Knives are undeniably one of the most crucial kitchen tools. The best knife block sets include the most common knives, such as chef’s, paring, and bread knives, and provide a secure haven for them. With various slots designed to fit each knife type, a knife block offers a protective shield, preventing potential damage.
Some have built-in sharpeners, so your knives will always be ready for use without compromising quality. Knife block sets range in price and quality; the one you buy will largely depend on your kitchen needs! I’ve rounded up my favorite knife block sets, including the one I use daily in my kitchen.
My Top Picks:
- What’s in My Kitchen: Global Classic Takashi Knife Wood Block – $399.95 at Williams-Sonoma
- Best Butcher Block Knife Set: Henckels Statement 20-piece Knife Block Set – $229.99 at Amazon
- Best White Knife Block Set: Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block – $49 at Walmart
- Best Steak Knife Set with Block: Zwilling Twin Signature Knife Block Set – $399.95 at Amazon
- Best Splurge: WÜSTHOF Classic 11-Piece Knife Block Set – $730 at Amazon
Reviews of The Best Knife Block Sets
1. What’s in My Kitchen: Global Classic Takashi Knife Wood Block
The Global knife set is a staple in my kitchen that I use daily for slicing, chopping, and more. I remember the first time I used it to slice through a ripe tomato-it was like cutting through butter! Sharpness aside, this is one of the best knife block sets because it comes with 5 essential knives you need, like a peeling knife, a chef’s knife, a bread knife, a utility knife, and a vegetable knife, as well as a ceramic honing rod.
Unlike some knives that can be cumbersome, this high-carbon stainless steel set is designed with comfort in mind. I love the lightweight construction and ergonomic handles, which make it a joy to use, even on those marathon meal prep days. And when it comes to cleaning, it’s a breeze. A quick hand wash with warm water and mild detergent is all it takes. Just remember to dry them off promptly to maintain their pristine condition—and never put them in the dishwasher!
The bamboo wood block, with its 8 slots, offers room for expansion, allowing you to customize your set to your culinary needs. It’s not just a knife set, it’s a versatile kitchen tool that grows with you!
The Specs:
- Material: High carbon stainless steel
- Block Dimensions: 10 1/4 x 6 1/4 x 14 inches
- Set Includes: Peeling knife, utility knife, vegetable knife, Chef’s knife, bread knife, honing rod, and bamboo block.
What I Like:
- Good value
- Lightweight
- Very sharp
What I Don’t Like:
- Not dishwasher safe
- May be too small for larger hands
What Others Are Saying:
People named the Global Classic Takashi Knife Wood Block one of the best knife sets, noting its value that continues “to impress over long-term testing.”
Buy the Global Classic Takashi Knife Wood Block:
2. Best Butcher Block Knife Set: Henckels Statement 20-piece Knife Block Set
For the best butcher block knife set, this option from Henckels has everything to meet your kitchen needs when it comes to knives. It is substantial yet not too heavy and includes essential knives like paring, utility, and chef’s knives. But it also goes above and beyond your average set with a 7-inch santoku knife, known for its versatility in slicing, dicing, and chopping, an 8-inch carver, perfect for slicing roasts and other large cuts of meat, as well as a 5.5-inch boning knife, ideal for removing bones from poultry and meat. Plus, 6 steak knives are included!
One of my favorite features of this Henckels knife block set is its ease of care. The knives are dishwasher-friendly, making cleaning after a long day in the kitchen a breeze. And the best part? The blades are stain- and rust-free, so you can spend less time worrying about maintenance and more time enjoying your cooking!
The Specs:
- Material: Stainless steel
- Block Dimensions: 15.24” x 5.98” x 12.99”
- Set Includes: 3-inch paring knife, 4-inch paring knife, utility knife, boning knife, santoku knife, Chef’s knife, bread knife, 8 steak knives, honing steel, kitchen shears, and knife block.
