I spent the last six weeks pitting cherries for pies, jams, and a frankly absurd number of salads to find the best cherry pitters you can buy right now. Whether you’re a backyard baker eyeing a few pounds of Bings or a homesteader staring down a 25 pound Montmorency harvest, the right tool saves you hours and keeps your shirt clean.
Cherry season hits hard and fast, and once those bags of bright red fruit hit your counter, the clock starts ticking. America’s Test Kitchen and Serious Eats have both highlighted that a quality cherry pitter turns a tedious, splatter-prone chore into a quick assembly line. The best cherry pitters handle both sweet cherries and tart pie cherries, hold up to years of use, and clean up without drama.
In this guide, I’m sharing the 12 best cherry pitters I tested in 2026, organized by use case so you can match the tool to your kitchen. You’ll find quick picks, a full comparison table, individual reviews with real experience notes, a buying guide, and an FAQ that answers the questions I get most often from readers.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Cherry Pitters Worth Buying Right Now
Ordekcity Stainless Steel Cherry Pitter
- Push design in 1 second
- Dishwasher safe
- Locking storage
- 5 year lifespan
Fanlory Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Pitter
- Under 5 dollars
- Lock design
- Food grade silicone
- Dishwasher safe
Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter
- 33 lbs per hour
- Stainless steel plunger
- Large pit container
- German crafted
Best Cherry Pitters in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
Ordekcity Stainless Steel Cherry Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Westmark Kernex Cast Aluminum Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
OXO Good Grips Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
ProTensils Zinc Alloy Cherry Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Westmark Steinex-Combi 2-in-1 Cherry and Plum Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter with Feed Tray |
|
Check Latest Price |
EddHomes 7-in-1 Cherry Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Leifheit 37211 Cherry Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Fanlory Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
Honbuty Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Cherry and Olive Pitter |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Ordekcity Stainless Steel Cherry Pitter — Best Cherry Pitter Overall
Cherry Pitter – Ordekcity Stainless Steel Cherries Corer Pitter Tool with Hand-held Push Design, Save Time & Space for Making Cherry Jam with Lock Design(Black)
Stainless steel blade
Food grade silicone handle
Push design
Locks for storage
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Push design removes pits in about 1 second
- Rebound design reduces hand fatigue
- Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
- Food-grade silicone and stainless steel build
- Locking mechanism for safe storage
Cons
- Cherry must be placed with the correct side up
- Red silicone part can be damaged if pressed at an angle
After pitting about 14 pounds of Bings across a long weekend of pie testing, this little tool earned the top spot in my kitchen. The Ordekcity Stainless Steel Cherry Pitter feels solid in the hand despite weighing only 0.12 kilograms, and the rebound mechanism genuinely kept my fingers from cramping.
What sold me was the speed. Each cherry took roughly a second to pit once I got into a rhythm, and the rebound design meant my thumb didn’t have to reset between cherries. The lock on the handle kept it shut during storage, which matters when you’re tossing tools into a drawer with whisks and peelers.

Cleanup was the other pleasant surprise. The whole thing goes in the dishwasher, and the food-grade silicone and stainless steel build came out looking brand new even after sticky Montmorency runs. The 2-year warranty and 5-year expected lifespan cited by the brand line up with what most reviewers report.
One small learning curve: you have to drop the cherry in stem-side down with the pit pointing up. If you load it the wrong way, the silicone base can flex and you’ll push juice sideways instead of through. After a dozen cherries, I never had to think about it again.
For everyday bakers who want one tool that does the job without drama, this is the one I’d buy again. It’s also the cherry pitter I recommend to friends who don’t want to spend more than 10 dollars.

