The 8 Best Santoku Knives of 2023

When it comes to cooking, having the right tools can make all the difference. One such tool is the santoku knife, a versatile and unique blade that is an indispensable part of any kitchen. In this article, we'll explore what a santoku knife is, its origins, and the 8 best santoku knife in 2023, etc.

What is a Santoku Knife?

The santoku knife is a type of kitchen knife that originated in Japan. The name santoku translates to "three virtues," referring to its ability to handle three different types of cutting tasks: slicing, dicing, and mincing. This knife is characterized by its straight blade and sharp, pointed tip, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of cutting tasks.

Origins of the Santoku Knife

The santoku knife originated in Japan during the late 19th century. It was inspired by the Western-style chef's knife, but was designed to meet the specific needs of Japanese cuisine. In Japan, the santoku knife quickly became a staple in the kitchen and is now widely used across the world.

Our Top Picks

1. Damascus Santoku Knife 7" – Best Overall
2. Classic 7" Santoku Knife - Best Classic
3. Stainless Steel Santoku Knife 7" - Best Budget
4. Hand Forged Santoku Knife 7.5" - Best Forged
5. Japanese Damascus Santoku Knife 7" - Best High-end
6. Santoku Knife 5" - Best Mini
7. Japanese Santoku Knife 7" - Best Design
8. Damascus Hollow Edge Santoku Knife 7" - Best Outstanding

Damascus Santoku Knife 7" – Best Overall

Buy On Fzkaly

The Fzkaly Damascus santoku knife is a high-quality kitchen knife that is designed for precision cutting and slicing. The knife features a Damascus blade that is made from 67 layers of premium Japanese steel, resulting in a durable and long-lasting edge. The handle of the knife is ergonomically designed and made from blue Pakka wood handle, providing a comfortable and secure grip even during extended use. Additionally, the knife comes with a protective sheath that helps to keep the blade safe when not in use.

Pros:

• Precision cutting: The blade is sharp and durable, making it ideal for precision cutting and slicing of a variety of ingredients.
• Ergonomic handle: The handle of the knife is designed for comfort and security, even during extended use, allowing you to work efficiently in the kitchen.
• Protective sheath: The included sheath helps to protect the blade when not in use, ensuring that it stays sharp and ready for your next meal prep.

Cons:

• Price: As a high-quality kitchen knife, the Fzkaly 7" santoku knife comes with a premium price tag that may not be within reach for all budget-conscious consumers.
• Maintenance: As with all high-end kitchen knives, proper maintenance and care are required to keep the knife in top condition, including regular honing and sharpening.

Price: $145

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7 in | Handle Length: 5.5 in | Total Length: 12.5 in | Blade Thickness: 0.1 in | Blade width: 1.8 in | Net weight: 0.57 lbs

Classic 7" Santoku Knife - Best Classic

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The Fzkaly classic 7" santoku knife is an excellent choice for home cooks who are looking for a high-quality and versatile kitchen knife. The knife is designed to be versatile and suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meats. And its durable construction ensures that it will last for years with proper care and maintenance.

Pros:

• High-quality stainless steel blade: The blade of the knife is made from high-quality X50Cr15 stainless steel, which is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion.
• Sharp edge: The blade is sharpened to a 15-degree angle on each side, which provides a razor-sharp edge that can make precise cuts with ease.
• Comfortable handle: The handle of the knife is made from Pakkawood, a durable and comfortable material that provides a secure grip and reduces fatigue during use.
• Stylish design: The knife features an elegant and timeless design that will complement any kitchen decor.

Cons:

• Size: The 7" blade may be a bit smaller than some users prefer, especially for larger cutting tasks.
• Requires regular sharpening: As with any kitchen knife, the blade will require regular sharpening to maintain its edge over time.

Price: $49.99

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7 in | Handle Length: 5 in | Total Length: 13 in | Blade Thickness: 0.08 in(2.2mm) | Blade Width: 1.81 in | Net Weight: 0.44 lbs

Stainless Steel Santoku Knife 7" - Best Budget

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This 7" santoku knife is the workhorse of the kitchen. Made from precision-forged with high-carbon German stainless steel for incredible long-lasting sharpness. Whether you’re culinary experts or home cooks, it is all you’ll need. While some users may find the blade length to be too long, and it may require frequent sharpening, the knife's overall quality and versatility make it a great option for home cooks.

