It’s funny how a small appliance like a can opener can make such a big difference in your kitchen routine. I didn’t realize it myself until I started using electric models. Recently, I tested two nearly identical units — the Cuisinart SCO-60 and the Cuisinart SCO-60C — to see if there was any real difference between them or if they were simply the same product with a different label.
After a week of daily use, I can confidently say that while they look and perform almost the same, there are a few details that can make one slightly better suited for your needs depending on what you value most — design, ease of cleaning, or consistency of cut.
Key Difference Between Cuisinart SCO-60 vs SCO-60C Electric Can Opener
At first glance, both the Cuisinart SCO-60 and SCO-60C share the same DNA — they feature the brand’s PowerCut blade system, single-touch operation, removable activation lever, and brushed stainless-steel housing.
However, the SCO-60C is technically the Canadian version of the SCO-60 model. The construction and performance are identical, but small details like size specifications, branding, and regional availability make them slightly different.
In practice, the SCO-60C feels a touch heavier and has a slightly more premium brushed finish, while the SCO-60 seems to focus on accessibility and ease of use.
- FUNCTIONAL: Cuisinart quality-engineered motor system makes it easy to open any size can with the Power Cut blade
- STURDY: Base prevents any sliding or tipping
- Powercut blade
- Brushed stainless steel construction
Comparison Table: Cuisinart SCO-60 vs SCO-60C Electric Can Opener
| Feature | Cuisinart SCO-60 | Cuisinart SCO-60C |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Material | Aluminum & Plastic | Stainless Steel |
| Blade Type | PowerCut Stainless Steel | PowerCut Stainless Steel |
| Operation | Single-Touch Automatic | Single-Touch Automatic |
| Size | 4.5×9.75×4.5 inches | 4.5 x 4.5 x 9.75 inches |
| Base Stability | Anti-slip, weighted base | Anti-slip base |
| Removable Lever | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 3-Year Limited | Varies by region |
| Region | U.S. Model | Canadian Model |
| Design Finish | Polished stainless steel with black accents | Brushed stainless steel body |
| Latest Price, Deals & Offers | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design and Build Quality
Both models share that classic Cuisinart look — sleek stainless steel with clean lines and minimal clutter. On my counter, they looked great beside the toaster and coffee maker.
The Cuisinart SCO-60 combines stainless steel with durable plastic around the lever and base. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and the aluminum elements help keep the weight manageable without feeling cheap.
The SCO-60C, however, is almost entirely stainless steel — including its casing and visible body parts. The brushed finish gives it a more premium appearance, and it resists fingerprints slightly better than the SCO-60’s shinier steel.
That said, both models feel solid and well-built. They don’t wobble or tip over while operating, thanks to their weighted bases and wide stance. I tested both on a smooth marble surface, and neither moved an inch during use.
If you prefer a slightly heavier, all-metal feel, go with the SCO-60C. If you prefer something lighter that’s easier to lift and move around, the SCO-60 wins.
- FUNCTIONAL: Cuisinart quality-engineered motor system makes it easy to open any size can with the Power Cut blade
- STURDY: Base prevents any sliding or tipping
Ease of Use
Electric can openers are supposed to make life easier, and these two models deliver on that promise.
With both, the process is the same:
- Place the can under the blade.
- Push the activation lever down.
- Watch as the PowerCut blade glides around the can effortlessly.
The single-touch operation is genuinely intuitive — there’s no need to hold the lever or manually rotate the can. Once the cut is complete, the opener automatically stops and releases the can smoothly.
I noticed that the SCO-60 engages the blade a little more gently, while the SCO-60C feels firmer when you press down. This might sound minor, but it can matter if you have arthritis or weaker hand strength.
In that case, I’d recommend the SCO-60 because it requires slightly less downward force to activate.
Performance and Consistency
This is where both models truly shine. The PowerCut stainless steel blade is sharp and precise. It never once struggled with a can — from small tomato paste tins to tall cans of beans and soup.
In testing, both openers cut cleanly and evenly, leaving no jagged metal edges. I timed a few runs: both opened a standard 15-ounce can in under 10 seconds.