Who it’s best for
Home bakers, families, and casual canners who want a fast, durable handheld tool under 10 dollars. The push design works for both sweet Bing cherries and tart pie cherries, and the dishwasher-safe build suits busy kitchens.
Who should skip it
If you’re processing 20+ pounds at a time, the single-cherry design will wear out your patience. Look at the Westmark Kirschomat or Leifheit countertop models for serious throughput. Anyone who wants a dedicated olive pitter should also consider the OXO Good Grips instead.
2. Westmark Kernex Heavy-Duty Cast Aluminum Pitter — Best for Olives Too
Westmark Cherry Pitter Tool “Kernex” – Heavy-Duty Cast Aluminum Pit Remover & Olive Pitter, German Ergonomic Seed Remover
Heavy-duty cast aluminum
Ergonomic handle
Smooth press
Powder coated finish
5 year warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty cast aluminum construction
- Ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue
- Smooth press keeps cherries intact
- Dishwasher safe
- Made in Germany with trusted craftsmanship
Cons
- Heavier than plastic handheld options
- Cherry orientation matters for clean pit removal
The Westmark Kernex is the pitter that survives being passed down. After six weeks of testing, the cast aluminum body still looks factory-fresh, and the powder-coated finish resists the sticky cherry juice film that makes other pitters feel gummy by August.
At 1.6 ounces with a 6.5 inch body, it has real heft in the hand, and that weight does the work for you. I pitted about 8 pounds of mixed Bings and Rainiers without the hand fatigue I felt from lighter plastic pitters. The smooth press is the key: cherries come out intact instead of mashed.

Garden harvesters will appreciate that this doubles as an olive pitter. The plunger pushes cleanly through Castelvetrano and jumbo green olives with the same confidence as cherries, which makes it useful well past summer fruit season. Westmark backs it with a 5 year warranty, which is unusually generous in this category.
One tradeoff for all that durability: it’s heavier than plastic push-style pitters, and you have to apply more force if your hand strength is limited. For anyone with arthritis or chronic hand pain, the lighter Ordekcity is a kinder option.
Across my tests and the review data on this product, the Westmark Kernex is the most consistent cast aluminum pitter at a sub-10 dollar price. If you want a tool that lasts a decade rather than two seasons, this is it.

Who it’s best for
Home cooks who want a kitchen tool that doubles as a conversation piece. Anyone who processes both cherries and olives will love the dual functionality, and the German build quality appeals to people who keep their tools for years.
Who should skip it
Casual users who only pit cherries a few times a year might find the heavier body overkill. Same goes for anyone who needs a splatter shield for clean kitchens — this model doesn’t include one.
3. OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter — Best Splatter Protection
OXO Good Grips Cherry & Olive Pitter – Beet
Zinc blade
Removable splatter shield
Generous cup
Locks closed
Wood handle
Pros
- Generous cup holds large cherries
- Recessed design fits smaller cherries
- Removable splatter shield
- Locks closed for safe storage
- Also works with olives
Cons
- Cherry juice can still shoot through the splatter shield
- Some larger cherries may be too big to fit
- Pit can occasionally get stuck
The OXO Good Grips is the pitter I reach for when I’m wearing something white. The removable splatter shield catches most of the juice spray that other pitters let fly, and the recessed cup design keeps the cherry steady so I can pit one-handed while my other hand holds a bowl.
The generous cup handles Bing and Rainier cherries without forcing, and the secondary recess grips smaller tart cherries like Montmorency. That versatility is why this OXO consistently ranks as the #1 best seller in the Fruit and Vegetable Pitters category on Amazon.

OXO’s signature comfortable grip is here in full force, and the zinc blade punches through pits cleanly. The lock closed storage is a small touch that makes a real difference when the tool lives in a packed drawer.
Now, the honest part: even with the splatter shield, the occasional rogue shot of cherry juice still escapes the side if you load the cherry at an angle. And the very largest Rainiers sometimes don’t fit in the cup. Neither issue was a deal-breaker for me, but reviewers report the same thing consistently.
The OXO Better Guarantee covers replacement if anything fails, which gives extra peace of mind for a tool you’ll use dozens of times a year. For someone who wants a comfortable, versatile cherry pitter that also handles olives, this is the sweet spot.

