Reviewing the 10 Best Kitchen Knives under $100 – With Buying Guide
Think about the amount of time you spend in the kitchen using a knife and you’ll begin to understand just how important this tool is. Indeed, a well-made knife can easily be the difference between an unpleasant struggle and an enjoyable chopping and mincing experience.
But as far as acquiring a new accessory for your kitchen is concerned, affordability should be a top priority. And it is for that reason that we review the best chef knives under 100. The goal is to link you up with a knife that’s not only well-made but also within your budget reach.
And by that, we mean:
- A well-made handle
- A blade that’s durable and easy to sharpen
- A knife that’s generally safe to use in the kitchen
With all those factors in mind, we start off this conversation by taking a closer look at some of the options available at your disposal. Hopefully, you’ll find a kitchen knife that’s ready to help you enjoy the slicing tasks even more.
10 Best Chef Knives Under $100 – Comparison List
Here’s our latest pick of knives that have the power and ability to transform your kitchen. You can always take advantage of the list below to simplify your search experience.
1. Wusthof 4172-7 5-Inch Classic Ikon Knife
With a fully riveted and grippy synthetic handle, the Wusthof is a German made 5-inch knife that any chef can bet on. That’s particularly owing to the fact that it packs a high-carbon stainless steel blade.
Its unique design, shape, and size make it a perfect bet for anyone looking to dice, slice and chop anything in the kitchen. And what’s more? Its “Kullen” edge goes a long way to reduce cutting friction making the job easier for you.
The icing on the cake is that this classic knife comes with a rear bolster. This comes in handy in providing balance and adding onto your safety.
It’s no wonder the Wusthof brand has been reigning supreme since 1814. In fact, to this end, the only issue we’d pick this with knife would be that its blade is rather shot at 5-inches of length.
Pros
- Has a sturdy and extremely sharp edge
- Well-made and ergonomic handle
- Its handle is riveted for longevity
- High-quality blade which cuts easily and remains sharp for long
Cons
- Relatively short blade
- Some have complained that its handle is thinner than expected
2. Zelite Infinity Honesuki Knife
This knife from Zelite is available in 4.5-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch variants. Therefore, there’s always something for everyone. Indeed, the idea behind this accessory seems like one of introducing versatility in every kitchen.
But how exactly does the Zelite fare when put to the test? Well, to begin with, it packs a layered high-carbon stainless steel material which is pretty durable.
This also goes a long way in protecting the blade from getting rust. What’s more? It plays a pivotal role in retaining the sharpness of the edge.
Its triple riveted and rounded handle goes a long way to provide a sense of durability and safety when handling the knife. As such, no matter your level of culinary experience, you’re bound to like what this piece of equipment has to offer.
Its sharp and steady blade seems to, however, have been let down by the knife’s odd shape. From our view, while the knife works really well for cutting fish and meat, it’s a pathetic performer in chopping and mincing stuff.
Pros
- Its blade is made out of really high-quality steel
- Its design is great although there’s room for improvement
- It retains its edge sharpness over time
- A pretty well-made handle
Cons
- It feels a bit heavier than average
- It needs some work to be better balanced
Also read: 10 Best Nakiri Knife Options to Choose From
3. Global G2 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
If there is a knife we happen to think really deserves to be ranked as the best kitchen knife under 100, it’s the Global G-2. Why so? Because it is quite well-balanced and easy to maneuver.
The blade is made from high-quality molybdenum stainless steel which is quite great in quality and also retains its edge sharpness. What’s more? The knife is so well made such that the manufacturer provides you with a lifetime warranty against breakage.
Its handle is made from steel but the manufacturer has taken the initiative to make its surface dimpled. This goes a long way in providing you with the extra grip you need for better handling.
Pros
- The knife is pretty durable and strong
- Has a dimpled handle for better handling
- Quite well-balanced for all-day use
- Backed by a lifetime warranty against breakage and defects
Cons
- Its stainless steel dimpled handle isn’t the most comfortable in our view
4. Imarku Pro 8-Inch High-Carbon Knife
It is rare to come across the adjectives “cheap” and “good quality” as far as knives are concerned. The Imarku Pro 8, however, seems all set to rewrite that trend.
