The Oxo paper towel holder delivers reliable, user-friendly functionality at a budget-friendly price, typically using a mix of plastic and stainless steel. In contrast, the holder from Simplehuman is a premium option, engineered with high-quality stainless steel, a weighted base, and a tension arm for a higher cost but a more design-forward and durable result.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which paper towel holder deserves a spot on your kitchen counter.
Oxo SimplyTear Paper Towel Holder
Oxo is known for making thoughtful, ergonomic everyday kitchen tools, and their paper towel holder is a perfect example of that philosophy. It's designed for simple, one-handed tearing with practical features that solve common annoyances without breaking the bank. It focuses more on practical performance than a luxury look, making it a staple in countless busy kitchens.
- What it is: A functional countertop paper towel holder designed for stability and easy one-handed operation.
- Key features: A spring-loaded arm provides gentle resistance for clean tears, combined with a non-slip weighted base to keep it steady.
- Price: Typically around $20 to $30.
- Style: Modern and utilitarian. Its combination of brushed stainless steel and black plastic fits easily into most contemporary or transitional kitchen designs.
- Materials/Construction: Built with a combination of durable plastic, stainless steel components, and a rubberized non-slip base.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price. The spring arm works effectively for one-handed tearing. It's widely available at major retailers. Lightweight yet stable enough for everyday use.
- Cons: A mix of plastic and metal gives it a less premium feel than all-metal competitors. The design is functional but not particularly stylish. The arm mechanism may wear out over many years of heavy use.
This Oxo holder is perfect for anyone prioritizing no-fuss functionality and affordability over high-end materials or a specific design aesthetic.
Shop this product: oxo.com/simply-tear-paper-towel-holder.html
Simplehuman Tension Arm Paper Towel Holder
Simplehuman specializes in high-end home goods where engineering and minimalist design intersect. Their tension arm paper towel holder reflects this, feeling more like a piece of finely tuned equipment than a simple kitchen accessory. Its solid construction and refined look are meant to elevate your counter space while providing flawless performance.
- What it is: A premium, heavyweight paper towel holder featuring an engineered tension arm for a perfect one-handed tear every time.
- Key features: A variable tension arm provides just enough resistance to tear off a single sheet, while a heavily weighted base prevents sliding, tipping, or unraveling.
- Price: Ranges from $40 to $60.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and modern. Its polished, all-metal construction and streamlined profile add a sophisticated touch to the kitchen.
- Materials/Construction: Made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant stainless steel with a heavy, weighted, non-slip base for maximum stability.
- Pros: Supremely stable and durable due to its weighted base and solid steel construction. The tension arm provides exceptionally smooth and controlled tears. Premium materials look and feel high-end. Built to last for many years.
- Cons: The price is double that of the Oxo model. Heavier and with a slightly larger footprint than basic holders. The brushed steel finish can show fingerprints easily.
The Simplehuman holder is for the design-conscious consumer who wants a durable, beautiful tool and is willing to invest in premium quality for their kitchen.
Shop this product: simplehuman.com/tension-arm-paper-towel-holder
Oxo vs. Simplehuman Paper Towel Holder Comparison
Materials & Construction
The difference in materials is the most significant distinction. The Oxo paper towel holder uses a practical combination of stainless steel and durable plastic. It's built to withstand daily use but doesn't feel like a luxury item. Simplehuman opts for a full, high-quality stainless steel construction from top to bottom.
This gives the Simplehuman holder a clear advantage in weight, stability, and long-term durability, especially against things like rust or cracking. The investment in materials is immediately noticeable when you handle it - it feels solid and substantial. While the Oxo is perfectly durable for most buyers, the Simplehuman is engineered to last indefinitely.
Style & Versatility
When it comes to looks, Simplehuman stands out. Its sleek, minimalist design and brushed metal finish are meant to blend seamlessly into modern, high-end kitchens. It operates as both a tool and a piece of decor. Its clean lines and singular material make it a design statement.