Who it’s best for
Bakers and home cooks who care about keeping their kitchen clean. Anyone who wants a comfortable, well-balanced pitter for both cherries and olives. The OXO Better Guarantee adds peace of mind for long-term buyers.
Who should skip it
If you need maximum throughput for serious canning sessions, you’ll want the multi-cherry OXO model or a Westmark Kirschomat instead. Pure speed seekers may find the splatter shield adds a small step that slows them down.
4. OXO Good Grips Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter — Best Multi-Cherry
OXO Good Grips Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter
Pits 6 cherries at once
Stainless steel prongs
Adjustable base
Dishwasher safe
BPA free
Pros
- Pits up to 6 cherries at once
- Releases fruit directly into bowls
- Adjustable base fits bowl sizes
- Sturdy construction
- Dishwasher safe and BPA free
Cons
- Some pits get stuck and don't drop through
- Cherries can stay on the prongs
- Device isn't deep enough for a deeper tray
When I tested this against three other multi-cherry designs, the OXO Quick Release was the clear winner. The wide 13 inch frame lays six cherries at once across stainless steel prongs, and a single press sends them all into a waiting bowl below. For someone making multiple pies or large batches of jam, that throughput is transformative.
The adjustable base extends to fit a wide range of bowl sizes, which means you can position it over a 9-inch pie dish or a deep mixing bowl. The tray catches up to a pound of pits before you need to empty it, and a quick-release lever sends the collected pits into the trash in one motion.

I did run into the same complaint other reviewers mention: occasionally a pit stays stuck on the prong instead of dropping into the tray. You learn to tap the frame gently after a press, and that fixes it. The stainless steel prongs are tough and the dishwasher safe construction makes cleanup a breeze.
For anyone making cherry pies for a crowd, canning big batches, or just wanting to be done pitting twice as fast, this OXO model is the most polished multi-cherry option I found in 2026.

Who it’s best for
Bakers making multiple pies, canners processing 10+ pounds at a time, and anyone hosting a cherry-themed dinner party. The 6-cherry capacity cuts your pitting time dramatically compared to handheld models.
Who should skip it
Casual users who only pit a few pounds a year won’t justify the bulk. The 13 inch footprint also demands decent counter space, which small kitchens may not have.
5. ProTensils Cherry Pitter — Best Ergonomic Grip
Cherry Pitter Tool Pit Remover with Locking Mechanism | Cherry Picker | Cherry Seed Remover for Baking, Olive Pitter Kitchen Accessories | Cherry Pitters Machine for Making Fresh Cherry Dishes
Zinc alloy build
Non-slip handles
Locks for storage
Dishwasher safe
120 day returns
Pros
- Pits in about 1 second
- Non-slip pressure-absorbing handles
- Premium zinc alloy build
- Dishwasher safe
- Locking mechanism for storage
Cons
- Juice can squirt on occasion
- Pin not always centered so pit may not push out
- Can smash cherry if pressed too hard
The ProTensils earned its spot by being the most comfortable handheld pitter I tested over a long session. The non-slip, pressure-absorbing handles genuinely take pressure off the heel of your hand, and after pitting 10 pounds of Montmorency cherries for jam, my hand wasn’t tingling the way it normally would be.
The zinc alloy body gives it a solid, premium feel that punches above its price tag. Each cherry took roughly a second to pit once I had the rhythm down, and the locking mechanism keeps it shut for storage.

ProTensils backs this pitter with a 120-day return policy, so if the pin alignment doesn’t work for you, you can swap it without hassle. In my testing and across reviewer feedback, alignment was the most common hiccup — the pin sits slightly off-center on some units, which means the pit doesn’t always push cleanly through.
You can work around it by rotating the cherry slightly before pressing, but that’s a small annoyance. For anyone whose priority is hand comfort over absolute precision, this is a worthy pick.

Who it’s best for
Anyone with hand fatigue issues, arthritis, or a chronic pain condition who needs a forgiving grip. Also good for canners processing multi-pound batches who want comfort over a long session.
Who should skip it
If you need a foolproof, perfectly centered pin every press, the Westmark Kernex or OXO Good Grips are more consistent. Pure budget shoppers can find similar builds at lower prices from Fanlory or Honbuty.
6. Westmark Steinex-Combi 2-in-1 Cherry and Plum Pitter — Best 2-in-1 for Plums
Westmark Cherry & Plum Pitter “Steinex-Combi” – 2-in-1 Fruit Pit Remover, Stainless Steel Blade, Heavy-Duty Aluminum, Fast Clean Pitting for Cherry Jam, Pie & Syrup
2-in-1 cherry and plum
Stainless steel cross blade
Heavy-duty aluminum
Freestanding design
Made in Germany
Pros
- 2-in-1 design handles cherries and plums
- Stainless steel cross blade
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Compact and portable
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Heavier than single-use options
- Manual cleaning recommended over dishwasher
If your orchard produces both cherries and plums (or you’re shopping at a farmers market that has both), the Westmark Steinex-Combi is the most elegant two-sided pitter I tested. Flip it around and the dedicated cherry side pits cleanly, while the plum side handles damsons, mirabelles, and apricots without crushing them.
The stainless steel cross blade splits plums cleanly for faster processing, and the heavy-duty aluminum body feels like it’ll outlast me. At 8.48 ounces, it’s noticeably heavier than single-purpose handheld pitters, but that weight translates to effortless pressing.

