Owning the best kitchen knife is the right of a cook, whether cooking in a restaurant or at home. Knives are one of the crucial tools in the kitchen, and you need the best to enjoy creative cooking. Gone are the days when cooking only meant filling an empty stomach. At present, it is art taken to the next level by how we make our food look.

You might have seen stylish food garnish, salad, and many other dishes on TV, on the internet, in restaurants, and even at your house. A good cook can achieve all that grace & style in their food via sharp tools. Owning the right one will take your prepping skills to a new level.

You will encounter various kitchen knife sets around you. Whether you opt for offline shopping or online, the market is filled with variety. With so many items to choose from, finding the right tool for your kitchen can be hectic. And thus, we are here to help.

We bring you our list of the seven best kitchen knife sets in 2023. To ensure you make the right choice, we will discuss the different types of knives you should own, the build material, top features to look for, and more.

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So, if you desire to prep food like a professional, keep reading and find the best knife sets for every cooking style and budget.

11 Things To Look-For When Buying Best Kitchen Knife Set

Whether you are looking for the best knife sets for home cooks or professionals, you can not just buy anything you see.

There are factors, like your kitchen requirements, quality, price, & more, that you need to consider to make an informative and ideal purchase. You should consider your kitchen requirements, quality, price, and more.

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Below we have listed a handful of factors or features that you should check off of your list before you make that final purchase.

1. Material

The foremost factor to think about is what is the knife set made of. And this includes both blade and the handle. You will find knives made from stainless, carbon, Japanese, American, German, & other European steels.

• Stainless Steel-
  The stainless steel knives are harder, resistant to rust under daily circumstances, offer better edge retention, but are harder to sharpen.
• Carbon Steel-
  The carbon steel knives are much tougher, easier to sharper, but are highly susceptible to rust if left damp for a long time.
• Japanese Steel-
  The knives made of Japanese steel are much more fragile and thinner but harder to give you much more precise cuts.
• German Steel-
  German steel knives are thicker and sturdier. These knives are generally made of stainless steel tempered to a softer range.
• American Steel-
  There are very few companies making kitchen knives out of American steel. However, the ones made from it are costly & difficult to work with.
• Other European Steels-
  Knives made from other European steels, mainly Swedish & Austrian, are tougher & offer better edge stability.

The knife handles are mostly made of stainless steel, resin, aluminum, carbon fiber & titanium.

2. Style

When it comes to style in knives, traditionally, there are two styles: Eastern (i.e., Japanese) and Western. The considerable difference between the two styles is based on the types & shape of the blade.

The Japanese-style knives have one blade (which looks slightly slanted) and tend to be straighter, whereas the Western-style knives have two blades & have more of a curve. Western-style knives are thick & heavy, whereas Eastern-style ones are lighter & thinner.

3. Sharpening

Buying a knife does not mean you are free. If you desire to use them for the long term, you need to learn if you are okay with their sharpening method or not.

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Traditionally, the Eastern knives can be sharpened on a whetstone and need more care. However, Western knives are easier to maintain.

You need to sharpen your knives regularly for long use. You can either do it at home by yourself or you can take them to a professional.

4. Feel

The handling of a knife depends on how it feels in your hands. So, you need a knife set that feels good in your hand & is easy to control by you.

A knife that is too heavy or too light can be distracting and does not give the results you desire. So, ensure that the kitchen knife set you buy has some weight to each knife for better control.

If buying online, always check out the reviews to understand what the knives of a particular product feel like.

5. Size

You need to make sure the knives you are buying are of the right size for your hand. Not all knife handles are constructed equally. Thus, your knives must fit in your hands comfortably.

To ensure the knife set you are ordering online is the right fit, measure your hand via tape and compare it with the handle size mentioned in the product’s description.

Large-handle knives are not comfortable for a person with small hands and vice-versa. So, ensure you find the right handling size as per your hands.

6. General Looks

You can not deny the fact that most of the time you buy any item for your house you look for aesthetics. The kitchen is one of the most crucial parts of your house, and we assume you do not want anything that does not go with your kitchen to sit on that countertop 24/7.

