Calling all gourmets, novice cooks, and culinary artists: This is the year to step up your kitchen game. Luckily for you, we’ve already done the research and made a fine selection of the best chef knives you can get nowadays, courtesy of some of the top brands in the industry. So, sit back and let us work our magic!
Whether you fancy a 7″ or 8″ Japanese, German or French chef knife, a Gyuto or Santoku styles or anything in between, find the sharpest model for any budget below! We have done our due diligence and we hope you will enjoy the listing as much as we did doing it.
Our Top Chef Knives
| Name | Product Dimensions (inches) | Blade Dimensions (inches) | Weight (ounces) | Blade Type | Razor Edge (degree) | Handle Type |
| Zelite Infinity Alpha-Royal Series | 12.9 x 0.9 x 1.8 | 8 | 8 | AUS-10 super steel | 12 | G10 Military Grade |
| Global G-48 | 2.99 x 14.17 x 0.59 | 7 | – | Cromova 18 stainless steel | 15 | Stainless steel |
| Kuma Multi-purpose | 2.99 x 14.17 x 0.59 | 8 | 4.8 | 3CR13 Stainless steel | 15-20 | Three-rivet |
| Shun DM0706 | 15 x 5 x 3 | 8 | 7.4 | VG-10 stainless steel | 16 | Pakka wood |
| Dalstrong SSXChef | 16.9 x 4.4 x 0.9 | 8 | 9.6 | AUS-10V super steel | 8-12 | G10 Military Grade |
| Mac Knife Professional MTH-80 | 8 x 1 x 1 | 8 | 6.5 | Superior steel | 16 | Pakka wood |
| Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Pro S 31021-203 | 16.5 x 2.6 x 1.3 | 8 | 9.8 | Carbon steel | – | Three-rivet |
| Soufull Gyuto | 13 x 1.8 x 0.1 | 8 | 8 | Stainless steel | – | Pakka wood |
| Wüsthof Classic Santoku WU4176 | 11 x 3 x 1 | 7 | 6.6 | Stainless steel | 15 | Three-rivet |
| Victorinox Fibrox Pro 45520 | 17 x 4 x 1.2 | 8 | 8.8 | Stainless steel | 15 | TPE (Thermoplastic elastomers) |
10. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Pro S 31021-203
Among the plethora of Japanese chef knives we will be presenting, we will nonetheless start this list with a French knife. Do not get confused by their nationalized oriented naming.
French knives usually have a classic design that will suit any modern kitchen and a structure that makes them fantastic all-around knives. One of the most praised French-style chef knife brands out there is Zwilling J.A. Henckels, and their Twin Pro S is our favorite model. Part of the company’s Professional S series, the Twin Pro is just as eye-candy as it is effective.
Main Features
High carbon stainless steel blade
Laser-controlled blade edge
Full tang construction
Ergonomic bolster
No-stain steel
Design & Usability
French style chef knives definitely have an elegance of their own, with their firm, wide blade and a delicately curved edge. You can see the full tang, reassuring you that you will get all the balance you’ll need out of your knife. Using it will feel like playing with an instrument of a quality craft.
This knife wide blade boosts the usability rate of the Twin Pro S line. Thanks to the smart design of the handle and bolster, the 8-inch model is ideal for most cooks. You cannot really go wrong with this pick.
Quality & Performance
Zwilling J.A. Henckels is an esteemed German manufacturer that crafts some of the most beloved French-style knives in Europe. The high carbon stainless steel blade is amazing, and this SIGMAFORGE knife is made from a single piece of solid steel. It takes some skill to be able to make it, especially as it is cute out of a single piece of solid steel.
The Twin Pro S is more on the heavy side, which might be a disadvantage to heavy users with joint problems. Still, others will find that they can carry out their slicing with far more ease because it helps you put higher pressure on the bone and hard meat.
You may not have to sharpen your Twin Pro S for months at a time, but we recommend a bit of honing before every use. It is reliable and one-hundredth percent very usable.
