Which is better for grating Parmesan?

The Microplane makes finer, fluffier shreds that melt into pasta and sauces. The OXO's fine side works but gives a coarser grate.

Which is better for zesting lemons and limes?

The Microplane. Its 400 micro-teeth cut zest in thin strips and leave the bitter white pith behind. The OXO's fine side is workable but less precise.

Both use stainless steel blades and hold up for years with normal home use. The Microplane can go in the dishwasher; the OXO should be hand washed to protect its container and grip.

Is the Microplane worth the extra money?

Only if zesting and fine grating are your main jobs. For about $3 less, the OXO does more kinds of grating and catches the results.

Can the OXO grater handle a block of cheddar?

Yes. The wide coarse side shreds a block quickly, and the container holds the shreds for measuring.

OXO Good Grips box grater vs Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater

Buy the OXO box grater if you grate cheese, carrots or potatoes in volume and want a container to catch the results. Buy the Microplane Premium Classic if you mostly zest citrus and grate hard cheese like Parmesan into a fine, fluffy pile. The OXO is the cheaper of the two: $14.56 at eBay as of November 5, 2026, against $17.49 at Amazon for the Microplane. Both have moved within a few dollars in early November, so neither is a big price swing.

Today the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater costs $8.04 less at its best price.

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