Knives are, in general, the most essential tool you can use in the kitchen; however, if we were to take it a step further, we would say that a chef’s knife is the most important of all of the knives. There is very little slicing, chopping, cutting, or carving that can be done without it, so it is essential to your efficacy as a chef that you find one that you are comfortable holding and using for all of your meals. However, this is a very open-ended and subjective exercise. A chef’s knife can be made of a variety of materials, be of a variety of widths, have a variety of handle sensations, and have a variety of weights; however, in none of these categories is there one choice that is unequivocally superior to another. It is important to note that higher cost does not automatically equate to higher quality. It’s like trying to find the perfect white T-shirt: what might be the best option for one person might not be the best option for you. Having said that, I consulted a number of industry professionals in order to identify some exceptional choices, and I have done the best I can to classify and explain those choices in order to assist you in making a decision.
What we’re looking for
Blade length
The blades on chef’s knives typically measure eight inches in length, but can also measure seven or even six inches in length. They can go as low as five and as high as ten, but this is not something that happens very frequently. It all comes down to personal preference when deciding how long something should be. What kind of sizes are your hands? How well-trained are you in the management of a knife? In my opinion, it is beneficial to have a variety of sizes available for a variety of duties. When I need to cut through a squash or chop up a lot of herbs, I use my eight-inch blade, but for the majority of other chores, I use my six-and-a-half-inch blade, which feels like the perfect size for my hands. I only use my eight-inch blade for certain heavier-duty and higher-volume chores, like chopping up a ton of herbs or slicing through a squash.
European- or Japanese-style
There are some chef’s knives that do not fit neatly into either of these categories, and there are others that do not fit into either. However, given the frequency with which the words are employed and the significance of the differences between them, it is beneficial to have a general understanding of the salient features shared by each. European-style knives (which include German-style, French-style, and western-style knives) are typically heavier and have a thicker, more curved blade. The shape of the blade helps in rocking back and forth with the tip down on your cutting board. German-style, French-style, and western-style knives are all examples of European-style knives. The blades of Japanese-style knives tend to be thinner and straighter, making them perfect for applications requiring a high degree of precision because of their lighter weight. Some Japanese companies produce knives in the style of European manufacturers, while some European and American companies produce knives in the style of Japanese manufacturers. This helps to complicate the market environment. Here, to the best of my ability, I have indicated the manner of each, and I have followed that up with descriptions that are more in-depth.
Weight
As I was saying before, in general, blades made in the European style tend to be heavier, whereas knives made in the Japanese style tend to be lighter. However, this is not always the case. Because of this, knowing the precise weight can be a useful tool in determining which option will personally provide the highest level of comfort for you.
Our Top Picks
- Lightweight, precisely balanced 8-inch or 20cm chef's knife
- Blade made of high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel
- Edge retains razor sharpness exceptionally well
- Stainless-steel handle molded for Comfort, dimpled for safe grip
- Lifetime warranty against defects and breakage
- KITCHEN WORKHORSE – The WÜSTHOF 8” CLASSIC IKON Chef’s Knife is essential for preparing any meal. This all-purpose cook’s knife can be used for chopping, mincing, slicing and dicing
- WÜSTHOF CLASSIC IKON SERIES – Features a sleek and sophisticated black handle with a double bolster for exceptional balance, beauty, and the ultimate cutting experience. Classic IKON: Design, Ergonomics, and Quality Perfected
- CHEF’S KNIFE – Features an 8” long blade with a distinctive double Bolster design for professional-style heft. German Made Cook’s Knife with a sleek ergonomic handle design made from a long-lasting synthetic material to resist fading and discoloration
- PRECISION FORGED – The 8” Chef’s Knife is forged from a single block of High Carbon Stainless Steel and tempered to 58-degree HRC. The Precision Edge Technology (PEtec) yields a blade that is 20% sharper with twice the edge retention than previous models
- CENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany over 200 years ago. WÜSTHOF’s cutlery carries the Solingen name, a designation reserved for products that meet the strictest quality standards. Can be used for - Cabbage , Fish , Fruit , Head of lettuce , Herbs , Meat , Vegetables
- A Kitchen Staple: The Misen Chefs Knife is the definition of versatility. Perfectly balanced and ultra sharp — this tool will quickly become your new go-to. Replace that old, dull knife-set with one quality blade you'll actually use.
