The 10 Best Santoku Knives For Your Kitchen Shelf

When picking the best knife for your kitchen shelf, it can be confusing to choose the best one from the bunch of varieties available. So here are the top 10 picks we have gathered for you to increase your quality culinary stock. Make sure to pick the best for yourself.

Table of Contents

Pros

  • It comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
  • Ice hardened Friodur blade is used.
  • Lightweight and handy size.
  • Sharpening can be done once a month.
  • High-quality with a long life.
  • Positive feedback

Cons

  • Henckels does not make external sheaths for this type of Santoku knife.

Our top pick from the list is Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Signature Chinese Chef Knife. This is one of the best knives on the market today. It is crafted in Solingen, which is called the city of blades. This sharp edge blade weighs precisely 8.8 ounces, and its dimensions are 16 x 3 x 4 inches.

Zwilling has been optimized for a better experience among its competitors, with the high carbon content formula making it stainless, regardless of the external conditions.

Its blade renders exceptional precision cuts and quality pieces of meat with varying patterns and shapes. It also includes sharp edges that have been polished for long-lasting effects.

The ice-hardened Friodur blade is featherweight and comes with durability and strength. It is surprisingly tough. Furthermore, it has 57 Rockwell hardness that makes edge retention property lasts long.

It has an extended useful life which keeps the use of a blade sharpener at bay. The ergonomic polymer full tang handle brings more durability to this carver. Even the chemically harsh environment cannot harm it. This cleaver has a traditional three-rivet design and embedded with the Zwilling J.A logo. Overall, this can be a worthy pick and will make a nice addition to your cutlery.

There is always an argument about the stamped knife. Is it a worthy pick or not? Some strongly believe that the forged blade is the best, while others think that the stamped blade is inexpensive and has the same quality as steel.

Nevertheless, it always depends on the buyer which Santoku knife they want to purchase. According to customer reviews on Amazon, this carver has impressed almost everyone.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight.
  • Handcrafted.
  • Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
  • Full tang construction
  • Sharp and durable cutting edge

Cons

  • Only stones can be used to sharpen the knife. The machine would break the edge.
  • A smaller knife.

The next Santoku knife we have for you is the “Shun premier” hand-sharpened knife. Its blade has a beautiful and traditional look which renders an attractive appeal and finesse. This kind of knife can be your one-stop solution. You will be able to do all the necessary kitchen tasks with it.

This Santoku knife is marginally shorter than the other knives in the set, making it unique and different. The distinctive design of this blade is a treat for pleasure seekers. Let us investigate the features that this cutter displays. Pakka wood material has been used in making the handle. Moreover, the steel blade is stainless, and its edge is plain.

It is a lightweight knife that weighs exactly 5.4 ounces. You can work for an extended period without feeling exhaustion and strain on the wrists and hands. Its dimensions measure 12.25 x 0.75 x 1.82 inches.

This Santoku knife has a unique hammered Tsuchime finish which does not let food stick to it while cutting. It also brings about precision and accuracy. Apart from this, the knife entails VG-MAX Damascus steel which is considered one of the best steel for a knife.

This aesthetic blade is primarily used in restaurants by professional chefs. Moreover, this could be a good idea to buy it as a present for someone because of its Asian-inspired design and handcrafting. So if you prefer beautifully handcrafted cutlery sets in your kitchen, then this Shun Premier is the right choice. Again, the Japanese have ensured quality and precision engineering for the tool.

Pros

  • Stainless steel construction.
  • Reasonable price.
  • Lightweight.
  • Can cut a variety of foods

Cons

  • The knife packaging does not include a sheath.
  • No warranty claim.

Next in line is the Global G-48-7 inch Santoku Hollow Ground Knife. Let us dig deep into its features and find what makes it different from other Santoku knives. Global G-48 is yet another beautiful and lightweight knife.

It is a casual knife that offers chopping, slicing, peeling and cutting options. This carver has a very sleek and shiny design. The shine will not get dull if it is kept with proper care and safety.

When compared with other knives, Global Santoku knife entails a mid-range price that is affordable and convenient for a normal user. The dimensions of this Santoku are 3.54 x 14.76 x 0.79 inches. It weighs around 3.2 ounces and is considered a lightweight cutlery tool. Apart from this, it has easy portability options and can be used on different occasions like parties, dinners and camping.

High-tech and durable vanadium stainless steel is used to make the blade. The edges of the knife are hollow. A stainless-steel handle offers a safe grip and ample comfort to your hand. It is recommended to wash this tool by hand only.

This feature makes it unique and a stand-out in the list of Santoku knives. One has to ponder upon which carver should be bought from the collection. This knife comes in plastic packing.

This product has positive comments from the buyers, which means the manufacturers are not compromising on their quality. Yet, somehow, the makers are not interested in giving a warranty, unlike their competitors. The global G-48 manufacturer offers this product in six months interest-free installments if your Amazon rewards visa card gets the approval.