Taste is subjective, but people generally consider how a product looks. So, go for a kitchen knife set that compliments your kitchen space, not stand out to dull its aesthetics.

7. The Number Of Pieces

Kitchen knife sets generally come from three pieces to more than twenty pieces. And the number ideal for you depends on your cooking requirements.

However, we always suggest that beginners go with a smaller spectrum. The essential knives that you should have in your kitchen are a chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife.

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For regular kitchen work, these three are more than enough. But, if you are a professional, blogger, or someone who wants to take your prepping skills to next level, buy a set with more pieces. Remember, the more the pieces, the more costly the set.

8. Warranty

Accidents in the kitchen are inevitable. Dropping knives or hitting them on other utensils or counters is normal. However, these occurrences can damage them.

Even a slight chip in a knife makes it unusable for a professional. So, it is better to look for a product that comes with a warranty.

Different manufacturers offer different types of warranties. Most products out there come with limited lifetime warranties.

9. Maintenance

The western-style knives are sturdier and do not require special care from you. However, the eastern-style ones are much more delicate. They need to be handled more carefully.

In addition, the eastern-style knives should not be used for heavy tasks like cutting through bones or butternut squash. Also, look for knives that are easy to wash.

10. Practicality

Many people never think about this feature, but we think you should not miss out on it. The practicality of a product is a crucial feature. Whether you are buying a car or a meager knife, how it can make your life less hassled is the point here.

Look for a knife set that takes minimal space at your countertop, is dishwasher safe (if you use one), comes with a cover to keep children safe, and does not require frequent sharpening.

11. Price

The kitchen knife set is an expensive item if you want all stylish, premium, and all types of accessories with it. The prices vary from brand to brand based on the item you have chosen. So, it is better to make a budget and stick to it.

Set a limit on how much you are willing to spend and find a product to fulfill your requirements within that range. Going overboard and buying the knives that you won’t be needing is a waste of money.

2 Types Of Knives You Can Find In A Kitchen Knife Set

If you are a kitchen junky, meaning someone who desires to have the best utensils, cookware, & tools in their kitchen, then owning a kitchen knife set is a must.

However, before you make a purchase, you should learn about the different types of kitchen knives there are along with their uses. There are more than a dozen different kinds of kitchen knives. Some offer versatile usage, while others are only for dedicated use.

Typically, you can find kitchen knife sets starting from three pieces to twenty and sometimes even more. But remember, the numbers are not only for knives but other handy tools that you might need in your kitchen.

Here we have the 11 most popular knives for daily prepping, cooking, & serving jobs. These are the ones that make the core of all home cooks & professional knife sets. To help you understand better, we have divided the eleven knives into two categories of “Must-Have” and “Good-To-Have”.

The “Must-Have” Knives For Your Kitchen

The knives mentioned in this sub-section are the ones that you should strictly have in your kitchen. All these knives are multi-purpose and can perform more than one task.

1. Chef’s Knife

It is also known as Cook’s knife and is the most important tool in your kitchen. This knife has a broad blade attenuating upwards to a point.

It comes in sizes between six and twelve inches. The length of usage depends on the size of the cook’s hands. The chef’s knife is used for almost every cutting job, from chopping carrots to cutting chicken.

So, whether you are buying a kitchen knife set with minimum or maximum pieces, the chef’s knife will be present in it.

2. Santoku Knife

This knife is a Japanese version of the western style chef’s knife. Generally, it is slightly thinner and shorter. It is a famous substitute for a chef’s knife for people who prefer smaller & lighter blades.

The Japanese word Santoku means “three virtues” which are slicing, dicing, and mincing. The Santoku knife can do almost everything a regular chef’s knife can. However, the flat blade makes it less suited for mincing herbs.

In addition, the Santoku is sometimes made with hollow edges. The dimples along the blade provide easy cutting through soft & tough materials without the food sticking to it.

3. Utility Knife

A utility knife usually measures between four and seven inches in length. It is normally used for cutting food that is too small to be cut from the chef’s knife.

