7 Best Knife Sets Under $300 – A Guide for the Culinary Artist on a Budget

We've done the research to find the best knife sets and ranked them according to their special characteristics.
By
Jeremy Bivens
Jeremy Bivens
Research Writer
Jeremy Bivens is a passionate writer and grilling enthusiast. He's been working as a freelance journalist for over 15 years now and has a particular interest in food writing read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Bruce Williams
Bruce Williams
Expert Consultant
Claims that grilling is the art that he has been learning all his life long and is not planning to stop. Has been grilling for as long as he can remember. Author of numerous read more
Last updated: September 15, 2023
GrillGuru is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

When it comes to kitchen essentials, a good knife set is hard to beat. Not only do they make cooking tasks quicker and easier, but having a nice set of knives also adds a touch of class to your kitchen. Plus, when your knives are sharp and in good condition, meal prep can be downright enjoyable.

If you’re in the market for a new knife set, you may be wondering where to start. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which set is right for you. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best knife sets under $300. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, we’ve got a set that will fit your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to up your culinary game with one of these top-rated knife sets.

Quick Summary

  • "Durable construction, huge number of knives and a knife sharpener included, durable natural oak block, and a lifetime warranty make it the top of our list"
  • Best Knife Block Set: Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set
    "Full stainless-steel knife construction, built-in ceramic sharpeners and a full lifetime warranty making it the best knife block set on the market"
  • Best Japanese Knife Set: SANDEWILY Professional Kitchen Knives
    "A high carbon stainless steel blade, ergonomic handle, a sheath to protect the blade and your fingers making it the best Japanese knife set"
  • "Wood base self-sharpening block, a huge number of various knives and the self-sharpening slots make it the most versatile option on the market"
  • Best Starter Set: Yabano Kitchen Knife Set
    "AUS-8 stainless steel blades, non-slip handles, and dishwasher-safe construction make the set the best for begginers"
  • "Well-balanced and durable stainless-steel construction and handles resisting fading and discoloration making it the best option for steak-lovers"
  • Best Chef Knife Set: Dfito Kitchen Chef Knife Sets
    "Reliability and high-quality, high carbon forged stainless steel blades, a strong durable bolster for perfect stability and control make it the best chef knife set"

Top 7 Knife Sets Under 300 Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4062 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.7
9.8
Features
  • Number of Items: 15
  • Blade Material: VG10 damascus steel
  • Blade Edge: serrated
  • Dimensions: 7.63 x 9.76 x 14.48 in.

The NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife Set is our Editor’s Choice because it is a complete set that includes Chef, Slicing, Bread, Santoku, Utility, Paring, Steak knives, kitchen shears, and a knife sharpener. The knives are crafted with VG10 steel core 67 layers of superior Damascus steel blades for precision and accuracy. With an HRC 60±2 hardness, the knives offer exceptional sharpness and edge retention. The curved design handle provides comfort and support while the integrated design of the blade and the shank is not easy to break, making it safe and durable. The Wooden Block part is made of durable natural oak and the hollow knife seat is easier to insert and remove, making it safe and sanitary. The NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife Set comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure you’re getting a quality product.

You will want to choose the NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife set over all the knife sets on this list if you need a combination of strength, durability and beauty. Unlike all the other stainless steel knives with plain surfaces on the list, the NANFANG knives have a beautiful wavy pattern that forms because of how the Damascus steel is forged.

    Why is it special?
  • The blades are made of high-quality Damascus steel
  • The knives are full tang with a comfortable grip
  • The set includes a chef's knife, slicing knife, Santoku knife, bread knife, utility knife, and paring knife
  • A sharpening rod is also included
    What are the flaws?
  • The knives need to be hand-washed and dried immediately after use
  • The set is not dishwasher safe
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8335 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.7
2
Best Knife Block Set

Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set

Features
  • Number of Items: 15
  • Blade Material: stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: plain
  • Dimensions: 11.02 x 5.61 x 15.13 in.

The Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set is the best knife block set on the market. Full stainless steel knife construction and full tang make these knives stay sharp for a lifetime. With built-in ceramic sharpeners, they will automatically sharpen knives with every use. The steak knives are made from stamped steel and have labeled handles for easy identification in the block. The handles are contoured for a secure grip. Additionally, this set comes with a full lifetime warranty, so you do not have to worry while cooking. Whether you are a beginner or a professional chef, this set is perfect for you.

The Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set is what you get if you do not have the budget for the NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife set. Although the knives are less attractive, they are equally stronger and much easier to care for. The Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set is perfect for a super busy kitchen as they are low maintenance. Plus, they offer better value for money.

    Why are we impressed?
  • The knives have a very good price for the quality of the knives
  • The knives are made of high carbon stainless steel which is durable and easy to clean
  • The set includes a wooden block for storage
  • The knives have a full tang construction which means they are less likely to break
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • The blades may need to be sharpened more often than other types of knives
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7638 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.6
3
Best Japanese Knife Set

SANDEWILY Professional Kitchen Knives

Features
  • Number of Items: 3
  • Blade Material: high carbon stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: plain
  • Dimensions: 14 x 7 x 2 in.

SANDEWILY Professional Japanese Kitchen Knives are the perfect choice for any home chef. With a high carbon stainless steel blade, these knives are extremely sharp and durable. The Pakka wood handle is comfortable to grip and provides perfect stability and control. The size, length, and shape of the handle conform to ergonomics, making it easy to use for long periods of time. Each knife comes with a sheath to protect the blade and your fingers. The set also includes a premium box, making it the perfect gift for any occasion.

The SANDEWILY Professional Japanese Kitchen Knives are the closest alternative of our top knife set choice, the NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife Set. Both knife sets have an attractive wavy pattern on the blade and beautiful handles. However, the NANFANG Damascus knife set offers better value for money because it is an all-in-one set. The SANDEWILY knives are perfect for a home chef who cooks occasionally.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Their blades are made of high-quality stainless steel, meaning they will stay sharp for a long time
  • They have a comfortable grip that makes them easy to use
  • The set comes with a knife block, making it easy to keep your knives organized and within reach
    What is not ideal about it?
  • The knives are not dishwasher safe
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8026 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.5
Features
  • Number of Items: 20
  • Blade Material: stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: plain
  • Dimensions: 12.99 x 5.98 x 15.24 in.

This knife set from Zwilling J.A. Henckels is the perfect versatile addition to any kitchen. The stylish brushed stainless steel cap and stained ash wood base self-sharpening block are tailor-made for the J.A. Henckels Statement knife series. The self-sharpening slots sharpen each time a knife is removed or replaced, and the labeled slots guide proper placement. The knives are fabricated from high-quality stainless steel and feature a single-piece, precision-stamped blade construction for durability. The traditional triple-rivet handle with stainless steel endcap offers balance and control while cutting.

The Zwilling J.A. Henckels knife set has more knives than all the knife sets on this list. Also, the set has the least attractive knives which are a fantastic choice for the busy kitchen that only cares for top functionality. Its versatility makes it the ultimate option for commercial use. if you care for aesthetics, you can try and get an almost similar versatility from the beautiful NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife Set.

    Why are we impressed?
  • The blades are made of high-carbon stainless steel, so they're durable and easy to sharpen
  • The knives have full tangs for strength and balance, and the handles are ergonomically designed for comfort.
  • The self-sharpening feature keeps the knives sharp and ready to use
  • The set comes with a variety of knife sizes and types, making it ideal for those who want a versatile set
  • The knives have comfortable handles that are easy to grip
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • With the self-sharpening feature it can be difficult to control the sharpness of the blades
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9978 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.4
5
Best Starter Set

Yabano Kitchen Knife Set

Features
  • Number of Items: 6
  • Blade Material: stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: tapered
  • Dimensions: 14.7 x 8.7 x 3.7 in.

Yabano Kitchen Knife Set is a great starter knife set. The knives are made of AUS-8 stainless steel and are imported from Germany. They are super sharp and last longer than other knives. The blades are hand tapered and have a times tested ground process. They are also hand-sharpened to a 17-degree angle, making them supremely sharp. The handles are non-slip and have a comfortable grip. The set includes a chef knife, bread knife, carving knife, utility knife, and paring knife. They are dishwasher safe but hand washing is recommended. Keep them clean and dry after using.