Pros

  • Easy to sharpen.
  • Moderately balanced.
  • Smooth movement and sharp, cutting edge

Cons

  • A bit pricey.

As we dig deeper into our selections, we get to know more about Santoku knives and their specifications. The Japanese steel Mac knife MSK-65 is another carver that requires thought. This 6.5-inch Santoku knife is an all-purpose cutter that offers various workability options like slicing, cutting and peeling. This knife is not only for professionals, but it can be used in homes too.

The blade comes in silver color, and its edge is hollow, just like the Zwilling J.A knife. But the Zwilling J. A provides a lower price tag than MSK-65. The blade material is alloy steel which renders strength and toughness in the long run.

The handle material is wood, but some people differ by stating that it is Pakkawood. In contrast, the maker did not confirm the handle material. The blade has a thickness of 2.5mm, and it has a razor-sharpened edge. The edge retention is better than other knives because sub-zero tempered steel reduces micro-stresses and prevents cracking.

This knife is hand-wash preferred to ensure its long life. Dishwashing this tool can lead to a reduction in quality, particularly to its edges and sharpness. This carver has been manufactured in Japan. So, if you’re a Japanese-product enthusiast, then this one is undoubtedly yours for the taking.

It weighs around 9.6 ounces which makes it a portable option. Moreover, it comes in an effortless and elegant shape. The meat butchers mostly use this knife to quicken their work and increase their productivity.

It also comes with six months interest-free loan offer if your Amazon rewards visa card gets approval. You can also purchase it in installments.

Pros

  • Rust resistant.
  • 2mm thick blade.
  • Its edges last long.

Cons

  • Has a traditional shape.

We will now examine Mac Knife’s specifications and its advantages over earlier discussed knives. Mac Knife Superior and Mac Knife MSK-65 are from the same family. Their build materials are almost identical, with minimal exceptions.

Like the MSK-65, the Mac knife’s blade is made from alloy steel, enhancing its robustness. The handle material is Pakka wood. They both have the same size, but Mac Knife is slightly lighter in weight than MSK-65. It carries a weight of 8.8 ounces. This knife’s blade is 2mm thick, and it is rust-resistant. The addition of carbon helps in keeping its edges sharp for a long period of time.

Again, it is manufactured in Japan at a lower price than the MSK-65. This knife would be a good pick for you as it offers rust-resistant blades with a reasonable price range. The users are impressed with its weight and balance.

If you are not a professional chef and want to add a new blade to your block, you can go for this carver.

Pros

  • Modern design.
  • 67-layer high carbon stainless steel.
  • Full tang construction

Cons

  • Higher price point.
  • Slightly heavyweight.

Next up is the Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife, which has a blade length of 7 inches. This carving knife mainly attracts people who have immense love for design and aesthetics. It has a modern and sleek orientation with a defined blade for slicing meat, vegetables and other eatables.

This knife is genuinely made for kitchen kings/queens who love cooking and eating. Let us discuss what this carver is offering. The blade material is made from 67- layer high carbon stainless steel. The steel is imported from Damascus. The blade edge is hollow ground and does not let meat or vegetable stick to it. The knife has a rounded handle that is triple-riveted, providing extra durability and support.

Zelite claims to render a lifetime full money-back guarantee if it has any manufacturing defects. Giving this carver a try is worth it. The packaging is also very impressive. It comes with a sheath that ensures protection and longevity.

The weight is slightly heavy than other discussed knives. It weighs around 9.9 ounces. If you have a relative or friend who is a chef with exceptional knife skills, providing them with this gift would be a superb choice to make.

Zelite infinity offers six months interest-free loan offer if your Amazon rewards visa card gets the approval.

Pros

  • High-grade steel used.
  • Unique sharpness and cutting ability

Cons

  • Only for right-handed people.
  • The electric sharpener will not work efficiently.

Now, on our list is the Misono UX10 Santoku Knife. It entails a Swedish blade that can be used for multiple tasks like cutting and slicing.

Misono UX10 claims to have the highest quality grade steel used in the making of the blade. It is stain and rust-resistant. In addition, this kitchen knife has the highest edge retention capability among all Misono knives. This feature provides no second thoughts to the buyer whose workload requires heavy usage of a carver.

The riveted nickel silver bolster enhances the balance and durability of this all-purpose knife. It balances the weight between handle and blade. It is lightweight cutlery that weighs around 6 ounces, and its dimensions are 14.96 x 2.17 x 0.79 inches. The handle is made out of wood to ensure a better grip and traction.

Misono’s are famous for thin and sharp knives. They render quality and finesse in their finished products. The knives are hand-made and come with a high-profile blade that provides sharp cutting features. It ensures ease of use and provides superior customer satisfaction.

The blade has extraordinary sharpness, and it has been compared with the bite of traditional Japanese single-edged design knives. Professional chefs or butchers mostly use this type of knife because of this feature. However, if you are new to the kitchen, then try using this knife cautiously.

