There is an array of chef’s knives on the market, but not all are created equal. A quality chef’s knife should be well-balanced, sharp, and comfortable to hold as well as durable and easy to maintain.
If you’re shopping for an excellent chef’s knife, here are eight choices under $200 that feature high-grade materials and craftsmanship.
If you want to skip the reviews, we say get the WÜSTHOF Classic 8 Inch.
Best Chef’s Knife Under $200 Reviews
ZWILLING Professional S 8-inch Chef’s Knife
- QUALITY MANUFACTURING: Manufactured in Germany. Special formula high carbon no stain steel. Sigma forge...
- RESILIENT BLADE: Ice-hardened FRIODUR blade starts sharper stays sharper longer and has superior...
- PRECISE CUTTING: Precision honed blade and laser-controlled edge ensures ideal cutting angle for...
- BALANCED KNIFE: Ergonomic polymer three rivet handle is perfectly bonded to the full tang
- RETAINS SHARP EDGE: 57 Rockwell hardness is equal to excellent edge retention. Edge angle 15° per side
ZWILLING Professional S is an outstanding chef’s knife at an excellent value.
Featuring an ergonomic, comfortable handle with excellent balance, its razor-sharp blade can take on most kitchen cutting tasks with ease, though bones or thick food may need additional tools like Japanese chef’s knives or even cleavers for efficient Asian style cutting.
While not as exquisite or beautiful as the Wusthof Classic Ikon or Shun Shun Pro, the ZWILLING Professional S remains an attractive option for kitchen professionals looking for a basic high-quality chef’s knife.
Formed from one piece of steel for maximum strength and durability; additionally, it can be cryo-treated to improve edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Another feature of this knife is its rounded belly curve, making it suitable for performing rocking cuts such as mincing herbs or vegetables. This feature also helps maintain sharpness longer; although, perhaps not as sharply as some of the more pointed knives on this list.
Zwilling Pro knives are constructed from single pieces of stainless steel for optimal durability and edge retention, hardened to a Rockwell Hardness rating of 57 for optimal use in most kitchen tasks.
In addition, the Pro collection boasts several different blade types from classic German models to nimble Japanese styles for greater versatility in kitchen use.
All Zwilling Pro collections feature their own style and design, so select one that best meets your needs.
The Gourmet and Twin Signature lines offer more traditional European-style knives that make for great all-purpose kitchen tools.
Both these lines also offer multiple buying options: individual chef’s knives, paring knives, bread knives, steak knives, santokus/nakiris/fillet knives as well as complete sets that total approximately $400 for 19 pieces.
WÜSTHOF Classic 8 Inch Chef’s Knife
- KITCHEN WORKHORSE – The WÜSTHOF 8” Classic Chef’s Knife is essential for preparing any meal. This...
- WÜSTHOF CLASSIC SERIES – The full Tang, Triple Riveted handles of the classic line offer the widest...
- CHEF’S KNIFE – Features an 8” long blade, 4.5” long handle and weighs 8.5 ounce Full Bolster and...
- PRECISION FORGED – The 8” Chef’s Knife is forged from a single block of high carbon stainless steel...
- ENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany...
A chef’s knife is an indispensable kitchen tool, indispensable to both professional chefs and home chefs alike. Used for an array of tasks and making cutting food an enjoyable experience rather than a burden, its Wusthof Classic knife makes short work of any food preparation task thanks to its superior quality construction.
This blade is constructed from one single piece of German steel hardened to a Rockwell rating of 58 and features an ergonomic polyoxymethylene synthetic handle designed with natural pinch gripping capabilities and a curved butt end for increased hand fatigue prevention.
A high concentration of chromium helps resist corrosion and staining while carbon increases strength; additional elements such as manganese, tungsten, and vanadium increase wear resistance further.
Wusthof knives have long been revered for their sharp edge that remains sharp for extended use, even under regular usage.
This Wusthof model boasts an outstanding Rockwell rating of 58 which makes for long-lasting sharpening sessions; typically only require sharpening once or twice per year due to their single block forged steel construction that keeps their edge strong and rust resistant for much longer than hollow or stamped blades.