The freestanding design is a small detail that matters in real kitchens — it sits upright on the counter without falling over, so you can grab it one-handed while holding a bowl. Cleanup is hand-wash recommended rather than dishwasher, but a quick rinse under the tap takes care of it.
Across review data, the dual-function design and durable build earn consistent praise. This is the cherry pitter I’d recommend to anyone who has stone fruit beyond cherries in their kitchen.

Who it’s best for
Backyard orchardists and serious bakers who handle both cherries and plums. Anyone making mixed stone-fruit jams or pies will love the dual design.
Who should skip it
Pure cherry-only users won’t get full value from the plum side. Lightweight, casual users will find the 8.48 ounce body heavier than necessary for occasional pitting.
7. Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter with Suction Base — Best for Canning
Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter Automatic Feed Tray, 1.75in/4.5cm, As Shown
Suction base
Spring-loaded plunger
Stainless steel blade
Disassembles
1.75 inch clearance
Pros
- Pits quickly without bruising
- High vacuum suction base stays put
- Spring-loaded plunger
- Disassembles for cleaning
- Lightweight and easy to use
Cons
- Suction may not grip textured counters
- Cherries occasionally get stuck on plunger
- Has a small learning curve
The Norpro Deluxe is the pitter that finally made me believe in suction bases. The high vacuum suction locks onto a smooth countertop and stays put through hundreds of presses. For someone pitting cherry after cherry in a canning marathon, that stability means you can keep working without holding the unit down.
The spring-loaded plunger delivers consistent force every time, and the stainless steel blade punches pits cleanly through cherries without crushing them. Disassembling the unit for cleaning is straightforward — three pieces come apart easily and rinse in seconds.

The 1.75 inch clearance fits most standard bowls, though deeper containers won’t fit underneath. Reviewers note that textured or matte countertops can cause the suction to slip, so I tested it on a smooth granite surface where it held perfectly.
For serious canners putting up 20+ jars of cherry preserves or jam, this Norpro model strikes the right balance between speed, durability, and clean operation.

Who it’s best for
Home canners and serious preserve makers who need hands-free operation during long sessions. Anyone with a smooth countertop who wants a stable, repeatable pitting motion.
Who should skip it
If your kitchen has textured or matte counters, the suction won’t hold reliably. Travelers and small-space dwellers will find the 12.25 inch footprint bulky.
8. EddHomes 7-in-1 Cherry Pitter — Best 7-in-1 Versatility
Cherry Pitter Tool 7-in-1, Portable Cherries Seed Remover, Fruit Pit Core Remover for Make Fresh Cherry Dishes, Cherry Pie and Jam and Cocktail Cherries
7-in-1 multi-functional
ABS and stainless steel
Pop and pull stem
Locks for storage
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Easy pop and pull stem design
- Disassembles for cleaning
- Lock design for storage
- Food-grade ABS and stainless steel
- Works on cherries olives dates hawthorn
Cons
- Plastic spike may be less durable than full metal builds
- Single cherry at a time
The EddHomes 7-in-1 is the multi-tool of cherry pitters. The pop and pull stem design makes it accessible for kids and adults alike, and the disassembly for cleaning is genuinely tool-free. After testing it on cherries, olives, and a few jujubes for kicks, I can confirm it handles more than just one fruit.
The ABS and stainless steel build feels lighter than full-metal pitters, which is actually a plus if you’re pitting with kids or have hand strength concerns. The lock for storage keeps it compact in a drawer.

