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A juicy steak might be the star of your next dinner, but even the most tender meat is too dense to cut with a standard dinner knife. That’s where steak knives come in. These utensils should be sharp enough to cut through cooked meat cleanly without squashing or mangling it, maintaining the integrity of the steak. As the sharpest knives at the dinner table, these table-setting essentials are also versatile enough to cut through other types of meat as well as fibrous veggies.
A good steak knife marries both style and function and is suitable for everyday use as well as for entertaining. The best steak knives are sturdy, sharp, and handsome, making it simple to savor your next steak dinner from the first bite to the last. See which ones made our list of top picks.
- BEST OVERALL: Messermeister Avanta Fine Edge Steak Knife Set
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Chicago Cutlery Walnut Tradition Steak Knife Set
- UPGRADE PICK: Wüsthof Gourmet 6-Piece Steak Knife Set
- BEST EASY-CARE: Zwilling J.A. Henckels Stainless Steel Steak Knife Set
- BEST ROUND-TIPPED: Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery Classic Steak Knife Set
- BEST HOLLOW-EDGE: Dalstrong Gladiator Straight-Edge Steak Knife Set
- BEST LAGUIOLE-STYLE: Trudeau Set of 6 Laguiole Steak Knives
- BEST FOR GIFTING: Wüsthof 8-Piece Stainless Mignon Steak Knife Set
- BEST CASUAL: Oneida Flight Everyday Flatware Steak Knives
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Steak Knives
While they may feel like a luxury to some, a set of quality steak knives make it easier and safer to cut meat. When shopping for a steak knife, consider the type of blade edge, blade length, blade and handle material, weight, and required upkeep.
Type of Edge
The edge of the knife refers to the cutting portion of the blade, which for steaks should be quite sharp. But sharpness isn’t the only factor to consider. There are four common blade-edge types for steak knives: straight, serrated, micro serrated, and hollow edge. Choosing a blade edge comes down to personal preference, but there are a few pros and cons to consider for each type.
- Straight: Steak knives that have a straight blade edge allow for an ultrasmooth, clean cut, gliding through the meat. But straight-edge knives dull faster than serrated blades, so they need more frequent sharpening. However, a straight edge is easier to sharpen than a serrated blade, so this upkeep is easier.
- Serrated: Serrated blades have a jagged cutting edge, similar to a saw. They are also used with a sawing motion, which means they won’t offer as clean of a cut as straight blades. Serrated knives are sometimes considered lower quality for this reason. One benefit of serrated blades is their tendency to stay sharper longer than straight blades since they have a smaller exposed edge. However, they are more difficult to sharpen than a straight-edge knife when they do become dull.
- Micro serrated: Micro-serrated blades have very small serrations. As with regular serrated steak knives, these micro serrations help slice through the meat. The trouble is, the serrations are often too small to be sharpened, which means their performance can dwindle over time.
- Hollow edge: Steak knives with a hollow edge have small indentations along the edge of the blade. The indentation creates an air pocket between the knife and the food to prevent the meat from sticking to the blade during slicing.
Blade Material and Length
Stainless steel is the most common blade material for steak knives; high-quality stainless steel resists rust and is rigid, sharp, and durable. Generally, steak knives from reputable manufacturers will be made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Steak knives can also have ceramic blades instead of metal, which won’t rust but may be prone to chipping.
Steak knives often measure 8 to 9 inches in total in length. The ideal length will come down to personal preference, depending on aesthetics and available storage space.
When choosing a knife set, it’s more important to pay attention to the blade’s tang length than the overall knife length. The tang is the part of the blade that extends into the knife handle. With a partial tang blade, the tang only partially extends into the handle. A full tang blade extends the full length of the handle. Full-tang knives are a higher quality option that tend to be more durable.
Handle
Steak knife handles can be made from a range of materials, including wood, plastic, and stainless steel. Choosing a handle material is often a matter of budget and personal preference.
Wood handles, which range from budget-friendly species to pricier exotic options, lend a charming, rustic look but must be properly cared for to maintain their appearance. They aren’t dishwasher-safe, which means they’ll need to be hand-washed after each use as well as occasionally oiled.
Plastic handles are very easy to care for and come in a range of designs and colors. Some plastic-handle knives are dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing is a gentler option, especially since plastic can become brittle and split over time.
Steak knives with stainless steel handles often have one-piece construction, and this smooth, seamless composition is sturdy and easy to clean. Stainless steel steak knives with separate handles and blades (either partial or full tang) are also available. Stainless steel is a very durable material that’s considered dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing is best to maintain quality knives.
