Best Kitchen Knife Set Under $300 | Buying Guide 2023

Best Kitchen Knife Set Under $300: Knives are one of the essential parts of a kitchen. Whether you are slicing bread, cutting meat into pieces, dealing with vegetables, chopping onions, and a lot more, you need a perfect set of knives for these tasks. Tons of options available on the market claiming the best knives for your kitchen. But, you don’t need every piece of silverware out there. To make your selection more precise and money-saving we have a list for you that must be in your kitchen. 

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When you go shopping you will encounter enormous knife sets containing many pieces of knives. You have to pick only those pieces which you need, leaving the other pieces. Here we have the list of the best kitchen knife sets under $300.  

At the end of the article, you will know what kind of knives you need and say goodbye to the unnecessary ones. Before going deep into the topic let’s discuss what you should look for in a knife set before buying it. 

Here are 9 Best kitchen knife sets under 300

1. SHUN SORA 6-PIECE KNIFE SET

Our Top Pick
Best Kitchen Knife Set Under $300

Shun Cutlery Sora 6-Piece Basic Block Set

Specifications:

  • Material: Steel
  • Blade Edge: Non-Serrated
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 14 x 4.88 x 12.38 inches

The Shun Cutlery Sora 6-Piece Basic Block Set is the perfect way to start off your kitchen cutlery collection. It starts you off with the Sora 3.5-inch Paring Knife, 6-inch Utility Knife, 8-inch Chef’s Knife, Herb Shears, Combination Honing Steel, and 11-Slot Bamboo Knife Block.

Shun has been doing well by producing some powerful, durable, sharpened, and easy-to-maintain cutlery tools. In this passage, we will talk about the Shun Sora 6-Piece Knife Set. 

The long enough plastic handles feel very smooth and comfortable while using the knives for longer. You will not feel tired of using the knives for hours because of the ergonomic design of the handle. 

VG10 cutting edge is used in the making of the blade with a 420J steel upper. The 420J offers  56 HRC hardness which means the blade is not going to Detroit quickly. For edge retaining of the bade, the knife is introduced with San Mai cutting edge. So, you will get maximum edge retention. 

A beautiful wooden block has empty slots too. So you can add more in those slots if you have some extra.

Retention of the edges is what matters a lot. That is why this high-end blade along with the 420J steel upper technique will retain the edges for longer. So, do not have to change or replace knife sets every other month.

The set includes;

  • Sora 3.5″ Paring Knife 
  • 6″ Utility Knife, 8″ Chef’s Knife
  • Herb Shears
  • Combination Honing Steel
  • 11-Slot Bamboo Knife Block
Pros
  • Forged knives
  • Exceptional edge retention
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Comfortable handles
  • Lightweight
  • Sharp
  • No tiredness even if you use it for hours
  • VG10 cutting core blade
  • Rockwell hardness of 61
Cons
  • A small set of knives

2. CASE CUTLERY 9-PIECE KITCHEN KNIFE SET

2nd Pick
best kitchen knife sets

Case Cutlery Nine Piece Block Set

Specifications:

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Blade Edge: Serrated
  • Style: Modern

Blade: Stainless l Mirror Polish Finish; Handle: Brown l Walnut; Other Info: Includes Chef’s (XX635) with 8″ blade, Slicing (XX636) with 9″ blade, Bread (XX623) with 8″ Miracl-Edge serrated blade, Santuko (XX639) with 7″ blade, Boning (XX630) with 6″ blade, Tomato (XX628) with 5.5″ blade,Paring (XX625) with 3″ blade, and 10″ sharpening steel. Wooden block holds all. Boxed.

If you are looking for a wooden handle along with a wooden block then we recommend you to have a look at the Case Cutlery Kitchen Knife Set. Both, handles and wooden blocks are made from the same wood to enhance the stylish look.

Even though there is a matchup between the handles and the knife block, the shape is not ergonomic. It means you will not feel that comfortable while working. 

All the knives included in the set are quite impressive and do their work properly whether it is a chef’s knife or a paring knife. But the one which draws our attention is the tomato slicer. It is packed with fine serration that pierces tomato effortlessly. 

Set Includes: 

8″ chef knife, 9″ slicing knife 

3″ paring knife

5.5″ tomato slicer 

6″ boning knife, 8″ bread knife

 7″ santoku knife

Pros
  • Cover almost all angles
  •  
  • Long lasting edges
  •  
  • Durable blade
  •  
  • The Tomato slicer is exceptional
  •  
  • Includes a sharpening rod
  •  
  • Full tang
  •  
  • USA made
  •  
  • Lifetime warranty
  •  
Cons
  • No space in the wooden block
  • You can wash it with your hands only

3. Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set with Self-Sharpening Block, 13-Piece NonStick Knife

3rd Pick
kitchen knife sets under $300

Calphalon Kitchen Knife Set with Self-Sharpening Block

Specifications:

  • Material: Steel
  • Style: Premium
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 10.43 x 6.52 x 15.08 inches

Tired of food always sticking to your knife while you cut? The Calphalon precision sharpening nonstick 13 piece cutlery set is a line of premium cutlery that features a uniquely designed nonstick-coated blade with a longitudinal ridge that prevents food from sticking—making food prep easier and saving you time.