Pros:

• Ultra-Sharp edge: The blade is sharpened to a 15-degree angle on each side, which provides a razor-sharp edge that can make precise cuts with ease.
• Ergonomic handle: The handle of the knife is made from Pakkawood, a durable and comfortable material that provides a secure grip and reduces fatigue during use.
• Stylish design: The knife features an elegant and timeless design that will complement any kitchen decor.
• Price: This santoku knife is an affordable option for those on a tight budget.

Cons:

• Not for dishwasher use: Should be hand washed.
• Heavier: This German santoku knife may be heavier than Japanese steel santoku knife, which can be a disadvantage for some users who prefer a lighter knife for extended use.
• Requires regular sharpening: they may not hold their edge and require more frequent sharpening to maintain their sharpness over time.

Price: $48.95

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7 in | Handle Length: 5 in | Total Length: 12 in | Blade Thickness: 0.08 in | Blade Width: 2.2 in | Net Weight: 0.43 lbs

Hand Forged Santoku Knife 7.5" - Best Forged

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The Fzkaly 7.5" hand forged santoku knife is a premium kitchen tool that is handcrafted by skilled artisans. The knife features a sharp and durable blade that is made from high-quality 9Cr18MoV high carbon steel, which is known for its exceptional hardness and edge retention. Honbazuke honing originates from traditional Japanese knife production. The ergonomic handle is made from ebony, which provides a comfortable and non-slip grip for precision control. The knife's overall quality and performance make it a great investment for those who want a high-quality and long-lasting kitchen tool.

Pros:

• Quality: Handcrafted by skilled artisans for a unique and high-quality construction.
• Sharp and durable blade: Incredible edge retention at 60±2 Rockwell
• Ergonomic: The handle made from premium ebony wood for impressive performance.
• Perfect gift: Comes with a beautiful gift box, making it a great option for gifting

Cons:

• Weight: Some users may find the handle to be on the heavier side, which can be a disadvantage for those who prefer a lighter knife.
• Maintenance: This santoku knife require more specialized care and maintenance than other types of knives due to their materials and construction.

Price: $65

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7.5 in | Handle Length: 5.4 in | Total Length: 12.9 in | Blade Thickness: 0.098 in(2.5mm) | Blade Width: 1.7 in | Net Weight: 0.5 lbs

Japanese Damascus Santoku Knife 7" - Best High-end

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A high-end santoku knife is a unique and memorable gift that can be cherished for years to come. It's a practical and useful tool that the recipient can use on a daily basis, which makes it a gift that is both thoughtful and functional. This Japanese santoku knife features a razor sharp and durable blade that is made from 67 layers of high-quality Damascus steel, which is known for its strength and beauty. The VG10 steel core provides excellent hardness and edge retention, while the 12°-15° bevel edge ensures precise and effortless slicing. The knife is well-suited for a variety of kitchen tasks, making it a great option for professional chefs.

Pros:

• Premium steel: The VG10 steel core ensures excellent hardness and edge retention.
• Lightweight: The lightweight construction of the knife can make it easier to handle and control during use, which can be particularly beneficial for those who use the knife for extended periods or for delicate slicing tasks.
• Versatile: The knife is well-suited for a variety of kitchen tasks.
• Unique handle: The ebony wood handle is unique and attractive, it is very comfortable to hold and use.

Cons:

• Price: The high-quality construction and Japanese steel materials of this knife result in a higher price point compared to other Santoku knives.
• Fragility: Japanese santoku knife are often made from harder and more brittle steel than their Western counterparts. While this can lead to exceptional sharpness and precision, it also makes the knives more susceptible to chipping or breaking if not cared for properly.

Price: $156

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7 in | Handle Length: 5.5 in | Total Length: 12.5 in | Blade Thickness: 2.5mm(0.098 in) | Blade width: 1.81 in | Net weight: 0.41 lbs

Santoku Knife 5" - Best Mini

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A mini santoku knife is smaller than a traditional santoku knife, which makes it easier to handle and allows for more precise cutting. This makes it ideal for tasks such as slicing garlic or shallots, dicing small vegetables, or trimming meats. Fzkaly 5" santoku knife is forged from Japanese vg10 Damascus steel at 60±2 HRC and uses the 3-step Honbazuke method and advanced heat treatment to enhance hardness and flexibility. Hand-sharpened to a savage 8 degrees per side, make paper-thin slices of veggies or meat and fish. The v-sharped cutting edge also ensures each slice is smoothly.

