10 Best Santoku Knives 2025 in the United States

The imarku 7-inch Santoku knife is a solid choice for home cooks and casual restaurant use thanks to its high carbon stainless steel blade (7Cr17Mov), which resists rust and holds a sharp edge well. The 7-inch blade is a versatile size for chopping, slicing, and mincing various ingredients, featuring a hollow edge design that helps prevent food from sticking. The blade is hand-polished to a sharp 15-18 degree angle per side, making it efficient for detailed tasks.

Weighing about 0.43 pounds, this knife is light enough for most people to handle comfortably without causing wrist fatigue. The Pakkawood handle is ergonomically shaped to provide a secure and comfortable grip, and it’s treated to be more stable and sanitary than typical wood handles, so it won’t crack or expand with use. Note that the knife is not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to maintain its quality.

Although it is not made from the most premium steel available, this knife offers a good balance of sharpness, durability, and ease of maintenance for everyday kitchen work. Presented in a nice gift box, it also makes a thoughtful gift for cooking enthusiasts. For those seeking a reliable, sharp, and comfortable Santoku knife without spending a lot, this imarku model fits the bill well.

The Mercer Culinary M22707 Millennia Santoku knife is a solid choice for everyday kitchen tasks such as chopping, mincing, and slicing. Its 7-inch blade, made from high-carbon Japanese steel, helps the edge stay sharp longer and makes maintenance easier. This blade length is versatile enough for most cutting jobs without feeling too bulky, featuring a plain edge ideal for clean, precise cuts, especially on vegetables and herbs.

The handle is crafted from Santoprene, a soft yet durable material, with textured finger points that offer a secure and comfortable grip, reducing slipping during use. Weighing just over 3 ounces, the knife is light and well balanced, allowing for easy control even during extended periods of use. It should be hand washed and dried immediately to maintain its quality, as it is not dishwasher safe and may be damaged if submerged for long durations.

Although the knife is stamped rather than forged—which typically means it may be less robust than forged knives—it still delivers good performance for home cooks and professionals seeking a reliable, affordable santoku. Its design emphasizes comfort and durability, making it a practical tool for daily kitchen preparation. However, those preferring a heavier or forged blade, or requiring dishwasher-safe utensils, might find this knife less suited to their needs.

The Mercer Culinary M20707 Genesis 7-Inch Santoku Knife is designed to be a versatile and durable tool for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts. The blade is made from high-carbon German steel, which ensures durability and a long-lasting sharp edge. Measuring 7 inches, the blade is well-suited for a variety of kitchen tasks including chopping, mincing, and cutting. The plain edge type allows for clean and precise cuts, whether you're dicing onions or shredding cabbage.

The handle is made of Santoprene, offering a comfortable and non-slip grip even when your hands are wet. This adds to the knife's safety and ease of use. One downside is that the knife should be hand-washed and dried immediately to maintain its quality, as it is not dishwasher safe. The ergonomic design of the handle provides a good balance, making it easier to control the knife during use.

While the knife's robust construction and quality materials make it a strong contender for both amateur and professional cooks, the need for careful maintenance might be a drawback for some. If you're someone who values durability and precision in a kitchen knife and doesn't mind the extra care required, this Santoku knife could be a great addition to your kitchen tools.