This 13-piece knife set covers all aspects of chopping, cutting, and cleaning. Don’t worry about sharpening knives now and then. Self-sharpening slots have been incorporated into the block by the manufacturer. Therefore, knives do not need to be sharpened every month. Keep knives in the wooden block and leave the rest in the block.

Not only this, but the knives in the block have end caps to make these knives more protective and healthy. All these tiny features make the difference. People who love to have safer and healthier options will consider these knives. 

It is nonstick blades and ergonomic design will provide you with high-speed chopping, cutting, and cleaning. These 13 knives cover all aspects of cutting, chopping, and cleaning.

Forged steel is used in the making of the product. Forged steel ensures durability and edged retention. It makes the product more reliable and trustworthy.

Set Includes  

  • One 3.5″ paring knife 
  • One 7″ slicer, one 7″ santoku  
  • One 8″ bread knife 
  • One 8″ chef’s knife 
  • Six steak knives 
  • One pair of scissors 
  • One sharpening knife storage block
Pros
  • Self-sharpening feature
  • End cap to make it healthier and safer
  • A large set of knives
  • Budgeted
  • Lifetime warranty
  • End caps engraved with knife identification
Cons
  • Cause some issues due to nonstick coating

4. Cangshan S1 Series 1022599 German Steel Forged 17-Piece Knife Block Set

4th Pick
Cangshan S1 knife series

Cangshan S1 Series 1022599 German Steel Forged 17-Piece Knife Block Set

Specifications:

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Blade Edge: Straight
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 11.5 x 9.5 x 16.5 inches

Cangshan’s S1 Series speaks to the purity of minimalism by focusing on the elemental beauty of forward-thinking aesthetics and practical functionality. It features exceptional qualities that complement and elevate the skills of the chef.

The modern-shaped knives have plenty to offer. They are lightweight and comfortable. The handles of the whole set are ergonomic which feels nice while cutting, chopping, or cleaning. 

Sharpening of the knives is rather easy due to half bolster construction. Full bolster construction always creates a problem when we want to sharpen them. 

The blade is made from forged steel. This ensures durability and better retention of edges for a long time. Rusting will not be an issue due to the stainless steel cover. Remains sharpened for longer.

This is a budget-friendly series with 7 pieces that cover every aspect of cutting, chopping, and cleaning. All 7 pieces are kept in an attractive wooden block to hold every single knife. But unfortunately, you can’t place more knives in the block as there is no more space.

Set Includes

  • One 4.5″ utility knife, 
  • One 6″  utility knife, one 8″ 
  • Chef knife, one 9″ 
  • Double serrated bread knife one set of kitchen shears and one 9-slot charry wood storage block.
Pros
  • Manufactured from forged steel
  • Lightweight
  • Laser cut
  • Full tang
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Better edge retention
  • Excellent blade material
  • Beautiful wooden block
Cons
  • The wooden block is missing extra space

5. Global 7-piece Ikasu Knife Block Set

5th Pick
Global 7 piece knife

Global 7-piece Ikasu Knife Block Set

Specifications:

  • Blade Edge: Hollow
  • Style: Modern
  • Item Weight: 6.5 Ounces

Set Contains: 1 x Global 8cm Paring Knife 1 x Global 11cm Utility Knife 1 x Global 13cm Cooks Knife 1 x Global 14cm Vegetable Knife 1 x Global 20cm Cooks Knife 1 x Global 22cm Bread Knife 1 x Global Ikasu Bamboo Block

If you want to add something new decorative to your kitchen, bring the Global 7-piece Ikasu Knife Block Set. Knives are packed in an attractive wooden block made from bamboo. 

Another exceptional thing about the knife set is that all knives are handmade. Expert artisans are behind these attractive knives. In the making, they make sure to use quality metal that adds durability to the product. 

The edges of the blade have a great retention duration due to handmade making. Artisans make sure to deal with the edges carefully so that they could provide you with long-lasting results. 

The ergonomic design of the handles makes these knives very comfortable to use. Lightweight features will to tiered you even if it is used for hours.

You can easily pick the one which you are looking for because all the knives along with its blade can be seen in the bamboo block.

Pros
  • Beautiful bamboo block
  • 7 handmade knives
  • Sharping the knives is easy
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lightweight
  • Great edges retention
Cons
  • A small set of knives

6. ZWILLING J.A. HENCKELS TWIN SIGNATURE STAINLESS-STEEL 11-PIECE KNIFE SET

6th Pick
Zwilling Twin knife sets for kitchen

ZWILLING Twin Signature 11-Piece German Knife Set with Block

Specifications:

  • Material: Carbon
  • Blade Edge: Bread Knife
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 16.75 x 9.75 x 5 inches

ULTRA RAZOR-SHARP: ZWILLING knives start out razor-sharp and stay sharper longer, even with minimal care. 57 Rockwell Hardness = excellent edge retention. Edge angle 15 degrees per side.

You will never regret it once you use the Zwilling J. A Henckels Twin Signature Stainless Steel. It has 11 pieces in the wooden block. The attractive and multi-use of the knives make them one of the best-selling brands. 

