When it comes to the most essential tools in the kitchen, a high-quality kitchen knife set is at the top of the list. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, having a set of sharp, durable knives can make all the difference in the quality of your food and the ease of preparation. With so many different sets on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your needs.
To help you navigate the sea of options, we’ve rounded up some of the best kitchen knife sets available, taking into account factors such as blade quality, durability, and overall value.
Whether you’re looking for a set of classic German knives, sleek Japanese-style blades, or a budget-friendly option, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in our list.
Top 16 Best Kitchen Knives Sets Reviews of 2023
1. Mercer Culinary M20000 Genesis 6-Piece Forged Knife Block Set
The Mercer Culinary Genesis 6-piece Forged Knife Block Set is a must-have for any kitchen. This set comes with five essential knives, including an 8-inch chef’s knife, a 3.5-inch paring knife, an 8-inch serrated bread knife, a 5-inch utility knife, and a bonus 6-inch boning knife. These knives are made with carbon steel, ensuring impressive sharpness and longevity.
The knives in this set are well-balanced, providing a comfortable grip and making them easy to control while cutting. The serrated bread knife is a standout in this set and is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The set is stored in a tempered glass block, which adds a stylish touch to your countertop.
Mercer is a trusted brand in the culinary world, supplying knife kits to culinary schools. With its unbeatable performance and affordable price, it’s easy to see why the Mercer Culinary Genesis 6-piece Forged Knife Block Set is our Best Value pick. The only downside to this set is that it doesn’t include honing steel or shears, but it still provides excellent value for its price.
2. Wusthof Classic Ikon 7 Piece Slim Knife Set
The Wüsthof Classic Ikon 7 Piece Block Set is a top-notch choice for those seeking a comprehensive knife collection for daily cooking needs. This set includes every fundamental knife, including a chef’s knife, Santoku, bread knife, paring knife, and serrated utility knife, plus a pair of come-apart shears, making it ideal for apartment dwellers and those with small kitchens.
The compact Acacia block that houses the knives can fit comfortably on the smallest of countertops, and the testers noted that the knives provide effortless, smooth cuts of various foods, including meats, cheese, produce, and bread.
These German-made knives are made of high-quality materials, with a Rockwell hardness of 58 and a 14-degree blade angle for exceptional sharpness. The contoured triple-riveted handles provide comfort and control while cutting. The only drawback to this set is that it doesn’t come with steak knives or a sharpener, so keep that in mind before splurging nearly $700 on a few very good knives.
3. DALSTRONG Knife Set Block – 18-Pc Colossal Knife Set
The Dalstrong Knife Set boasts exceptional weight and balance, making it stand out from other knife sets. With a balance point behind the bolster, cutting becomes effortless and precise, even for fine work such as peeling thin onion slices. The solid bolster, spine, and end cap add to the overall weight of the heavier blades, providing stability and control while cutting.
This set is a great choice for those who want a comprehensive selection of knives that covers all the basics. The Asian-style blades offer unique and useful options, such as the Nakiri blade as a mid-weight cleaver and the extended length of the Kiritsuke knife. The 9-inch bread knife and slicer are long enough to offer additional functionality, and the indents on the slicer make it perfect for cutting roasted meats. The set comes in a stylish block, making it not only functional but also a great addition to any kitchen.
4. 15 Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block by Cuisinart
The Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Block Set is a standout choice when it comes to kitchen knives. This comprehensive set includes 15 pieces, including a carving knife, a chef’s knife, a paring knife, a peeling knife, a Santoku knife, six steak knives, a kitchen utility knife, a pair of kitchen shears, and honing steel.
The high carbon stainless steel blades are sharp and durable and are complemented by metal handles for a comfortable grip. The included block provides convenient storage and keeps your knives organized and easily accessible. With glowing reviews, this knife set from Cuisinart is a top pick for any kitchen.
