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 imarku 7-inch Santoku knife is a solid choice for home cooks and even those working in restaurant kitchens. It features a high-carbon stainless steel blade (7Cr17Mov), which is known for good rust resistance and durability, making it suitable for regular chopping, slicing, dicing, and mincing tasks. The 7-inch blade length is versatile, fitting well within the typical range for Santoku knives—long enough to handle most ingredients but still easy to control. Its hollow edge design helps prevent food from sticking to the blade, which can speed up prep work and improve cutting precision.

The blade’s sharpness is enhanced by a hand-polished edge set at 15-18 degrees per side, providing a keen edge that holds up well during frequent use, although it will still require regular honing to keep it at peak performance. The handle is made from Pakkawood, an engineered wood material that feels comfortable in hand, offers a secure grip, and resists cracking or expanding better than traditional wood handles. At 6.9 ounces, the knife strikes a good balance—not too heavy to tire your wrist but with enough weight to feel sturdy and well-balanced during cutting.

One minor drawback is that it’s not dishwasher safe, so it needs hand washing to maintain its lifespan. Presented in a gift box, it is also a thoughtful present for cooking enthusiasts. This Santoku knife offers excellent value with quality materials and user-friendly features, making it ideal for those wanting an efficient, sharp, and comfortable everyday kitchen knife.

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.