- More weight for smooth movements and cuts
- Well-balanced and perfectly bonded
- The FRIODUR blade is ice-hardened for superior resilience
- Ergonomic, three-rivet handle
- No-stain HC stainless steel
- Several reports or crack along the handle
- Poor customer service, according to some reviews
9. Soufull Chef Knife Gyuto Knife
The Soufull Gyuto chef knife is one of the best chef knives you can get on a budget. As long as you’re well aware that you get what you pay for, this should be the beginning of a beautiful friendship with your new-found value.
Main Features
Japanese high carbon stainless steel blade
57+ Rockwell hardness
Anti-corrosion properties
Pakka wood handle
Gift box included
Design & Usability
Despite some customers founding the Damascus steel pattern misleading, it’s actually a detail incorporated by the company into the product to boost its Japanese look.
We also want to tip our hats to Soufull for delivering this accessible piece in a lovely, black gift box. The classic Pakka wood handle and angled bolster are also pleasant features.
Quality & Performance
Considering how it helps you effortlessly slice through all the ingredients you need for a chef-worthy meal, this Gyuto knife goes to show that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover (or price tag).
Not only can it slice through vegetables and fruits like a dream, but it’s also said to be a tool you can rely on for poultry or fish as well. It cuts like through melted butter. It will make your work surprisingly easier. You would not even be able to believe it.
- Multi-functional chef knife
- Ultra-sharp blade directly out of the box
- High-quality, anti-corrosion blade
- Reports of excellent customer service
- Reports of the blade dulling very fast
8. Global G-48 – Santoku Hollow Ground Knife
As you well know (or are just about finding out) Global is a Japanese manufacturer widely praised for its top-of-the-line cutlery and high-tech designs. One of their best products is the G-48, a razor-sharp Santoku knife with an eye-catching, all-steel construction. It is an excellent choice to cut boneless meat, vegetable, fruits. It makes clean cuts.
The G-48 isn’t exactly an affordable chef knife but is nonetheless one that will make sure you get amazing culinary results for years on end. You can be assured of that by its resilience, that it is one reliable cutlery to have in your kitchen drawer.
To use it to its full capacity and for the longest period of time, we recommend using the Global G-1800L Sharpening Whetstone or any other tool that will keep this blade as sharp as it can get.
Main Features
Full stainless steel construction
7-inch chef knife
Straight edge blade
Cromova 18 steel design
Lifetime warranty
Design & Usability
What genuinely makes the G-48 stand out other chef knives is its construction. Instead of having a wooden handle, Global went with a full stainless steel design for this model. As a result, you won’t have to deal with the wear-and-tear that unfortunately comes with having wooden components.
In addition, the G-48 was designed to be extremely lightweight. Not only is this good news for those who cook a lot, but it’s also wonderful for users with potential wrist or joint problems.
Nevertheless, don’t let its lightness fool you – this thing is a beast. The kind that cuts quick and deep. Feel confident and use the G-48 to slice, chop or dice any food, from veggies to meat and everything else you might need.
Quality & Performance
For the G-48 piece, Global used its premium Cromova 18 steel which blends vanadium, chromium, and molybdenum. Consequently, it’s super sharp, but not so much as to make sharpening a burden (when need be to do so).
Speaking of sharpness – this is a huge advantage of the G-48. Most user reports confirm that you can use this Global knife for months on end, on a daily basis, without the need to sharpen it.
As long as you are careful to clean it after every use (to prevent staining), you should be able to count on it for all your cooking tasks for years to come.
- All-purpose, lightweight Santoku knife
- Incredibly sharp and face ground with long taper to remain this way
- Withstands months of use without sharpening
- Dimpled and molded stainless steel handle
- The legendary Komin Yamada designed it
- Some users might find the steel handle to be uncomfortable
- Requires special maintenance
7. Wüsthof Classic Santoku WU4176
Folks keen on thin-slicing that are also keen on getting a premium quality knife will just love the Classic Santoku WU4176 model from Wüsthof. It fulfills the promise of gentle knife work. It is helpful when cutting small pieces or if you want to make precision cuts, maybe to carve something or to cut with precision.
