If you’ve ever struggled to grab a sizzling steak off the grill or flip delicate veggies in a pan, you know how important a good pair of tongs can be. As someone who loves cooking, I’ve tried my fair share of kitchen tools, and when it comes to tongs, two brands always stand out—Winco and OXO.
Both are popular choices, but they cater to different needs. Winco tongs are sturdy, no-nonsense, and built for professional kitchens, while OXO tongs focus on comfort, grip, and user-friendly design. So, which one should you choose? Well, after using both in my kitchen, I’m here to share my honest experience and break down their key differences.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear idea of which tongs best suit your cooking style. Plus, if you’re looking for other essential kitchen tools, check out my best kitchen gadgets guide for more recommendations.
Let’s dive in and find out which tongs deserve a spot in your kitchen!
Quick Comparison Table – Winco Tongs vs OXO Tongs
After using both Winco Tongs and OXO Tongs in my kitchen, I’ve noticed some key differences. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you decide which one suits your cooking needs best.
| Feature | Winco Tongs 🏆 | OXO Tongs 🔥 |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Stainless steel – durable & long-lasting | Stainless steel with silicone grip – comfortable & heat-resistant |
| Grip & Comfort | No extra grip – can feel slippery when wet | Soft-touch silicone handle – non-slip & easy to hold |
| Spring Mechanism | Firm spring – requires more pressure to use | Smoother spring – easier to operate for long cooking sessions |
| Locking Mechanism | ❌ No locking feature | ✅ Yes, built-in lock for easy storage |
| Heat Resistance | Handles high heat without damage | Silicone parts are heat-resistant but may wear over time |
| Best For | Heavy-duty cooking, grilling, restaurant use | Everyday cooking, serving, and precise grip control |
| Dishwasher Safe? | ✅ Yes, easy to clean | ✅ Yes, but silicone parts may last longer with hand washing |
| Price | Budget-friendly 💰 | Slightly more expensive but offers better comfort |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Pick Winco Tongs if you need a sturdy, professional-grade tool that can handle tough kitchen tasks.
- Choose OXO Tongs if you want comfort, an easy-grip handle, and a locking feature for convenient storage.
If you’re also looking for other must-have kitchen tools, check out my guide on essential kitchen utensils for home cooks!
Winco Tongs Overview – The Budget-Friendly Workhorse
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable pair of kitchen tongs, Winco Tongs are a solid choice. I’ve been using them for quite some time, and I can confidently say they get the job done—without breaking the bank.
Simple Yet Sturdy Design
Winco tongs are made from high-quality stainless steel, which means they’re durable, heat-resistant, and won’t rust even after years of use. Unlike some other tongs I’ve tried, these feel sturdy in hand, and I never have to worry about them bending while flipping heavy foods like steaks or roasted chicken.
Great for High-Heat Cooking
One of the reasons I love Winco Tongs is that they can handle extreme heat. Whether I’m grilling over an open flame or flipping bacon on a hot skillet, these tongs stay cool to the touch and never warp. Since they don’t have any silicone or plastic parts, I don’t have to worry about melting or damage.
No-Frills, Just Gets the Job Done
Unlike some tongs with fancy locking mechanisms or soft-grip handles, Winco keeps things simple. There’s no extra padding, so the grip isn’t as cushioned as OXO tongs, but I’ve found that the textured metal surface still provides a good hold.
A Budget-Friendly Choice
If you need an affordable, professional-grade pair of tongs that will last for years, Winco is a fantastic option. They might not have all the bells and whistles, but they do exactly what they’re supposed to—grab, flip, and serve food with ease.
If you’re setting up your kitchen and looking for other must-have utensils, check out my guide on essential kitchen tools for beginners. Trust me, having the right tools makes all the difference!
OXO Tongs Overview – The Comfortable & Versatile Choice
If you’re like me and love having kitchen tools that feel great in your hands, then OXO Tongs are a game-changer. I’ve used them for everything—flipping steaks, tossing salads, and even grabbing toast from the toaster (not recommended, but it worked!).
Designed for Comfort & Ease
One of the first things I noticed about OXO Tongs is how comfortable they feel. Unlike traditional stainless steel tongs that can be slippery or tough to grip, these have a soft, non-slip handle that makes a huge difference. Even when my hands are wet or greasy, I never have to worry about them slipping.
Built-In Locking Mechanism – Super Handy!
