Chef’sChoice 1520 Professional Electric Knife Sharpener Review – The Ultimate Tool for Razor-Sharp Knives

A good knife sharpener is an essential tool in any kitchen, and the Chef’sChoice 1520 Professional Electric Knife Sharpener stands out as one of the best options on the market. Designed to handle both 20-degree and 15-degree straight-edge and serrated knives, this sharpener delivers professional-level results with ease. After personally using the Chef’sChoice 1520, I can confidently say that it has transformed my kitchen experience.

Why I Chose the Chef’sChoice 1520

I have used several manual and electric sharpeners in the past, but none have offered the precision and efficiency of the Chef’sChoice 1520 Professional Electric Knife Sharpener. One of the main reasons I was drawn to this sharpener was its three-stage sharpening system that uses 100% diamond abrasives. This ensures a razor-sharp edge without damaging my knives, making it a long-term investment for my kitchen.

Key Features of the Chef’sChoice 1520

1. Dual Angle Options – 20-Degree and 15-Degree Sharpening

This sharpener offers the versatility to sharpen both Western-style knives (20-degree edge) and Asian-style knives (15-degree edge). Whether I’m working with my chef’s knife or my delicate sushi knife, I get the perfect edge every time.

2. 100% Diamond Abrasives for Efficient Sharpening

The Chef’sChoice 1520 uses diamond abrasives to sharpen and hone knives efficiently. Unlike traditional sharpening stones that wear down over time, diamonds are durable and provide consistent results.

3. Three-Stage Sharpening System

• Stage 1: Creates a sharp 15-degree edge for Asian-style knives.

• Stage 2: Provides a 20-degree edge for Western knives.

• Stage 3: A honing and polishing stage that refines the edge and ensures durability.

This system eliminates any guesswork and guarantees a long-lasting, razor-sharp edge every time.

4. Precision Angle Guides for Accurate Sharpening

One of the biggest issues with manual sharpening is maintaining the correct angle. The Chef’sChoice 1520 comes with built-in precision angle guides, ensuring that every knife is sharpened at the perfect angle. This feature alone makes it one of the best electric knife sharpeners available.

5. Works on Straight-Edge and Serrated Knives

Unlike some sharpeners that only work on certain types of knives, this model is designed for both straight-edge and serrated knives. This means I can sharpen my bread knife, steak knives, and even my everyday kitchen knives with ease.

My Experience Using the Chef’sChoice 1520

When I first started using the Chef’sChoice 1520, I was impressed by how easy it was to operate. The process is simple – just insert the knife, let the precision guides do their job, and pull the knife through each stage. Within a few minutes, my dull knives were sharper than ever.

One of the biggest advantages I noticed was how smoothly my knives cut after sharpening. Slicing through tomatoes, meats, and vegetables became effortless. Additionally, I appreciate how quiet the motor is compared to other electric sharpeners I have used.

Another standout feature is the durability of the sharpener. Many sharpeners wear out over time, but the Chef’sChoice 1520 has held up well with regular use. The diamond abrasives continue to perform flawlessly, maintaining my knives at peak sharpness.

What I Liked About the Chef’sChoice 1520

• Consistently sharp edges – My knives are sharper than ever and hold their edge longer.

• Easy to use – The precision angle guides take the guesswork out of sharpening.

• Versatile – Works with both Western and Asian-style knives.

• Durable design – The diamond abrasives last a long time, making it a worthwhile investment.

• Works on serrated knives – Not all electric sharpeners handle serrated edges, but this one does an excellent job.

Who Should Buy the Chef’sChoice 1520?

If you own high-quality kitchen knives and want to keep them in top condition, this sharpener is a must-have. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, the Chef’sChoice 1520 Professional Electric Knife Sharpener ensures your knives remain sharp with minimal effort.

This sharpener is also perfect for those who own both Western and Asian-style knives. Instead of buying separate sharpeners for different angles, this model conveniently sharpens both, saving time and money.

Buying Guide – What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Knife Sharpener

Before purchasing an electric knife sharpener, here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Sharpening Angles – Ensure the sharpener can handle the types of knives you own. The Chef’sChoice 1520 accommodates both 15-degree and 20-degree knives.

2. Abrasive Material – Diamond abrasives are the best choice for durability and precision sharpening.

3. Ease of Use – Look for models with built-in angle guides to simplify the sharpening process.

4. Versatility – A good sharpener should work on both straight-edge and serrated knives.

5. Durability – Choose a model with high-quality materials to ensure long-term performance.

Final Verdict

After using the Chef’sChoice 1520 Professional Electric Knife Sharpener, I can confidently say it’s one of the best investments for my kitchen. The ability to sharpen both Western and Asian knives, combined with the precision of diamond abrasives, makes this sharpener stand out. My knives have never been sharper, and I no longer struggle with dull blades while cooking.