Balance and Weight
A good steak knife will feel comfortable in the hand, with balance and weight both affecting how the knife feels to use. When the weight is distributed evenly along a steak knife, it will feel well balanced; this is one reason the length of both the blade and the handle are similar. Some steak knives include a bolster—a thick piece between the knife handle and the blade—to improve the knife’s balance and durability.
When it comes to overall weight, some users prefer a lighter knife that’s easier to maneuver, while others prefer a heavier knife so gravity can help with cutting. Knives with plastic handles tend to be lighter than those with wood or stainless steel handles.
Maintenance
For the sake of longevity, it’s best to hand-wash knives after use. However, for those who want the most convenient option, dishwasher-safe sets are available.
Just like any kitchen knife, steak knives will need occasional sharpening with an appropriate knife sharpener. Many users will sharpen their knives whenever they notice performance starting to drop. Because of their longer exposed surface, straight-edge knives generally need more frequent sharpening—but this is fairly simple to do. Folks who invest in these premium blades generally find it’s worth the maintenance to use a knife that glides through steak—it’s part of the pleasure of the meal.
Often seen in budget steak knife sets, serrated blades stay sharper for longer yet can also be sharpened when needed. These knives are a low-maintenance option well suited for those who just want a basic set of steak knives in their kitchen drawer.
Our Top Picks
Whether relied upon for a Sunday roast or a sirloin grilled to perfection, the best steak knives ahead will make dinnertime a pleasure.
Best Overall
Messermeister Avanta Fine Edge Steak Knife Set
With a handsome design and excellent performance, the Messermeister Avanta Fine Edge Steak Knife Set is the best steak knife set for most homes. These premium straight-edge steak knives come at a reasonable price, making them an attractive choice for both daily use and entertaining.
Four knives are included in the set and each one has a sharp, straight-edge upswept blade and sturdy handle. The blade is made from durable and rust-resistant German stainless steel, and the handle is made with pakkawood. The knives have a thick, curved design, offering a classic steak knife look and feel. A forged bolster and one-piece construction makes each knife feel robust and comfortable in the hand. The knives are waterproof and very easy to clean.
Product Specs
- Type: Straight edge
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Pakkawood
Pros
- Attractive design
- Sharp blade
- Well-balanced feel
Cons
- Some users noticed slightly raised rivets
Get the Messermeister steak knives on Amazon or Messermeister.
Best Bang for the Buck
Chicago Cutlery Walnut Tradition Steak Knife Set
Nice steak knives can cost a pretty penny, but affordable and decent quality options are still available for those on a budget. The Chicago Cutlery Walnut Tradition Steak Knife Set is the best among cost-friendly steak knife options, boasting great performance for a reasonable price.
This set of four knives has a rustic design and aesthetic that lends a family-friendly steak house vibe to a casual dining room table. Each knife features a large solid walnut handle that adds to its homespun appeal.
The stainless steel blade has a straight edge—a rare find at this budget price. The knives are sharp and cut reliably, slicing through meat with ease. With their full-tang design, these knives feel substantial and well balanced.
Product Specs
- Type: Straight edge
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Walnut wood
Pros
- Rustic design
- Solid walnut handle
- Excellent value
Cons
- Wood handle is sensitive to water damage
Get the Chicago Cutlery steak knives set on Amazon or Chicago Cutlery.
Upgrade Pick
Wüsthof Gourmet 6-Piece Steak Knife Set
With restaurant-grade quality and aesthetics, the Wüsthof Gourmet 6-Piece Steak Knife Set is an excellent choice for serious meat eaters looking for a premium product. Wüsthof is considered a high-quality brand, and it’s known for its sturdy, dependable, and beautifully crafted knives—and this steak knife set is no exception.
This six-piece set boasts an elegant modern design, fit for a contemporary steak house. The upswept blade shape and contoured handle are functional and comfortable. The stainless steel blades are razor-sharp right from the box.
The smooth triple-riveted plastic handles are designed to stand up to heavy use, as they are fade-, discoloration-, heat-, and impact-resistant. Folks who eat meat frequently will likely appreciate this good-looking, hard-wearing steak knife set.
Product Specs
- Type: Straight edge
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Plastic
Pros
- Very sharp
- Wear-resistant and durable
- Excellent for frequent users
Cons
- Plastic handle
- Expensive
Get the Wüsthof Gourmet steak knives on Amazon or Wüsthof.
