The Best Chef's Knives of 2025, According to Professional Chefs
July 23, 2025
Overview
Elevate your culinary skills with the top chef's knives of 2025, hand-picked and rigorously tested by professional chefs. This guide cuts through the noise, offering expert insights into blade materials, handle designs, and overall performance to help you find the perfect cutting tools for your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned culinary artist or a home cook looking to upgrade your arsenal, discover the knives that will transform your food preparation from a chore into a joy. From classic chef's knives to specialized blades, we've curated a list of the best knives on the market.
Senior Editor
Our top picks
The Overall Best Chef's Knife: The Pro's Pick: Miyabi Birchwood Chef's Knife, $299.95
The Best Chef's Knife for Beginner Home Cooks: HENCKELS 8-inch Chef Knife, $16.37
The Best Value Chef's Knife: Top Performance on a Budget: HENCKELS Classic Precision Chef Knife, $78.35
The Best All-Around Chef's Knife for Everyday Use: Classic Chef's Knife, $170.00
The Best Chef's Knife by Material Type: Stainless Steel: Mercer Culinary Genesis Chef's Knife, $38.32
Top Chef's Knives: Overall Winner
Our top pick, as chosen by professional chefs for its superior performance and value.
Global 8" Chef's Knife
$98.95
The Global 8" Chef's Knife shines with high sharpness retention and lightweight design, making it ideal for lengthy meal preps without hand fatigue. Despite a slippery handle when wet, its dimpled design enhances grip. Our testing found it scores an impressive 8/10, though its lightweight may not satisfy those who prefer heftier knives. A worthwhile investment for cooks favoring precision and comfort.
The Good
• The knife is lightweight, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
• The blade retains its sharpness exceptionally well, minimizing the need for frequent sharpening.
• The handle's dimpled design provides a secure grip, enhancing control during cutting tasks.
The Bad
• The stainless steel handle can become slippery when wet, posing a safety concern.
• The knife's lightweight design may not appeal to those who prefer a heftier feel.
• The blade's hardness makes it more prone to chipping if misused.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Metal / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Classic Chef's Knife
$170.00
In our experience, the Classic Chef's Knife garners a respectable 7/10 for its precise control and lasting sharpness, though its heft might be tiring for long kitchen sessions. Its high-carbon steel blade and ergonomic composite handle make it a versatile performer across varied kitchen tasks. Recognized for its quality, it is an investment piece particularly appealing to those unfazed by its weight.
The Good
• The knife is well-balanced, providing excellent control during use.
• The handle is comfortable and fits nicely in the hand.
• The blade maintains its sharpness over time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
The Bad
• The knife is relatively heavy, which may cause fatigue during extended use.
• The blade is thicker compared to some Japanese knives, which may affect precision tasks.
• The knife is on the pricier side compared to other chef's knives.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Shun Classic Chef's Knife
$169.95
The Shun Classic Chef's Knife, with an 8/10 rating, marries elegant craftsmanship with high performance. Its lightweight and sharp Damascus steel blade reduces wrist fatigue and maintains its edge through extensive use, though care is needed to avoid chipping. We found it perfect for precision work, with a balance that complements its utility in the kitchen. It's an excellent choice for those wanting minimal upkeep with a luxurious touch, albeit less versatile on harder foods.
The Good
• The knife is lightweight, reducing wrist fatigue during extended use.
• The knife maintains its sharpness over long periods with minimal maintenance.
The Bad
• The blade's fine edge is prone to chipping when used on hard foods.
• The blade may lose its sharpness relatively quickly after extended use.
Blade Material: Damascus Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
MAC 8" Chef's Knife
$154.95
The MAC 8" Chef's Knife is a top-tier performer, scoring 9/10 in our tests for its unrivaled sharpness and balanced design. Its lightweight build provides easy maneuverability for precision chopping, though the short handle warrants care during extended usage. Mindful maintenance prevents rust and chipping, but its Japanese craftsmanship ensures a dynamic tool for any culinary connoisseur seeking lasting performance. A must-have investment in quality for passionate chefs.
The Good
• Extremely sharp straight from the factory.
• Lightweight and maneuverable.
• Well-balanced.
The Bad
• Handle is short.
• Requires careful maintenance to avoid chipping.
