess their ability to lift and flip food effortlessly. In the case of wooden spatulas, we tested them by cooking ground beef in a metal pan, using the flat edge to break up the meat and scrape it from the bottom.

Taylor Murray

Taylor Murray

Taylor Murray

Taylor Murray

To evaluate scraper spatulas, we prepared scrambled eggs, using the spatula to fold and stir throughout the cooking process. For spoon spatulas, we tested their performance by stirring and scraping cake batter from a bowl. To assess offset spatulas and icing knives, we made buttercream frosting and used the spatula to spread it evenly onto cupcakes.

Taylor Murray

Taylor Murray

Taylor Murray

Lastly, we washed all the spatulas by hand to assess the ease of cleaning, and for those labeled dishwasher-safe, we ran them through a cycle to check for any potential damage. After thorough testing and careful evaluation of each product, we’ve selected the following as the best spatulas currently available for purchase online.

Best Overall: All-Clad Precision Nonstick Turner

What We Like

1. Safe for nonstick pans
2. Durable and sturdy
3. Effective

What We Don’t Like

1. On the pricier side

If you’re seeking a versatile, high-quality spatula that excels in various scenarios, the All-Clad nonstick turner is an excellent choice. While it’s a bit pricier than some alternatives, its durability ensures it will be a cherished tool in your kitchen for years to come.

All-Clad, a renowned brand celebrated for its exceptional stainless-steel cookware, uses the same premium steel to craft this spatula’s handle. This guarantees a sturdy and long-lasting tool that’s built to withstand the test of time.

The handle is comfortable to hold and features a convenient groove for your thumb, running the entire length, allowing you to adjust your grip for optimal maneuverability in tight spaces. The nylon head, with its angled edge, effortlessly glides between food and pan, preventing sticking. Its size strikes the perfect balance – large enough for lifting substantial items like burgers and pancakes, yet not so large as to be cumbersome.

1. MaterialBPA-free nylon head, stainless-steel handle
2. Weight5.5 ounces
3. Dimensions14.75″ x 3.25″
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes, up to 440°F

Best Value: Sabatier Triple Rivet Stainless Steel Wide Turner

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Sabatier-5154549-Triple-Rivet-Turner/dp/B0176B7Y18?

What We Like

1. Affordable
2. Compact for storage
3. Durable and sturdy

What We Don’t Like

1. Smaller size may struggle under larger foods
2. Not suitable for nonstick pans

Initially, we were skeptical about the Sabatier turner. Its compact size seemed like it might struggle with larger burger patties and delicate fried eggs. However, our testing proved us wrong. Despite its size, the flat blade effortlessly slid under a standard large egg and flipped burgers with ease. Its sharp edge easily separated food from the pan, eliminating any concerns about sticking.

The shorter handle and overall compact design actually enhanced maneuverability, a crucial attribute for any spatula. This feature also makes it convenient for storage, easily fitting into drawers without causing any clutter.

1. MaterialStainless steel
2. Weight4 ounces
3. Dimensions9.65″ x 2.76″
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes

Best Fish: Misen Fish Spatula with Silicone Edge

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Misen-Fish-Spatula-Silicone-Spatulas/dp/B09WGHWHJ1?

What We Like

1. Perfect combination of size, shape, materials and flexibility
2. Easy-to-grip handle
3. Simple to maneuver

What We Don’t Like

1. Silicone edge slightly caught on salmon skin

This stainless steel spatula with a silicone-coated edge exceeded our expectations and earned the title of “Best Fish” spatula due to its exceptional combination of affordability and versatility. As one of the more budget-friendly options we tested, we were amazed by its ability to effortlessly handle delicate fish fillets, thick burger patties, and even pancakes.

Its compact yet flexible design allowed for easy maneuvering in tight spaces, making it a breeze to navigate under and around food. The silicone edge ensures safe use with nonstick cookware while maintaining its effectiveness in releasing stuck-on food. As a bonus, it’s also dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup.

Overall, the Misen Fish Spatula is a high-performing, budget-friendly tool that’s sure to become your favorite for cooking a wide range of dishes, from fish and eggs to burgers and beyond.

1. MaterialStainless steel, silicone
2. Weight4.16 ounces
3. Dimensions12.4″ x 3″
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes, up to 450°F

Best for Pancakes: OXO Good Grips Flexible Pancake Turner

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/OXO-1071533-0719812018430-Silicone-Flexible/dp/B000ND5CBG?