5. WÜSTHOF Gourmet 10-Piece Knife Block Set
The Wüsthof knife set is a comprehensive collection that provides essential kitchen tools and some bonus items. It features an acacia wood block with room for additional knives, which makes it a versatile option for both new and experienced home cooks. The set comes with kitchen shears, paring knives, trimming knives, utility knives, a cook’s knife, and honing steel to maintain blade sharpness.
The stainless steel blades are full tang for improved balance and strength, and the lightweight polypropylene handles are designed to resist heat and discoloration. This knife set is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a well-rounded collection of kitchen tools that will last for years to come.
6. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Professional S Knife Block Set
Introducing the ZWILLING Professional S Knife Set, a masterpiece of craftsmanship with a rich 288-year history. Made in Germany, these knives are engineered with the finest NO-STAIN steel and are finished by the most experienced artisans. The proprietary formula ensures superior edge retention, with a Rockwell Hardness of 57, ensuring a long-lasting sharpness.
This set includes a 3-inch paring knife, a 5-inch serrated utility knife, a 5-inch hollow edge santoku, an 8-inch chef’s knife, kitchen shears, and a 9-inch honing steel, all housed in a beautiful hardwood block. The single-piece construction of the knives offers unmatched strength and durability, making them a perfect addition to your kitchen. With a lifetime warranty against defects, this set is a wise investment for any home cook or professional chef.
7. Home Hero Kitchen Knife Set
This 13-piece knife set includes all the essential chef knives needed in the kitchen. Crafted from high-quality, rust-resistant stainless steel, the handles are designed with comfort in mind, making them easy to grip for extended periods. The set includes a versatile utility knife, a precise carving knife, a handy cheese knife, a classic chef knife, a convenient pizza knife, a sturdy bread knife, a sharp paring knife, and a set of six steak knives.
In addition, this set comes with a pair of handy kitchen scissors, a peeler, and a sharpener, making it a complete package for all your kitchen needs. The sleek and stylish knife stand adds a modern touch to any kitchen with its minimalist design and scratch-resistant black finish.
8. HENCKELS Premium Quality 15-Piece Knife Set
This budget-friendly set from Henckels is a must-have for those looking to save on their kitchen purchases. With 15 pieces, including a paring knife, serrated utility knife, hollow edge santoku knife, chef’s knife, bread knife, six steak knives, honing steel, kitchen shears, and a hardwood block for storage, you’ll have everything you need for cooking and meal preparation.
The blades are made from high-quality, rust-resistant stainless steel, and feature fine edges for precise cutting. The lightweight design makes handling and maneuvering the knives easy, while the curved handles provide a firm grip during use. All of the pieces in the set are also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
The only downside is that the handles are blocky and may not fit comfortably in everyone’s hand, but this is a minor inconvenience when you consider the low price of the set. If keeping your costs down is a top priority, this set is a must-have for your kitchen.
9. Chicago Cutlery Fusion 17-Piece Kitchen Knife Set
The Chicago Cutlery Fusion set is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a complete and reliable set of kitchen knives. The 17-piece set includes all the essential knives for chopping, slicing, and dicing, along with a sharpening steel and a knife block for storage.
The set features high-carbon stainless steel blades and stylish rubber and metal handles. The blades are designed for durability and sharpness, and the handles offer a comfortable and secure grip.
This set includes a 7 3/4-inch chef knife, 7 3/4-inch serrated bread knife, 7- and 5-inch santoku knives, 5-inch utility knife, 3 1/4-inch paring knife, eight 4.5-inch steak knives, sharpening steel, and chop assist. The knife block is designed to hold all the components in a compact and organized manner.
While these knives are dishwasher safe, it’s recommended to hand wash them to maintain their sharpness. However, the tester noted that the steak knives are not serrated, which was a surprise, but they still performed well in cutting steak. It’s important to keep in mind that the knives will likely need to be resharpened if used frequently.