The narrow blade and small tip make this knife ideal for thinner slicing, filleting, and trimming. It is better than the chef’s knife in these tasks.

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4. Kitchen Shears

Although shears are not strictly knives, most of the time they can be used in place of one. Kitchen shears are scissors with thick & strong blades to handle various food materials.

They are the best choice for sectioning chicken, snipping herbs, preparing shrimp, and other cutting tasks. You can even use them to slice your pizza.

In addition, for faster cutting many shears come with more than one blade. They are ideal for cutting green onions & other herbs. However, the blades on such shears are weak & thin and require more effort in sharpening.

The “Good-To-Have” Knives For Your Kitchen

The knives mentioned in this sub-section are all one-purpose items. They are dedicated to specific uses meaning you can not perform any other kitchen job with them. So, whether you have one in your kitchen or not entirely depends on your choice.

1. Boning Knife

This knife is specially used for separating meat from the bone, cutting up meat, and fileting fish. Boning knives are generally about three to eight inches long with slightly varying blade widths.

The blades can be flexible, semi-flexible, or stiff. The boning knife with stiff blades is most popular due to its enhanced precision of the cut. Also, you can use smaller boning knives for peeling & trimming vegetables.

2. Bread Knife

If you want to cut bread and cakes, the bread knife is all you need. However, you can also use this knife to cut meat, seafood, and poultry.

The bread knife can be seven to ten inches long. Its blade is straight & narrow and indented with big teeth along it.

3. Cleaver Knife

The cleaver knife is bulkiest & heaviest knife of a kitchen knife set. It has a full tang, thick spine, and a huge wide blade with little or no belly.

This sturdy design & build allows this knife to cut through bones, meat, and hard & thick items like pumpkin. Furthermore, the cleaver knife is also ideal for beating and pulverizing meat, fish & poultry, and crushing garlic.

4. Paring Knife

A paring knife is a cook’s best friend for making stylish garnishes. It usually comes with a thin three to four inches blade with a pointed tip.

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The most common styles for this knife include sheep’s foot, spear point, and bird’s beak. You can use this knife for peeling & cutting fruits & vegetables. Also, it can be used for trimming excess fat with great precision.

5. Steak Knife

The steak knife is a typical knife you use at your dining table for cutting your cooked food. It is also referred to as a table knife.

You will find steak knives with serrated, semi-serrated, or non-serrated edges. These knives generally stay sharp for a longer period without sharpening.

However, the non-serrated steak knives are most likely to become dull faster. But the good thing is that they are the easier ones to sharpen.

6. Nakiri Bocho

Another Japanese-style knife you can come across in your kitchen knife set is Nakiri Bocho. It comes with a thin & wide blade and squared-off tips.

The blade is long and straight. This knife is mostly used for cutting vegetables. If you desire thin slices from veggies like tomatoes, bitter gourd, or cucumber, this knife is your tool.

7. Fillet Knife

The fillet knife is exclusively used to cut thin fish slices. It is why it is typically thinner, longer, and more flexible. It serves a purpose similar to the boning knife, which separates meat from the bone.

The 7 Best Kitchen Knife Set To Boost Your Prepping/Cooking Skills in 2023

One can excel in any cooking technique if they have the right tools. Having the right set of knives can help you with your food prep skills and boost your overall cooking skills.

Many people avoid cooking mainly because they get irritated by using the blunt knife, or the one that does not fit their hands well, and various other reasons. And the simplest way to get hold of your kitchen back is to get all the necessary tools.

Here we have the seven best kitchen knife sets for the money. We have covered sets, including the three pieces, so that you have all choices to explore.

All the mentioned products are top-rated, offer superior quality, are easy to handle & use, and even come with holders.

So, explore each product and find the one that suits your requirements and will compliment your kitchen.

1. Ginsu Chikara Series Forged 8-Piece Knife Set Built With Japanese Steel

The Chikara Cutlery Series by Ginsu is one of the best examples of the company’s perfect balance of beauty, function, and power.

