Choosing the right Santoku knife matters: it shapes how you prep vegetables, slice proteins and speed through daily cooking. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert reviews to recommend Santoku knives that excel by durability, edge retention, ergonomics and everyday performance.
Considerations and Testing Approach
What we tested and why:
- Real-world use: We tested each knife on common kitchen tasks — chopping onions, slicing tomatoes, mincing herbs, and trimming boneless meats — to evaluate edge, balance and sticking behavior.
- Materials & construction: Blade steel/ceramic type, edge angle, full-tang vs stamped, and handle material were compared because they determine longevity, sharpening needs and safety.
- Ergonomics & control: Handle shape, weight distribution and grip comfort were scored during extended prep sessions to identify fatigue and control.
- Edge retention & maintenance: We assessed how long blades stayed sharp, ease of sharpening (or self-sharpening), and cleaning requirements.
- Consumer feedback & reliability: Verified common issues and strengths from verified buyer reviews and brand reputation for build quality and warranty.
These factors informed ranking and the selection of winners for different needs: budget, value, premium and all-around editors' pick.
Self-Sharpening Santoku Knife
A compact, budget-friendly 5" Santoku with a built-in sharpening sheath and non-stick dimples. Comfortable ergonomic handle and a high-carbon stainless blade make it a practical everyday tool for quick prep and low-maintenance households.
Why this budget pick stands out
The EdgeKeeper 5" Santoku earns its spot by pairing an affordable, high-carbon stainless blade with a self-sharpening protective sheath that hones the edge every time you store the knife. The 5" length is nimble for small kitchens and quick tasks; scalloped/granton-style dimples reduce sticking for cleaner slices. Expect decent initial sharpness and an ergonomically shaped handle that’s comfortable for multiple grips. Trade-offs: it’s a smaller blade (less scooping room) and won’t match high-end steel for edge longevity, but for the price it delivers superb day-to-day performance and very low upkeep.
WICKWILLOW 7" Santoku
Premium 7" Santoku forged from German DIN1.4116 steel with a 12° edge, full-tang construction and hollow grind to reduce sticking. Balanced, durable and suited for cooks who want near-professional performance at a reasonable premium.
Premium performance for committed home cooks
This 7" Santoku is crafted from German high-carbon stainless steel (DIN1.4116) with full-tang construction for balance and strength. A razor-sharp 12° edge makes slicing effortless, while the hollow-ground blade reduces friction and sticking. The ergonomic handle improves control for longer prep sessions. Compared with entry-level knives, it offers markedly better edge retention, a more refined grind and a premium feel. Downsides are the higher price and need for occasional honing/sharpening to preserve that 12° edge, but for users who value a professional cutting experience it’s a standout.
HENCKELS Santoku Knife Set
A two-piece Santoku set (5.5" and 7") from a trusted German maker. Precision-stamped stainless blades deliver professional-level sharpness and durability, making it a dependable all-around pick for most kitchens.
Our top overall pick: trusted, versatile, reliable
The HENCKELS Solution set includes a 5.5" and 7" Santoku, giving immediate flexibility for delicate work and larger prep. German-engineered stainless steel blades arrive razor-sharp, are finely honed for long-lasting edge retention and are low-maintenance compared with high-carbon blades. The knives are lightweight, well-balanced and suited to both novices and experienced cooks. They’re dishwasher-safe but handwashing is recommended to preserve finish. For most households, this set blends durability, performance and value—why it’s our Editors’ Choice.
7" Japanese Santoku
7" Santoku with 7Cr17Mov stainless steel, 15–18° edge, hollow scalloped grind and a stabilized Pakkawood handle. Well-rounded for home cooks who want a sharper, more restaurant-style blade without breaking the bank.
Sharp, well-balanced and great value
This 7" Santoku uses 7Cr17Mov stainless steel finished with a relatively acute 15–18° edge that produces crisp, precise cuts. The hollow (scalloped) edge helps prevent food sticking and speeds prep; the stabilized Pakkawood handle gives a comfortable grip and pleasing aesthetics. At its price point it offers near-professional sharpness and robust construction—ideal for home cooks who want a step-up from disposable blades. Expect to hone occasionally; the knife offers an excellent balance of performance, looks and durability for the money.
Comparison at a glance
Quick differences between the top models:
- Best Overall (Editors’ Choice): HENCKELS Santoku Knife Set — dependable German engineering, two sizes for versatility, strong balance of performance and price.
- Premium Choice: WICKWILLOW 7" Santoku — superior German DIN1.4116 steel, 12° edge and full-tang build for cooks who want near-professional performance.
- Best Value for Money: 7" Japanese Santoku (7Cr17Mov) — acute edge angle, hollow grind and Pakkawood handle deliver sharpness and style at a competitive price.
- Best Budget Pick: Self-Sharpening Santoku Knife — extremely affordable, compact and low-maintenance thanks to the built-in EdgeKeeper sheath.
Which is best overall? For most people the HENCKELS Santoku Knife Set is the best overall choice. It balances immediate utility (two useful sizes), reliable German steel, and accessibility for cooks of all levels.
Alternatives for specific needs:
- Need the lowest upfront cost and easiest upkeep? Choose the Self-Sharpening Santoku Knife.
- Want the highest-grade steel and edge precision for heavier use? Choose the WICKWILLOW 7" Santoku.
- Want the sharpest edge and attractive handle at a mid-range price? Choose the 7" Japanese Santoku (7Cr17Mov).
Final recommendation
These four Santoku knives cover the needs of most home cooks: budget-friendly convenience, strong value, premium performance, and an all-around editors’ pick. Our recommendations are based on hands-on testing, material analysis, ergonomic checks and review of owner feedback. If you want one versatile, long-term choice, go with the HENCKELS Santoku Knife Set. If you already own basic knives and want to upgrade to a sharper, more refined blade, the WICKWILLOW 7" Santoku is the premium step up. For tight budgets or low-maintenance kitchens the Self-Sharpening Santoku delivers extraordinary bang for the buck.
Buying guidance by scenario:
- Apartment / occasional cooks: Best Budget Pick — low cost, low upkeep.
- Serious home cooks / gift: HENCKELS set — versatility and reliability.
- Frequent cooks who want pro-level feel: WICKWILLOW — better steel and edge geometry.
- Style-conscious cooks seeking sharpness for the money: 7Cr17Mov Santoku — sharp edge, attractive handle.
We base these recommendations on extended use tests, steel and construction analysis, and real-world user feedback to make sure the choice you make will serve you well in the kitchen.