- Premium Steel: The cooking knife is crafted from AICHI AUS-10 steel which offers a superior balance between long lasting sharpness and durability with 2x the carbon content of some other “premium” chef knives.
- The Perfect Length: We prototyped dozens of blade lengths to find the perfect “shorter” chef’s knife. Testers found that 6.8 inches (yes, exactly) was the most comfortable to hold and cut with, especially for those will smaller hands or without experience using a professional chef knife.
- Best of Both Worlds: Misen chef's knives combine the best features of both Western and Japanese style blades — making them excel at any cutting task or technique. Slicing, chopping, dicing, all made effortless.
- Unique Design: A distinctive sloped bolster shape encourages a proper and safer "pinch grip” for better comfort and control. The 8 inch Chef Knife also features a more acute 15 degree angle for a noticeably sharper cutting face.
- WÜSTHOF GOURMET SERIES – 5" Santoku Knife with synthetic polypropylene handles that resist fading, discoloration, heat and impact. Precisely laser-cut stamped knives offer superb quality and value
- RAZOR SHARP – High Carbon Stainless Steel Blades, precisely cut with the latest state of the art technology for incredible sharpness and easy maintenance. WÜSTHOF kitchen knives are Hand Wash Only
- WÜSTHOF SANTOKU KNIFE – The GOURMET 5" Hollow Edge Santoku Knife is designed with a thinner blade than the traditional chef’s knife, at a 10 cutting edge, and gradually curves up at the very end providing a straighter edge. The hollow edge is crafted with evenly spaced vertical indentations, which create small air pockets between the blade and the food that gently pushes food off the blade
- DURABLE – WÜSTHOF Cutlery is crafted to resist corrosion and dulling. This German made Kitchen Knife set Comes with a limited Lifetime Warranty
- CENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany over 200 years ago. WÜSTHOF’s cutlery carries the Solingen name, a designation reserved for products that meet the strictest quality standards
- ELEGANCE FOR WORK & HOME. This Rosewood Chef's Knife has been the top choice of both home chefs and professionals alike. A simple, classic design that's expertly crafted with a tapered stainless steel edge that cuts with ease and efficiency.
- FIT FOR ALL TASKS. Designed to handle kitchen tasks both big and small, this durable knife's razor sharp and laser-tested blade effortlessly chops, minces, slices and dices. An essential for every kitchen.
- EASY HANDLING. This knife features a Rosewood handle for a comfortable grip and easy handling. This exceptional knife is weighted and balanced with triple handle rivets for maximum durability.
- KNIFE DIMENSIONS. Stainless steel blade -- 10" in length.
- TRUSTED SWISS QUALITY. Expertly crafted in Switzerland in 1884, Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Making a lifetime commitment has never been so easy.
- Montessori tools for real experience in the kitchen: Outfitted with natural, sustainably harvested beechwood handles, Le Petit Chef tools are safety conscious knives made for little hands to learn proper kitchen skills
- Learning by doing: Kids learn best hands on, and with Le Petit Chef set, your little kitchen helpers can learn about knife safety, food prep, and more, with your peace of mind intact. Tools made for kids by world class knife makers.
- Chef Knife: Rounded tip blade reduces accidental punctures but cuts and chops just like a full size chef blade. Knife is sharp on blade edge, and must be used with adult supervision.