• Prone to rust and stains.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
ZWILLING Pro Chef's Knife
$164.99
In our testing, the ZWILLING Pro Chef's Knife demonstrated commendable comfort and precision with its ergonomic curved bolster, supporting a professional grip. While some users reported quality concerns, such as the need for sharpening upon arrival, it remains a dependable mid-tier option with true edge retention and balance. Its high carbon steel blade ensures ease of sharpening, though similar scoring knives offer better initial sharpness at a comparable price point.
The Good
• The knife features a curved bolster that supports a professional pinch grip for improved precision and comfort.
The Bad
• Some users have reported quality issues, such as the knife needing sharpening upon arrival and machining defects.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Best Chef's Knives for Beginners
User-friendly and affordable knives ideal for home cooks just starting their culinary journey.
8" Knife
$105.00
During our review, the 8" Knife stood out with a commendable 8.5/10 rating for its superb balance and Japanese high-carbon steel blade, delivering precision cuts for professional applications. While heavier than expected, it minimizes hand cramping over prolonged use. Its matte composite handle offers a confident grip, though hand-washing adds a bit of maintenance. A testament to craftsmanship, worth considering if weight isn't a concern.
The Good
• The knife features a full tang design, ensuring better weight distribution and reducing hand cramping during extended use.
• The blade is made from Japanese high-carbon and stainless steel, providing a razor-sharp edge and corrosion resistance.
• The handle is made from a matte, stain-resistant composite material, offering a firm and slightly grippy feel for safe chopping.
The Bad
• Some users may find the knife slightly heavier than expected, which could affect maneuverability for delicate tasks.
• The knife requires hand-washing to maintain its quality, which may be inconvenient for those preferring dishwasher-safe utensils.
• The price point of $105 may be considered high for budget-conscious consumers seeking more affordable options.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
OXO 8 Inch Chef's Knife
$19.59
If affordability is your priority, the OXO 8 Inch Chef's Knife, at 5.5/10, might be your go-to for light kitchen tasks. Ideal for beginners, it features a sharp stainless steel blade and comfortable rubberized handle. However, its thin sheet metal construction makes it less reliable for heavy-duty mincing. We recommend pairing it with other tools for comprehensive kitchen needs.
The Good
• The knife is lightweight and stays sharp for a few months even without sharpening.
• The rubberized handle is easy to grip and non-slip.
The Bad
• The blade is made of sheet metal rather than forged.
• The back of the blade is thin, making it difficult to handle when mincing.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Rubber / Edge Retention: false / Balance: true
HENCKELS 8-inch Chef Knife
$16.37
Rated 5/10, the HENCKELS 8-inch Chef Knife offers a budget-friendly introduction to quality German craftsmanship. Its durable stainless steel blade and balanced handling are advantages, though frequent sharpening is necessary due to quick dulling. Our review suggests it's perfect for novice cooks, providing reliable performance for everyday tasks without the need for hefty investment.
The Good
• The knife is very balanced in the hand, providing comfortable handling during use.
• The blade is made from high-quality German stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity.
• The knife is versatile, effectively handling tasks like chopping vegetables and slicing meat.
The Bad
• The blade tends to dull quickly, requiring frequent sharpening during heavy prep work.
• The blade is too soft to hold an edge, affecting its performance over time.
• The knife feels cheap and lacks the quality expected from the brand.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: false / Balance: true
Victorinox Chef's Knife
$45.17
The Victorinox Chef's Knife, scoring 5.5/10, offers a practical introduction to versatile kitchen tools. Its lightweight design allows for easy maneuverability, facilitated by a slip-resistant ergonomic handle. While it excels in gripping securely, our experience shows it requires frequent sharpening due to dulling issues. It's an economical choice for beginners, though seasoned cooks might seek options with better retention for more heavy-duty tasks. A trusty companion for less demanding meal preps.
The Good
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
• Ergonomic handle provides a secure grip, even when wet.
The Bad
• Some users find the knife not sharp enough out of the box.
• Requires more frequent sharpening compared to some other brands.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: false / Balance: true
Tojiro DP Bottom Blade Knife 240mm
$66.85
Offering outstanding value at an affordable price, the Tojiro DP Knife earns a 7.5/10 score for its high-quality performance. This Japanese blade combines hand-honed precision with strong edge retention, excelling in precision slicing. Some users highlight balance issues due to the heavy handle, which we found slightly affected its comfort. Nevertheless, it remains a great choice for those wanting premium performance akin to pricier models, though it may struggle with tougher tasks.