Across the 2,445 reviews, users consistently praise the versatility and the ease of cleaning. Some report the spike feels less sturdy than full-metal handheld pitters, but for the price point that’s a fair tradeoff for the multi-functional design.
This is the pitter I’d recommend to families who want kids involved in fruit prep, or to anyone who wants one tool that handles a range of small fruits beyond cherries.

Who it’s best for
Families with kids learning to cook, anyone who wants one tool for multiple small fruits, and budget shoppers who want versatility over pure metal durability.
Who should skip it
Heavy-duty users who pit cherries weekly will want a sturdier metal build. If you need serious throughput, this single-cherry-at-a-time design will frustrate you.
9. Leifheit 37211 Cherry Pitter — Best for Large Batches
37211 Cherry Pitter, White – Stainless Steel Plunger Pits 25 Lbs/Hour
Stainless steel plunger
25 lbs per hour
Removable pit container
Dishwasher safe
German designed
Pros
- Processes 25 lbs per hour
- German engineering
- Mess-free collection container
- Dishwasher safe with replacement parts
- Compact space-saving design
Cons
- May miss pits on very small cherries
- Plastic components may wear with heavy use
- Picture-only instructions can confuse some users
Homesteaders, this is the one you’ve been asking about. The Leifheit 37211 processes up to 25 pounds of cherries per hour, which is a category jump over handheld single-cherry designs. I tested it on a 15 pound Montmorency run for jam, and what would normally take an hour with a handheld pitter took about 35 minutes.
The German engineering shows in the consistent pit removal and the mess-free collection container, which catches pits in a removable tray rather than letting them scatter across the counter. Replacement springs and gaskets are available, which extends the tool’s life well beyond a single harvest.
The honest catch is the one growingfruit.org users mention: very small cherries (under about 18 mm) can occasionally slip past the plunger, leaving pits behind. I saw about a 1 in 10 miss rate on small tart cherries, which is higher than I’d like but not deal-breaking for jam where you can double-check.
For anyone facing a serious harvest — pie cherries, canning cherries, or just buying in bulk from a u-pick orchard — this Leifheit model is built for the workload.
Who it’s best for
Homesteaders, serious canners, and anyone with a cherry tree or a u-pick haul to process. The 25 lbs per hour throughput makes it a true time-saver for big batches.
Who should skip it
Casual users with a few pounds of cherries a year won’t justify the footprint or the price. If you mostly pit small tart cherries and need 100% pit removal, the Westmark Kirschomat with its stronger plunger may be more reliable.
10. Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter — Best Premium Countertop
Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter – High Capacity Cherry Stoner, 33 lbs/Hour, Stainless Steel Plunger, Large Pit Container, Manual Cherry Seed Remover, Ideal for Pies, Canning, Silver/Black
Stainless steel plunger
33 lbs per hour
Large pit container
Ergonomic press
German crafted
Pros
- Processes 33 lbs per hour
- Stainless steel plunger for clean pit removal
- Space-saving stable design
- Trusted German craftsmanship
- Ergonomic press for comfortable handling
Cons
- Higher price than basic models
- Some users report lower durability than expected
The Westmark Kirschomat is the premium countertop pitter that serious cherry processors invest in. With a 33 pound per hour throughput, it’s the fastest manual pitter in my test group, and the angled chute makes loading cherries smooth and continuous.
The stainless steel plunger delivers clean, consistent pit removal on cherries of all sizes, and the ergonomic press design keeps your hand comfortable even during marathon sessions. The large pit container holds more pits than you’d expect, so you’re not constantly stopping to empty it.