What I Like:
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Dishwasher safe
- Sharp
What I Don’t Like:
- Handle quality could be better
What Others Are Saying:
This Henckels Statement 20-piece Knife Block Set has a 4.5-star rating from over 1,800 reviews on Amazon.
Buy the Henckels Statement 20-piece Knife Block Set:
3. Best White Knife Block Set: Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block
Sometimes, you need your knives to be as good-looking as they are functional, and that’s exactly why I love the Cuisinart white knife block set. This 15-piece forged triple rivet option offers a sleek set of modern knives with white handles and a natural wood block. The best part? The blocks also come in various colors including navy, brushed cherry, and charcoal gray, so you can customize your kitchen aesthetic.
The high-carbon stainless steel set has razor-sharp blades that hold up over time and are great for slicing and dicing with accuracy and ease. These knives are designed to be free of defects, but if you have any issues, remember that they are backed by Cuisinart’s lifetime warranty, ensuring your peace of mind with every use.
The Specs:
- Material: High carbon stainless steel
- Block Dimensions: 5.38 x 14.5 x 9.88
- Set Includes: Chef’s knife, slicing knife, santoku knife, utility knife, 3.5-inch paring knife, 2.75-inch paring knife, 6 steak knives, sharpening steel, kitchen shears and wooden block.
What I Like:
- Inexpensive
- Several colors to choose from
- Sturdy build quality
What I Don’t Like:
- Not dishwasher safe
What Others Are Saying:
This Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block has a 4.7-star rating from over 10,000 reviews on Amazon.
Buy the Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block:
4. Best Steak Knife Set with Block: Zwilling Twin Signature Knife Block Set
When it comes to cutting steak and other firm meats, having a sturdy steak knife set is a must. Unlike most knife blocks, this option from Zwilling includes a set of 8 steak knives. These super-sharp knives are not just any steel, they are made of sturdy German steel, known for its balance, lightweight, and exceptional durability. This is why this set is regarded as one of the best knife block sets with steak knives, offering ease of use, comfort, value, and most importantly, quality.
This versatile set includes not only steak knives but also a range of essentials like a paring knife, utility knife, serrated knife, and more. You’ll also get a pair of kitchen shears, honing steel, and a sharpening blade. The ergonomic handles, made from alloy steel, ensure you have amazing control when cutting, making this set a comprehensive set of knives for all your kitchen and mealtime needs.
Another feature I love about this is that caring for the knife block set is easy. You can clean the knives in the dishwasher, but hand washing is recommended to keep them looking good for years. This is because it reduces the change of corrosion, helping to keep these knives in great condition!
The Specs:
- Material: High carbon stainless steel
- Block Dimensions: 16.75 x 16 x 7 inches
- Set Includes: 2.75-inch bird’s beak peeling knife, paring knife, 4.5-inch utility knife, 5-inch serrated utility knife, 6-inch utility knife, santoku knife, chef’s knife, bread knife, 8 steak knives, kitchen shears, sharpening steel, and wood knife block.
What I Like:
- Large range of knives
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable
What I Don’t Like:
- Knives fit loosely in block
What Others Are Saying:
The Zwilling Twin Signature Knife Block Set has a 4.6-star rating from over 2,000 reviews on Amazon.
Buy the Zwilling Twin Signature Knife Block Set:
5. Best Splurge: Wüsthof Classic 11-Piece Knife Block Set
Wüsthof, a name synonymous with quality in the knife-making industry, offers a set that’s a testament to its craftsmanship. This set includes a trimming knife, paring knife, utility knife, Asian utility knife, and bread knife. These German-made knives are designed to resist corrosion and dullness, and the set is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, so you can receive a replacement if one of your knives breaks (assuming you cared for it properly). The set also includes kitchen shears that pull apart and four extra slots, so you can add to your knife selection in the years to come.