Although this knife may be pricey, it has received excellent reviews on Amazon for chef’s knives. Many users rate this Wusthof chef’s knife as excellent or better than other brands they have tried and they frequently praise its look, feel, and comfort features.
Many reviewers appreciate its weight. In contrast to Japanese chef’s knives, which tend to be lighter and nimbler, this blade offers more of a traditional Western feel compared to their counterparts.
This bodes well for those seeking heavier knives as studies have proven they’re more efficient when cutting while simultaneously being safer to hold over time – meaning less tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome for users!
Shun Cutlery Classic Chef’s Knife 8”
- JAPANESE CHEF'S KNIFE: The Shun 8-inch Classic Chef's knife is the perfect all-purpose kitchen knife....
- WIDE, CURVED BLADE: This Japanese kitchen knife has a wide blade that keeps knuckles off the cutting...
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Constructed with Shun's proprietary VG-MAX cutting core and clad in 68 layers...
- COMFORTABLE HANDLE: The D-shaped, ebony-finished Pakkawood handle is durable, beautiful, doesn't harbor...
- TRADITIONAL, ARTISAN CUTLERY: Inspired by the traditions of ancient Japan, Shun knives are handcrafted by...
This versatile chef’s knife is ideal for performing multiple cutting tasks in any kitchen.
With its thin blade that is lighter and easier to use than European-style ones, as well as its curved belly that allows fine mincing or chopping of ingredients, this chef’s knife can tackle everything from large vegetables such as winter squash to cutting fruits or meat into thin slices.
This Shun Classic Chef’s Knife features a high-grade VG-MAX steel blade for optimal edge retention, covered by Damascus stainless steel that has been ground and bead-blasted to reveal its flowing pattern of metal layers.
For optimal handling and ergonomic balance while cutting for extended periods, its handle features polished pakkawood featuring a D-shaped grip with ergonomically balanced features for comfortable cutting sessions without straining your hands or wrists.
This knife’s 16-degree cutting angle on both sides makes it ideal for slicing and dicing tasks, with both right-handed users being able to use it comfortably. Plus, its razor-sharp edge will remain razor-sharp over time with proper care and maintenance.
This knife boasts an attractive hammered finish that adds visual interest and texture to your set. Additionally, its handle has been textured so as to help secure the grip of this chef’s knife.
Unfortunately, however, its main drawbacks include not being suitable for bone cutting (use meat cleavers instead) and thick-skinned fruits like melons (for these tasks opt for paring or utility knives instead).
If you’re on a budget but looking for an impressive chef’s knife, the Shun Classic Chef’s Knife 8″ may be just what you need. Affordable yet durable and beautiful in appearance.
Though slightly more costly than other VG-10 knives, with its incredible warranty you get quality chef’s knives like this from Shun – making the investment well worth your while.
Shun Cutlery Classic Chef’s Knife 6”
- JAPANESE CHEF'S KNIFE: The Shun 6-inch Classic Chef's knife is the perfect all-purpose kitchen knife....
- SMALL, NIMBLE BLADE: This Japanese kitchen knife is small, light, and extremely maneuverable. It's wide...
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Constructed with Shun's proprietary VG-MAX cutting core and clad in 68 layers...
- COMFORTABLE HANDLE: The D-shaped, ebony-finished Pakkawood handle is durable, beautiful, doesn't harbor...
- TRADITIONAL, ARTISAN CUTLERY: Inspired by the traditions of ancient Japan, Shun knives are handcrafted by...
Shun knives may be expensive, but they’re certainly some of the most eye-catching blades you can have in your kitchen.
Their craftsmanship often draws admiration even among non-owners; even without owning one yourself, it’s difficult not to respect what went into making one.
Yet despite all of their popularity, they don’t offer every benefit as lower priced options do; some can even crack and chip under improper use! Nonetheless, they remain an amazing kitchen tool!
Shun Classic chef’s knife 6″ features their proprietary VG-Max stainless steel cutting core, which remains sharper for longer than other stainless steel blades and boasts durability thanks to being coated in Damascus spec.
For aesthetic and weather resistance purposes, this handle is constructed from weather-resistant PakkaWood while hand sharpening is performed at 16 degrees angle for optimal performance, and weight balance between handle and blade is ensured.
