A chef’s knife is the most essential tool in any kitchen. But the prospect of shelling out $200 for something meant to last a lifetime can be daunting — especially for those wary of anything too precious, or those stocking their first kitchen. A well-balanced knife doesn’t have to cost a hefty sum, though. The secret lies in seeking out trusted brands and zeroing in on details like weight and edge angle. Budget knives are often made from softer steels and may require more frequent sharpening, but when properly cared for, they can stand up to years of regular use.
Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
Chef’s Favorite: You’d be hard pressed to find a restaurant kitchen that doesn’t rely on Victorinox knives. The Swiss-made knives are durable and hold a sharp edge, with the Fibrox line distinguished by non-slip, ergonomic handles.
Blade Material: high-carbon stainless steel
Blade Length: 8 inches
Handle Material: thermoplastic elastomer
Weight: 7.8 ounces
Sabatier Olivewood 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
Best Looking: French-made Sabatier knives feature full-tang, carbon steel blades for a balanced grip and a Rockwell hardness between 52–54.
Blade Material: carbon steel
Blade Length: 8 inches
Handle Material: olivewood
Weight: 7.6 ounces
Wüsthof Le Cordon Bleu 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
Sharpest: Created in consultation with professional chefs, Wüsthof’s Le Cordon Bleu line has a full-tang construction for balance and a half bolster to reduce weight. A 15-degree edge angle (compare with Wüsthof’s standard 20 degrees) ensures cleaner cuts.
Blade Material: high-carbon German stainless steel alloy
Blade Length: 8 inches
Handle Material: polyoxymethylene
Weight: 7 ounces
Misen Chef’s Knife
Crowd Favorite: Crowdfunded direct-to-consumer brand Misen set out to create premium chef’s knives at a palatable price. Forged from steel with an above-average carbon content for longer-lasting sharpness, its blade is curved to allow for easier-rocking cuts, while a sloped bolster makes for a more comfortable grip.
Blade Material: High-carbon stainless steel
Blade Length: 8 inches
Handle Material: Thermoplastic
Weight: 8.3 ounces