The knives are made from premium Japanese stainless steel. Extreme attention is paid to every detail that promises to offer you an exceptional experience.

The Chikara knives are razor sharp and stay sharp for longer compared to many competitors giving you a low-maintenance. These knives are perfectly balanced. Their streamlined handles provided comfort and boost your confidence with each usage. In addition, the extended tangs transfer power from your hand for effortless cuts.

So, if you want knives that let you have the power while you prepare through the trickiest recipes, these knives are all you need.

This particular knife set comes in eight pieces 8″ Chef’s Knife, 3.5″ Paring Knife, 7″ Santoku Knife, 5″ Serrated & Utility Knives, Honing Rod, Shears, and Bamboo Finish Block. However, other sets with more pieces are also available.

Lastly, whether you want a sophisticated knife set for your kitchen or want to gift it to someone who loves cooking, this product is the best choice.

2. HENCKELS CLASSIC Fully Forged Highly Durable 3-pc Starter Knife Set

If you are looking for a beginner’s friendly kitchen knife set that is also easy on your pocket, then Henckels Classic Starter Knife Set is for you.

This three-piece set is ideal if you are new to the cooking world and are starting to learn culinary art. The set includes an 8″ chef’s knife, 4″ paring knife, & 6″ utility/sandwich knife.

Each knife is fabricated from high-quality German stainless steel and is made in Spain.

The fully forged construction offers high durability and an effortless transition from blade to handle. In addition, the satin-finished blade boasts precision cutting and is finely honed for long-lasting sharpness.

Furthermore, the ergonomic, traditional triple-rivet handle offers balance and comfort while working. Forget about the strain the people complain about while prepping.

Lastly, the maintenance of these knives is easy. You can either wash them by hand or toss them in your dishwasher. The only drawback is that these knives do not come with a storage block.

3. ZWILLING 16-pc Professional S Knife Block Set Made With German Steel

If you are thinking of upgrading your prepping tools and want to go all professional, then the Professional S Knife Set by ZWILLING is for you.

The series is available in seven, ten, and sixteen pieces. In this particular 16-piece set, you get an 8″ chef’s knife, 3″ & 4″ paring knives, 5.5″ fine edge prep knife, 7″ santoku knife, 8″ bread knife, 6-4.5″ fine edge steak knives, twin shears, twin 9″ steel, and a storage block.

The knives are made of special formula high carbon No Stain steel and the set is manufactured in Germany.

The Ice-hardened FRIODUR blades are extremely sharp and remain sharper for a long time. They will not stain or chip and have superior resilience.

In addition, the ergonomic polymer three rivet handles are smartly bonded to the full tang giving all the knives much-needed balance. When it comes to cleaning, the set is dishwasher-safe. But, the manufacturer recommends hand washing.

4. Global Ikasu 7-piece Cromova 18 Stain & Rust Resistant Knife Block Set

If you want to own the most attractive kitchen knife set then the GLobal 7-pc Ikasu knife set block is the one. Its unique block set will not clutter your countertop but rather give it a more trendy look. The storage block is made of bamboo and let’s you see your blades resting inside it.

Each knife is handmade. The blades are ice tampered with and hardened to ensure the longevity of their razor-sharp edge.

The superior Cromova 18 stainless steel metal is resistant to corrosion and stains. In addition, the ergonomically designed handles offer maximum grip and comfort. Each knife in the set is carefully weighted to deliver perfect balance in the hand.

Global knives are highly popular among professionals as they are lightweight, razor-sharp, and reduce hand fatigue.

Furthermore, Global knives are said to retain their edge longer than any other major brand on the market.

5. Calphalon SharpIN Technology Cutlery Knife Set With Self-Sharpening Storage Block

If you have been avoiding buying kitchen knife sets solely because you hate the idea of sharpening them, then now is the time to get past this idea. The self-sharpening cutlery knife block set by Calphalon is a dream for every lazy cook out there.

The knives are forged from high carbon, no stain steel offering lasting durability. The SharpIN technology keeps knives sharp for easier prep.