Shun recommends this knife be used only with foods that won’t damage its high-quality precision blade like eggs and soft cheeses, and recommends using a gliding slicing motion without sideways movement to minimize chipping or bending of its tip; use should also be limited on ceramic or marble surfaces to minimize microchipping risk.
Shun’s Sora series offers those looking for more out of their kitchen knives an option worth exploring. This series utilizes more affordable stainless steel in its construction while using higher-end VG-Max steel only on its cutting edge for increased flexibility and superior edge quality.
Perfect for casual home cooks who don’t require razor-sharp edges and don’t have space for maintaining multiple high-end sets, however not recommended for professional chefs due to excessive wear and tear that wears away this superior blade steel over time.
MAC Knife Professional series 8″ MTH-80
- 2.5mm blade. The added dimples help the knife to glide through sticky foods such as potatoes, apples, and...
- Lightweight. Knife Length- 12.63 inches
- Pakka wood handle. Blade thickness - 2.5 mm
- Hand wash is recommended Not dishwasher safe
- Made In Japan
The MAC Knife Professional Series 8″ MTH-80 is an ideal chef’s knife under 200 for home chefs looking for quality yet cost-effective performance.
Boasting an expertly sharpened edge and lightweight yet sturdy handle design, the MTH-80 also holds up well against repeated use – perfect for busy chefs working frequently in kitchens.
Made of high-grade stamped steel with an RH hardness rating between 58 to 61 on the Rockwell scale for extra control and comfort in use, its curved bolster provides extra weight in one spot for increased weight concentration while increasing overall control.
Epicurious named the MTH-80 one of MAC’s most popular models and it even earned them their best chef’s knife overall award during a recent test of 18 knives!
Offering many similar benefits as other MAC knives (with what the company considers superior steel that has low carbon content for increased durability), the MTH-80 remains popular with home chefs and professionals alike. It even won them their overall title!
Its thin blade makes it perfect for cutting and slicing food with minimal effort, while its narrow tip gives more precise cuts in small spaces like between joints when breaking down poultry. Furthermore, this knife features an innovative granton edge designed to prevent food from sticking to its blade.
MAC knives stand out among other chef’s knives by their ability to maintain an edge for longer than others, thanks to their sub-zero tempered blade, which helps resist corrosion and remain sharper for longer. Furthermore, this knife comes equipped with a thick bolster for additional strength and balance.
The MAC Knife stands out from Japanese chef’s knives by using stainless steel, which is more resistant to rust and corrosion. Even so, it is still important to rinse and dry it after every use if acidic foods such as tomatoes are being prepared using this knife; otherwise, it could rust and discolor over time.
The MAC knife comes equipped with a protective sheath for safe storage and use and is dishwasher-safe. To maintain optimal results when storing this tool, keep it away from other metal objects to avoid rusting or any possible blade damage.
Victorinox Swiss Army 5.2063.20-X4 Fibrox
- An all-purpose chef’s knife provides ultimate control to mince your way through any culinary challenge.
- Contemporary, textured handle with a non-slip grip -- even when wet. The handle is ergonomically designed...
- Hygienic, dishwasher safe, slip-resistant and NSF approved. These exceptional knives are weighted and...
Victorinox Swiss Army knives are an ideal choice for commercial kitchens looking for reliable chef’s knives that can withstand daily usage.
Made of both durable and versatile material, their Fibrox Pro handles are ergonomically contoured to fit comfortably in any hand during food preparation.
Furthermore, these durable tools last up to 60% longer than comparable alternatives and are dishwasher-safe – providing additional peace of mind and added convenience!
Victorinox Knives are an essential addition to any travel toolbox, and this model by Victorinox makes an ideal TSA-compliant option. You can safely slip it into your purse or backpack without risking confiscation by TSA agents.
This classic tool set contains a small blade, scissors, nail filer, screwdriver 2.5 mm, and key ring features in this model.
Victorinox also offers larger pocket knives equipped with corkscrews – perfect if you plan to enjoy wine or beer while traveling abroad! Victorinox even offers hunting pocket knives designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts that include tools such as wood saws, fish scalers, and gut hooks!