Pros:

• Portability: The 5" santoku knife is smaller and more compact than a full-sized santoku knife, making it easier to transport. This can be especially useful for outdoor cooking or camping trips, where you may not have access to a full range of kitchen tools.
• Comfort: The 5" santoku knife is often more comfortable to use for individuals with smaller hands or those who find larger knives uncomfortable to handle. The smaller size and lighter weight of a mini santoku knife can make it easier to use for extended periods of time without causing fatigue or discomfort.
• Versatility: Despite its smaller size, the knife can be used for a wide range of tasks in the kitchen, including chopping, slicing, and mincing. This makes it a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of cooking applications.

Cons:

• Limited cutting surface: The smaller size of a 5" santoku knife means that it has a smaller cutting surface than a 7" santoku knife. This can make it more difficult to cut larger items, such as a large head of cabbage or a watermelon.
• Less power: The 5" santoku knife is also generally less powerful than a larger knife, which can make certain tasks, such as cutting through bone, more difficult.

Price: $79

Product Details:

Blade Length: 5 in | Handle Length: 5 in | Total Length: 10 in | Blade Thickness: 0.08 in(2mm) | Blade Width: 1.14 in | Net Weight: 0.2 lbs

Japanese Santoku Knife 7" - Best Design

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The 7" Japanese santoku knife is designed for precise and versatile cutting. The blade is further enhanced by a stunning Damascus pattern, which adds to the knife's visual appeal. Its high-quality construction, stunning visual design, and comfortable g10 handle make it a unique and best option for cooking lover.

Pros:

• Non-stick: The hand-hammered Damascus pattern enhances non-stick properties, making you more effectively finish your daily kitchen cutting task.
• Silky Cutting Performance: Hand-forged and polished in a complex knife-making process, greatly improves the cutting and slicing efficiency.
• Full tang: Offer superb robustness and riveted for even more resilience.
• Ergonomic: The D-shaped handle design offers comfort and control.
• Knife sheath: Comes with a premium sheath for safe and easy storage.

Cons:

• Weight: The heavier blade and handle is a disadvantage for some users who prefer a lighter knife.
• Price: High quality steel and handle material results in expensive price

Price: $120

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7 in | Handle Length: 5 in | Total Length: 12 in | Blade Thickness: 0.08 in | Blade width: 1.8 in | Net weight: 0.6 lbs

Damascus Hollow Edge Santoku Knife 7" - Best Outstanding

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This santoku knife has small oval-shaped depressions along the blade edge, the depressions on the blade create small air pockets that reduce the amount of contact between the food and the blade. This reduces friction and makes it easier to make precise cuts with minimal effort. This is particularly important for professional chefs who need to create uniform cuts for presentation and cooking purposes. The blade is made of 67 Layers of Damascus steel offers stunning strength and flexibility. For the handle, the military-grade black G10 is triple-riveted, ensuring life-long durability.

Pros:

• Precision: The reduced friction and improved control offered by a hollow edge santoku knife can help to ensure precise and consistent cuts.
• Safety: The depressions on the blade edge helps to prevent food from slipping or sliding off the blade during cutting. This can help to improve safety and reduce the risk of injury.
• Edge retention: The knife has excellent edge retention, which means that the blade can remain sharp for longer periods of time. This can help to reduce the need for frequent sharpening, which can save time and effort.

Cons:

• Fragility: The indentations along the blade of a hollow edge santoku knife can make it more fragile than a standard Santoku knife. If the knife is dropped or mishandled, the blade may be more prone to chipping or breaking.
• Difficult to sharpen: The indentations along the blade of a hollow edge santoku knife can make it more difficult to sharpen than a standard santoku knife. It may require a specialized sharpening tool or technique to ensure that the indentations are not damaged during the sharpening process.

