The chef knife is the most versatile knife in the kitchen and a chef’s best friend. Choosing a quality knife that fits your specific needs and preferences will ensure years of safe, enjoyable use.
In addition to our detailed chef knife buying guide, which we recommend you check out, here are five of our favorite knives currently on the market.
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Top 5 Chef Knives
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1. Victorinox Fibrox Pro, 8 Inch Chef’s Knife – Editor’s Choice
An all-rounder with some of the best reviews and rankings – and a surprisingly modest price tag.
If you’re looking for a solid, general-purpose chef knife, you won’t go far wrong with the Fibrox Pro 8” from Victorinox. Featuring an ergonomic non-slip TPE handle and an extra-wide blade, this knife is built for easy, efficient use. We especially liked the double bevel edge, which protects the blade against rolling and cracking and makes for longer-lasting sharpness.
Maintenance
How to Clean? Wash immediately after use with soap and running water. Also dishwasher safe.
Is the knife dishwasher safe? Yes
Pros:
- A broad blade
- Comfy handle
- All-round versatility
Cons:
- Unusually lightweight construction – not recommended for those who prefer a heavier knife
- Requires frequent sharpening
2. Imarku 8 Inch Chef Knife
A sleek and stylish all-purpose option. Razor-sharp and comfortable.
A multipurpose chef knife with a high-carbon stainless-steel blade and a Pakkawood handle for easier grip. If you’re looking for a budget option that balances looks with performance, the iMarku 8” is a good bet. The double-bevel edge and stiff blade (56-58 HRC) deliver a combination of both sharpness and stability – ideal for the beginning chef.
Maintenance
How to Clean? Wash with warm, soapy water and dry immediately after use
Is the knife dishwasher safe? No
Pros:
- Evenly weighted
- As sharp as advertised coming out of the box
Cons:
- Some users complain that the edge dulls quickly, requiring frequent sharpening.
3. Mercer Culinary 8-Inch Forged Chef’s Knife
A classic functional design for sturdy and reliable performance.
Part of Mercer’s Renaissance line of products, this chef knife is true to its name, with a modern rendering of classic features, such as a full tang, a taper-ground edge, and an ergonomic handle in black Delrin. With good maintenance – hand-cleaning and drying the knife after each use – the Mercer Renaissance 8” should provide you with years of enjoyable use.
Maintenance
How to Clean? Hand-wash with warm water and soap and then dry immediately after use
Is the knife dishwasher safe? No
Pros:
- The taper-ground one-piece blade makes for good stability and long-lasting sharpness
Cons:
- Some reviewers have noticed minor tarnish buildup despite the stainless steel
4. Imarku 7 inch Santoku Knife
Japanese-style chef knife in German steel for the best of both worlds.
The Imarku Santoku is a wonderful option for those looking to branch out into Japanese-style chef knives. This all-purpose knife comes with a comfy Pakkawood handle and a dimpled Granton edge to prevent adhesion while chopping. At 7”, it’s slightly shorter than the other models on this list, but more than makes up for it with its keen edge and ease of use.
Maintenance
How to Clean? Hand-wash with warm water and soap and then dry immediately after use
Is the knife dishwasher safe? No
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Pros:
- Excellent balance
- The handle is comfortable for both large and small hands
Cons:
- Requires frequent sharpening
- Close care to prevent staining
5. J.A. Henckels International Classic 8 Inch Chef Knife
An affordable precision product from a world-leading brand.
There’s no mistaking a Henckels chef knife. If you’re looking to spend just a little more but get a lot more, this classic 8” chef knife from Henckels is a good place to start. Forged in Spain from German-sourced steel, it features a stiff blade with a V-edge, providing all the function and comfort we’ve come to expect from one of the world’s top cutlery brands.
Maintenance
How to Clean? Either hand-wash with warm soapy water and then dry, or use in a dishwasher.
Is the knife dishwasher safe? Yes
Pros:
- A fully-forged construction for excellent balance
- A comfortable ergonomic handle
Cons:
- Some reviewers find the blade to be overly flexible
Conclusion
The market for chef knives is immense, and the models covered here don’t even begin to cover everything that is available – but they will start you off nicely without breaking the bank. Buy a knife that’s right for you, depending on your preference and what you intend to use it for, and you can’t go far wrong. We also recommend you check out our list of chef knives under $100.
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