These knives make great presents for anyone who enjoys cooking. Constructed of high-grade stainless steel and featuring a locking blade designed for both ease of use and safety, their thermoplastic elastomer handles are easy to grip while their smooth glossy finishes complete their gift boxes.
Victorinox has been around for over 100 years and is renowned for producing top-quality Swiss Army Knives.
These popular knives have long been the choice of professionals and come in a range of styles that cater to individual needs. Established by Karl Elsener in Switzerland in 1884, Victorinox products are known for their durability and versatility – their lifetime guarantee further ensures this.
Their website also features helpful resources, such as information on caring for knives as well as frequently asked questions (FAQs). There is even a section dedicated to lives saved, emergencies handled or situations solved using Swiss Army Knives alone!
Global 8″ Chef’s Knife
- Lightweight, precisely balanced 8-inch or 20cm chef's knife
- Blade made of high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel
- Edge retains razor sharpness exceptionally well
- Stainless-steel handle molded for Comfort, dimpled for safe grip
- Lifetime warranty against defects and breakage
Global Knives are among the more budget-friendly knife brands, starting at around $100 for their chef’s knives and featuring double straight edge blades designed by acclaimed Japanese designer Komin Yamada in this model, Sai.
Global knives are made from CROMOVA 18 stainless steel, which is an exclusive metal blend developed by the company and boasts an advanced proprietary formula designed to give more durability than standard stainless steel with less corrosion potential.
Tempered to a Rockwell hardness of 56-58, which ensures you get a sharp edge perfect for kitchen work. Furthermore, it has been hammered to create Granton edge – oval-shaped dimples that allow air pockets to form between food and blade quickly and easily, helping release quickly.
Another benefit of the blade’s thinness is its precision and ease of control; being much thinner than most Wusthof or Zwilling blades makes it more precise and manageable when controlled accurately, and also makes it lighter and more durable than many chef’s knives – perfect features for an everyday knife that you use daily!
Other features of this knife include its handle, which is filled with sand to give it a weightier feel and ergonomic and slip-resistant with tiny circular black dimples on both sides for grip. Furthermore, there’s no bolster included which keeps it lightweight yet durable.
Global knives may not be composed of “real” Japanese steel, but they still make an ideal option for beginning or casual chefs who want a high-quality but affordable chef’s knife.
Their soft yet durable surface makes resharpening simple while lasting longer than harder, brittle Japanese steel knives; additionally, they come with an unusual lifetime warranty! Moreover, Global blades tend to resist staining better than German-style knives which often succumb to rusting over time.
TOJIRO JAPAN Professional Chef Knife – 8.2″
- Professional Chef Knife
- Made in Japan
- Hand Made Samurai Style
- Life Warranty
An indispensable tool in food preparation, whether at home or working as part of the restaurant business. A proper knife ensures all tasks can be accomplished swiftly without compromising the quality of the finished product.
The TOJIRO JAPAN Professional Chef Knife is an outstanding value. Constructed from high-grade VG-10 steel renowned for its sharpness and durability, its hardness of 60 ensures it can hold an edge without being hard to sharpen; making this knife an excellent option for cutting meat, fish, vegetables, and herbs.
Another fantastic feature of this knife is its ergonomic design which ensures an easy grip and reduces fatigue during use.
Featuring a comfortable handle with an etched logo on its blade and being well-balanced for ergonomic use, this helps minimize user fatigue. In addition, its corrosion resistance properties give this blade great longevity.
This knife’s blade has been treated with chromium plating to increase its hardness and strength, which in turn prevents it from rusting while making cleaning and sharpening simpler – essential features for professional kitchen workers.
This knife is an affordable option that’s great for students or anyone seeking a high-quality chef’s knife without breaking the bank. Constructed of VG-10 steel blade material, it can handle both professional and domestic cooking tasks easily while its lightweight construction makes it simple to use.
This premium quality Japanese chef’s knife represents one of the best values on the market, featuring a premium VG-10 stainless steel blade and beautiful Micarta handle – both materials providing added rust- and corrosion-resistance; Micarta handles are stronger and more resilient than other materials with triple riveting for additional strength.
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