The Good
• Exceptional value for the price, offering high-quality performance comparable to more expensive knives.
• The knife is easy to sharpen and maintains its edge well, making it suitable for both professional and home use.
• The blade is hand-honed and sharpened by skilled craftsmen in Japan, ensuring a razor-sharp edge.
The Bad
• Some users report quality control issues, such as dull blades or rough finishes out of the box.
• The handle is relatively heavy, which may affect balance and comfort for some users.
• The knife may not be suitable for cutting through bones or frozen foods, as this can dull the blade.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: false
Mercer Culinary Genesis Chef's Knife
$38.32
Perfect for entry-level chefs, the Mercer Culinary Genesis Knife presents a cost-effective, sharp option with a 6.5/10 score. Its high-carbon steel blade, coupled with an ergonomic handle, offers solid performance, although users report it dulling quicker than some rivals. During our review, the knife's balance was a highlight, enhancing comfort and handling. A strong contender for those new to professional culinary tools, albeit requiring more frequent upkeep.
The Good
• The handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet.
• The knife is sharp out of the box and maintains its edge with minimal upkeep.
• The knife is well-balanced, making it suitable for both home and professional kitchens.
The Bad
• Some users report the knife dulls quickly and requires frequent sharpening.
• The knife's weight may cause fatigue during extended use.
• Some users have reported issues with customer service responsiveness.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Rubber / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Chef's Knife
$99.00
Stepping into the world of cooking with a 6/10 rating, this Chef's Knife impresses with full tang construction, offering superior control and balance. Its thermoplastic elastomer handle provides a firm, comfortable grip, even when wet. However, during our review, the pronounced curve and long heel of the blade make rocking motions less fluid, and users noted concerns about scratching. It's a capable choice for those prioritizing value and control over long-term resilience.
The Good
• The knife features a full tang construction, providing superior control and balance during use.
• The handle is made of thermoplastic elastomer, offering a comfortable and secure grip even when wet.
The Bad
• The blade's design, including a long heel and pronounced curve, can make the chopping motion feel stilted.
• Some users have reported that the blade is prone to scratching, raising concerns about its long-term durability.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
High-End Chef's Knives: Premium Picks
Luxury knives favored by professionals, known for exceptional craftsmanship and performance.
Shun Premier Chef's Knife
$229.95
The Shun Premier Chef's Knife, scoring 9.5/10, is a remarkable testament to Japanese craftsmanship, offering exceptional sharpness with its Damascus steel construction and ergonomic walnut PakkaWood handle. In our testing, the hammered tsuchime finish reduced drag for smooth cutting, though caution is advised against bones and hard foods to avoid chipping. A prime choice for chefs seeking elegance and performance, if within budget.
The Good
• The knife features a razor-sharp 16° edge that cuts effortlessly through various foods.
• The blade's hammered tsuchime finish reduces drag and helps release food easily during cutting.
• The walnut PakkaWood handle is contoured for a comfortable grip and is moisture-resistant.
The Bad
• The blade is brittle and can chip if used on bones or hard foods.
• The knife is not dishwasher safe and requires careful handwashing to maintain its condition.
• The premium price point may be a significant investment for some buyers.
Blade Material: Damascus Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Miyabi Birchwood Chef's Knife
$299.95
Boasting a 9/10 score, the Miyabi Birchwood Chef's Knife dazzles with its premium Damascus steel blade and exquisite Karelian Birchwood handle. Our experience shows its Rockwell hardness of 63 ensures extraordinary edge retention, requiring careful maintenance for both handle and blade. Its combination of aesthetics and performance makes it a sophisticated pick for those who prioritize quality and are willing to invest in upkeep.
The Good
• The knife features a razor-sharp blade with a Rockwell hardness of 63, ensuring exceptional edge retention.
• The ergonomic D-shaped handle made from Karelian Birchwood provides a comfortable grip.
The Bad
• The blade's hardness (Rockwell 63) may make it more difficult to sharpen compared to softer knives.
• The Karelian Birchwood handle requires careful maintenance to prevent potential rotting over time.