Storage can be a hassle in a cluttered kitchen, but OXO solves that with a built-in locking feature. Just a quick pull on the top tab, and the tongs lock into place, making them easy to store in a drawer or hang on a hook. This might not sound like a big deal, but trust me—after dealing with flimsy tongs that won’t stay closed, this is a lifesaver.
Durable & Heat-Resistant
I’ve used my OXO Tongs on high heat—flipping burgers on a grill, cooking bacon on a cast-iron skillet, and even handling hot veggies from boiling water. The silicone grip stays cool, and the stainless steel body is super durable. Unlike cheap tongs that can bend under pressure, these feel sturdy and well-balanced.
Perfect for Multi-Purpose Use
Whether you’re grilling, sautéing, or serving, OXO Tongs work like a charm. I love using them for:
- Grilling meats – They grip food securely without tearing.
- Tossing salads – No more slippery lettuce slipping through the gaps!
- Flipping pancakes – The scalloped edges grab onto food effortlessly.
For more must-have kitchen tools, check out my guide on essential cooking utensils for home chefs.
A Slight Tradeoff – Price vs. Durability
I’ll be honest—OXO Tongs cost a little more than basic stainless steel tongs like Winco. But after using them for a long time, I can confidently say they’re worth every penny. The comfort, control, and storage convenience make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
If you want a comfortable, high-quality pair of tongs that will last, OXO is definitely the way to go.
Key Differences Between Winco Tongs and OXO Tongs
After using both Winco Tongs and OXO Tongs in my kitchen for different tasks—flipping steaks, tossing salads, and even grabbing hot food from the oven—I’ve noticed some key differences. Let me break them down for you in a simple way.
1. Material & Build Quality
- Winco Tongs are made entirely of stainless steel, which makes them super sturdy. They feel like the kind of tongs you’d find in a professional kitchen—solid and reliable. However, since there’s no silicone or rubber grip, they can feel a little slippery when wet.
- OXO Tongs, on the other hand, have a stainless steel body with a soft, non-slip silicone grip. This makes them more comfortable to hold, especially if you’re cooking for long periods.
2. Grip & Comfort
- If you prefer a firm, precise grip, Winco tongs do the job well. But because they’re all metal, they can feel cold or slippery at times.
- OXO tongs are designed for comfort, and their soft handles prevent hand fatigue. If you cook often and need something easy to hold, OXO is the better choice.
3. Locking Mechanism & Storage
- One big difference I noticed is that Winco Tongs don’t have a locking mechanism. This means they stay open all the time, which can be a little annoying when storing them in a drawer.
- OXO Tongs have a built-in locking feature, so you can close them when not in use. This makes them easier to store and keeps your kitchen drawer from becoming a cluttered mess.
4. Heat Resistance & Safety
- Since Winco Tongs are all metal, they can handle high temperatures without any problem. I’ve used them on a hot grill, and they don’t bend or warp. However, they can get hot to the touch if left near a heat source for too long.
- OXO Tongs have heat-resistant silicone grips, which help keep your hands cool. But the silicone parts may wear out over time if frequently exposed to extreme heat.
5. Price & Value for Money
- Winco Tongs are much cheaper, making them a great budget-friendly option, especially if you need multiple pairs for different cooking tasks.
- OXO Tongs are pricier, but you’re paying for the added comfort, grip, and locking feature. If you cook daily and prefer an ergonomic design, OXO might be worth the extra cost.
Final Verdict – Which One is Best for You?
If you need a heavy-duty, professional-grade tong, go for Winco. But if you want something comfortable, easy to use, and great for everyday cooking, OXO is a fantastic choice.
Want to explore more essential kitchen tools? Check out my guide on the best kitchen gadgets every home cook needs.
Which Tongs Should You Choose? (Buyer’s Guide)
After personally using both Winco Tongs and OXO Tongs, I’ve noticed that each has its own strengths. The best choice depends on how you cook and what you prioritize in a kitchen tool. Here’s my take on which one might be right for you.
Go for Winco Tongs if:
✅ You need something budget-friendly – If you’re looking for a no-frills, stainless steel tong that gets the job done, Winco is a solid choice. It’s affordable and widely used in professional kitchens.
✅ You do a lot of grilling or high-heat cooking – These tongs are heat-resistant and won’t melt like some silicone-coated options. I’ve used them over a blazing hot grill, and they held up perfectly.