The Yabano Kitchen Knife Set stacks up well against other knife sets within its range, like the SANDEWILY Professional Japanese Kitchen Knives on this list. Although the SANDEWILY knives have a super-attractive design, the Yabano knives offer better value for money because they are more in number. They are a fantastic option for the home chef enthusiast who is not yet ready to own premium, versatile sets.

    What do we love it for?
  • The set includes all the basic knives you need to get started in the kitchen
  • The blades are made of high quality stainless steel
  • The knives are dishwasher safe
  • The ergonomic handles make them comfortable to hold and use
    What were we disappointed with?
  • The blades might require frequent sharpening
  • The set is a bit pricey, but it's still an investment that will last for years
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2777 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.3
Features
  • Number of Items: 4
  • Blade Material: stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: tapered
  • Dimensions: 14.7 x 8.7 x 3.7 in.

If you’re looking for a top-quality steak knife set, look no further than the Wusthof Gourmet Steak Knife Set. These knives are well-balanced and durable, making them perfect for any steak lover. They’re also made of high-carbon stainless steel, which gives them a sleek and modern look. Plus, the new handle design is made of a highly durable synthetic material that resists fading and discoloration. So not only will your steak knives look great on your table, they’ll also last for years to come.

If you love a precise meat cut, none of the knife sets on this list would satisfy you as the Wusthof Gourmet Steak Knife Set. The set only makes sense if you already have other kitchen knives and are specifically looking for a steak knife set. Otherwise, you would be better off adding a few bucks and getting an all-around set that includes a steak knife like the NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus Knife Set.

    What do we love it for?
  • The blades are very sharp and can easily cut through steak
  • The handles are comfortable to grip and hold
  • The knives are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
    What were we disappointed with?
  • The handles can become loose over time
  • They are a bit more expensive than some other brands
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8765 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.2
7
Best Chef Knife Set

Dfito Kitchen Chef Knife Sets

Features
  • Number of Items: 10
  • Blade Material: stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: plain
  • Dimensions: 12 x 2 x 1 in.

Dfito Kitchen Chef Knife Sets is a great choice for those who are looking for a versatile and durable chef knife set. The knives are made of high carbon forged stainless steel, which makes them resistant to corrosion and rust. They are also designed with a unique outlook, combining a western chef knife and a Japanese knife. The blades are hand sharpened to 13-15° per side, ensuring that they remain razor-sharp and able to effortlessly chop, mince, slice, and dice. Additionally, the knives come with a strong durable bolster for perfect stability and control.

The Dfito Kitchen Chef Knife Sets has an almost similar design with the SANDEWILY knife set on this list. Both knife sets are Japanese brands and a solid option if you want to add a touch of style to your kitchen. Although the SANDEWILY knife set is the winner for our best Japanese knife set nomination, the Dfito Kitchen Chef Knife Sets is a better option if you desire a versatile Japanese knife set.

    Why are we impressed?
  • The blades are made of high-quality stainless steel, so they will stay sharp for a long time
  • The handles are comfortable to hold and offer a good grip
  • The set includes a variety of different knives, so you can choose the right one for the job
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • They are not dishwasher safe
  • The handles can be a bit slippery

Things to Consider

When it comes to choosing a knife set, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, consider your budget. How much are you willing to spend? Second, think about the quality of the knives. You’ll want to choose a set that is made from high-quality materials and that will last for years to come. Third, consider the brand. There are many different brands out there, so do some research to find one that you trust. Fourth, think about the materials. What kind of knives do you want? Stainless steel? Carbon steel? Ceramic? Finally, consider the ease of use. You’ll want to choose a set that is easy to use and that comes with all the features you need.

Blade Material

7 Best Knife Sets Under $300 - A Guide for the Culinary Artist on a Budget
Carbon steel and stainless steel are the most common blade materials. Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion and staining, making it simpler to maintain. Carbon steel is considerably harder, but it is also more susceptible to rusting and staining.