Main Features
7-inch Santoku style knife
High carbon stainless steel
Hollow ground design
Double bolsters
Arched handle
Design & Usability
With a remarkable silhouette that stays true to Japanese tradition, Wüsthof adds further value to the WU4176 through a contoured, ergonomically designed handle. It is comfortable and easy to maneuver. It does not weigh your hand down when used.
It’s a splendid-looking tool to have in your kitchen, and its impressive visuals are equaled only by its excellent slicing abilities. It is one piece of art for all the knife0enthusiasts to have!
The arched handle of the knife is definitely a perk in terms of its usability, although it may not be the right fit for larger-handed users.
Also, if you find the 7-inch blade to be too long for your needs, you can opt for the 5-inch alternative. What’s more, the 7-inch Santoku comes with two handle designs options: black or off-white. You can even buy both variants if you cannot decide upon which marvelous choice to make.
Quality & Performance
Even if there are one or two quality control complaints, most customers are delighted with this high-quality Santoku knife. In case yours doesn’t come as sharp as you’d hope it to be, you can get the Wüsthof Precision Edge 4 Knife Sharpener and forget all worries.
If your meals involve paper-thin slicing, this Wüsthof gorgie is definitely for you, which doesn’t mean that it isn’t also very good at dicing, chopping, and cutting overall. Furthermore, owing to the smart design, the sharpness of this Santoku is evenly distributed from the bolster to the tip to the heel.
- Made from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel
- Ergonomic handle for ease of use
- Balanced for effortless cutting thanks to the double bolsters
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Triple-riveted handle with innovative design
- Might not be as sharp as some customers expect
6. Mac Knife Professional MTH-80
Wouldn’t it be great to have a professional quality chef knife to use in the comfort of your own home? Mac Knife had you in mind when designing its Professional chef knives series.
Although the full Professional line features 12 state-of-the-art models, the MTH-80 stands out the most among them.
Main Features
Manufactured in Japan
Dimpled design
5 mm blade
Pakka Wood handle
Hand-washable
Design & Usability
You can immediately identify the finesse of Japanese craftsmanship in the MTH-80. From the traditional silhouette to the attention paid to details, elegance is the predominant design feature. The MTH-80 features a dimpled, 2.55 mm steel blade, and a graceful Pakka wood handle with a gentle arch. It is easy to pick and even easier to use. It is the perfect choice if you want to showcase your cooking skills to an audience ready to marvel at your knife play.
The dimples prevent your knife from sticking, while the ergonomic handle helps ease your cooking experience.
Quality & Performance
The Mac Knife model is as sharp as they come, and you can start cutting and dicing right out of the box. Thanks to its being lightweight, the MTH-80 will also go easy on your joints even if you have to spend hours on end in the kitchen.
The MTH-80 is not made out of stainless steel, which might make it more susceptible to rusting, especially if it’s not carefully wiped down after each use. Still, taking proper care of it will prevent any potential issues of the kind.
- Genuinely sharp and lightweight
- Thin blade and bolster
- Smooth cutting
- Japanese quality
- Dimpled design for ease of use
- Might become pitted
- Prone to rusting, according to several reviews
5. Shun DM0706 Classic 8-inch Chef Knife
What more could you wish for than a Japanese-built model from a world-class company? Enter the Shun DM0706, a high-end knife that comes with plenty of advantages and very few, if any, downsides.
Main Features
Japanese super steel (VG-10)
High carbon stainless steel (32 layers)
60-61 Rockwell hardness rating
Pakka wood handle
16 degrees cutting angle per side
Design & Usability
Shun built its reputation on spectacular aesthetics and the top quality you usually expect from a Japanese chef knife. Everything about the DM0706 is stunning, from the traditional striped blade to the slick Pakka wood handle. We only wish it would have come with a nice case at this price, though.
You can throw anything at this knife and you’ll be able to cut, slice, dice, carve, and chop like a professional chef. However, you’ll also have to get your knife undergo the maintenance like any pro chef would. Shun recommends that you hone the knife on a weekly basis to keep the blade in tip-top shape, an aspect that may serve as a disadvantage for users who don’t have the time.