The best way to sharpen this carver is by using whetstones. Unfortunately, the electric sharpener is not efficient for this type of knife due to the 70:30 bevel.

Pros

  • Non-serrated blade.
  • Handcrafted

Cons

  • The knife loses its edge after multiple uses.

Shun Classic Knife is the second hand-crafted Japanese knife we have on the list. This knife is a seven-inch Santoku knife that works with high accuracy. It has gained a lot of support and is a high-purchasing commodity.

Shun classic is an all-purpose knife that aids in cutting vegetables, fruits and meat with cleaner cuts. It comes in black color, and the handle is made of Pakka wood. Moreover, its blade edge is non-serrated, which ensures explicit slicing and severing. Somehow, this carver can also be called a steak knife because you can cut meat in slices without shredding the fibers.

The manufacturer uses VG-max corrosion-resistant and stainless steel. The formula consists of multiple elements, including carbon, cobalt, tungsten, vanadium and chromium, to add more strength and durability.

Pakka wood is saturated with resin, making it water-resistant and durable. It weighs 7.3 ounces, and its dimensions measure 15.5 x 3.1 x 1 inches. In addition, indentation has also been done to prevent friction.

Shun classic is a forged knife with multiple layers of different alloys combined together to make it sturdy and long-lasting. Furthermore, it can be a great idea to gift this beautifully handcrafted knife to a cutlery lover or a kitchen enthusiast. It also comes with a handy blade that can be used for multiple purposes, including barbecuing or any cooking event.

For the safety of its customers, this knife comes in a thick plastic sheath. It can also be transported with ease for use on different occasions.

Pros

  • Forged knife.
  • Great balance.
  • Full tang construction
  • Ambidextrous
  • Sharp on both sides
  • Tough surface

Cons

  • It cannot be used with an electric sharpener

The second last of our list is Tojiro DP Santoku Knife. It is an all-purpose knife manufactured in Japan. This blade is considered a basic slicing knife for tasks like cutting vegetables, meat and fish. The blade material is stainless steel, just like all the other knives discussed before.

The most promising feature of this knife is its price tag. It is considered a budget-friendly accessory and can be purchased from any local superstore or online from any website. Moreover, the features are no less than any other Santoku knife.

Most people demand that they want a right-handed or a left-handed knife. This debate has been put to a halt by this knife as it has an ambidextrous nature. The company has also diminished the conflict of the blade side for different users.

Tojiro DP is slightly shorter than the actual size of a Santoku. Most Santoku knives are 7″. However, Tojiro is 6.7″. Its dimension measure 6.69 x 1.57 x 0.39 inches, and it carries a weight of 6.8 ounces.

This is a forged knife with exceptional strength and durability. In addition, the handle material is made out of eco-wood. Resin and sawdust are merged to produce and laminate it. If you are looking for a long-lasting, low-priced forged knife, this is the best choice for you.

VG 10 steel core is used in making the blade for long-lasting sharpness. However, it needs to be honed with stones rather than an electric sharpener.

Pros

  • Rust and corrosion-resistant.
  • Comes in a gift box.
  • Requires low maintenance

Cons

  • Rockwell hardness is low than other Imarku knives.

The last on our research is the Imarku Santoku knife made by the Japanese. It is considered a chef knife that severs meat, including steaks and fish, with precision. The blade has a hollow edge that will not let meat stick onto it. It is an ideal candidate for homes and restaurant kitchens.

The handle material is made out of Pakka wood which renders an impressive grip to the user. The German HC stainless steel is used in making the blade. The HC steel has excellent resistance against rust, corrosion and discoloration.

The quality is sustainable and will ensure high productivity with the passage of time. The blade polishing procedure is applied to make the blade sharper than other knives. It has an edge of 2.5mm thickness. This knife is an excellent tool for restaurant chefs and kitchen enthusiasts.

Pakka wood handle’s ergonomic design helps in reducing stress in the wrist and palms. This knife comes in an attractive black gift box. Giving it as a gift to someone is an excellent idea, especially to those who are bound to the kitchen.

FAQs

Santoku is an all-purpose knife. Its uses vary from peeling vegetables to cutting a steak. This knife is best for mincing, dicing and slicing eatables like fish, meat or vegetables. Chefs use this type of knife because it has sharp cutting edges and delivers quick results without tearing the fibers. In homes, this knife performs every routine task.

Santoku comes in different sizes. The smallest Santoku is three inches, and the largest is nine inches. The most commonly used is a seven-inch Santoku. A moderately sized knife can perform plenty of tasks efficiently done by either a nine-inch Santoku or a three-inch one.

The knife industry keeps Santoku knives as one of the top-rated and highly recommended cutlery throughout the world. It is required in every household, restaurant or hotel which cater foods and other eatables for customers. They possess multiple qualities, and one doesn’t require different blades for different tasks. Santoku knives can cut vegetables and meat, including steaks.

The Bottom Line

That is all from our side. We hope that our article provided you with ample information about Santoku knives. Good day!