When it comes to choosing a knife set, one of the most important things to consider is the material of the blades. There are a few different options out there, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

The most popular blade materials are stainless steel and carbon steel. Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion and staining, making it easier to care for. However, it is not as hard as carbon steel, so it may not hold an edge as well for as long. Carbon steel is much harder, meaning it will retain its edge longer, but it is also more prone to rusting and staining.

Other materials used for knife blades include ceramic and titanium. Ceramic blades are extremely hard and hold their edge well, but they can be brittle and difficult to sharpen. Titanium blades are also quite hard, but are lighter weight than other materials and have good corrosion resistance.

Blade Edge

An important factor to consider when choosing a knife set is the blade edge. The three main types of blade edges are straight, serrated, and combination. Straight blades are best for slicing and chopping vegetables, while serrated blades are better for cutting bread and other softer foods. Combination blades have both a straight and serrated edge, making them versatile for different tasks. When deciding on the right blade edge for you, think about what kinds of foods you’ll be cutting most often.

Ergonomics and Construction

The handle should fit comfortably in your hand and the blade should be the proper size and shape for the tasks you plan to use it for. The weight and balance of the knife are also important factors to consider. A well-balanced knife will feel comfortable and natural in your hand, making it easier to control.

The construction of the knife is also important. A full tang knife, where the blade extends all the way to the end of the handle, is strongest and most durable. Forged knives are also more durable than stamped knives.

Brand

7 Best Knife Sets Under $300 - A Guide for the Culinary Artist on a Budget
The main thing to consider when buying a high-quality knife set is the brand. Nanfang Brothers is one of the top producers of high-quality knife sets. SANDEWILY is a great choice for individuals searching for a knife set that is both cheap and of good quality. Dfito is an excellent alternative for consumers seeking an inexpensive set.

Another important consideration when choosing a high-quality knife set is the brand.

Nanfang Brothers is one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality knives. Their products are known for their durability and sharpness. Nanfang Brothers offers a wide range of knife sets, including both basic and more advanced options.

Calphalon is another great option for those looking for a high-quality knife set. Their products are also known for their durability and sharpness. Calphalon offers a wide variety of knife sets, including both budget-friendly and more expensive options.

SANDEWILY is a good choice for those who are looking for a knife set that is both affordable and of good quality. Their knife sets are available in a variety of sizes and styles, making it easy to find the perfect set for your needs.

Zwilling J.A. Henckels is another well-known brand that offers high-quality knives. Their knife sets are available in a variety of price ranges, making them a great option for both budget-conscious and more affluent shoppers.

Yabano is another excellent choice for those in the market for a new knife set. Their products are known for their durability, sharpness, and affordability. Yabano offers a wide selection of knife sets, including both basic and more advanced options.

Wusthof Gourmet is a top choice for those looking for a high-quality knife set for special needs.  Wusthof Gourmet offers a wide range of knife sets, including both budget-friendly and more expensive options.

Dfito is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable knife set. Their products are of good quality and are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Dfito offers a wide selection of knife sets, making it easy to find the perfect set for your needs.

Cooking Needs

7 Best Knife Sets Under $300 - A Guide for the Culinary Artist on a Budget
If you prefer to cook lighter foods like veggies and fruits, such as a vegetable knife set, you should look for one. On the other hand, if you prepare heavier dishes like meats or fish on a regular basis, you’ll want a set made for those tasks.

If you are looking for the best knife sets under 300, you also should consider your personal cooking needs. First, what type of food do you typically cook? If you typically cook lighter fare, such as vegetables and fruits, then you will want a set of knives that is designed for those tasks. On the other hand, if you typically cook heavier fare, such as meats or fish, then you will want a set of knives that is designed for those tasks. Second, how often do you cook? If you only cook occasionally, then you may not need a full set of knives. However, if you cook frequently, then it is important to have a complete set so that you always have the right tool for the job. You can also check out our comprehensive guides for best BBQ knives and best knives for cutting meat, so you will be able to surprise your family with delicious steaks.

Warranty

When looking for the best knife set under $300, it is important to consider the warranty. Many companies offer a limited warranty on their products, which means that if something goes wrong with the knives, you may only be covered for a certain period of time. It is important to read the fine print of any warranty before making a purchase to make sure that you are fully protected.