The motor system in the SCO-60 is described as “quality-engineered,” and I can confirm it feels consistent. There was no stutter or slowdown, even after multiple cans. The SCO-60C performed identically, though the motor noise was slightly lower-pitched — possibly due to slight differences in internal housing or manufacturing region.
Both models also feature auto-stop functionality. As soon as the can is fully opened, the motor halts automatically. This feature alone makes these openers a joy to use because you can simply let them run without worrying about overcutting.
- FUNCTIONAL: Cuisinart quality-engineered motor system makes it easy to open any size can with the Power Cut blade
- STURDY: Base prevents any sliding or tipping
- Powercut blade
- Brushed stainless steel construction
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleanup is one of the biggest advantages of both models. The removable activation lever pops right off for quick rinsing. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference in keeping the opener hygienic — especially if you open canned foods like tuna or tomato sauce that can splatter.
The SCO-60C, being more metal-heavy, needs a quick wipe with a damp cloth to maintain its shine, while the SCO-60’s mixed-material design is slightly easier to clean and less prone to showing fingerprints.
Neither is dishwasher safe, but since the blade doesn’t actually contact the food inside the can, simple cleaning after each use is enough.
Noise and Stability
Electric can openers can sometimes be noisy, but both these Cuisinart models are surprisingly quiet. The SCO-60 produces a low hum, while the SCO-60C has a slightly more mechanical tone — but both are under 70 dB, which is quieter than most blenders or coffee grinders.
In terms of stability, the weighted base really helps. Both models stayed firmly in place during operation. I tested them on granite and wood surfaces, and neither slid even a little.
Durability and Reliability
Cuisinart is known for long-lasting kitchen appliances, and these openers are no exception. After repeated testing over a week, both still operated smoothly, with no dulling of the blade or loss of motor strength.
The SCO-60 uses more plastic components internally, which may make it slightly more prone to wear over many years, but its motor and blade system feel robust. The SCO-60C, being all-metal, may offer slightly longer-term durability — especially if you use it frequently.
Both come with Cuisinart’s 3-year limited warranty, which adds peace of mind.
Cuisinart SCO-60 Deluxe Electric Can Opener
- FUNCTIONAL: Cuisinart quality-engineered motor system makes it easy to open any size can with the Power Cut blade
- STURDY: Base prevents any sliding or tipping
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Smooth single-touch operation
- Requires less pressure to activate
- Removable lever for easy cleaning
- Stable base prevents sliding
- BPA-free and reliable motor system
Cons:
- Slightly more plastic construction
- Can show fingerprints on glossy steel finish
- Feels a bit less premium compared to SCO-60C
Cuisinart SCO-60C Deluxe Stainless Steel Can Opener
- Powercut blade
- Brushed stainless steel construction
Pros:
- Fully stainless steel body with brushed finish
- Feels heavier and sturdier
- Excellent cutting precision
- Sleek, modern design
- Easy-to-remove lever and easy to clean
Cons:
- Slightly heavier and bulkier
- May require a bit more force to engage the lever
- Availability varies by region (often Canada-specific)
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
After spending time with both models, I came away genuinely impressed. They’re among the best electric can openers I’ve used — both efficient, reliable, and built to last.
If you prefer a lighter, slightly easier-to-operate design that’s ideal for daily use and offers excellent stability, the Cuisinart SCO-60 is your best pick. It’s perfect for households that open multiple cans a day and want a dependable, low-effort device.
But if you prefer a heavier, all-metal finish and a more polished aesthetic that complements a high-end kitchen setup, the Cuisinart SCO-60C feels a little more premium in hand and looks great on the counter.
Performance-wise, they’re virtually identical. It really comes down to design preference and feel. For most people, though, the Cuisinart SCO-60 offers slightly better usability and value, especially if you prioritize comfort and accessibility.
My Recommendation:
Go with the Cuisinart SCO-60 if practicality and ease of use matter most. Choose the SCO-60C if you want a stainless-steel-heavy, luxury-feel version of the same excellent design.