What We Like

1. Large surface area
2. Safe for nonstick pans
3. Flexible

What We Don’t Like

1. Bulky to store

OXO’s ingeniously designed turner is specifically tailored for pancakes, and it truly delivers. Compared to other turners, its head is noticeably larger and wider, making it effortless to flip even extra-large pancakes, omelets, crepes, or entire sheet pans of roasted vegetables.

The silicone head is heat-resistant and boasts the perfect amount of flexibility, allowing it to slide under food without compromising its durability. As an added bonus, it’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

1. MaterialStainless steel, silicone
2. Weight12” x 6”
3. Dimensions5.3 ounces
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes

Best Heavy-Duty: Winco Blade Hamburger Turner

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Winco-TN719-Hamburger-Turner-6-Inch/dp/B001VZAKGM?

What We Like

1. Sharp edge that easily chops and scrapes
2. Affordable
3. Durable

What We Don’t Like

1. Not dishwasher-safe
2. A little bulky to store

For those seeking a turner spatula with exceptional durability, consider a restaurant-grade option built to withstand rigorous industrial use. This particular model, constructed with stainless steel and a sturdy wood handle to prevent burns, features a sharp-edged head that functions as a blade, effortlessly chopping and scraping.

Whether you’re working with stainless steel or a cast iron griddle, this spatula can effortlessly smash burgers thin or chop sausage with ease. The comfortable wood handle remains cool during use, and its shorter length provides precise control.

Due to the wood handle, this spatula is not dishwasher-safe and its angled design might make it slightly challenging to store in a shallow drawer. However, its exceptional performance and durability make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

1. MaterialStainless steel, wood
2. Weight6.3 ounces
3. Dimensions12″ x 3″
4. Dishwasher-Safe?No
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes

Best Wooden: OXO Good Grips Wooden Turner

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/OXO-1058020-Wooden-Nonstick-Cookware/dp/B0000CCY1M?

What We Like

1. Wide head can scoop and flip
2. Comfortable to hold
3. Solid construction

What We Don’t Like

1. Not dishwasher-safe; hand wash only

Think all wooden spoons are created equal? Think again. OXO’s wooden turner challenges everything you thought you knew about this kitchen staple. Technically a turner, this versatile tool can flip burgers, chop ground beef, or stir risotto with equal ease. The ergonomically shaped handle, a rarity for wooden spoons, features a convenient hole for hanging.

The spatula’s head boasts a sharp enough edge for flipping and is wide enough to scoop food effortlessly. While not dishwasher-safe, like most wooden tools, it was easily cleaned by hand, with any residual oils naturally absorbed into the wood.

1. MaterialBeech wood
2. Weight4 ounces
3. Dimensions15.1″ x 3.5″
4. Dishwasher-Safe?No
5. Heat-Resistant?No

Best Silicone Scraper: Get It Right Premium Silicone Spatula

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LRHSBGN

What We Like

1. High heat resistant
2. Range of colors
3. Easy to clean

What We Don’t Like

1. Inflexible

For a straightforward, reliable spatula, the GIR model is an excellent choice. Crafted from a single piece of silicone with a sturdy core, it’s designed to handle a wide array of tasks. Its seamless construction makes it incredibly easy to clean, with no crevices for food to get stuck. In our tests, it effortlessly scrambled eggs, released them cleanly from the pan, and proved to be just as capable at mixing batter or frosting cupcakes.

While not specifically designed as a flipper, this spatula surprised us with its ability to flip pancakes and fried eggs, and it’s safe for use with nonstick pans. The smooth, comfortable handle features a small hole for hanging, and the angled tip effortlessly navigates into tight corners and spaces. Overall, the GIR spatula is a simple yet highly effective kitchen tool.

1. MaterialSilicone
2. Weight11″ x 1.9″
3. Dimensions3.2 ounces
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes, up to 550°F

Best Spoonula: DI ORO Silicone Spoon Spatula

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Seamless-Silicone-Spoon-Spatula-Heat-Resistant/dp/B00LBFPSA0

What We Like

1. Stain-, odor- and bacteria-resistant
2. Wide surface area
3. Excels at scooping

What We Don’t Like

1. Not great for flipping

The “spoonula,” as it’s affectionately known, is a unique spatula boasting a bowl-shaped head that’s perfect for scooping and mixing. Often dubbed “the million dollar tool,” this spatula will save you countless spoonfuls of wasted food over the years by helping you scrape every last bit from bowls and containers.

