Ever feel like your kitchen knives just aren’t cutting it? You’re not alone. Choosing the perfect Santoku knife can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands and styles, and figuring out which one is best for your chopping, slicing, and dicing tasks can be confusing and even frustrating.
But what if there was a way to cut through that confusion? Imagine a knife that makes prepping meals a breeze, a tool that feels like an extension of your hand. That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They put knives to the test, so you don’t have to.
In this post, we’ll dive into what makes a great Santoku knife, according to the experts at America’s Test Kitchen. You’ll learn what features matter most and discover the top picks that will transform your cooking. Get ready to find the Santoku knife that will make your kitchen tasks feel effortless.
Our Top 5 Santoku Knife America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Santoku Knife America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware Edgekeeper 5-Inch Santoku Knife with Self-Sharpening Blade Cover
Rating: 8.8/10
The Farberware Edgekeeper 5-Inch Santoku Knife is a fantastic tool for your kitchen. It makes chopping and slicing vegetables a breeze. This knife is designed to be your go-to for all your daily food prep needs. Its special indentations on the blade help keep food from sticking, so you can cut with more accuracy. Plus, it has a comfortable handle that feels good in your hand, even when you’re doing a lot of chopping.
What We Like:
- The self-sharpening blade cover is a game-changer. It keeps the knife sharp every time you use it.
- The high-carbon stainless steel blade is strong and stays sharp for a long time.
- The ergonomic handle makes it easy and comfortable to hold while you’re cutting.
- The indentations on the blade help prevent food from sticking, which makes slicing and dicing much easier.
- It’s a versatile knife that’s great for many different kitchen tasks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The knife is designed for hand washing only, which takes a little more time than using a dishwasher.
- While the self-sharpening feature is great, it’s still a good idea to occasionally sharpen it yourself to keep it in top condition.
This Farberware Santoku knife is a solid addition to any kitchen. It offers great sharpness and convenience for everyday cooking.
2. HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 2-pc Knife Set
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 2-pc Knife Set, a duo of Santoku knives designed to make your kitchen tasks a breeze. Crafted with German engineering and over 100 years of expertise, these stainless steel knives promise a superior cutting experience. They are built to last, becoming the last knives you’ll need to buy.
What We Like:
- These knives have super sharp blades that cut through food easily.
- They are made to last a very long time, thanks to German engineering.
- Cutting and chopping feel effortless with these lightweight knives.
- The set includes a 5.5-inch and a 7-inch Santoku knife, perfect for various tasks.
- Cleanup is simple; they can go in the dishwasher and resist stains and rust.
- They are worth the investment because they stay sharp for a long time.
- The single-piece blade construction makes them very strong.
- The satin-finished blades are honed for long-lasting sharpness.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some home cooks.
- Availability could sometimes be limited, making them harder to find.
This HENCKELS knife set offers exceptional sharpness and durability for any kitchen. It’s a worthwhile addition for anyone who loves to cook and wants reliable tools.
3. OXO Outdoor 5.5in/14cm Santoku Knife with Locking Sheath
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for adventure with the OXO Outdoor 5.5in/14cm Santoku Knife. This knife is designed for all your outdoor cooking needs. It’s a versatile tool that makes preparing food in the wilderness a breeze. Its compact size makes it easy to pack and carry on any camping trip or picnic.
What We Like:
- This Asian-style chef’s knife is great for slicing, dicing, mincing, and even scooping food.
- The sharp Japanese stainless steel blade helps keep food from sticking, making prep easier.
- The locking sheath protects the blade and keeps you safe when you’re not using the knife.
- Its comfortable, non-slip handle gives you a firm grip, even if your hands are wet.
What Could Be Improved:
- This knife should be hand washed and dried right away to keep it in top shape.
The OXO Outdoor Santoku Knife is a reliable companion for any outdoor chef. It combines safety, comfort, and sharp performance for all your culinary adventures.
4. Babish High-Carbon 1.4116 German Steel Cutlery
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to chop, dice, and slice like a pro with the Babish High-Carbon 1.4116 German Steel Cutlery, 6.5″ Santoku Kitchen Knife. This knife is built for serious cooking. It’s made from top-quality German steel. This means it stays sharp for a long time. It feels great in your hand too. You can tackle all kinds of food with it.
What We Like:
- The knife is forged from a single piece of strong, high-carbon 1.4116 German steel.
- It’s expertly tempered, ground, and polished to be super sharp right out of the box.
- The full-tang handle makes the knife feel balanced and comfortable to hold.
- The Granton edge has little hollows that help food slide off easily, so less gets stuck.
- This Santoku knife is perfect for slicing, dicing, mincing, and chopping almost any food.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some, a 6.5-inch blade might be a little small for very large tasks.
- While the steel is excellent, some professional chefs might prefer an even harder steel for extreme longevity.
This Babish Santoku knife offers fantastic performance and value for home cooks. It’s a reliable tool that will make your kitchen tasks much easier.
5. ZYLISS 2 Piece Santoku Knife Set with Sheath Covers
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the ZYLISS 2 Piece Santoku Knife Set. This set includes two sharp Santoku knives, perfect for all your chopping and slicing needs. They are made from high-quality stainless steel, so they stay sharp for a long time. The set also comes with protective sheath covers, which are great for keeping the blades safe and for packing them for trips.
What We Like:
- The knives are made of high-carbon stainless steel, so they stay sharp for a long time.