✅ You prefer durability over fancy features – Winco Tongs are built to last. I’ve dropped them, banged them against a pan, and even left them in the sink overnight (oops!), yet they’re still as strong as ever.
🔴 Downsides: No locking mechanism, and the metal handle can get slippery when wet.
Go for OXO Tongs if:
✅ You value comfort and an easy grip – If you’re someone who cooks often, the OXO’s soft, non-slip handle makes a big difference. I find that my hands don’t get as tired when using them for long cooking sessions.
✅ You need a locking mechanism for storage – One thing I love about the OXO Tongs is that they have a locking feature. I can toss them in my utensil drawer without them springing open and causing chaos.
✅ You use them for serving as well as cooking – Because of their sleek design and silicone grip, I often use my OXO tongs to serve salads, pasta, and even delicate foods like grilled fish. They just feel more refined.
🔴 Downsides: Slightly pricier than Winco and not as heat-resistant because of the silicone grip.
Final Recommendation: Which One is Best?
If you’re looking for a rugged, professional-grade tong for grilling or high-heat cooking, Winco Tongs are the way to go. But if you want a comfortable, easy-to-use option that works for both cooking and serving, OXO Tongs are definitely worth it.
For more kitchen tool comparisons, check out my guide to the best kitchen gadgets. Happy cooking!
Pros & Cons Summary – My Experience with Winco and OXO Tongs
After using both Winco Tongs and OXO Tongs in my kitchen, I’ve learned that each has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s my honest breakdown based on real experience.
Winco Tongs – Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Super durable: Made from heavy-duty stainless steel, these tongs can handle high heat and last for years.
- Budget-friendly: If you need reliable tongs at a great price, Winco is an excellent choice.
- Firm grip on food: The metal edges hold onto food securely, making it easy to flip steaks or grab veggies.
- Great for grilling: Since there’s no plastic or silicone, you can safely use them over high heat.
❌ Cons:
- No locking mechanism: Storing them can be tricky since they don’t lock shut like OXO Tongs.
- Handles can get hot: If you leave them near heat for too long, they can become uncomfortable to hold.
- Not as comfortable: The all-metal design can feel a little stiff in the hands during long cooking sessions.
👉 If you’re looking for other affordable kitchen essentials, check out my guide on best budget-friendly cooking tools.
OXO Tongs – Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Comfortable grip: The silicone-coated handles feel great in your hands, even during long cooking sessions.
- Locking mechanism: You can easily store them without taking up extra space in your drawer.
- Heat-resistant tips: The non-slip grip stays cool, making them safe and easy to use.
- Great for delicate foods: The silicone edges are gentle on non-stick pans and don’t tear fragile foods like fish.
❌ Cons:
- More expensive: OXO Tongs cost more than Winco, but you’re paying for comfort and convenience.
- Not ideal for extreme heat: The silicone grips can wear down over time if frequently exposed to open flames.
- Less precise grip: Compared to Winco’s metal edges, OXO’s silicone coating makes it a little harder to grasp very small items.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want affordable, long-lasting tongs that can handle heat like a pro, go for Winco. But if you value comfort, ease of use, and a locking mechanism, OXO Tongs are worth the investment.
For more kitchen tool reviews, check out my detailed guide on choosing the best kitchen gadgets!
Final Thoughts – My Honest Recommendation
After testing both Winco Tongs and OXO Tongs in my own kitchen, I can confidently say that both have their strengths—it all comes down to what you need.
If you’re looking for sturdy, no-nonsense tongs that can handle high heat, the Winco Tongs are a fantastic choice. They’re affordable, durable, and work well for grilling, frying, and tossing food in a hot pan. However, keep in mind that they lack a locking mechanism and don’t have a soft grip, which can make long cooking sessions a bit tiring on the hands.
On the other hand, if comfort and convenience are your top priorities, the OXO Tongs are absolutely worth the extra cost. Their soft-grip handle feels great to hold, and the built-in locking mechanism makes storage easy. I personally love using them for salads, pasta, and delicate foods where precision matters.
So, which one should you choose?
- Go for Winco Tongs if you want something heavy-duty, affordable, and built to last.
- Go for OXO Tongs if you prefer comfort, an easy-to-use locking system, and a more beginner-friendly design.
At the end of the day, both are great kitchen tools, and I still keep both in my drawer for different cooking needs. If you’re building a well-equipped kitchen, you might even want to grab one of each!
For more expert kitchen gear recommendations, check out my guide on must-have cooking tools for home chefs. Happy cooking!
