10 Best Santoku Knife 2026 in the United States

The WÜSTHOF Gourmet 5" Santoku Knife and cutting mat set offers a well-made, compact knife suited for everyday kitchen tasks like chopping, dicing, and mincing. Its blade is forged from high carbon stainless steel, which means it stays sharp longer and resists rust and corrosion. The 6-inch blade length is a bit shorter than some santoku knives, making it easier to handle for users who prefer more control or have smaller hands. The blade features a plain edge with hollow indentations that help reduce food sticking, improving slicing efficiency.

The handle is made of durable synthetic material (Polyoxymethylene), designed to withstand heat, impact, and discoloration, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Weighing just under a pound, this knife is lightweight and balanced, so it won’t tire your hand during prep work. The included 10-inch TPU cutting mat is flexible, easy to clean, and gentle on the blade, helping to preserve sharpness.

The knife is hand wash only, which means extra care is needed to maintain it, as it is not dishwasher safe. Also, the shorter 5" blade might not suit those who prefer a larger cutting surface for bigger tasks. This set is a solid choice for home cooks seeking a reliable, easy-to-use santoku knife with a handy cutting mat, especially if you want quality materials and a sharp blade without the bulk of a longer knife.

The Mercer Culinary M22707 Millennia Santoku Knife is a solid choice for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts. The blade, made from high-carbon Japanese steel, is known for durability and long-lasting sharpness, making it easy to maintain. The 7-inch blade length is versatile for various kitchen tasks like chopping, mincing, and cutting, and its Granton edge helps reduce sticking, making slicing smoother, especially for softer foods like cheese and vegetables.

The handle is made from Santoprene and features textured finger points for a non-slip grip, enhancing safety and comfort during use. Its ergonomic design provides good control and reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. It's important to note that the knife is not dishwasher safe and requires careful hand washing to maintain its performance and longevity. If you prefer low-maintenance kitchen tools, this may be a drawback.

The knife weighs just 3.17 ounces, contributing to its ease of use and maneuverability, though some users might find it too light and prefer a more substantial feel for better balance. The construction is stamped rather than forged, which may affect durability and perceived quality. In essence, the Mercer Culinary Millennia Santoku Knife excels in sharpness, ergonomic design, and versatility, offering precision and comfort despite the need for hand washing and its light weight being a potential downside for some.

The Dalstrong Santoku Knife from the Valhalla Series is a 7-inch knife designed for versatility in the kitchen, making it suitable for slicing, dicing, and mincing. Crafted from 9CR18MOV high carbon steel, the blade promises durability and a sharp edge, rated at 60+ on the Rockwell hardness scale and hand-sharpened to a fine 8-12 degrees per side. This makes it a strong choice for precision work and heavy use in the kitchen.

The knife features a unique celestial resin handle reinforced with stabilized wood and a stainless steel bolster, offering a sturdy grip and appealing aesthetics. It also comes with a Valhalla-embossed leather sheath for protection and style. At 9.3 ounces, it is relatively lightweight, balancing ease of handling with a solid feel. While the knife is dishwasher safe, hand washing is typically recommended for longevity.

This knife is well-suited for those looking for a high-performance, versatile kitchen knife with a distinct design. It makes a compelling gift for cooking enthusiasts, thanks to its quality construction and durability. Potential drawbacks include its price point, which may be higher than more basic knives, and its unique design might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the high carbon steel, while providing sharpness, may require more frequent maintenance to prevent rust compared to stainless steel options.