Price: $105

Product Details:

Blade Length: 7 in | Handle Length: 5 in | Total Length: 12 in | Blade Thickness: 0.08 in | Blade Width: 1.9 in | Net Weight: 0.62 lbs

What is the Difference Between Santoku Knife and Chef's Knife?

When it comes to kitchen knives, there are many different types to choose from. Two of the most popular options are the santoku knife and the chef's knife. Both of these knives are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, but there are some key differences between them that are worth noting. Next, we'll take a closer look at what sets these two knives apart and when you might want to use one over the other.

Santoku Knife

The santoku knife is a Japanese-style knife that is known for its versatility. This knife is designed to perform: slicing, dicing, and mincing. The blade of a santoku knife is typically shorter and wider than a chef's knife, and it has a more pointed tip.

One of the key benefits of a santoku knife is its ability to handle a wide range of tasks. This makes it a great choice for home cooks who are looking for a single knife that can perform multiple functions. The blade is designed to glide through food with ease, making it ideal for slicing, dicing, and mincing a variety of ingredients.

Chef's Knife

The chef's knife is a versatile knife that is commonly used by both home cooks and professional chefs. The blade of a chef's knife is typically longer and narrower than a Santoku knife, and it has a more rounded tip.

One of the key benefits of a chef's knife is its ability to handle a wide range of tasks, just like the santoku knife. However, the longer blade and rounded tip make it especially well-suited for tasks like chopping, slicing, and crushing. The chef's knife is also a good choice for tasks that require a longer cutting edge, such as breaking down a whole chicken.

When to Use a Santoku Knife vs. a Chef's Knife

When choosing between a santoku knife and a chef's knife, there are a few things to consider. If you're looking for a knife that can handle a wide range of tasks with ease, then a santoku knife may be the better choice. Its shorter, wider blade makes it well-suited for slicing, dicing, and mincing, and its pointed tip allows for precision cutting.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a knife that is especially well-suited for chopping and crushing, then a chef's knife may be the better choice. Its longer, narrower blade and rounded tip make it ideal for these types of tasks.

Both the santoku knife and the chef's knife are versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks. The key difference between them is the shape of the blade, with the santoku knife being shorter and wider with a more pointed tip, and the chef's knife is longer and narrower with a more rounded tip. When choosing between these two knives, consider the types of tasks you'll be using it for and choose the knife that is best suited for your needs.

What to Consider When Buying a Santoku Knife

If you're in the market for a santoku knife, there are a few key factors that you should consider before making a purchase. Next, we'll take a closer look at what to keep in mind when shopping for a santoku knife.

Blade Material

The blade material is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a santoku knife. The most common materials used for santoku knives are stainless steel, carbon steel, and ceramic. Each of these materials has its own unique properties, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Stainless steel is a popular choice for santoku knives due to its rust resistance and low maintenance. Carbon steel is another option that is known for its sharpness, but requires more care and maintenance to keep the blade in good condition. Ceramic knives are lightweight, rust-free, and highly durable, but they are also brittle and can be difficult to sharpen.

Blade Length

Another factor to consider when buying a santoku knife is the blade length. Santoku knives typically come in three lengths: 165mm, 180mm, and 210mm. The length of the blade will determine how easily you can perform different cutting tasks. A shorter blade is more maneuverable and easier to control, making it ideal for more precise cuts. A longer blade, on the other hand, is better for larger cuts, as it provides more leverage and control.

Handle Material

The handle material is another important factor to consider when buying a santoku knife. The most common materials used for knife handles are wood, plastic, and rubber. Wood handles are classic and durable, but can be prone to cracking and splitting over time. Plastic and rubber handles are lightweight, easy to clean, and comfortable to hold, but they may not be as durable as wood handles.

Sharpness and Edge Retention

Sharpness and edge retention are two key factors that are important when buying a santoku knife. A sharp blade will make cutting tasks easier and more efficient, while a dull blade will make cutting tasks more difficult and time-consuming. Look for a knife with a sharp edge that is able to maintain its sharpness over time.

Brand and Price

Finally, consider the brand and price of the knife when making a purchase. High-quality santoku knives can range in price from $40 to $200 or more. Generally, higher-priced knives are made from better materials and are more durable, but it's important to keep in mind that there are many great options available at a more affordable price point as well.