10. Global G-835/WS-6 Knife Set with Block
The Global G-835/WS 6-piece Knife Set is the perfect choice for those looking to upgrade their kitchen tools. With stainless steel blades, the set includes a 7-inch Asian-style chef’s knife, a 4-inch paring knife, an 8.75-inch serrated bread knife, a 5.25-inch utility knife, and an 8.25-inch carving knife. These knives are ultra-sharp and lightweight, making them a pleasure to use.
The set also features a low-profile metal block for convenient storage. Please note that the set does not come with honing steel or kitchen shears, but the sharpness of these knives makes up for it. If budget is not a concern, these knives are a great investment and would make a fantastic addition to a wedding registry.
11. McCook® MC21 Knife Sets
This set is available in your choice of 15 or 20 knives, making it the perfect choice for your kitchen needs. Made from premium German stainless steel, the blades are both strong and sharp, providing you with the tools to tackle any cooking task with ease. The set includes a chef’s knife, a slicing knife, a santoku knife, a utility knife, and a serrated utility knife, as well as all-purpose shears, utility shears, and four steak knives.
The sleek and stylish look of the set is achieved by using stainless steel for both the blades and handles, giving you a modern and cohesive look. To keep your knives in top condition, this set comes with a knife block featuring built-in sharpeners. The sharpeners are conveniently located on the top and side of the knife block, saving you valuable counter space.
12. Schmidt Brothers -Bonded Ash- 15-Piece Knife Set
The Schmidt Brothers Magnetic Knife Block is an indispensable tool for keeping your kitchen knives organized and secure. With its 15-piece set, including a bread knife, slicer knife, chef’s knife, Santoku knife, double-edge utility knife, fine edge utility knife, paring knife, six steak knives, knife sharpener, and an ash wood knife block, you’ll have everything you need for meal prep.
The steel-made knives boast sharp blades and unpolished handles for a strong grip, reducing the risk of slipping during use. The slidable magnetic block is a space-saving and convenient solution, keeping each knife tightly stored while still easily accessible.
Please note, the block is only magnetic on one side, and the knives must be washed and dried carefully to avoid rusting. If you’re looking for a space-saving and convenient accessory to simplify your cooking prep routine, look no further than the Schmidt Brothers Magnetic Knife Block.
13. Cuisinart C55-12PCER1 Advantage Color Collection 12-Piece Knife Set
This budget-friendly knife set from Cuisinart offers vibrant colors and non-stick blades, making it a great addition to your kitchen. The six included knives and matching sheaths ensure that you can store your knives safely, without the risk of damage or injury.
With their non-stick surface, these knives are easy to clean and help to prevent food from sticking. This set is a great choice for those who need a compact and affordable set of knives, such as college students, vacationers, or picnic goers. The set includes a 3 1/2-inch paring knife, a 6 1/2-inch utility knife, a 7-inch santoku, an 8-inch serrated bread knife, an 8-inch slicing knife, and an 8-inch chef’s knife.
14. Chicago Cutlery | Fusion 18 Piece Forged Premium Knife Block Set
The Chicago Cutlery Fusion 18-Piece Knife Block Set is an excellent option for those who are just starting out with cooking or are in search of a beginner set. The set comprises every essential kitchen knife, eight steak knives, sharpening steel, and a chop assists for a comprehensive culinary experience.
Our testers found the knives to be user-friendly, though some reported the handle weight to be inconsistent during use. The set’s block is one of the larger options, so our testers advised against keeping it on the countertop due to its bulkiness.
15. Ninja K32012 Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System
Upgrade your kitchen game with these sleek and stylish knives. With a choice of 9, 12, 14, or 17 pieces, this knife set is perfect for the kitchen ninja.
The 12-piece set features a top-of-the-line 8-inch chef knife, six 4.5-inch steak knives, a 3.5-inch paring knife, a 5-inch utility knife, a 5-inch Santoku knife, kitchen shears, and a knife block with innovative NeverDull technology.
Made from German stainless steel, these knives boast a chic black metal handle and will make a stunning addition to any countertop.