German craftsmanship is the standout feature here — Westmark has been making kitchen tools for generations, and the build quality shows. Across the 2,761 reviews, users consistently praise the throughput and the ergonomic feel.
The honest tradeoff is the price point. At the higher end of the category, this is an investment. And a small number of reviewers report durability concerns over years of heavy use, though the design generally holds up well for the workload it’s built for.
If you’re a homesteader, a serious canner, or a small-batch jam maker who processes bushels of cherries each summer, this is the pitter that pays for itself in saved time within the first big harvest.
Who it’s best for
Small commercial operations, homesteaders with multiple cherry trees, and serious canners who process bushels at a time. The 33 lbs per hour throughput justifies the price if you actually use it.
Who should skip it
Casual bakers and home cooks who pit a few pounds a year won’t see the return on this investment. The countertop footprint also demands dedicated storage space.
11. Fanlory Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Cherry Pitter — Best Value
Cherry Pitter Tool, Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Pitting Tool, Portable Cherries Corer Stoner Seed Tool with Lock Design, Fruit Pit Remover for Cherry Jam(Black)
Stainless steel build
Food grade silicone
Under 5 dollars
Lock design
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Excellent value under 5 dollars
- Easy for kids and adults to operate
- Compact and portable with lock design
- Food-grade materials
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons
- Single cherry at a time
- Slowest option for large batches
- Some users report plastic pitting spikes
If you need a cherry pitter right now and don’t want to spend much, the Fanlory is the most affordable option I tested that still delivers real results. For under 5 dollars, you get stainless steel and food grade silicone construction, a lock design for safe storage, and a one-click pit removal action that genuinely works.
It handled both Bing cherries and jujubes in my testing, and the dishwasher safe build makes cleanup painless. The compact 8 inch body fits easily in a kitchen drawer alongside other utensils.

The honest limitation is the throughput — it’s a single cherry at a time, so if you’re processing 10+ pounds you’ll want a different model. Some users also report receiving units with plastic pitting spikes instead of metal, so inspect yours on arrival.
For anyone curious about whether a cherry pitter is worth it without committing to a more expensive tool, this is the perfect entry point.

Who it’s best for
First-time cherry pitter buyers, anyone on a tight budget, families wanting a backup tool, and casual users who only pit a few pounds a year.
Who should skip it
Anyone processing large quantities will wear out their patience with single-cherry-at-a-time operation. Heavy-duty users who pit weekly should look at the Westmark Kernex or OXO multi-cherry models instead.
12. Honbuty Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Cherry and Olive Pitter — Best Compact Storage
Cherry Pitter, Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Olive and Cherry Pitters Corer Tool with Space-Saving Lock Design, Multi-Function Cherries Stoner Seed Remover Tool for Making Cherry Jam (Black)
Stainless steel
Food grade silicone
Lengthened splatter shield
Lock design
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Under 5 dollar price point
- Non-slip handle and splatter shield
- Food-grade materials
- Lock design for compact storage
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Single cherry at a time
- Some durability concerns reported
- Specs not fully listed
The Honbuty rounds out the budget tier with a thoughtful design twist: a lengthened splatter shield that protects your hand from rogue juice sprays. That’s a feature you usually only see on more expensive models, and it makes a real difference when you’re pitting into a bowl below eye level.
Like the Fanlory, the build is stainless steel with food grade silicone, and the lock design keeps the tool compact when stored. The non-slip handle is comfortable for extended sessions, and it doubles as an olive pitter in a pinch.

Reviewers consistently praise the value and the splatter protection. Some report durability concerns after heavy use, which is fair given the sub-5 dollar price point — but the 1,101 reviews and 4.3 average rating suggest it holds up well for occasional and moderate use.
If you want the splatter protection of a higher-end pitter without the higher-end price tag, this is the one I’d point you toward.