Benefits of Buying Knife Sets

If you are planning to buy a new set of knives, it is important to consider the benefits of doing so. A knife set can provide many advantages, including:

  1. A complete set of knives: When you purchase a set, you will have all the basic knives that you need for cooking. This can be very helpful if you are just starting out in the kitchen or if you need to replace your old set.
  2. A variety of sizes and shapes: Knife sets come with a variety of different sized and shaped knives. This can be helpful if you want to have a set that can meet all of your chopping needs.
  3. A matching block: Most sets come with a matching block that can be used to store the knives. This can be helpful in keeping the knives organized and in one place.
  4. A warranty: Many knife sets come with a warranty. This can be helpful if you have any problems with the set that you purchase.
  5. A lower price: When you purchase a set, you will often times find that the price is lower than if you were to purchase each knife individually. Check out our comprehensive guide for best knife sets under $200.

FAQ

Do knives have to be wiped clean of metal/sharpening residue prior to use?

No, but it’s always best to practice good hygiene and cleanliness when handling knives. If you are going to use a knife for cooking, it is recommended that you wash the blade thoroughly with soap and water before using it. You should also wipe the blade down with a clean cloth after each use. If you are using a knife for hunting or fishing, it is important to clean the blade as soon as possible after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria or disease. It is also important to sharpen your knives regularly to keep them in good condition.

Are all types of the knives dishwasher safe?

No, not all types of knives are dishwasher safe. Generally, steak knives and other fine dining knives are not dishwasher safe because the harsh chemicals in dishwashing detergent can damage the blade. Paring knives and utility knives are usually dishwasher safe, but it is always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions before washing any knife in the dishwasher.

How do you normally polish the knife?

There are different ways to polish the knife. The most common way is to use a piece of cloth or cotton wool soaked in oil or water, and then rub it on the surface of the knife. This can make the knife brighter and smoother. Another way is to use a sharpening stone to sharpen the blade, which can make the blade sharper. This can help to maintain the sharpness of the blade and prevent it from becoming dull.

Our verdict

NANFANG BROTHERS kitchen Damascus Knife Set is one of the best kitchen knife sets on the market. It has all the features that a home cook or a professional chef would need in their kitchen. The blades are made of high-quality Damascus steel which makes them razor-sharp and extremely durable. The knives are full tang with a comfortable grip. The set includes a chef’s knife, slicing knife, Santoku knife, bread knife, utility knife, and paring knife.

If you are looking for a top-quality knife set that will last a lifetime, the Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set is a perfect choice. With full stainless steel construction, full tang blades, and built-in ceramic sharpeners, these knives will stay sharp and perform beautifully meal after meal. The included steak knives are also made from durable stamped steel and have easy-to-grip labeled handles. Best of all, this set comes with a full lifetime warranty, so you can cook with confidence knowing that your investment is protected.

The SANDEWILY Professional Kitchen Knife Set is a great option if you’re looking for a high-quality knife set that won’t break the bank. The blades are made of stainless steel, so they’ll stay sharp for a long time, and the comfortable grip makes them easy to use. The set comes with a knife block, making it easy to keep your knives organized and within reach.

References

1.
How to Use a Chef's Knife
In the time needed to get out your food processor, assemble it, take it apart again and wash it, you can often slice, mince or chop food faster with a chef's knife. A chef's knife can help you make fast work of serving healthy fresh fruits and vegetables.
2.
Basic Knife Skills - NYT Cooking
Welcome to your new skill set. In this guide, you’re going to learn the best ways to choose knives, take care of them, and cut almost anything (without cutting yourself). These aren’t necessarily the knife skills that aspiring chefs learn at cooking school; they are the skills that we, as home cooks, consider the easiest and quickest routes to the food we want to cook.
3.
How to Become a Cook Who Wields a Knife with Confidence
Today we’re talking about knife skills. There is nothing as important to a cook as knowing how to slice, dice, and chop. Today’s lesson will start with the (perhaps surprising!) basics that you need before you ever pick up a knife, and give you the secrets to getting faster, better, and more confident with a sharp blade. Ready? Let’s go!
9,8
Total Score
NANFANG BROTHERS Kitchen Damascus 15-Piece Knife Set - Editor’s Choice
Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

X