If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality knife sharpener, the Chef’sChoice 1520 is an excellent choice. It delivers professional results with minimal effort, making it a must-have for any kitchen.

Top reviews from the United States

• 

  Comdet

  5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent performance; easy to use; detailed instructions provided

  Reviewed in the United States on October 12, 2024

  Color: WhitePattern Name: Chef'sChoice

  I'm very pleased with this sharpener. I was debating between this one (model 1520) which is a 2-stage system that can sharpen at 15 or 20 degrees, and the Trizor model, which is a 3-stage but can only sharpen at a 15 degree angle. I went with this since some of my knives are better suited for a 20 degree angle (plus the fact that it was on sale for 50% off, making it less expensive than the Trizor).
  
  Usage is about as simple as it can be, and the guides ensure the knife is held at the correct angle. The instruction booklet provides detailed instructions on how to use it for a variety of different knives, and how to maintain the sharpener (which is pretty easy).
  
  Operating sounds when a knife is not being pulled through are limited to a low hum. It does make a fair amount of noise while sharpening, but that's to be expected from any sharpener. The machine has a nice, solid heft to it.
  
  The results have been outstanding. I'm sure hand sharpening with a whetstone would be even better, but since I don't have the knowledge on how to do that properly (nor am I willing to spend the time learning) this hits the mark for me: easy to use, and the end result is a scary sharp knife.
  
  You can also use this to create a three-bevel (Chef's Choice calls it a "Trizor") blade by starting with the 15 degree slot and then using the 20 degree slot for just a quick pass before final honing in the third slot. Instructions are provided in the manual. I tried it, but didn't find there to be much difference in sharpness compared with just a plain 15 degree sharpening. But, it's nice that the option is available for those who want to use it or experiment.
  An excellent, easy to use sharpener that produces great results. Five stars.
• 

  Patchy Fog

  5.0 out of 5 stars Ready for another 30 years?

  Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2025

  Color: WhitePattern Name: Chef'sChoice

  Bought this to replace a similar Chef's Choice that had been in the family for 32 years and had finally developed bearing noise when running and was obviously about to go. It was an expensive splurge then and an expensive splurge now, but worth it. Over the decades this device has been refined and this new one works so much better, with fewer steps, 15 degree support, and brand new sharp cutting wheels! The only thing I miss from the old one was the magnetic blade guides which the knife angle. This one uses a spring tensioner. Not as elegant or easy to use, but works fine and doesn't magnetize your knives either I guess.
• 

  Peter Deleault

  5.0 out of 5 stars Great knife sharpener

  Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2024

  Color: WhitePattern Name: Chef'sChoic

  Instructions were easy to follow and it took me only a couple of passes to master the technique which is very simple. If you follow the instructions you will have extremely sharp knives. I tried an expensive Torek system but that required so much more skill and time and mess, then I tried a Lansky manual system which worked pretty well but very time consuming moving from stone to stone. This Chef's Choice was very fast and I got incredible results on the first try. Better than any sharpener I have ever used. I sharpened all our kitchen knives in record time. I took 4-5 passes with each knife and did the same with the stropping wheel. I sharpened 9 knives including 2 serrated. They are all as sharp as when they were new. Don't forget to clean the metal waste magnet on the bottom. I removed it and cleaned it with an old tooth brush. I was amazed at the amount of metal shavings after 9 knives. I never mastered the art of sharpening knives but this machine requires very little skill for dummies like me to get extremely great results. Wish I had found Chef's Choice years ago. Would have saved me a lot of frustration. Definitely worth the $.
• 

  genesrus

  4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Sharpener (with a concern or two) BUT NOT FOR CERAMICS

  Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2014

  Color: GrayPattern Name: Chef'sChoice

  Received this July 24th 2014. Couldn't wait to test out the 1520 on some of my knives of yesteryear. I have knives from graduate school, when I was a young pup, which could have been used as spoons- very glad I hung on to them. I have a Chicago cutlery 7 inch knife that was in this category and is now almost as good as my Global G-46 (oh! And btw if you want a knife that is truly outstanding and will be squabbled over by your heirs it is the G-46 - another review for later!)
  The 1520 worked wonders on the knives that I sharpened. Took about 30 minutes for 8 knives (after I had read through the instruction manual). I started out by trying to cut a piece of printer/copier paper - the Global G-46 knife which is about a year old and the massive Lamson-Goodnow knife were able to cut the paper. I also used a plum (no tomatoes). Only the G-46 was able to cut the thinnest slice off the plum. A couple of others could cut thicker slices and some couldn't cut through a plum without crushing it significantly! The goal with a very sharp knife is to get me a slice off a plum (or tomato) that is thinner than a sheet of paper. At the end of this first foray into knife sharpening every single knife I sharpened with the 1520 could cut the perfect slice off a plum.