This Wüsthof knife block set, highly rated for sharpness, feel, ease of use, quality, balance, and comfort, is not just a purchase; it’s an investment. While it may be more expensive than most, the unmatched quality ensures that cutting with this set is as smooth as butter. This high-end knife block set is designed to last, providing you with a reliable kitchen companion for years to come.
The Specs:
- Material: High carbon stainless steel
- Block Dimensions: 17 x 13.5 x 4.5 inches
- Set Includes: Trimming knife, paring knife, 4 1/2″ utility knife, 4 1/2″ Asian utility knife, 5″ serrated utility knife, 6″ utility knife, bread knife, Chef’s knife, honing steel, kitchen shears and wood block.
What I Like:
- Includes large range of knives
- Well balanced for precise control
- Comfortable
What I Don’t Like:
- Not dishwasher safe
- Expensive
Buy the Wüsthof Classic 11-Piece Knife Block Set:
Other Knife Block Sets to Consider
Farberware Stamped Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set with Wood Block
For less than $50, this Farberware knife block set comes with six knives, kitchen shears, a sharpener, and six steak knives. This 15-piece set is perfect for beginners, offering plenty of bang for your buck with every knife you need in the kitchen. The blades are made from high-carbon stainless steel for precise cuts, and the handles are comfortable to hold and lend plenty of balance and control in the kitchen. The biggest downside to this knife set is that it’s not dishwasher safe and should be hand-washed. It comes with a lifetime limited warranty. It’s a really great set that offers high performance at the right price. The Farberware Stamped Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set with Wood Block is available at Amazon for $39.99.
Henckels Solution Self-Sharpening Knife Block Set
Looking for the best self-sharpening knife block set? This 16-piece Henckels knife block set is a popular choice. It has a built-in sharpener in each slot where the main knives are housed, so the knives, made of professional-grade stainless steel, stay razor-sharp. It comes with essential knives, like a paring knife, chef’s knife, kitchen shears, and steak knives. Another reason to love this set is that it is dishwasher-safe with blades that won’t rust. The Henckels Solution Self-sharpening Knife Block Set is available at $144.28 at Amazon.
Henckels Modernist Studio Knife Set
The Henckels Modernist Studio Knife Set is one of the most compact knife block sets. It comes with four knives: chef’s, paring, utility, and serrated utility. It also includes a pair of kitchen shears. As the name suggests, this set is ideal for minimalists and anyone short on countertop space. These dishwasher-safe knives have stain- and rust-free blades. The Henckels Modernist Studio Knife Set is available at $109.99 at Amazon.
HexClad Damascus Essential Knife Set & Magnetic Knife Block
One of the best magnetic knife block sets is the HexClad Damascus Essential Knife Set and Magnetic Block. It comes with essential knives like chef’s, santoku, bread, utility, and paring. Unlike a traditional knife block, this one is a giant magnet. To secure the knives, place them on the side of the block with the blade down and handle up. This is a super easy way to store your knives without worrying about the inside of the block getting dirty. Handwashing and towel drying are recommended for cleaning these knives. The HexClad Damascus Essential Knife Set & Magnetic Knife Block is available at $413.99 at Amazon.
Why You Can Trust Me
Hi! I’m Gina, the creator and recipe developer of Skinnytaste. This site features hundreds of delicious and healthy recipes for the whole family made with seasonal, whole foods. Throughout my cooking journey, I’ve learned the importance of having the right knives. After all, almost every recipe of mine, whether it’s meat or vegetables, requires cutting of some kind.
To compile this list of the best knife blocks, I’ve relied on my personal favorites and trusted brands. But I didn’t stop there. I delved into hundreds of reviews on sites like Amazon and buying guides from reputable product testing websites. This extensive research has led me to the knife blocks that truly stand out in terms of special features, quality, value, ease of use, and comfort.
Everything to Know Before Buying a Knife Block Set
What to Consider Before Buying a Knife Block Set
When it comes to knife block sets, it’s crucial to consider your unique needs. These versatile kitchen tools, with their diverse range of knives for various culinary tasks, can open up a world of possibilities. So, which knife block set is right for you? Here are some key factors to consider.