Best Easy-Care
Zwilling J.A. Henckels Stainless Steel Steak Knife Se
Full stainless steel steak knives have several major benefits: They look modern, stand up to frequent use, and are very easy to care for. Those looking for such qualities should consider the sleek and functional Zwilling J.A. Henckels Stainless Steel Steak Knife Set.
Each knife in this eight-piece set features a slim design, reminiscent of a paring knife. The sharp serrated edge comes in handy for other tasks around the kitchen, like slicing tomatoes or halving sandwiches.
The extremely sturdy knives boast one-piece stainless steel construction, meaning no detachable pieces, gaps, or seams—so no breakable parts. The design makes this set easy to clean and, as a bonus, the knives are also dishwasher-safe.
Product Specs
- Type: Serrated
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Stainless steel
Pros
- Very durable
- Dishwasher-safe
- 1-piece construction
Cons
- Thin handles may feel uncomfortable to some users
Get the Zwilling J.A. Henckels steak knives at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Zwilling.
Best Round-Tipped
Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery Classic Steak Knife Set
Round-tipped steak knives are safer than traditional pointed models, so while they can be an aesthetic preference, they’re an ideal choice for young children or older adults who may be less agile. Those looking for round-tipped knives that perform as beautifully as their pointed counterparts will want to consider the Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery Classic Steak Knife Set.
Victorinox, the maker for the original Swiss Army knife, is known for its affordable, durable tools, and this six-piece set is no exception. Each knife is lightweight with a rounded-tip serrated stainless steel blade. For safe and comfortable use, each knife features an ergonomic and textured slip-resistant plastic handle.
While these utilitarian knives don’t look as fancy as some other options, they’ll get the job done, and they’ll do it well. Plus, when dinnertime is over, this set is dishwasher-safe for simple cleaning (although we still recommend hand-washing for better longevity).
Product Specs
- Type: Serrated
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Plastic
Pros
- Safer rounded tip
- Excellent rust-resistance
- Lightweight
Cons
- Informal appearance; not as stately as some other knives
Get the Victorinox steak knives on Amazon.
Best Hollow-Edge
Dalstrong Gladiator Straight-Edge Steak Knife Set
A hollow-edge blade prevents thin slices of meat from sticking to the knife—a small design feature that can be helpful for cutting meat or prepping other ingredients. A hollow-edge blade is just one of many features that make the Dalstrong Gladiator Straight-Edge Steak Knife Set a stellar choice.
This four-piece set is forged from strong, high-carbon German steel. The full-tang blade is ultrasharp and has excellent wear and stain resistance. Each knife in this set comes with a sheath to protect the blade in storage
Triple-riveted, ergonomic handles make these knives sturdy and easy to use. The handsome black handles are made from Garolite, a material similar to fiberglass that is resistant to both heat and moisture.
Product Specs
- Type: Straight edge
- Blade material: High-carbon steel
- Handle material: Garolite
Pros
- Hollow-edge blade prevents sticking
- Hard-wearing and handsome handle design
- Includes knife sheaths
Cons
- Prone to rust spots
Get the Dalstrong steak knives on Amazon or Dalstrong.
Best Laguiole-Style
Trudeau Set of 6 Laguiole Steak Knives
Authentic Laguiole knives are handcrafted by artisans in certain regions of France—and they can cost hundreds of dollars. However, since the word “Laguiole” is not trademarked, many Laguiole-style knives are available for far less. The Trudeau Set of 6 Laguiole Steak Knives mimic the distinctive look of the real thing without the hefty price tag.
The initial draw of these steak knives may be the uniquely distinguished shape and aesthetic of a true Laguiole knife, but they also perform well. Each knife features an elegant hand-finished pakkawood handle and a serrated, full-tang stainless steel blade. The handle is finished with the iconic hand-stamped Laguiole bee symbol (inspired by authentic Laguiole knives).
Product Specs
- Type: Serrated
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Pakkawood
Pros
- Ornate and elegant design
- Durable, hand-finished pakkawood handle
- Inspired by traditional Laguiole knives
Cons
- Can be difficult to sharpen
Get the Trudeau steak knives on Amazon or at Bed Bath & Beyond.
Best for Gifting
Wüsthof 8-Piece Stainless Mignon Steak Knife Set
Steak knives make an excellent housewarming or wedding gift, especially when they come in a beautiful wooden box like the Wüsthof 8-Piece Stainless Mignon Steak Knife Set. Wüsthof is known for its high-quality knives, and this set boasts excellent quality as well as presentation.