How to Use a Santoku Knife: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a santoku knife:

1. Prepare your ingredients: Before you begin cutting, make sure your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This will help ensure that your cutting is efficient and safe.

2. Grip the handle: Start by gripping the handle of the knife securely. Make sure your fingers are wrapped around the handle, and your thumb is positioned on top of the handle for stability.

3. Position the knife: Hold the knife with the blade pointing down and place your index finger on the spine of the blade for control. Position the blade so that the tip is pointing towards your cutting board.

4. Start slicing: Begin slicing your ingredients by using a rocking motion with the knife. Start at the tip of the blade and use a back-and-forth motion to slice through the ingredient.

5. Dice: To dice ingredients, start by slicing the ingredient into long, thin slices. Then, stack the slices and cut them into smaller pieces.

6. Mince: To mince, place your ingredients on the cutting board and chop them into small pieces using a rocking motion with the knife.

7. Clean the knife: After you're finished cutting, make sure to clean your santoku knife. Rinse the blade under running water and use a soft cloth to dry it.

Tips for Using a Santoku Knife

1. Keep the knife sharp: A sharp knife is a safe knife. Make sure to keep your Santoku knife sharp to ensure efficient and accurate cutting.

2. Use the right cutting board: A soft cutting board, such as bamboo or plastic, is best for a santoku knife. Hard cutting boards, such as those made from glass or stone, can dull the blade more quickly.

3. Be careful when cutting through bones: The blade of a santoku knife is not as strong as a chef's knife, so be careful when cutting through bones.

By following these simple steps and tips, you'll be able to use your santoku knife with confidence and ease.

How to Sharpen a Santoku Knife?

A sharp santoku knife can make food preparation a breeze. However, over time, even the best knives will lose their sharpness, and it's important to know how to sharpen them to keep them performing at their best. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of sharpening a santoku knife, step by step.

Step 1: Choose the Right Sharpening Tool

Before you begin sharpening your santoku knife, you'll need to choose the right tool for the job. There are several options available, including sharpening stones, electric sharpeners, and honing rods. For this article, we'll be focusing on the use of a sharpening stone.

Step 2: Prepare the Sharpening Stone

Before you start sharpening your knife, you'll need to prepare the sharpening stone. Wet the stone with water and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help to create a slurry on the surface of the stone, which will help to sharpen the knife more effectively.

Step 3: Identify the Correct Angle

It's important to sharpen your santoku knife at the correct angle in order to achieve a sharp edge. For most santoku knives, this angle is around 20-25 degrees. To ensure that you're using the correct angle, you can purchase an angle guide or use a ruler to measure the angle.

Step 4: Start Sharpening

Once you have identified the correct angle, you're ready to start sharpening. Hold the handle of the knife and place the blade at the correct angle against the sharpening stone. Use light pressure to push the blade across the stone in a smooth, back-and-forth motion. Repeat this process several times, making sure to keep the angle consistent throughout.

Step 5: Flip the Knife Over

Once you have finished sharpening one side of the knife, flip it over and repeat the process on the other side. It's important to sharpen both sides of the knife evenly in order to achieve a balanced edge.

Step 6: Test the Sharpness

Once you have finished sharpening both sides of the knife, test the sharpness to ensure that it's as sharp as you need it to be. You can do this by slicing a piece of paper or running your finger along the edge of the blade. If the knife is still dull, repeat the sharpening process until it's as sharp as you need it to be.

Step 7: Clean and Store the Knife

Once you have finished sharpening your knife, clean it thoroughly and store it in a safe place. This will help to keep the edge sharp and prevent it from dulling too quickly.

Sharpening a santoku knife is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with the right tools. By following these steps, you can ensure that your knife is as sharp as it needs to be for food preparation. With regular sharpening, your santoku knife will last for years and be an indispensable tool in your kitchen.

When buying a santoku knife, it's important to consider the blade material, blade length, handle material, sharpness and edge retention, brand, and price. By taking these factors into account, you'll be able to find the perfect santoku knife that fits your needs and budget.

Conclusion

Overall, the santoku knife is a versatile and indispensable tool in any kitchen. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, getting a santoku knife that's right for you is an excellent choice for all of your slicing, dicing, and mincing needs.