“We hope you love the products we recommend!. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn More>

The Best Santoku Knife for Everyone's Budget

Knives are the cook’s best friend. A lot of people don’t know how to choose the best Santoku knife or why it is extremely important to do so. Santoku knives are very popular today and are found in almost every knife set. They originated in Japan but today everybody is interested in having one.

These knives were mainly designed to cater to the needs of Japanese chefs. They are used in preparing traditional Japanese sushi and fish plates. This is why they feature a rather wide blade which will enable the chef to manipulate the knife easily.

Santoku knives give precise thin slices. Some people think that they resemble the western chef’s knife, although these knives are a bit more delicate. They either have smooth edges or rigged Granton edges that will enable thin slices to glide off easily.

They are versatile although you must be careful not to use them to crush bones. This can damage the blade. For safety purposes, you need to collect a hunting backpack for these Santoku knives.

These are very sharp knives that will give thin slices in one strike. The best Santoku knife is usually lighter, thinner, and slightly shorter than a western chef knife. High-quality steel or steel alloy is often used to make a sharp and precise blade. The edge doesn’t get dull easily and will stay sharp for years.

Best Santoku Knife

10 Best Santoku Knife Reviews in 2022

1. Global G-48 - 7 inch, 18cm Santoku

This is a versatile and sharp Santoku knife that is made of high-tech molybdenum steel. It won’t rust, break or stain and can be used for a good number of years. Chefs just love how versatile these knives are since they can be used for slicing, dicing, and chopping.

This Santoku knife will give you thin and equal slices in one easy downward motion. The edge is designed to stay sharper for a longer period of time.

It features a steel handle that is very durable. It is dimpled for a better grip and more control. This knife is rather lightweight and easy to maneuver. This means that you can use it for long hours to prepare the best sushi platter without feeling tired or strained.

This is the best Santoku knife to buy if you want something sturdy that won’t react with your food. It is very easy to maintain.

Pros:

  • A lightweight stainless steel knife that is very easy to control.
  • A balanced knife for precise results.
  • A dimpled handle for a better grip.
  • A sharp edge that can cut thin slices and will stay sharp for longer periods of time.

Cons:

  • This Santoku knife features a stainless steel handle that can get rather cold and slippery.

2. Shun Cutlery Premier 7” Santoku Knife

Although this Santoku knife is rather expensive, it is one of the most amazing knives on the market. This is a versatile knife that is used for mincing, slicing, chopping, and dicing.

It is made of Damascus steel that will stay sharp for thin and delicate results. The blade is hand-hammered to prevent the thin slices from sticking to the edge.

The knife features a wood handle that is very comfortable to hold and control. The wood handle offers a secure grip for the best results.

You will be able to use this knife for long hours without feeling any discomfort or strain. This is an elegant and sharp addition to your knives’ selection.

Pros:

  • An elegant and sharp knife that can cut through different types of food.
  • It is very easy to use. It can cut thin slices with the least amount of effort.
  • Very easy to control and balance.
  • A contoured wood handle for a safe and secure grip.
  • A very sharp blade that will not scratch or get dull no matter how long you decide to use it

Cons:

  • This knife is rather expensive. It should be handled with care. The edge is very sharp. You also need to make sure that it is properly washed and left to air dry to say in perfect condition.

3. Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery Rosewood Chef's Knife

This is the best Santoku knife under $50. It is the perfect knife to buy if you are on a tight budget. High-quality Japanese steel is used to make this sharp blade.

It will not get dull no matter how long you decide to use it. The blade can be easily maintained for the best and more precise results every single day.

The one-piece high carbon steel is the best to use for a sharp edge that will last for a long. The Granton edge will allow food to slide easily and not stick to the blade. You will be able to use your knife to prepare the most delicate plates with the least amount of effort.

This knife features a durable and ergonomic handle. The handle is made of Santoprene and polypropylene which will allow you to use the knife comfortably. It is very easy to manipulate and will provide the best grip for more balance and precision.

It also features a finger guard allowing you to use it comfortably. The handle is textured for safety and slip resistance. It also comes in 7 different colors so that you can choose the one that best matches your preference.

Pros:

  • One-piece high carbon steel blade.
  • A sharp edge that is very easy to maintain and will not get dull easily.
  • A Granton edge that will prevent food from sticking to the blade.
  • A durable ergonomic handle for a safe and non-slip grip.
  • Finger guard for maximum protection.

Cons:

  • It needs to be hand washed.

4. Wusthof 4183 Wusthof Classic Hollow Edge

If you are looking for the best Santoku knife for all your kitchen needs, then this is the one to buy. Although this knife is made in Germany, it is the best one to prepare the best sushi dishes.

It is a versatile sharp knife that is great for chopping, dicing, and slicing.