- Finger guard: A perfect addition to the Chef Knife, the fingers guard keeps little fingers safe and teaches proper technique when chopping veggies, fruits, or doing meal prep
- Opinel: Opinel has been manufacturing its knives in the heart of the French Alps since its creation in 1890, and is recognized worldwide as a design icon
Review
Global G-2 Chef’s Knife – Best overall chef’s knife
- Lightweight, precisely balanced 8-inch or 20cm chef's knife
- Blade made of high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel
- Edge retains razor sharpness exceptionally well
- Stainless-steel handle molded for Comfort, dimpled for safe grip
- Lifetime warranty against defects and breakage
- Blade length: 8 inches
- Style: Japanese with some European influence
- Weight: 5.5 ounces
Nick Marino, a contributor to Strategist, authored a well-researched and thoroughly vetted guide to the finest knives in 2018. After speaking with 25 industry professionals and putting it through its paces himself, he concluded that this particular model is “the only knife you really need.” After using it for the past seven months, I have come to the conclusion that I reach for it more frequently than any other item in my collection. Despite the fact that it needs to be sharpened very soon, the blade has maintained an impressively (and even surprisingly) razor-like edge throughout the time that I have been using it frequently without performing any maintenance. Deb Perelman, who runs the blog Smitten Kitchen, told Marino how well it retains an edge and subsequently confirmed the same thing to me.
In my opinion, the weight of the knife, which has a blade length of eight inches but is on the lighter end of the spectrum, is just perfect. Even when I am performing more delicate tasks, such as removing the florets from a head of cauliflower or cutting through a tomato, it does not become unmanageable for me to use. (Marino made the same observation, pointing out that it was able to cut through a whole chicken with the same ease that it sliced through fruits and vegetables.) [Citation needed] Because the handle is on the shorter side, using it gives one a greater feeling of control over the situation. In spite of the fact that I have relatively small hands, I am still able to get a very good hold on it and readily manipulate it.
Maxine Builder, a writer at Strategist, is another person who has long been a supporter of Global. Since… 2013? That’s how long I’ve had my Global chef’s knife. Perhaps even earlier than that,” she suggests. Even after a decade and after purchasing several new knives, it is still the kitchen implement that I use the most. The handle is easy to grip, the blade has just the right amount of curve to it so that you can really get into a cadence when chopping and dicing, but the tip is sharp enough for some scoring and more delicate knifework. Another devoted follower is Jeff Strauss, proprietor of Jeff’s Table in Los Angeles and head cook there. He continues, “It has a blade that is designed in the Japanese style, but it has been influenced by the French-style knives.” It has a slightly more curved blade, a slightly more lifted tip, and it can kind of operate in both directions. One thing to keep in mind is that you have the option of purchasing this knife with either a blade that is six inches long or a blade that is ten inches long.
Seki Magoroku Chef’s Knife – Best Japanese-style chef’s knife
- Blade length: 8 inches
- Style: Japanese
- Weight: 5 ounces
Matt Rodbard is a food journalist, editor, and author, and he has written several books about the Seki Magoroku chef’s knife (and vegetable cleaver) that he encountered while searching through Tokyu Hands in Shibuya. Rodbard has a lot of affection for this knife. Its blade is on the softer side, which indicates that it won’t keep its razor-sharp edge for a very long time but that it will be much simpler to sharpen once it loses its edge. Rodbard explains that this may be perfectly acceptable, or even preferable, for the home cook because they are more likely to use a sharpening gadget rather than a stone, which requires a great deal of practice and dexterity to use properly. It is not necessary to be concerned about the plastic handle, which helps make the overall product even lighter in weight than the Global. “There’s no doubt that a heavy handle contributes to better equilibrium,” says Rodbard, “but I really enjoy the way this one feels.” It has the look and feel of a high-quality knife, especially considering the price.