For easy identification, the handles of each knife are labeled. Furthermore, the blonde rubberwood knife block is the highlight of the entire set.

The ceramic sharpeners are built into the slots of the storage blocks to automatically sharpen straight-edge knives with every use. Every time you take your knives out, they get automatically sharpened. Lastly, you get a lifetime warranty on your purchase.

6. Henckels Classic German Steel15-pc Knife Set With Self-Sharpening Block

The Henckels 15-pc knife set is another great choice if you are looking for something trendy yet traditional for your kitchen. The blades are fabricated from high-quality German stainless steel and manufactured in Spain.

Each knife has a fully forged construction that offers high durability and delivers a seamless transition from blade to handle. In addition, the full bolster provides weight and ensures safety.

Furthermore, the professional, satin-finished blades deliver precision cutting and are finely honed for long-lasting sharpness. The ergonomic, traditional triple-rivet handle gives the perfect balance and comfort when in use.

Furthermore, the block comes with self-sharpening slots that sharpen your blades each time you pull out a knife. Each knife has its designated slot in the block. The lots are labeled to make sure you do not get confused.

Lastly, there is no carving knife in the set. So, if you need it on daily basis, you can either use the all-purpose chef’s knife or you can buy a carving knife separately.

7. Chicago Cutlery 17-Pc Forged Premium Knife Block Set with Wooden Storage Block

If you are looking to buy best rated kitchen knife set, the 17-pc block set by Chicago Cutlery is for you.

This 17-piece set comes with a 7-3/4″ chef knife, 7-3/4″ serrated bread knife, 7″ santoku knife, 5″ santoku knife, 5″ utility knife, 3-1/4″ paring knife, eight 4.5″ steak knives, sharpening steel, chop assist, and wood block.

The knives are made of high-carbon stainless steel that offers blade strength and makes them resistant to stains, rust & pitting.

Fusion knives are known for retaining their sharpness longer than many leading knife brands. The handles are Asian-influenced and have a cushioned grip offering a sturdy & non-slip hold.

The forged design offers better weight & balance. In addition, the Signature 26-Degree taper grin edge for optimum sharpness, precise cutting, and easy sharpening.

Furthermore, the chop assist tool provides guidance and stability to the knives while you use them. The manufacturer recommends hand washing and immediate drying for the best condition. Lastly, you get a full lifetime warranty on your purchase.

3 Points For Taking Care Of Your Kitchen Knife Set?

There is no benefit in spending hundreds of dollars on buying a kitchen knife set if you are not going to maintain it properly.

To ensure your knives serve you for a longer period, you need to take good care of them. If you have owned knife sets in the past, it is going to be easy. However, if you are a newbie, you should learn as you use them.

Knife sets are investment pieces. If you take good care of them, they will serve you for several years.

To help you understand if the measures you are taking are right or wrong, go through our list of crucial tips below.

For better understanding, we have divided the tips into three main categories: Cleaning, Cutting, and Sharpening.

1) Cleaning

• Always handwash your knives. Some knife sets might be compatible with dishwashers, but it is better to go for your hands.
• Do not let your knives soak in the sink.
• Dry the knives immediately after washing them.
• Always wipe the blade after you are done cutting (anything).
• If your knives are carbon steel then put a light coat of food-grade mineral oil for long usage.

2) Cutting

• Always use a cutting board. Wooden cutting boards are the best. Avoid using counters or plates.
• Do not cut anything frozen.
• When cutting makes a smooth & straight motion.
• Avoid twisting your knives while using them.

3) Sharpening

• Use a honing rod to sharpen your knives.
• If seeking outside help, look for a professional sharpener only.
• You should have a professional sharpen your knives at least once a year.
• Take a paper-cutting test to see if your knife needs sharpening.
• It is better to learn to do the task at home to avoid any hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )

Conclusion

A good cook needs good tools on which they can rely. We hope our list of seven best kitchen knife sets of 2023 helps you find the right product for your kitchen.

Do comment about what you like & dislike the most about your kitchen knife set.