You have a block of Parmesan that needs grating, or you want to add a burst of lemon zest to your pasta. A good grater makes all the difference. In this guide, we review the best Microplane graters for 2026, covering models for zesting, cheese, chocolate, and more. Whether you need a dedicated zester or a versatile box grater, we have you covered. For more on kitchen tools, check out our best cheese grater guide.

What to Look for in a Microplane Grater

Blade Sharpness and Material

Microplane uses photo-etched surgical grade stainless steel blades that stay sharp and rust-free. This technology creates ultra sharp edges that slice through zest and cheese with minimal effort. Look for models with American-made blades for the best performance. For fresh orange juice, pair your grater with our best orange juicer.

Handle Comfort and Grip

A comfortable handle reduces hand fatigue during prolonged grating. Non-slip handles, like the OXO Good Grips soft handle, provide secure control. Ergonomic designs, such as the Deiss PRO’s curved shape, allow you to apply more force without discomfort.

Versatility and Blade Options

Consider what you will grate most. The Microplane Four Sided Box Grater offers multiple blades for slicing, fine grating, ribbon cuts, and extra coarse grating. For dedicated zesting, the Classic Zester is perfect. Some models also work for ginger, garlic, nutmeg, and chocolate.

Ease of Cleaning

Graters can trap food particles. Look for dishwasher-safe models or those with detachable blades for thorough cleaning. A quick rinse under running water often suffices; a small brush helps reach the sharp edges. For more tips, see our best rotary cheese grater article.

Final Thoughts

After evaluating the top models, we recommend the Microplane Classic Zester Grater, Black for those who need a precise zester and the Microplane Four Sided Stainless Steel Ultra-Sharp for a versatile all-in-one solution. Both deliver exceptional sharpness and durability, making them the best Microplane graters for your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Microplane grater for cheese?

For hard cheeses like Parmesan, the Microplane Gourmet Series Hard Cheese Grater (fine) creates fluffy, powder-like shreds. The Four Sided Box Grater also works well with its ultra-coarse blade for softer cheeses.

Can you put Microplane graters in the dishwasher?

Most Microplane models are dishwasher safe. However, we recommend rinsing immediately after use and using a brush for stubborn particles to maintain the blade’s sharpness. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.

What is the difference between Microplane models?

The Classic Zester is ideal for citrus, ginger, and garlic. The Gourmet Series focuses on hard cheeses. The Four Sided Box Grater offers multiple blade styles for different tasks. The Premium Classic is similar to the Classic but with a different handle design. For a broader look at box graters, read our best box grater guide.

Is the OXO Good Grips Grater as good as Microplane?

The OXO Good Grips Etched Zester & Grater is a solid alternative with a comfortable handle and non-slip foot. It performs well for zesting and soft cheeses, but Microplane’s photo-etched blades are generally sharper and longer-lasting.