Wüsthof Classic Ikon Chef’s Knife – Best European-style chef’s knife
- KITCHEN WORKHORSE – The WÜSTHOF 8” CLASSIC IKON Chef’s Knife is essential for preparing any meal. This all-purpose cook’s knife can be used for chopping, mincing, slicing and dicing
- WÜSTHOF CLASSIC IKON SERIES – Features a sleek and sophisticated black handle with a double bolster for exceptional balance, beauty, and the ultimate cutting experience. Classic IKON: Design, Ergonomics, and Quality Perfected
- CHEF’S KNIFE – Features an 8” long blade with a distinctive double Bolster design for professional-style heft. German Made Cook’s Knife with a sleek ergonomic handle design made from a long-lasting synthetic material to resist fading and discoloration
- PRECISION FORGED – The 8” Chef’s Knife is forged from a single block of High Carbon Stainless Steel and tempered to 58-degree HRC. The Precision Edge Technology (PEtec) yields a blade that is 20% sharper with twice the edge retention than previous models
- CENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany over 200 years ago. WÜSTHOF’s cutlery carries the Solingen name, a designation reserved for products that meet the strictest quality standards. Can be used for - Cabbage , Fish , Fruit , Head of lettuce , Herbs , Meat , Vegetables
- Blade length: 8 inches
- Style: European
- Weight: 9 ounces
Try Wüsthof if you’re looking for a traditional knife in the European manner. It is the brand that is preferred by prominent cooks such as Ina Garten and Gordon Ramsay, so we deemed its knife set to be the best overall, and there is a good reason for this. When chef and host of Top Chef Canada Eden Grinshpan was in culinary school, she was advised to purchase the “super-high quality” blades, and when cookbook writer Erin Gleeson got married a decade ago, she included them on the registry for her wedding gifts. When Eden Grinshpan was in culinary school, she was recommended to purchase the “super-high quality” blades. When Eden Grinshpan was in culinary school, she was advised to purchase the “super-high quality” blades. To this day, both Grinshpan and Gleeson make use of the blades they own. That’s how long-lasting they are. Gleeson says that she uses the chef’s knife for “everything,” and because it “rarely requires sharpening,” she even brings it with her when she travels to places that have rental kitchens. Another one of Joy the Baker’s fans is Joy Wilson, who created the character. “The metal goes all the way through the handle, which makes it feel even throughout the knife,” which is one of the reasons why the weight of it appeals to her. The fact that it is bulkier than both the Global and the Seki Magoroku contributes to the sensation that it is especially easy to control. According to Wilson, the region of the handle that connects to the bottom base of the blade offers an exceptional level of relaxation.
Misen Chef’s Knife – Best chef’s knife for beginners
- A Kitchen Staple: The Misen Chefs Knife is the definition of versatility. Perfectly balanced and ultra sharp — this tool will quickly become your new go-to. Replace that old, dull knife-set with one quality blade you'll actually use.
- Premium Steel: The cooking knife is crafted from AICHI AUS-10 steel which offers a superior balance between long lasting sharpness and durability with 2x the carbon content of some other “premium” chef knives.
- The Perfect Length: We prototyped dozens of blade lengths to find the perfect “shorter” chef’s knife. Testers found that 6.8 inches (yes, exactly) was the most comfortable to hold and cut with, especially for those will smaller hands or without experience using a professional chef knife.
- Best of Both Worlds: Misen chef's knives combine the best features of both Western and Japanese style blades — making them excel at any cutting task or technique. Slicing, chopping, dicing, all made effortless.
- Unique Design: A distinctive sloped bolster shape encourages a proper and safer "pinch grip” for better comfort and control. The 8 inch Chef Knife also features a more acute 15 degree angle for a noticeably sharper cutting face.
- Blade length: 8 inches
- Style: Combination
- Weight: 8.3 ounces
Misen is someone who Strauss admires. When recommending that brand’s knife set, he explained the primary justification behind his choice: “One of the things knife nerds speak about is steel hardness,” he says (see above). According to the author, “This is on the harder end of bendy, which means that it sharpens really well but isn’t so stiff that if you move it funky you can feel it and even fracture it.” Additionally, “This is on the harder end of bendy,” means that it sharpens really well.”This is on the harder end of bendy.” [Case in point:] “This is on the harder end of bendy.” “This is on the hard end of bendy.” He considers that degree of firmness to be the ideal sweet spot, and as a result, he recommends this knife to pretty much anyone who is interested in upgrading from the version they purchased at a big-box store in the past. Not only are they appropriate for inexperienced cooks, but, in his words, “I know a bunch of expert chefs who use them.” It’s a great value for anyone who wants to invest in their first decent knife without going overboard with their spending, and it’s also a great value for someone who is tough on their blades because it only costs $75. He advises that “you don’t have to be excessively precious with them,” but that “they’re still well made.” “I have six of them.”