Blade Material: Damascus Steel / Handle Material: Wood / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Misono Chef's Knife
$74.00
Delivering a 6.5/10 performance, the Misono Chef's Knife excels with its durable stainless steel blade and water-resistant pakkawood handle. Whilst extremely sharp and well-balanced, our review highlighted its limitations with hard foods, affecting overall versatility. Nonetheless, it remains a solid choice for those seeking sharpness and precision in manageable tasks, providing a durable option for discerning cooks.
The Good
• Extremely sharp out of the box.
• Lightweight and well-balanced.
• Durable handle made of water-resistant pakkawood.
The Bad
• Not suitable for pinch grip.
• Can’t be used with hard ingredients.
• Smearing from vegetable juices.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Shogun Chef's Knife by Dalstrong
$159.00
In our testing, the Dalstrong Shogun Chef's Knife shone with an 8.5/10 rating for its combination of strength and aesthetics. Crafted from high-quality Japanese AUS-10V steel and featuring a full-tang design, it offers exceptional durability and control. The G-10 ergonomic handle mitigates hand fatigue, although its weight and etched Damascus pattern are noted drawbacks. Ideal for serious cooks who appreciate a balance between craftsmanship and power, it's a notable though premium investment.
The Good
• The knife features a full-tang design, providing enhanced balance and control during use.
• The blade is crafted from high-quality Japanese AUS-10V steel, known for its durability and sharpness.
• The ergonomic G-10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
The Bad
• Some users have reported that the Damascus pattern appears to be etched rather than genuine layered steel.
• The knife is heavier than typical Japanese-style knives, which may affect handling for some users.
• The higher price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Kikuichi GM Series Gyuto 180mm
$130.00
Compact and convenient, the Kikuichi GM Series Gyuto Knife scores a solid 7/10 in our reviews, making it a great option for smaller kitchen spaces. Its AUS10 stainless steel blade resists corrosion and is easy to keep sharp, though regular maintenance is necessary. Some might find the handle too small, but we appreciate its durable, bacteria-resistant construction. Perfect for cooks in tight quarters, it provides dependable performance for its size, though buyers should weigh frequent upkeep.
The Good
• The AUS10 stainless steel blade offers high corrosion resistance and is easy to sharpen.
• The black resin handle is durable and resistant to bacterial absorption.
• The 180mm size is ideal for smaller kitchens or tight spaces.
The Bad
• The handle may be a little small for some users.
• Regular sharpening is required to maintain the blade's edge.
• The knife's price point may be high for budget-conscious buyers.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Shiso Chef's Knife
$115.00
Designed for those who appreciate precision, the Shiso Chef's Knife scores 6/10 by honing a keen, durable edge. While the narrow blade width might limit versatility compared to wider options, its comfort and craftsmanship make it reliable for delicate work. Our experience shows it's particularly advantageous for cooks who thrive on detail-oriented tasks, offering an aesthetic touch with a reliable edge retention. A solid choice for chefs aiming for refinement over range.
The Good
• The knife is exceptionally sharp and maintains its edge over time.
The Bad
• Some users find the blade width narrower than expected for a chef's knife.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Miyabi Koh Chef's Knife
$125.95
Elevate your culinary journey with the Miyabi Koh Chef's Knife, which scored an impressive 9/10 in our reviews for its exceptional sharpness and ergonomic design. Featuring a hand-honed Honbazuke blade, this knife ensures scalpel-like precision, although it requires careful handling to prevent chipping. The Pakkawood handle accommodates both Western and Asian styles, making it a versatile choice for chefs seeking precision. Just remember, careful maintenance is needed to keep those beautiful steel watermarks at bay.
The Good
• The knife features a scalpel-like sharpness due to its hand-honed Honbazuke blade.
• The ergonomic Pakkawood handle provides a comfortable grip for both Western and Asian cutting techniques.
The Bad
• The blade's high hardness (61 Rockwell) may make it more prone to chipping if misused.
• The knife requires careful maintenance to prevent water marks on the steel.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Wood / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
ZWILLING Four Star Chef's Knife
$99.99
Designed for culinary excellence, the ZWILLING Four Star Chef's Knife, scoring 7.5/10, is a reliable kitchen companion. Its precision-forged, ice-hardened blade ensures robust, long-lasting sharpness, though our experience shows sharpening requires effort. The ergonomic plastic handle offers control, although it can be slippery when wet. Ideal for those seeking German craftsmanship, this knife holds its own despite usability drawbacks compared to higher-scoring contenders.