- The included sheath covers protect the blades and make them safe for camping or storing in a drawer.
- The ergonomic handles have soft rubber grips. This makes them comfortable to hold and reduces hand tiredness.
- The set comes with two useful sizes: a 5-inch mini Santoku knife and a 7-inch Santoku knife.
- Zyliss kitchen tools are trusted by both home cooks and professional chefs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the sheath covers are protective, some users might prefer a more robust knife block for home storage.
- The size of the mini Santoku might be too small for some larger food preparation tasks.
This ZYLISS Santoku Knife Set offers excellent sharpness and comfort for everyday cooking. It’s a reliable addition to any kitchen.
Your Guide to the Best Santoku Knife: America’s Test Kitchen Approved
So, you’re looking for a fantastic santoku knife. That’s smart! These knives are super versatile and can handle a lot of kitchen tasks. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many, and we’re here to help you pick the best one for your kitchen.
What Makes a Santoku Knife Great? Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a santoku, keep these important things in mind.
- Blade Shape: A santoku has a straighter edge than a chef’s knife. It also has a rounded tip. This shape is great for chopping, slicing, and dicing. It makes rocking the knife on your cutting board easy.
- Weight and Balance: A good knife feels right in your hand. It shouldn’t be too heavy or too light. The weight should feel balanced between the blade and the handle. This makes it easier and safer to use.
- Handle Comfort: You’ll be holding this knife a lot. The handle should feel good in your grip. It shouldn’t be slippery. A comfortable handle helps you control the knife better.
- Blade Edge: A sharp edge is essential. It cuts through food cleanly. A dull knife can be dangerous because it can slip. Look for a knife that stays sharp for a long time.
What Are Santoku Knives Made Of? Important Materials
The materials used in a santoku knife really matter. They affect how well it cuts and how long it lasts.
- Blade Steel: Most good santoku knives use high-carbon stainless steel. This is a strong material. It resists rust and corrosion. It also holds a sharp edge well. Some knives use special alloys for even better performance.
- Handle Materials: Handles can be made from many things.
- Wood: Wood handles look nice. They feel warm in your hand. You need to care for them to keep them from drying out.
- Plastic or Polymer: These handles are tough. They are easy to clean. They often offer a good grip.
- Metal: Metal handles can be very durable. They can feel a bit slick if they aren’t textured.
What Makes a Santoku Knife Better or Worse? Factors Affecting Quality
Not all santoku knives are created equal. Here’s what makes some better than others.
- How the Blade is Made (Forged vs. Stamped):
- Forged knives are made from a single piece of steel heated and hammered into shape. They are usually stronger and have better balance.
- Stamped knives are cut from a sheet of metal. They are often less expensive but might not be as durable.
- Full Tang vs. Partial Tang: The tang is the part of the blade that goes into the handle.
- A full tang goes all the way through the handle. This makes the knife stronger and more balanced.
- A partial tang only goes partway into the handle. These knives are usually not as strong.
- Blade Hardness: The hardness of the steel affects how well it holds an edge. Very hard steel stays sharp longer but can be more brittle.
Using Your Santoku: User Experience and Use Cases
A santoku knife is a joy to use when it’s the right one.
- Chopping Vegetables: The straight edge is perfect for up-and-down chopping. You can slice through onions, carrots, and peppers quickly.
- Slicing Meat: It works well for slicing cooked meats. The granton edge (those little indentations on the blade) helps food slide off.
- Dicing and Mincing: You can easily dice garlic or mince herbs. The rounded tip makes it easy to control.
- Everyday Tasks: It’s a great all-around knife for many common kitchen jobs. If you want one knife to do most of your cutting, a santoku is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Santoku Knives
Here are some answers to common questions about santoku knives, especially those recommended by America’s Test Kitchen.
Q: What is the main difference between a santoku and a chef’s knife?
A: A santoku has a straighter blade edge and a rounded tip. A chef’s knife has a curved edge and a pointed tip. The santoku’s shape is better for up-and-down chopping.
Q: Is a santoku knife good for beginners?
A: Yes, a santoku knife is often recommended for beginners. It’s versatile and easier to control for many tasks.
Q: What does “granton edge” mean on a santoku knife?
A: A granton edge has small hollows or indentations along the blade. These help food release from the blade more easily, preventing sticking.
Q: How do I care for my santoku knife?
A: Always wash your knife by hand with soap and water. Dry it immediately. Store it safely in a knife block or on a magnetic strip. Never put it in the dishwasher.
Q: How often should I sharpen my santoku knife?
A: How often you sharpen depends on how much you use it. A good rule is to sharpen it every few months or when you notice it’s not cutting as easily.
Q: Can I use a santoku knife to cut through bones?
A: No, santoku knives are not designed for cutting through bones. They are best for fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats.
Q: What is the best material for a santoku handle?
A: The best material depends on your preference. Durable, non-slip materials like polymer or well-finished wood are good choices.
Q: Why does America’s Test Kitchen recommend certain santoku knives?
A: America’s Test Kitchen tests knives rigorously. They look for sharpness, durability, comfort, and value. Their recommendations are based on thorough testing.
Q: Are expensive santoku knives always better?
A: Not always. While higher prices can mean better materials and construction, a well-made, mid-priced santoku can perform just as well as a very expensive one.
Q: What is the most important feature to look for in a santoku knife?
A: A sharp, high-quality blade steel that holds its edge is the most important feature. A comfortable, well-balanced handle is also crucial for safe and effective use.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!