OXO Good Grips Garlic Press Review

The OXO Good Grips Garlic Press has become a staple in many kitchens, but does it live up to the hype? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest, in-depth review. We'll cover design, performance, cleaning, durability, and how it stacks up against other popular presses.

Design and Build Quality

The OXO Good Grips Garlic Press features a sturdy zinc alloy body with a stainless steel basket. The handles are coated with a soft, non-slip grip that feels comfortable in your hand, even during extended use. The press measures 7.5 inches long and weighs 8.8 ounces, making it substantial but not heavy. The hopper is generously sized, holding up to two or three average cloves without needing to peel them first.

One standout design element is the included cleaning tool, which snaps into the base of the press. This small plastic piece has a row of pins that match the basket holes, allowing you to push out leftover skins and pulp easily. The hinge feels solid, and the overall construction inspires confidence. OXO backs it with a 5-year warranty, which is a good sign of durability.

Performance: Crushing Garlic with Ease

In terms of performance, the OXO press excels at turning cloves into a fine paste. The holes in the basket are small enough to produce a smooth texture, perfect for sauces and marinades. You can crush unpeeled cloves, though the skins may remain in the basket. The soft handles provide a comfortable grip, and the leverage is sufficient to press even firm cloves without excessive force.

However, very large cloves might not fit entirely into the hopper. You may need to cut them in half or use smaller cloves. Some users with weaker hands find that the press requires more effort than other models, but for most people, it's manageable. Compared to the Zyliss Susi 3, the OXO has a larger capacity and a more ergonomic handle, but the Zyliss is slightly easier to squeeze due to its design.

Ease of Use and Ergonomics

The OXO press is designed with comfort in mind. The soft, non-slip handles reduce hand strain, even when pressing multiple cloves. The large hopper means you can often skip peeling, saving time. The press opens fully for easy loading, and the basket is deep enough to prevent garlic from squirting out the sides.

One minor issue is that the press can be a bit stiff when new, but it loosens up with use. The cleaning tool is a thoughtful addition, but it's small and can be misplaced. Overall, it's one of the most user-friendly presses on the market.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the OXO press is straightforward. It's dishwasher safe, but many users prefer to hand wash to keep it looking new. The included cleaning tool is excellent for removing stubborn skins from the basket holes. Simply push the tool through the holes from the back, and the debris pops out.

Some users note that garlic residue can get stuck in the hinge area, so a quick rinse under running water helps. Over time, the zinc alloy may develop a patina, but that doesn't affect performance. Compared to presses without cleaning tools, the OXO is far easier to maintain.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the OXO press receives high marks, a few complaints surface in reviews. Some users report that the press can bend if used on very hard items, though this is rare. Others find that the cleaning tool is flimsy and can break if handled roughly. A handful of users mention that the press doesn't crush garlic as finely as they'd like, but this is subjective.

Another common issue is that the hopper isn't deep enough for large cloves, requiring pre-cutting. This is a minor inconvenience for most. Overall, complaints are few and far between, and the positive feedback far outweighs the negative.

Comparison with Other Popular Presses

When compared to the Zyliss Susi 3, the OXO wins on capacity and handle comfort. The Zyliss is lighter and easier to squeeze, but it holds fewer cloves. The Kuhn Rikon Easy Garlic Press is another strong contender, but it's pricier and has a smaller hopper. The IKEA Koncis is budget-friendly but lacks the ergonomic handles and cleaning tool.

For most home cooks, the OXO offers the best balance of comfort, performance, and value. It's a reliable choice that will last for years with proper care.

Final Verdict

The OXO Good Grips Garlic Press is a worthwhile investment for anyone who cooks with garlic regularly. Its ergonomic design, easy cleaning, and solid performance make it a top pick. While it has minor drawbacks, such as difficulty with large cloves, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you're in the market for a new garlic press, this one should be at the top of your list. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.