The Good
• The knife features a Friodur ice-hardened blade precision-forged from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel.
The Bad
• The handle can become a little slick when wet and will then twist in my hand due to the 'round' plastic handle.
• It is hard to sharpen, it takes a lot of work running it through the sharpener to put an edge back on it.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Best Value Chef's Knives
Chef-recommended knives that offer outstanding performance without breaking the bank.
PAUDIN 8-Inch Chef Knife
$23.99
The PAUDIN 8-Inch Chef Knife presents a budget-friendly option with a sharp, high-carbon steel blade that, although easy to sharpen, requires frequent upkeep due to dulling issues. In our review, its comfortable composite handle and balanced design provided an enjoyable cutting experience for home cooks. While it earned a score of 6/10, we recommend it for those seeking affordability over longevity.
The Good
• The knife is sharp and comfortable to use.
The Bad
• Some users report the knife becomes dull after a few uses.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Z Series 8-Inch Chef Knife
$119.95
Scoring 7.5/10, the Z Series 8-Inch Chef Knife offers excellent sharpness retention with its Damascus steel blade. Our testing noted its 'grabby' interaction with plastic boards, which may disrupt rocking motions, making it better suited for non-plastic surfaces. Its wooden handle brings elegance to the kitchen, making it an aesthetically pleasing choice for serious home chefs who prefer varied cutting boards.
The Good
• The knife maintains a razor-sharp edge over several weeks of use.
The Bad
• The knife's design may feel grabby on plastic cutting boards, affecting rocking motions.
Blade Material: Damascus Steel / Handle Material: Wood / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
Classic Ikon Chef's Knife
$200.00
The Wüsthof Classic Ikon Chef's Knife, despite its 6.5/10 rating, is a durable choice for those who value comfort during extended kitchen sessions. Its high-carbon stainless steel blade resists corrosion, while the ergonomic handle enhances grip and reduces fatigue. In our testing, we noted some balance issues due to the handle-heavy design and a thick blade, which may affect precision on delicate tasks. It's a reliable workhorse for daily use, but not ideal for intricate slicing.
The Good
• The knife features a comfortable, ergonomic handle that enhances grip and reduces fatigue during extended use.
• The blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.
The Bad
• The knife's balance is weighted toward the handle, which may not suit users preferring a more blade-heavy feel.
• The blade's thickness can result in less precise cuts, especially when slicing thinner items.
• Some users have reported uneven bolsters, which can affect grip and overall comfort.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Composite / Edge Retention: true / Balance: false
Babish 8" Chef Knife
$27.99
For those seeking value in performance, the Babish 8" Chef Knife stands out with its razor-sharp edge straight out of the box. At just $27.99, it offers impressive precision, though it requires frequent sharpening and has balance issues due to its heavy plastic handle. During our review, we found it excels in everyday kitchen tasks but may feel slippery when wet, so it's best for controlled environments. It scores 6/10, mainly for its affordability and initial sharpness.
The Good
• The knife is extremely sharp out of the box.
• The handle is comfortable and provides a good grip.
• The knife offers excellent value for its price.
The Bad
• The handle is heavier than the blade, leading to balance issues.
• The handle's rounded design can be slippery, especially with wet hands.
• The knife may require frequent sharpening with heavy use.
Blade Material: High Carbon Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: true / Balance: false
HENCKELS Classic Precision Chef Knife
$78.35
The HENCKELS Classic Precision Chef Knife offers a robust option for daily kitchen needs, crafted from durable German stainless steel for lasting sharpness. Scoring 6.5/10, our review highlighted its ergonomic handle for tireless cutting, though its spine could cause discomfort during extended use. Elevate your prep work with reliable performance, but note that the handle can be slippery with oily hands, and smoother competitors provide more comfort.
The Good
• The knife is fabricated from high-quality German stainless steel, ensuring durability and long-lasting sharpness.
• The ergonomic, curved triple-rivet handle provides a comfortable grip for tireless cutting.
The Bad
• The blade’s spine is not ground smooth, which may cause discomfort during prolonged use.
• The handle's smooth texture can become slippery when used with oily hands.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel / Handle Material: Plastic / Edge Retention: true / Balance: true