16. Victorinox 8-Piece Knife Block Set
The Victorinox Fibrox Pro Knife Block Set, from the brand Swiss Army, boasts excellent quality at an affordable price. This 8-piece set includes the essential knives such as an 8-inch chef’s knife, 4-inch paring knife, 6-inch boning knife, 8-inch serrated bread knife, 10-inch slicing knife, honing steel, and kitchen shears, all housed in a sturdy wooden block.
The chef’s knife in this set stands out for its exceptional performance, boasting a lightweight design and a comfortable, non-slip grip that allows for extended use. All of the knives in the set are built to last and perform exceptionally well.
However, the set may not be the most visually appealing, and the bulky paring knife may not be as comfortable to use as other minimalist options. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Victorinox Fibrox Pro Knife Block Set remains a solid choice for those seeking a complete and reliable knife set for their kitchen.
Buying Guide For Best Kitchen Knives Sets
When shopping for a kitchen knife set, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you get the best set for your needs and budget. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Blade Material
One of the most important factors in a knife’s performance is its blade material. The two most common options are high-carbon stainless steel and ceramic. High-carbon stainless steel is a popular choice due to its strength and durability, while ceramic blades are known for their lightweight and sharpness.
2. Blade Edge
Knife blades come in two types of edges: straight and serrated. Straight blades are ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping, while serrated blades are better suited for cutting through tough or slippery items, like bread and tomatoes.
3. Handle
The handle of a knife should be comfortable to hold and provide a secure grip. Some popular handle materials include plastic, wood, and stainless steel.
4. Blade Length
Consider the size and length of the blade in relation to the tasks you will be performing with the knife. Shorter blades are good for precise tasks, like peeling, while longer blades are better for chopping and slicing.
5. Set Composition
Consider the number of knives included in the set, as well as their specific use. A basic set might include a chef’s knife, paring knife, and utility knife, while a more comprehensive set could include a bread knife, boning knife, and carving knife, among others.
6. Brand Reputation
Look for a brand with a good reputation for quality and durability. Read customer reviews and do research on the brand before making a purchase.
7. Price
Kitchen knife sets can range from under $50 to over $1,000, so it’s important to consider your budget when shopping. Keep in mind that more expensive sets generally offer better quality and more features, but not always.
FAQs
1. What are the best materials for kitchen knives?
The most common materials for kitchen knives are stainless steel, carbon steel, and ceramic. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choose the one that suits your needs and preferences best.
2. What is the difference between a chef’s knife and a paring knife?
A chef’s knife is a large knife used for chopping and slicing, while a paring knife is a smaller knife used for peeling and trimming. The chef’s knife is typically 8-12 inches in length, while the paring knife is usually 3-4 inches.
3. How many knives should I have in my kitchen?
It is recommended to have a minimum of three knives in your kitchen, including a chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife. However, having a set of different knives with various functions can make cooking tasks easier and more efficient.
4. Can I sharpen my kitchen knives myself?
Yes, you can sharpen your kitchen knives yourself with a sharpening tool or by using a honing steel. However, it is recommended to take your knives to a professional sharpener if you are unsure of your skills.
5. How do I clean and maintain my kitchen knives?
It is recommended to hand wash your kitchen knives and dry them immediately after washing. Avoid putting them in the dishwasher as the high heat and detergents can damage the blades. Store your knives in a knife block or magnetic knife strip to prevent them from getting damaged.
6. How do I know if a kitchen knife set is of good quality?
A good quality kitchen knife set should have sharp blades, comfortable handles, and be well-balanced. Look for sets made from high-quality materials and check the reviews of the product before purchasing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the right kitchen knife set is essential to creating a well-equipped kitchen. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, having a good set of knives will make your life easier, help you produce better food, and keep you safe while cooking.
The above-mentioned kitchen knife sets are some of the best on the market, and each has its own unique features and benefits. When choosing a kitchen knife set, it’s important to consider your cooking style, your budget, and the type of knives you need. No matter which set you to choose, investing in a high-quality set of kitchen knives is a decision you’ll never regret.