Quality & Performance
From a quality standpoint, Shun has checked off all the design perks of a professional chef knife. The company talks serious numbers: VG10 steel with 32 layers of SUS410 high carbon steel all with a Rockwell hardness of 60-61. Nonetheless, be extra careful with using and cleaning the knife – quite a few users reported that theirs chipped and that Shun’s warranty wouldn’t cover it.
As far as performance is concerned, some buyers claim that they have expected more from a chef knife for which they paid that much. On the other hand, there are far more users who are overthrilled with the Shun’s sharpness, amazing quality of the materials and visual appeal.
- Japanese design and production
- High-quality steel
- Super sharp
- Elegant style and design
- Reputed Japanese brand
- Expensive model
- Prone to chipping
- Lifetime warranty with a twist (does not cover chipping)
4. Kuma Multi-Purpose Chef Knife
It may be difficult to find a model that truly has it all – especially without breaking the bank – but brands like Kuma makes it possible. The Kuma Multi-purpose chef knife is a dream come true for budget shoppers who still want to enjoy the best value they can.
The Kuma model is one of the most inexpensive chef knives on our list. As a family owned and operated company, Kuma is semi-anonymous. Still, you’ll be surprised to see how far a small business can go.
Main Features
Suitable for numerous applications
Japanese style design
3CR13 stainless steel blade
Stamped knife construction
5 mm blade
Design & Usability
The multi-purpose knife from Kuma has a timeless, Japanese-inspired design, with a stainless steel, stamped blade. The handle also follows a classic style, with a three-rivet structure appropriate for almost all users. Furthermore, the bolster is just as practical as it is comfortable, designed with user safety in mind.
Hard as it may seem to believe, this Kuma piece can be used just as much as most of chef knives from popular international brands. If you care for it properly, you will enjoy a long and satisfying product life. Slicing from vegetables to fruit, meats and more, this chef knife sports Kuma’s “all-purpose” label for a reason.
Quality & Performance
The knife is actually of decent quality, despite its low price. Even though it may not have some features that its pricier competitors boast, the Kuma knife is a perfectly useful addition to your kitchen. What really blew us away, quality-wise though, was the extra attentive customer service that the brand provides.
Although everyone has their own standards when it comes to sharpness, you should be able to start slicing straight upon arrival. The slight downside here, however, is the long-term performance regarding the sharpness. Based on consumer reports, you may have to sharpen your Kuma knife often to keep it carving like a charm.
- Extremely affordable
- Comes already sharpened
- Good for carving
- Ideal weight
- Great customer support
- Requires frequent sharpening
- May not be as sharp as some users would expect out of the box
3. Dalstrong SSXChef’s Knife
One of the top reasons anyone wants to get the best chef knife is to have an ultra-sharp tool in their kitchen. Well, when it comes to outstanding sharpness, the Dalstrong SSXChef definitely takes the cake.
This beautiful Gyuto knife is part of Dalstrong’s Shogun Series X and is one of the most appreciated models from the brand. Aside from being notably sharp, this beauty has quite a handful of other certifications and specs you’ll find hard to resist.
Main Features
Gyuto style chef knife
62+ Rockwell harness
66-layer high carbon stainless steel
G10 military grade handle
8-12 degree angle per blade side
Design & Usability
The design of a chef knife can often make or break it from the viewpoint of a well-informed customer. Design-wise, we’re sure that the pretty stripe and dimpled design of the SSXChef will convince you about its aesthetic value.
Gyuto style knives are highly sought after by genuine knife enthusiasts, and we say that this Dalstrong piece reproduces the Japanese design beautifully.
Safety should always come first with chef knives, especially when they’re as sharp as the SSXChef. That’s why the company includes a nice edge guard with your order.
Moreover, the knife has both a good bolster and a comfortable handle. With these details in mind, you know that you’ll have a stress-free cooking experience.