Often ranked as one of the best chef knives under 50, this Imarku stands out with its high-carbon blade. The blade is so well-made to an extent that it packs steel which contains up to 0.75 carbon. So, it’s safe to say that the knife is quite durable and also classy.
The Imarku, however, is only available as an 8-inch knife. That’s not a big deal although people with small hands would probably have a hard time balancing the knife.
Pros
- Well packaged
- Has an ergonomic pakka handle
- Ideal for cutting, chopping, slicing, and dicing
- Retains its sharp edge for long
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Not the sharpest knife we’ve come across
- The handle material doesn’t seem as classy
5. Mac Knife Hollow Edge 8-Inch Knife
Armed with a 2mm blade, this rust-resistant knife promises nothing but the best for chefs. But does it live up to expectations? Well, you’ll get mixed reviews on this depending on who you ask.
But in our view, this knife doesn’t disappoint. It comes with a Pakka wood handle which is comfortable to handle although it may feel weak for some.
The blade itself is made from Molybdenum steel which does a really good job as far as edge-retention is concerned.
Pros
- Well-made and exceptionally sharp blade
- Generally well-made handle
- High-quality steel handle
- Great edge retention capability
Cons
- Its packaging could have been better
- The knife has a weak tip
6. Victorinox Custom Engraved Pro Chef’s Knife
Versatility is the name of the game at least as far as this custom engraved knife is concerned. Available in 5-inch, 6-inch, 7.5-inch, and 8-inch, this tool provides you with a user-friendly way to chop and mince stuff.
A closer look at the blade reveals that it’s made from a high-quality material which besides being durable also retains its edge.
Pros
- Well-made blade
- Available in different sizes
- Well-balanced and ideal for different cutting styles
- Slip-resistant handle
Cons
- Feels clumsy to handle although this experience may vary from one user to the next
- We’ve certainly seen knives that retain their sharpness better
7. J.A Henckels International 10-Inch Classic Knife
Spain is not really well-known for producing knives – so how does this Spanish made knife fare when weighed against its competition? Well, to begin with, it’s available in 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch variants.
There is no doubt that this knife blade is quite long and, therefore, seems well-made for people with large hands. But even with that said, this knife is still available in a 6-inch variant which can prove quite ideal in such instances.
Pros
- Its blade is made from carbon steel, high-quality
- Has a triple riveted handle
- Has a full bolster for extra safety
Cons
- Seems below par as far as finishing is concerned
8. Victorinox 8 Inch Multipurpose Chef’s Knife
Don’t let the minimalistic design and look of this kitchen knife fool you, the truth of the matter is that’s it has some perks worth admiring. To begin with, it packs a tapered edge. The edge is particularly designed to create an exacting angle which enhances its performance.
Its handle is made from Rosewood which is a naturally strong and heavy material. The good thing with this material is that it is crack-resistant besides boasting natural beauty. This goes a long way in ensuring that the handle looks classy and doesn’t fade with time.
Pros
- Made in Switzerland
- Excellent and high-quality Rosewood handle
- Comes with a tapered edge for smooth cuts
Cons
- The knife feels a bit too light for our liking
9. Dalstrong Gladiator Series German-Made 8-inch Knife
From a glance, the Dalstrong Gladiator Series knife screams and boasts of nothing but luxury. But does it have the features it takes to command a lead in this competitive market segment?
To begin with, it comes with a Pakkawood handle which is triple-riveted. This provides it with an awesome grip which goes a long way to provide maneuverability and comfort.
And for longevity, the Dalstrong’s handle is laminated. This complements its high-carbon German steel blade which is stain-resistant besides being precisely tempered.
Pros
- High-grade finishing
- High-quality, high-carbon German-made blade
- Its Pakkawood blade is triple riveted
- Backed by a money-back guarantee
Cons
- Too big and not ideal for small hands (or small kitchens for that matter)
10. Sky Light High Carbon C-6628 Stainless Steel Knife
The manufacturers of this knife recommend it as an all-rounder claiming that it can work on veggies, fruit and even meat. So, does it live up to these claims when put to the test?
To begin with, the Sky Light boasts a 15-degree double-beveled blade which besides being corrosion resistant is also highly flexible.