Oxo’s style is more utilitarian and function-forward. The black plastic elements against the stainless steel clearly signal it's a tool, not a decorative object. It’s a clean and inoffensive design that will fit in nearly any kitchen but won’t necessarily enhance it aesthetically. The Simplehuman holder is the far more stylish choice for consumers who care about the details of their kitchen decor.
Price & Value
There's a clear price separation. At around $20-$30, the Oxo paper towel holder offers fantastic value. You get reliable one-handed tearing and a durable product for a very reasonable price. It’s hard to beat for shoppers who just want a holder that works well.
The Simplehuman, at $40-$60, asks you to pay a premium for its superior design, materials, and engineering. The value here is in longevity and aesthetics. In this case, you get what you pay for: a more stable, more durable, and better-looking product. For many, the simple function of the Oxo is a better value, but for those who prize design and build quality, Simplehuman justifies its price.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Oxo paper towel holder is best for practical households, busy families, and budget-conscious buyers who need a reliable product without the fancy bells and whistles. It's perfect for a kitchen where function is the top priority and accessories need to be dependable workhorses. If you see a paper towel holder as a simple tool, Oxo is the obvious choice.
The Simplehuman paper towel holder is aimed at design-savvy homeowners, newlyweds creating a registry, and anyone outfitting a modern, meticulously designed kitchen. It works best for those who view their tools as part of the overall aesthetic and are willing to invest in accessories that match the quality of their appliances and decor.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both holders perform extremely well, but they serve different consumers with different priorities.
Choose the Oxo paper towel holder if:
- You're on a budget and want the best performance for around $25.
- You prioritize practical function over premium aesthetics.
- You want a reliable, user-friendly tool that requires no second thoughts.
- You need a dependable workhorse for a busy family kitchen.
Choose the Simplehuman paper towel holder if:
- Aesthetics are important, and you want your accessories to match a modern kitchen decor.
- You are willing to pay a premium for high-quality sustainable materials and superior stability.
- You appreciate well-engineered products that are designed to last a lifetime.
- You are frustrated by wobbly or lightweight holders and want an exceptionally sturdy option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Oxo and Simplehuman paper towel holders?
The core difference comes down to materials, price, and design philosophy. Oxo uses a mix of plastic and steel to deliver great function at a low price. Simplehuman uses premium all-metal construction for superior stability and a sleek, modern aesthetic at a premium price.
Can both handle jumbo-sized paper towel rolls?
Yes, both holders are designed to accommodate standard and jumbo-sized paper towel rolls. The central pole is wide enough for almost any brand you can find in the store.
Is the Simplehuman paper towel holder worth the extra money?
It's worth it if aesthetics and ultra-durability are your top priorities. Its weighted base provides unmatched stability, and its materials are designed to last for decades. However, if your main goal is simply tearing paper towels with one hand, the Oxo offers about 80% of the function for half the price.
How easy is it to change the paper towel roll on each holder?
Both are extremely easy. You simply slide the old roll off the central post and slide the new one on. There are no complicated unscrewing or locking mechanisms.
Which holder is more stable for one-handed tearing?
The Simplehuman holder is objectively more stable. Its heavily weighted base ensures it will not budge, slide, or tip over, no matter how quickly you tug on a sheet. While the Oxo is stable enough for regular use, the Simplehuman is on another level.
How do you clean these paper towel holders?
Both can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. The brushed stainless steel on both models may show fingerprints and water spots, so a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth helps maintain their appearance.
Where can I buy these paper towel holders?
The Oxo paper towel holder is widely available at retailers like Target, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Amazon. Simplehuman products are sold directly on their website, as well as at higher-end retailers like Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, and Bloomingdale's.
Do they come in different colors or finishes?
Oxo's model primarily comes in its signature brushed stainless steel and black plastic design. Simplehuman occasionally offers its paper towel holder in other finishes like brass, rose gold, or matte black to match other kitchen accessory lines.
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