Quality & Performance
You can easily judge the quality of the Dalstrong SSXChef by its key features. With a massive Rockwell hardness of 62+ and a handle with G10 military-grade certification, you know from the start that you’re dealing with a high-quality item. The 66 layers of HC stainless steel also add to the incredible all-around value.
The satisfying performance of the SSXChef is the main reason it has won our recognition for the best sharp chef knife of the year. Aside from that, the reliable balance and comfort provided really are the icing on the cake. The only disadvantage that we could point out was the questionable quality control provided by Dalstrong.
- Extreme sharpness
- Amazing balance
- Comfortable bolster
- Lovely packaging and edge guard
- Poor quality control
- It might chip
2. Zelite Infinity Alpha-Royal Series – Best Japanese Chef Knives
With durable blades, thin profiles and a typically lightweight built, Japanese chef knives have quite a few advantages over their European competitors. Quite a few of the best chef knives on our list are designed in Japanese fashion, but we’ll focus on the Zelite Infinity Alpha-Royal Series at the moment.
This Zelite Infinity piece is one of the pricier items on our list. However, the premium quality is well worth the investment, especially when it comes to a chef knife.
Main Features
67-layer high carbon Japanese stainless steel (AUS-10)
Nitro-cooled Damascus blade
Military grade G10 three-rivet handle
Traditional Honbazuke hand finish
12-degree per blade side
Design & Usability
Design-wise, the Zelite Infinity knife is a gorgeous piece to have in your kitchen. The Tsunami Rose Damascus pattern will definitely win you over, particularly if you’re one for aesthetics. Also, you will receive your item in a beautiful case with red lining which can make it an instant gift.
The 46 mm blade makes it appropriate for a wide range of kitchen applications. You can use your Zelite knife for cutting pretty much anything you can imagine, aside from bones.
The rounded handle with the traditional Japanese hand finish is extremely comfortable, making it an ideal tool for those who spend long hours in the kitchen.
Quality & Performance
Although some customers are unsatisfied that the knife itself is manufactured in China, you should know that the premium quality blade is directly imported from Japan.
Everything about this Zelite product shines through when it comes to quality – from the 61 Rockwell hardness to the G10 military grade handle. The 67-layer high carbon stainless steel will not disappoint. The knife comes extremely sharp and ready-to-use straight out of the box. Customers are thrilled with the amazing balance that the Zelite knife provides, with the perfect weight and size ratio.
Even though there are some isolated reports of chipping, it’s all in the way you take care of your knife throughout time.
- Fine balance
- Elegant packaging
- Rounded handle
- Arrives readily sharpened
- Excellent customer service
- Loses its edge easily
- Photos may not match the product
1. Victorinox Fibrox Pro Chef’s Knife 45520
The much-anticipated award for the ultimate chef knife you can buy this year goes to… the Victorinox Fibrox Pro. You may have been expecting a top-of-the-line Japanese or German brand to be our #1, but we’ve chosen the Fibrox Pro by Victorinox for best overall value.
The Fibrox Pro is a great chef knife that anyone can afford. For most users, this Victorinox model goes above and beyond any expectations they may have.
Main Features
8-inch stainless steel blade
15-degree blade edge
Non-slip handle
Laser-tested edge
National Sanitary Foundation (NSF) certification
Design & Usability
With a stainless steel blade, the Fibrox Pro makes you forget about rusting issues. Among its design features, what really impressed us was the patented Fibrox handle. It may not gleam with the beauty of traditional Pakka wood, but it genuinely prevents slipping. This aspect is crucial for chefs who often work with wet hands.
You can count on the Fibrox Pro for being your everyday chef knife. Easily use it to slice, chop, dice or mince foods with full precision. The light weight construction of this knife also makes it a best buy for customers who want to prevent fatigue after long cooking sessions. Ultimately, the non-slip handle makes it one of the best chef knives of all time from a usability standpoint.
Quality & Performance
The quality of this Victorinox piece has been proven not only by customers but also by renowned industry magazines. Additionally, the Fibrox Pro is also certified by the NSF (National Sanitary Foundation) for meeting the “highest sanitary standards”. The blade is also crafted with Swiss precision, by laser-testing the razor edge.