A closer look at its handle reveals that it packs a high-grade polymer which is also triple riveted for durability. So, on a scale of 10, we’d confidently give this knife a well-deserved 7. That’s because we believe that its balance could have been even better.
Pros
- It has a really well-made bolster
- High-quality blade
- Well-made handle
Cons
- Some have complained that its handle cracks easily
Choosing the Ideal Chef Knife for the Money
Finding the best knife can be quite a tough task especially if this is your first time shopping. For that reason, we have compiled a brief list of the factors to consider when getting one.
The Tang
There are two common types of tangs – full tang and partial tang. So, what makes the two so different and why should you pick one over the other?
The full tang mainly consists of two portions which are attached with either rivets or pins. Also, the full tang handle is one that’s meant to cover the entire handle. This is a pretty important feature when grip and extra strength is being sought for.
The partial tang handle as the name suggests is usually narrow and only covers the grip part of the handle. It is the most popular option for steak knives.
The Weight & Handle Type
If this is your first time shopping for a kitchen knife, chances are that you’ll think that the weight and handling of the knife can influence its performance. But that’s not necessarily the case. What matters, even more, is whether the knife is properly balanced or not.
Heavier knives tend to be quite effective when thick-sized ingredients are involved. But that said, lightweight knives are also reputed for being comfortable to use.
All you, therefore, want to ensure is that the knife you settle for feels comfortable in your hands. And while at it, don’t dismiss the fact that some heavy-weight knives still have some specific roles to play. So, look at the task ahead and choose the most appropriate knife.
The Bolster Bluff
What’s the bolster bluff? As far as kitchen knives are concerned, this is a specific part normally found between the blade and handle of the knife.
It’s more or less a thick junction which goes a long way in countering the balance of the knife and adding onto your safety. We highly recommend finding a knife with a proper bolster bluff as it enhances overall control.
Worth noting is that this specific part of the knife goes a long way in providing extra safety. Indeed, it helps keep your hands safe by preventing accidental sliding.
What’s The Ideal Knife Size?
The question of which size is most appropriate for a chef knife is quite commonly asked. Ultimately, you want to pick a knife whose size is optimal while keeping in mind that large blades are normally difficult to control.
You should always think of getting a knife that’s easy to control and comfortable to handle. In general, knives between 7 and 8-inch in length are preferred. Go for an 8-inch knife if your hands are large or a 7-inch one if your hands are small.
The Sharpness of the Knife
Sharpness is very important, no one wants to waste all day in the kitchen meddling with a blunt knife. Think of it this way, a good knife is one that can comfortably dice, slice and chop food. And, therefore, the perfect level of sharpness is one that gives you the license to prepare all the foodstuff you desire.
That said, it is worth appreciating that every new knife is likely to be sharp. So, what actually matters is the question of how long that sharpness can be retained.
Knives Under 100 FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Which is the best knife size for my home kitchen?
If you’re choosing your knife from scratch, we’d recommend going for a medium-sized one. A 7-inch one would work most of the time although an 8-inch model would be the best one if your hands are large.
Which tang type would you recommend?
Unless you are a really experienced chef who knows what they really want, we’d recommend going for the full tang knife variety.
What can I do to maintain my kitchen life for longer?
Some simple knife care tips include honing regularly, sharpening at least once a year and cleaning it after use. If possible, be washing the knife by hand instead of throwing it into a dishwasher.
Which Kitchen Knife Under $100 Is The Best?
While every knife included in this review is great in one way or another, it is the Imarku Pro Kitchen 8-Inch Knife that captures our imaginations.
It has a high-carbon steel blade which besides being sturdy also tends to remain sharp for long. This is a multi-functional knife that has so far attracted some pretty high ratings from those who use it.
The first runner’s up position would then belong to the Global G-2 8-Inch Chef’s knife. It’s equally well-made and light in weight. The only issue with it is that it’s a bit pricey.
Final Thoughts & Verdict
What separates a good knife from a not-so-good one? Well, the truth of the matter is that different knife users have different preferences. Therefore, the first thing you need to do is understand your unique needs.
Once you figure out what exactly it is that you need, you can go ahead and make a confident choice. And as we have pointed out for you, provided you keep the important buying guidelines in mind, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t fall in love with your new kitchen knife!