This full eight-piece set prepares the receiver well for entertaining. Each serrated knife features a full stainless steel build and one-piece construction that makes these knives exceptionally durable and easy to clean. The sleek and contemporary look should pair well with most cutlery sets.
The knives come in a lovely olive-wood presentation box, which also doubles as a storage case. The interior separators offer safe storage, preventing knives from bumping into each other or mingling with other items in the utensil drawer.
Product Specs
- Type: Serrated
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Stainless steel
Pros
- Contemporary design
- Sturdy construction
- Attractive protective wooden box included
Cons
- Pricey
Get the Wüsthof Stainless Mignon steak knives at Amazon, Crate and Barrel, or Wüsthof.
Best Casual
Oneida Flight Everyday Flatware Steak Knives
If meat is on the menu more often than not, a set of casual steak knives is a smart pick. The Oneida Flight Everyday Flatware Steak Knives feature a timeless design inspired by the chic asymmetry popular in the 1950s, with a curved handle that gives a nod to this era. These steak knives look more like a dinner knife than a chunky steak knife, so they’ll fit right in with a daily use table setting.
Besides the simplified design, this four-piece knife set has several other features ideal for daily use. The serrated steak knives are made of durable and rust-resistant stainless steel with a sleek mirror finish. The fully stainless steel design, crafted as one piece without any gaps or seams, is easy to clean since this set is dishwasher-safe.
Product Specs
- Type: Serrated
- Blade material: Stainless steel
- Handle material: Stainless steel
Pros
- Great for everyday use
- Sleek mirror finish
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- Not as sharp as other options in this lineup
- Appearance might be confused with a standard butter knife
Get the Oneida steak knives on Amazon.
Our Verdict
A sharp blade and seamless one-piece stainless steel construction make the Messermeister steak knives our top pick. The knives slice through steaks easily and look great while doing so. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Chicago Cutlery steak knives, which feature a rustic, steak house-inspired design at an affordable price.
How We Chose the Best Steak Knives
Similar to a good kitchen knife, top-rated steak knives are sturdy, sharp, and comfortable to hold. We conducted thorough product research and considered shopper reviews to find the best steak knife sets for most homes. When evaluating steak knives, we considered performance first, looking for knives with a sharp blade, well-balanced design, and comfortable-to-hold handle. With a few exceptions, we prioritized knives with a straight-edge upswept blade, which glides through meat easily for nice, clean cuts.
Since many steak knives are meant to look impressive, we also sought sturdy and handsome handle materials (choosing a range to suit different tastes) and an attractive design overall. To ensure quality, we chose knives from top brands, including those with a long legacy and good reputation, like Wüsthof, Victorinox, and Zwilling.
FAQs
Whether for special events or a weekly steak dinner, it’s worth it to have a set of steak knives in the kitchen. These quality utensils are designed to cut easily through a juicy steak—no sawing or tearing—and look attractive at the table. Still deciding on the right steak knives or how to care for them? Read on for some frequently asked questions and answers on choosing and maintaining steak knives.
Q. What kind of knife is best for steak?
Many experts prefer a straight-edge steak knife, which creates cleaner cuts. Other features to look for include an upswept blade, well-balanced construction, and comfortable handle. An upswept blade makes it easier to use the entire length of the blade to cut, while a well-balanced design and nice handle add to comfort.
Q. What is the difference between a steak knife and a dinner knife?
Designed for cutting through meat, a steak knife is sturdier and sharper than a dinner knife.
Q. Do I have to hand-wash steak knives?
Dishwasher-safe steak knives are available. However, the hot environment, soap, and rough cycle of a dishwasher is hard on knives, so it’s best to hand-wash steak knives, even if they’re dishwasher-safe.
Q. Do steak knives get dull?
Yes, steak knives can get dull over time. Steak knives can benefit from occasional sharpening when their performance starts to diminish. Some users may also choose to run straight-edge knives over a honing steel before each use to maintain the sharp edge.
Q. How long should a steak knife be?
Most steak knives measure around 8 to 9 inches in length.
Q. How thick should a steak knife be?
Blade thickness is not an important feature to consider when shopping for a steak knife; a knife set from a reputable manufacturer will be an appropriate thickness for cutting through steak.
Q. What are forged blades?
Forged blades are made from a single piece of steel, pounded into the blade shape, while stamped blades are cut out of flat sheets of steel and then honed. In the past, forged knives were considered much better than stamped knives. However, with high-quality stamped knives now available (as well as subpar forged knives), the gap between the two is closing.