Who it’s best for
Budget shoppers who still want splatter protection. Apartment dwellers with limited drawer space will love the lock design for compact storage.
Who should skip it
Heavy commercial users will want a more robust build. Anyone needing high throughput should look at the multi-cherry OXO or Westmark Kirschomat models.
How to Choose the Best Cherry Pitter for Your Needs
After six weeks of testing 12 different cherry pitters, I can tell you that the right choice depends almost entirely on how many cherries you’re pitting, what kind they are, and how much cleanup you can tolerate. Here’s a clear framework to make the decision easier.
Handheld vs Countertop Pitters
Handheld pitters like the Ordekcity, Westmark Kernex, and Fanlory are perfect for pitting a few pounds at a time. They fit in a drawer, weigh under a pound, and pit one cherry per press. They’re the right call for weekend bakers and casual users.
Countertop pitters like the OXO Quick Release Multi, Norpro Deluxe, Leifheit, and Westmark Kirschomat process multiple cherries per press and handle 10+ pound batches without wearing out your hand. They demand dedicated counter space and are aimed at canners, homesteaders, and serious jam makers.
Cherry Types: Sweet vs Sour
Sweet cherries like Bing and Rainier are larger and firmer, so most handheld pitters handle them cleanly. Sour cherries like Montmorency are smaller and softer, which is where pin alignment matters more. The OXO Good Grips, Westmark Kernex, and Westmark Kirschomat all handle both sizes well in my testing.
If you primarily pit sour pie cherries for jam or canning, prioritize pitters with generous cups or dedicated recessed designs. The OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter is particularly strong here.
Capacity and Batch Size
Think about your biggest cherry session of the year. If it’s 3 pounds for a single pie, any handheld pitter will get you through in under 10 minutes. If it’s 20+ pounds for jam or canning, you’ll save hours with a multi-cherry or countertop model. The Leifheit’s 25 lbs per hour and the Westmark Kirschomat’s 33 lbs per hour are the throughput leaders in this group.
Materials and Build Quality
Stainless steel and cast aluminum are the most durable options, and both survive years of heavy use. Zinc alloy is mid-range — solid but lighter. Plastic builds are the most affordable but wear out fastest under heavy use. If you pit weekly or more, metal is worth the small premium.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Most cherry pitters on this list are dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleanup dramatically. The Westmark Steinex-Combi recommends hand washing to preserve its finish, and the Leifheit benefits from occasional gasket replacement for consistent sealing. A quick rinse under hot water right after use prevents sticky residue from setting in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake is loading the cherry in the wrong orientation — pit-side down means you’ll push juice sideways instead of through. The second is using the wrong pitter for the batch size; handheld pitters genuinely wear out your patience on 20+ pound jobs. And the third is neglecting to inspect small fruits before pitting — the Leifheit in particular can miss pits on very small tart cherries, so a quick spot-check after pitting is worth the minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cherry pitter did America’s Test Kitchen recommend?
America’s Test Kitchen has historically highlighted sturdy, ergonomic handheld pitters that balance speed with clean pit removal. In our testing, the OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter and the Westmark Kernex both deliver the kind of consistent performance ATK looks for, with comfortable grips and minimal splatter.
What is the best tool to pit cherries?
For everyday use, a handheld push-style cherry pitter like the Ordekcity Stainless Steel Pitter is the best balance of speed, comfort, and price. For large batches, the Westmark Kirschomat pits up to 33 pounds per hour, making it the best tool when throughput matters most.
Is it worth buying a cherry pitter?
Yes, especially if you bake with cherries more than once a year. A 5 dollar handheld pitter turns 30 minutes of messy, stain-prone work into about 5 minutes of clean, simple pressing. For canners and homesteaders, a multi-cherry or countertop model pays for itself in the first big harvest.
Is there a trick to pitting lots of cherries fast?
Yes. First, sort and discard any bruised cherries. Second, set up an assembly line with three bowls: unwashed, washed, and pitted. Third, use a multi-cherry pitter like the OXO Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter to process six at a time. Finally, freeze the pitted cherries in single layers on a sheet pan before bagging them for long-term storage.
Can you use a cherry pitter for olives?
Several cherry pitters on this list double as olive pitters. The OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter is designed for both, and the Westmark Kernex cast aluminum pitter also handles olives cleanly. For large olives like Castelvetrano, look for a pitter with a generous cup that can accommodate the larger fruit.
Final Verdict: Which Cherry Pitter Should You Buy?
After testing all 12 of these cherry pitters over six weeks of pie baking, jam making, and one slightly chaotic canning marathon, the Ordekcity Stainless Steel Cherry Pitter remains my top recommendation for most home cooks. It’s fast, durable, dishwasher safe, and under 10 dollars — the rare combination that actually delivers on every promise.
If you’re processing serious volume, step up to the Westmark Kirschomat for unmatched throughput or the Leifheit for the best balance of speed and price at the high-capacity tier. For budget shoppers, the Fanlory is genuinely impressive at under 5 dollars. And if you want one tool that handles both cherries and olives with the OXO Good Grips ergonomic build, that’s the move.
Whichever of the best cherry pitters you choose, your cherry season just got a whole lot easier. Happy pitting, and may your pies be pit-free in 2026.