What’s included: Most sets provide the essentials, such as a chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a bread knife. These practical tools are the backbone of any kitchen. However, the set’s versatility can be enhanced with additional knives such as a utility knife, santoku knife, filet knife, boning knife, and others. Some sets even offer kitchen shears and a set of steak knives, further expanding your culinary possibilities.
Materials: Most knives are crafted from carbon steel, high-carbon stainless steel, and stainless steel, with the latter being the most common. Stainless steel is an excellent choice due to its rust resistance and longevity. Alternatively, knives can be made of ceramic, which is very sharp but may be prone to chipping. The material choice significantly influences the knife’s performance and durability, ensuring longevity in your kitchen.
Knife style: Knife block sets generally come in Western and Japanese. Western knives are made from thick steel and are sharp on both sides. This makes them heavier than Japanese knives, but they are still great for clean and accurate cuts! Japanese knives are thin, sharp knives that are lightweight and easy to use but tend to cost more than Western-style knife block sets.
Knife block design: The design of your knife block is not just about functionality; it’s about adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Most knife blocks have a classic natural wood design, while others come in various colors to match your kitchen aesthetic. Additionally, you can find knives with handles in colors like black, white, and stainless steel, so you can further customize your knife set.
Cost: Knife block sets vary in price considerably, so determine your budget accordingly. You can get a decent set under $100 or spend upwards of $1,000 on a professional-quality set.
Do You Need a Knife Block Set?
The best knife block sets come with every kitchen knife you need, and the block makes it easy to store them in a convenient and organized way. A knife block set may even include steak knives, a knife sharpener, and kitchen shears—extras you may find yourself buying otherwise. It’s usually a better deal to buy a knife block set rather than buying knives individually. Plus, you can keep the same look and feel across your knives when purchasing them from the same set, which I prefer because it gives your kitchen a cohesive yet functional look.
How Do You Clean a Knife Block?
The first step to cleaning your knife block is to turn it upside down over the sink or a garbage can and shake out the crumbs. You may need to tap on it to loosen any stuck debris. I find a pipe cleaner also works great for this! Next, hand wash the block with hot water and mild dish detergent. The final (and most crucial) step is to make sure you give it enough time to dry. I like leaving the knife block upside down on top of a dishcloth for a day to ensure it’s entirely dry. You can also use a hair dryer to help dry the block out faster!
Where Should You Put a Knife Block in the Kitchen?
Your knife block set should be easy to get to when you’re in the kitchen. I like to keep mine near my oven and prep space so it’s easy to reach over and grab what I need when I’m busy in the kitchen. Or, if you have a general prep space, place it in a nearby corner so it’s available but out of the way. However, a knife block set can take up a decent amount of space on your kitchen countertop. If you don’t have room or prefer to avoid seeing clutter on your counters, consider placing your knife block set in a kitchen cabinet. Alternatively, you can use a magnetic strip on the wall or a knife drawer insert to store your knives. These options can help you save space and keep your knives easily accessible.
Are Knife Blocks Sanitary?
A knife block provides a functional and efficient way to store your sharp kitchen knives, with individual slots for each. However, it’s important to be aware that moisture and dirt can find their way into these crevices, leading to the growth of bacteria and compromising the cleanliness of your knife block. To prevent this and maintain the hygiene of your knife block, it’s essential to fully dry your knives before placing them back in the block. While it might be tempting to slot them back in after a quick wipe, ensuring they are completely dry is a must. Remember, knife blocks can get dirty quickly, but with regular care and maintenance, keeping them clean is absolutely possible!
The Best Healthy Recipes
A good quality knife allows you to slice, chop, dice, and more, making cooking easy and efficient. You can test your new knife block set with some of my favorite recipes below!
Prices were accurate at time of publication.