It features a sharp blade that has alternate hollows to prevent the food from sticking. The blade is forged from one piece of high-carbon steel that will stay sharp for a long period.

People just love this amazing durable blade because it doesn’t get dull or crack upon use.

It also features a sturdy handle from polypropylene. This Santoku knife offers a comfortable and safe grip for maximum control. This is the best addition to any chef’s collection. It will allow you to prepare all kinds of food fast and comfortably.

Pros:

  • One-piece high carbon steel blade.
  • Can cut very thin slices that won’t stick.
  • A comfortable handle for a safe grip.
  • A durable sharp edge that requires a little maintenance and won’t get dull fast.

Cons:

  • This knife is subject to rusting especially if it is not handled with care.

5. Yaxell Gou 6-1/2-inch Santoku Knife

The most important feature of the best Santoku knife is the quality of the blade. People just love how sturdy and sharp this knife is.

It is made of high-quality SG2 Steel and 101 layers of high carbon steel for the most precise edge. This is a wonderful knife that you can use for chopping, slicing, mincing, and dicing.

The blade will stay in great condition even when you decide to use it every single day. This knife will resist corrosion, stain, and rust. It will stay sharp and in great condition, especially if you wash it properly.

The knife features a comfortable black canvas-micarta handle for a better grip and more control. The handle will stay in great condition for years.

You will be able to use this knife for very fine and precise slicing in one downward motion. It won’t strain your hands. Moreover, the edge will require less sharpening since it is designed to last.

Pros:

  • The high-quality blade combines SG2 and high carbon steel.
  • A versatile knife for all your kitchen needs.
  • Resists corrosion, stain, and rust.
  • A comfortable handle for a safe grip.
  • Thin and precise slices every single time.

Cons:

  • The blade is shorter than traditional knives. You will also need to buy a special sharpening tool to maintain its condition and precise edge.

6. OXO Good Grips Pro 8" Slicing Knife 

This is the best Santoku knife for beginners or people who don’t want to spend a fortune. It features a sharp and precise blade for slicing and dicing.

You will be able to get the best results every single time with one single motion. It is the most comfortable knife to use without straining your hand. The blade is sharp and stain-resistant.

It is also very durable and sturdy. It has indentations that will allow food to slide off easily. The knife is balanced and easy to control. You will be able to use it comfortably for precise results. Although this knife is rather cheap, it is of great quality and will last for a long.

The knife features a comfortable handle that is made of durable materials. It is very easy to use and you will be able to manipulate the knife easily.

It is the best knife to hold and use if you have rather big hands and are still not that experienced. This is a versatile knife that won’t disappoint you.

Pros:

  • A sharp edge will stay in great condition.
  • A stain-resistant blade with indentations to allow the food to slide off easily.
  • An ergonomic handle for a better grip.
  • A versatile budget-friendly knife that won’t disappoint you.

Cons:

  • Some people felt that the knife is rather bulky. This is true especially if you have small hands.

7. Zwilling J.A. Henckels 31120-183

If you are looking for a durable sturdy Santoku knife then this is definitely a winner. Zwilling J.A. Henckels 31120-183 is the best Santoku knife to buy if you want something that will last for long and won’t break the bank.

It is made of high-quality German stainless steel. The knife is fully forged for durable and long-lasting construction.

It features a satin finish that will offer the most precise and accurate results every time. It is finely honed and will maintain its sharpness for years.

At the same time, it will offer the same quality and precision for every single use. The blade features a hollow edge design that will help the food slide off easily.

It features a comfortable ergonomic handle that you can hold for hours. The handle is very well made and offers more grip for better control.

You will be able to use your knife for hours without feeling tired or strained. This is a versatile knife that you can use for slicing, dicing, mincing, and everything in between. As a bonus, it is dishwasher safe.

Pros:

  • A long-lasting knife at an affordable price.
  • High-quality steel blade with hollows to help the food slide off easily.
  • A comfortable ergonomic handle.
  • Dishwasher safe.

Cons:

  • This knife is rather light. Some people felt that they needed a heavier knife for more balance.

8. Imarku 7 Inch Kitchen Knife

Although not being the most expensive, this knife is by far the best santoku knife because of its unique features. It is ultra-sharp, which means you can use it to effortlessly cut any type of meat, fruits, and vegetables.

The edge of the blade is hand-polished to an angle of 14-16 degrees on both sides for perfect cutting. Plus, the scalloped design on the edge prevents food from sticking to the knife.

The blade is made of premium German stainless steel which has a high resistance to rust and corrosion. So, you can clean the knife without worrying about losing its quality. In addition, the soft Pakkawood handle ensures a comfortable grip while maintaining its high durability.

Even when you use the knife for prolonged periods, neither your hand will ache nor the handle will break. This sturdy, 7-inch santoku knife is easy to maintain which makes it ideal for daily use.