Wüsthof Classic 5-Inch Hollow-Edge Santoku – Best super-small chef’s knife
- WÜSTHOF GOURMET SERIES – 5" Santoku Knife with synthetic polypropylene handles that resist fading, discoloration, heat and impact. Precisely laser-cut stamped knives offer superb quality and value
- RAZOR SHARP – High Carbon Stainless Steel Blades, precisely cut with the latest state of the art technology for incredible sharpness and easy maintenance. WÜSTHOF kitchen knives are Hand Wash Only
- WÜSTHOF SANTOKU KNIFE – The GOURMET 5" Hollow Edge Santoku Knife is designed with a thinner blade than the traditional chef’s knife, at a 10 cutting edge, and gradually curves up at the very end providing a straighter edge. The hollow edge is crafted with evenly spaced vertical indentations, which create small air pockets between the blade and the food that gently pushes food off the blade
- DURABLE – WÜSTHOF Cutlery is crafted to resist corrosion and dulling. This German made Kitchen Knife set Comes with a limited Lifetime Warranty
- CENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany over 200 years ago. WÜSTHOF’s cutlery carries the Solingen name, a designation reserved for products that meet the strictest quality standards
- Blade length: 5 inches
- Style: Japanese
- Weight: 3.8 ounces
Despite the fact that Wüsthof is a German business that specializes in German knives, it manufactures a Japanese-style santoku knife that is the preferred option of Amanda Cohen, the chef at Dirt Candy in New York City. In general, it is a well-liked brand (I discovered that it is the best overall choice if you’re investing in a knife set), and this blade, despite its diminutive size, is an excellent addition to the lineup. Cohen confided in me that he is “a serial monogamist when it comes to knives,” and that he is presently “in a long-term relationship” with this specific blade. [Cohn] Since a shorter knife gives you more control, I’ve decided to stop using blades that are six inches long for the time being. This one keeps its sharpness for an absurdly extended period of time. According to Cohen, this means that she is able to use it for hours, “switching between really accurate knife work and hacking away at tougher vegetables.” Because it is so light — the lightest on this list, in fact — she is able to use it.
Victorinox 10-Inch Chef’s Knife with Rosewood Handle – Best chef’s knife for utility
- ELEGANCE FOR WORK & HOME. This Rosewood Chef's Knife has been the top choice of both home chefs and professionals alike. A simple, classic design that's expertly crafted with a tapered stainless steel edge that cuts with ease and efficiency.
- FIT FOR ALL TASKS. Designed to handle kitchen tasks both big and small, this durable knife's razor sharp and laser-tested blade effortlessly chops, minces, slices and dices. An essential for every kitchen.
- EASY HANDLING. This knife features a Rosewood handle for a comfortable grip and easy handling. This exceptional knife is weighted and balanced with triple handle rivets for maximum durability.
- KNIFE DIMENSIONS. Stainless steel blade -- 10" in length.
- TRUSTED SWISS QUALITY. Expertly crafted in Switzerland in 1884, Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Making a lifetime commitment has never been so easy.
- Blade length: 10 inches
- Style: European
- Weight: 5.6 ounces
A few years ago, Cara Nicoletti, the creator of the sausage business Seemore Meats & Veggie, contributed an article to the Strategist in which she discussed the knives that she considers to be her favorites. Nicoletti is a fourth-generation butcher who grew up using utilitarian knives that could break down countless carcasses before needing to be resharpened. Eventually, she found herself in New York City kitchens where professional chefs revered their knives, treating them with a care and pride that was previously foreign to Nicoletti. Nicoletti also grew up using knives that could break down countless carcasses before needing to be resharpened. She claims that the knives she uses the most at home now “fall exactly between those beloved by my butcher relatives and those worshiped by my chef coworkers,” and those knives are her Vicorinox knives. She says that the knives that she uses the most at home fall precisely between those beloved by my butcher relatives and those worshiped by her chef colleagues. Her butcher relatives and her chef colleagues both love her knives. (I made sure that this was still the situation after she published the first version of her article.) She gushes about Victorinox knives, saying, “For my beater knives—the ones I use regularly and roughly—I really adore Victorinox.” They have a propensity to last the longest and maintain a sharp edge, even when used frequently for labor-intensive projects. The blades are made of stainless steel, which makes them simple to maintain, and the rosewood handle, which provides a comfortable hold, is one of my favorite features. It’s possible that you’re not dismantling entire beef carcasses in your house kitchen (or maybe you are!). What do I know!), but you still want blades that don’t need to be sharpened every time you break a chicken?” Nicoletti prefers a measurement that is ten inches, but most people will find that to be on the larger side of the spectrum. The same knife is also available from Victorinox in an eight-inch length. One more endorsement: In the article that Sarah Leon, a contributor to Strategist, wrote about the appliances and tools that made up her makeshift kitchen while a major remodeling was taking place, she turned to Victorinox knives, which she described as being “indestructible and not precocious.”
