King crab claws are among the most popular – and rare – types of crab a person can eat. While king crab tastes far superior to most other types of crab, there is no distinct taste difference when comparing claw meat to leg meat. Claw meat often has the typical sweet, salty crab flavor, but it is more concentrated. This makes the claw meat best suited for more seafood-forward dishes, like chowders and quiches.

The main difference between crab claws and crab legs comes down to the texture, and sometimes color. Cook’s Illustrated notes that claw meat is oilier and is fattier. Additionally, the color can be darker than the typical bright white of leg meat. But, no matter which king crab claws for sale you end up buying, you’re almost guaranteed a delicious meal.

Which Crab Claws Are Best?

King crab is the most prized type of crab, but there are other, more widely available options. How do the flavors stack up? Some crabs have practically inedible claws, while others are caught primarily for this meat.

  • Snow Crab Claws: Often sold with the shell partially removed, snow crab claws are very easy to eat. They are sweet and juicy and are a convenient snacking size.
  • Alaskan King Crab Claws: Like the legs, the claws of king crab are substantial. The meat is on the firmer side and can be served hot or cold.
  • Stone Crab Claws: Claws are the only part of a stone crab typically eaten. Because crabs can regenerate their limbs, fishers often catch stone crabs, collect one of their claws, and return the crab alive to the water. The meat inside the sizable claws is succulent and delicious.
  • Shipping

    As with other crab parts, claws are almost always shipped pre-cooked and frozen. That said, not all crab claw varieties come in the same options. Alaskan king crab claws are often sold grouped with king crab legs. These are sometimes called “clusters.” When sold on their own, king claws often remain attached to the arm. In most cases, frozen crab legs are shipped overnight. This ensures they arrive frozen and safe to eat.


    The price of king crab claws can vary based on how suppliers sell them. If the claws are bundled with legs, you can expect the bundle to be $50 to $60 per pound. Sold alone, the claws generally run for $40 or so per pound. Remember that online retailers will sometimes roll shipping costs into per-pound pricing. If you’re comparison shopping, check out our crab grid page. This is a great resource for checking prices and availability.

    Claw Preparations

    Claws can be prepared in a variety of ways. Luckily, most are very easy, requiring only a few minutes of attention. Here are some of our favorites.

  • Steamed: Steaming king crab claws is made easier in this recipe by using the microwave. Infused with dill, the claws are heated through in 2 minutes.
  • Sauteed: This recipe for sauteed crab claws leaves the crab with a smoky flavor with the bacon. The dish comes together quickly with a few steps and simple ingredients.
  • Boiled: Boiling the crab claws involves more added steps in this recipe, but the result is well worth it. Placing the claws in an ice bath immediately after cooking ensures the meat inside does not overcook.
  • Cocktail: If you want to enjoy the crab claws in a pure form, an uncomplicated claw cocktail is perfect. Simply thaw the claws when they arrive and serve with tangy cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.