Pros:

  • The ultra-sharp edge provides effortless cutting
  • 7cr17mov German stainless-steel blade prevents rust and corrosion
  • Ergonomic handle allows a comfortable grip

Cons:

  • The edge does not stay sharp for a lifetime

9. DALSTRONG Chef Knife

This 6-inch chef knife is somewhat expensive compared to the last one. However, it is also a razor-sharp knife constructed from premium German steel with a hand-polished edge of 14-16 degrees.

The wide blade allows effortless, thick to ultra-thin slicing and easy knuckle clearance. Also, the added chromium resists stain, thus retaining its quality.

The knife is full-tang which has the advantage of providing the perfect balance while cutting. It has a Rockwell hardness of 56, which implies better edge retention.

The laminated Pakkawood handle is engraved with triple rivets which not only adds elegance but also it provides a comfortable grip.

The bolster is hand-polished and it protects the fingers from injury. Overall, this perfectly weighted knife is ideal for both home and professional use.

Pros:

  • High-carbon German steel adds strength and durability
  • Added chromium resists stain and corrosion
  • The full-tang design allows perfect balance while cutting
  • The ultra-sharp edge allows effortless and precise cutting

Cons:

  • The handle feels a bit heavy
  • The tang and the handle are slightly uneven

10. PAUDIN Pro Kitchen Knife

If you want to go for a low-budget, yet high-quality chef knife, then I believe this is the one. With this 8-inch chef’s knife, you can professionally cut any varieties of meat, fish, fruits, or vegetables.

The blade is made from premium German steel with a bevel of 12-14 degrees, which ensures ideal sharpness.

Alongside, the Rockwell hardness of 52 makes it long-lasting. The blade won’t rust or lose its sharpness even if it is used frequently. You can use this knife both at home or at work.

The ergonomically shaped wooden handle is soft enough for holding comfortably and it creates the perfect balance while cutting. The entire knife is carefully hand-polished by craftsmen having decades of experience, so it’s worth the money.

Pros: 

  • 5Cr15Mov stainless steel prevents rust and corrosion
  • Long and sharp blade effortlessly cuts through any food
  • The soft, wooden handle allows a comfortable grip

Cons:

  • The blade is a little bit wide which is not suitable for ultra-thin cutting

 

Santoku Knife Buying Guide

How to Choose the Best Santoku Knife?

You can definitely rely on the best Japanese Santoku knife if you want thin and delicate results. However, there are some factors that you can take into consideration if you want to make sure that you are buying the best product.

The Blade:

This is the first thing to consider when you are shopping for a high-quality knife. The best Santoku knife should feature a sharp blade. High carbon steel blades are very durable and can be sharpened easily. They are also very sturdy and will resist rust and stain.

Carbon steel blades are strong but are less expensive. They will stay sharp but can be subject to rust or staining over time.

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option then you can opt for stainless steel. It will resist stain and rust but it will lose its sharpness over time.

Some people prefer ceramic knives because they are very lightweight. They are also very sharp; however, they are not sturdy. They can easily break and this is why you need to use them only with a cutting board.

The Handle:

The handle of the knife is not less important than the blade. A proper handle will provide control and will enable you to use the knife easily, precisely, and safely. Stainless steel is very durable and sanitary since it doesn’t react with food. However, it is rather heavy.

It can add a lot of weight for your knife making it more difficult to manipulate and throwing it off balance. It can also get slippery. On the other hand, plastic is too lightweight.

Unless you are sure about using your Santoku knife, you might not be able to handle your knife properly. It is rather sanitary and is not expensive.

Some people prefer to buy knives that have wood handles since they offer the best grip. However, wood can absorb water or crack over time.

They also require more maintenance. Composite handles combine the properties of wood and plastic. They are durable, budget-friendly, and very easy to maintain.

The Length:

Since the best Santoku knife is usually shorter than other knives, you need to make sure that the blade is long enough to cut through your food.

It should be able to glide smoothly without having to be rocked for the best results. At the same time, it shouldn’t be too long as you might have to cut through small ingredients. This is true especially if you are preparing a delicate plate like a sushi platter.

The Best Santoku Knives on the Market:

Santoku knives are very easy to work with since they are very durable and thin. They are also very versatile and will represent a great addition to any kitchen.

We have tested and reviewed some of the best products on the market based on the choices of customers and experienced chefs. Here you will find detailed information about the top best 10 products on the market. Just go through them and you will be able to find the most suitable Santoku knife:

Conclusion:

Whether you are an experienced chef or still taking your first steps in the world of home cooking, buying the best Santoku knife is a must. People just love how versatile and useful these knives are.

With a wide selection to choose from, finding a perfect product is not such a difficult task. Just make sure that you are weighing the pros against the cons and you will definitely find the best product. We Reviewed another best neck knife for hunting.

Avatar of James Smith
WRITTEN BY

James Smith

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x