In our tests, this spoonula excelled at mixing cupcake batter and precisely filling cupcake liners. Its high-heat-resistant silicone construction, rated up to 600°F, makes it suitable for even the most demanding tasks like candy making. Additionally, its dishwasher-safe design ensures effortless cleanup.

1. MaterialSilicone
2. Weight3.7 ounces
3. Dimensions11.2″ x 2.6″
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes, up to 600°F

Best Offset/Icing: OXO Good Grips Cupcake Icing Knife

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-Small-Offset-Icing/dp/B008O0MP92

What We Like

1. Easy to maneuver
2. Dishwasher-safe
3. Comfortable handle

What We Don’t Like

1. Can’t scoop well

While a butter knife might suffice for frosting a cake, there’s a far superior tool for the job. Enter the offset spatula, sometimes referred to as an icing knife. Designed specifically for frosting cakes, these spatulas are also handy for smoothing batters, releasing muffins from tins, and even flipping pancakes. The secret lies in their angled blade, which allows you to maneuver the tool without getting frosting everywhere, and the rounded tip for precise, gentle application. While numerous options exist, we favored the OXO offset spatula, which is dishwasher-safe and available in two convenient sizes.

1. MaterialStainless steel, plastic
2. Weight1 ounce
3. Dimensions9” x 0.75”
4. Dishwasher-Safe?Yes
5. Heat-Resistant?Yes

What to Consider When Buying a Spatula

• Type: When it comes to flipping eggs, pancakes, or burgers, a turner spatula reigns supreme. It excels at anything requiring a sturdy surface to lift and flip without damaging the food or bending under pressure. These typically feature a broad, flat blade that easily slides under food in pans or on grills. Fish spatulas, a specialized type of turner, deserve special mention and have their own dedicated tests.
• Scraper spatulas or spoonulas, on the other hand, are flexible, heat-resistant tools made from plastic, rubber, or silicone. They’re designed for mixing batter, folding ingredients into delicate egg whites, scraping bowls clean, and similar tasks.
• Offset spatulas, also known as icing knives, have a long, narrow, flexible blade angled away from the handle. They primarily serve to spread frostings and creams onto cakes and pastries, with the angled handle offering superior control for achieving smooth surfaces, far exceeding the capabilities of a butter knife.
• Material: Spatulas come in a wide array of materials. Turners can be made of plastic, silicone, metal, wood, or a combination thereof. For turners, silicone or nylon heads are often preferred due to their high heat resistance, compatibility with various pans (including nonstick), and dishwasher-safe convenience. Those with metal cores or handles tend to be more durable and better suited for heavier foods. For tasks like smashing burgers or chopping ground beef in metal pans, metal spatulas with their finer edges are ideal. Spoonulas and scraper spatulas often utilize silicone for its durability, heat resistance, and ease of cleaning. Icing knives typically have metal tips, but plastic-handled versions can be dishwasher-safe. Additionally, we tested wooden spatulas made of bamboo and beechwood, favoring beechwood for its comfort and strength.
• Care & Maintenance: Always consider care instructions when choosing a spatula. Dishwasher-safe options are convenient, but some materials or designs might not be suitable for machine washing. For instance, wood or wood-handled spatulas typically require hand washing to avoid drying out and warping.tunesharemore_vert

Taylor Murray

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some spatulas have slots?

There are a couple of reasons why some spatulas have slots:

1. Drainage: The slots allow liquids or excess fat to drain away when lifting food, making them particularly useful for cooking burgers, fried foods, or anything where you want to remove excess moisture.
2. Reduced Resistance: The slots help to reduce resistance and surface tension when sliding the spatula under food, making it easier to lift and flip delicate items without breaking them.

What’s the difference between a turner and a spatula?

The term “spatula” encompasses a wide array of utensils, leading to some understandable confusion. Turner spatulas, specifically, have flat surfaces at the end of a long handle, designed for turning or flipping food. Some feature slots or holes to allow grease or liquid to drain. However, spatulas can also refer to rubber, plastic, or silicone tools used for scraping, scooping, and spreading. In essence, while all turners are considered spatulas, not all spatulas are turners.

Can spatulas damage pans?

Generally, spatulas are safe for use with most pans and shouldn’t cause damage. However, it’s important to exercise caution when using metal spatulas with nonstick pans, as they can scratch and damage the delicate nonstick coating if the pan isn’t specifically designed for use with metal utensils.