You won’t have any problems using this affordable yet powerful knife for years on end. As one consumer report points out, Victorinox designs their knives to be incredibly effective workhorses in the busy, modern kitchen. The only real con we can point out is that you’ll have to sharpen your Fibrox Pro often to keep it in good shape.
- Highly versatile chef knife
- Accessible price
- Great cutting precision
- Swiss quality
- Needs to be sharpened often
- A few users claim it feels cheaply made
Extra Recommendation – Kacebela Professional
Still not convinced that you have found the chef knife you’ve been hoping for? Perhaps they all exceed your current budget? We have prepared a bonus recommendation for that very reason. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to purchase the Kacebela Professional 8-inch chef knife.
Main Features
Stainless steel, 8-inch knife
6%-0.75% high carbon content
58-60 Rockwell Hardness Scale
Comfortable Pakka wood handle
Multipurpose chef knife
Design & Usability
The Kacebela Professional is a gorgeous Chinese-style chef knife that features an 8-inch, stainless steel, and high carbon blade. It is reported to have twice as much carbon in the blade as competitors, making it a strong piece of cutlery despite the low price.
The sleek beauty is a multipurpose knife, which means that you can use it to cut flesh from bones or chop, dice, and slice your ingredients. It also has an ergonomic handle made of original Pakka wood.
Quality & Performance
Now comes the main reason why the charming Kacebela knife didn’t get a top 10 seat. Despite its low price point, a handful of customers complained about the company’s lack of quality control, upon receiving products with manufacturing defects.
- Incredibly cheap
- Satisfying weight-length ratio
- Very sharp
- Lifetime guarantee
- Disappointing quality control
- May feel poorly made
Verdict
To wrap everything up, we’re sure that the best chef knives of the year we have pointed out will help you make your final choice. Before proceeding to checkout, we highly recommend that you review the features you want in your knife, from sharpness to weight or versatility. As a final note, we recommend that you hand wash and dry any chef knife to avoid rusting or chipping. Good luck!
I have definitely heard of Global and the G-48 is way too expensive. I don’t think it is necessary to purchase a chef knife that is so pricey like the G-48. It is best to go for something like the Kuma knife. Sure it needs to be sharpened often but it is more economical.
Hi, Kris,
You are right, if you want more affordable options, check out our top chef knives under $100.
Thanks for the feedback!
I cannot say enough positive things about the Kacebela Professional chef knife. The price you cannot beat and it works wonders. In fact, for what it can do for you, it is truly a steal. You really cannot go wrong with this knife.
Hello, Dexter,
Thanks for the feedback, we completely agree.
Have a nice day!
The Zelite Infinity Alpha-Royal Series chef knives are expensive. But the price is well worth it. It is a good quality knife and I am a firm believer in people get what they pay for. It’s a really good knife.
Hello, Kline,
Thanks for the feedback, we completely agree! High-end knives are durable, making them a great long-term investment.
Have a great day!
The most efficient and slick chef knife around is the Dalstrong SSXChef. Nothing compared to it and the price alone is a clear indicator that this is the best quality around when it comes to knives. You only want the best while doing your work in the kitchen.
Hi, Simone,
Thank you for sharing your view. Dalstrong is a brand that never sacrifices quality, we are so happy with their products.
Have a great day!
In my personal experience, the Twin Pro is a really good knife. It works extremely well and is quite appealing. If your budget allows you to get such a good quality knife. I would say go and get this one. You won’t be disappointed.
Hi, Olivia,
Thanks for sharing your opinion. We also consider the Twin Pro a great investment especially as we enjoy taking our cooking to the next level.
Have an awesome day!
Without a doubt, it could be quite a daunting task to shop for knives online without a guide. This is why I appreciate you for the efforts put in place to ensure this information is gathered and shared with us. With the help of this guide, I was able to purchase a non-pricey Gyuto knife.
I was with my chef friend the other day when she shared the link to this post with me. On checking it out some minutes ago, it dawned on me that this is what I’ve been looking for. I can now shop chef knives within my budget without stress.