Bob Kramer by Zwilling J.A. Henckels Euroline Stainless Damascus 8-Inch Chef’s Knife – Best high-end chef’s knife
- Blade length: 8 inches
- Style: European
- Weight: 9.5 ounces
Rodbard states, “A dear friend of mine gave this knife to me,” and he means it as a gift. “Would I ever go out and spend $400 on a knife for myself? No. Was I too scared to use it for over a quarter of a decade? Yes. Have I now become so enamored with it that not a single day goes by without my taking it out of my pocket in order to get a feel for how the handle fits in my hand? Absolutely.” Kramer is a genuine artist and artisan, and he makes handmade knives, which he then auctions off to ardent admirers and dedicated industry professionals. It is not uncommon for them to sell for tens of thousands of dollars (or even, in the case of the one he made special for Anthony Bourdain, a quarter of a million dollars). This particular knife, on the other hand, is not a one-off but rather the result of a collaboration with the tried-and-true kitchen business Zwilling, which naturally produces its own line of well-known knives. Although it is still quite pricey, it is, in comparison to other models of Kramer’s work, a considerably more approachable option. I actually own one as well (it was also a gift from a friend), and it is the crown jewel of my knife collection because it is always razor sharp, has such a comfortable handle, and features Kramer’s trademark Damascus steel design on the top of the blade’s flat surface (he combines two different types of steel to create the effect).
Best chef’s knife for kids
- Montessori tools for real experience in the kitchen: Outfitted with natural, sustainably harvested beechwood handles, Le Petit Chef tools are safety conscious knives made for little hands to learn proper kitchen skills
- Learning by doing: Kids learn best hands on, and with Le Petit Chef set, your little kitchen helpers can learn about knife safety, food prep, and more, with your peace of mind intact. Tools made for kids by world class knife makers.
- Chef Knife: Rounded tip blade reduces accidental punctures but cuts and chops just like a full size chef blade. Knife is sharp on blade edge, and must be used with adult supervision.
- Finger guard: A perfect addition to the Chef Knife, the fingers guard keeps little fingers safe and teaches proper technique when chopping veggies, fruits, or doing meal prep
- Opinel: Opinel has been manufacturing its knives in the heart of the French Alps since its creation in 1890, and is recognized worldwide as a design icon
- Blade length: 4 inches
- Style: European
- Weight 5.3 ounces
The co-founder of Kitchn as well as The Dynamite Shop, a cooking school for children, Sara Kate Gillingham, recommends a Wüsthof for children because she believes that children should learn with actual tools and that small blades make it easier for children to practice their skills. Having said that, the only kid-branded cooking tool that she is interested in is the Opinel knife, and she recommends it for children between the ages of 5 and 8. She says that there is no product on the market that should take the place of a parent watching out for their child’s safety, but the finger guard and grip hole do help to teach the correct positioning. It’s the equivalent of using training wheels.” She emphasizes that it is not a good idea for children to become overly reliant on the aforementioned training wheels; however, she acknowledges and appreciates the fact that this product is not a frivolous one: It’s a genuine knife, but it has some extra safety features built in.
Last update on 2023-03-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
