Whether the spiralizer is handheld, electric or benchtop.

We recommend spiralizers that score 70% or more.

This overall score consists of performance (60%) and ease of use (40%).

This forms 60% of the overall score and consists of spiralizing zucchini, carrot and sweet potato, and rating the appearance on aspects such as even thickness and broken lengths.

Ease of use forms 40% of the overall score and consists of stability, blade assembly, blade storage, using the levers/controls, general comfort and cleaning.

Our testers spiralize zucchini on an appropriate blade setting and rate the appearance.

Our testers spiralize carrot on an appropriate blade setting and rate the appearance.

Our testers spiralize kumera (sweet potato) on an appropriate blade setting and rate the appearance.

Our testers spiralize apple on an appropriate blade setting and rate the appearance. However, as not all spiralizers have this feature, it is not incorporated into the overall score.

'Tested model' means you ought to be able to find this fridge in retailers. We check availability every time we test – 6-10 times a year.

'Identical model' means this fridge is exactly the same as one we have already tested, except for a cosmetic detail like colour or the handle. You can expect identical performance to the tested model.

'Similar model' means the fridge is identical to one we've tested, except for one or two details, such as an icemaker.

The information for 'Not yet tested' fridges has been collated from publicly available sources, such as manufacturer websites, and will be verified and updated as part of our testing process.

This is the manufacturer's recommended retail price as of November 2016. There may be a discount, so it pays to shop around.

Whether the blades can be reversed.

Care must be taken when spiralizing as blades can be razor sharp.

Whether any accessories (or the whole unit if handheld) is dishwasher safe.