Sharp razors or knives make sure effortless and smooth cutting, chopping, and slicing. These sharp razors will cut both types of objects, soft and hard. Though the knives are quite sharp yet they stay sharp for a long time due to the courtesy of the best metal used in the making of the product. 

57 Rockwell Hardness makes it tough and excellent edge retention. No oxidizing due to the stainless steel covering. 

These 11 stainless steel knives will cover all the aspects of chopping, slicing, and cutting. If you are looking for a sharp knife set that could stay for a long time, the Zwilling J. A Henckels Twin Signature is recommended.

The package includes

  • 4-inch paring knife
  • 4.5-inch utility knife 
  • 5-inch utility knife 
  • 6-inch utility knife
  • 7-inch santoku knife
  • 8-inch chef’s knife 
  • bread knife
  • kitchen shears 
  • sharpening steel
  • 16-slot knife block
Pros
  • Full tang
  • Very sharp
  • Stylish design
  • Cover every aspect
  • Better edge retention
  • Tough
  • Beautiful wooden block
Cons
  • Stamped blades

7. Ginsu Gourmet Chikara Series Forged 8-Piece Japanese Steel Knife Set

7th Pick
Ginsu Gourmet Chikara Series Forged 8-Piece under $300

Ginsu Gourmet Chikara Series Forged 8-Piece Japanese Steel Knife Set

Specifications:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Blade Edge: Serrated
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 15.5 x 12 x 19.75 inches

Having the right tools breeds security in the kitchen. These Japanese-style cook’s knives are specialized for their dexterity in chopping, dicing, and slicing.

If you are looking for a sharp, well-balanced knife, try out this brand. They produce some exceptional cutlery products. They use Japanese steel to make products. Japanese steel products are generally expensive but this brand is doing well by selling them at a reasonable price.

Edges maintenance is exceptional. The Japanese steel makes these tough to resist any difficult object. The handles are made of plastic having an organic design that feels balanced on the hands.

The knives included in the block cover almost every aspect of your kitchen need, like cutting, chopping, and slicing. So, for every task that you do, there will be a specific knife for that. 

There are some complaints about the product. The first one is that it will not retain its edges for ages and the second one is that all the knives are unexpectedly thin.

Included

  • 8″ chef’s Knife
  • 3.5″ paring
  • 7″ Santoku
  • 5″ Straight
  • Serrated utility knives
  • Sharpening steel
  • Shears
  • Block
Pros
  • Sharp out of the block
  • Stylish design
  • Japanese steel
  • Well-balanced one
  • Retention is okay
  • Though
Cons
  • Knives are a bit thin
  • Edges may lose their shape with time

8. HENCKELS Classic Razor-Sharp 3

8th Pick
HENCKELS Classic Under $300 knife set

HENCKELS Classic Razor-Sharp 3-pc Knife Set

Specifications:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Handle Material: Stainless Steel
  • Blade Edge: Chef’s Knife

Prepping is easy with the Henckels International CLASSIC 3-pc Starter Knife Set. Honed for long-lasting sharpness, the fine-edge blades are perfect for precision cuts. Effortlessly chop herbs with the 8″ Chef’s Knife, slice cheese with the 6″ Utility Knife and peel apples with the 4″ Paring Knife.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly product, Henckels Classic Razor Sharp-3 will be the best choice for you. Though the number of knives is a few still the product is worth considering at this price range.

Forged steel is used in the making of knives to ensure their durability. Forged steel is quite tough to stay for long. 

The handles of each knife are balanced and have a seamless transition from handle to blade. The design is not a modern one though. But it is fine for a budget set of knives.

The blade is tough enough to bear anything that comes in its way. Edge retention is exceptional. It can last long. 

9. Messermeister Meridian Elite Starter Knife – 8 Pieces

9th Pick
Messermeister Meridian Elite 8-Piece knife set

Messermeister Meridian Elite 8-Piece Magnet Block Set

Specifications:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Blade Edge: Hollow, Plain
  • Style: Ergonomic

KNIFE SET – Meridian Elite knives define tradition with the triple-rivet, full-exposed tang series. Handcrafted in Solingen, Germany, they are one piece, hot-drop hammer forged for a sharper knife with POM handles for comfort and durability.

Let’s have a look at some handcrafted knives. It is expensive though but we want to facilitate our users with some exceptionally well-handcrafted material. The Messermeister Meridian Elite Starter Knife is one of the best-handcrafted knives for better results. You will be thinking that the number of knives is less than a standard knife set has. These are the commonly used knives in every kitchen.

The design is a traditional one. This is one of the few companies that have triple-rivet designs. Though it is a traditional design, it looks perfect.

The forged steel-making of the set makes ensures its durability. Edge retention is exceptional. So, it is a long-lasting knife set for your kitchen at a reasonable price.

Fine German Alloy is good resistance to stain and corrosion. The alloy keeps the sharp edges safe and does not any stain to damage its surface. Bolesterless heels are good for sharpening knives with ease.

The block includes

  • 8″ Chef’s Knife, 
  • 6″ Utility Knife 
  • 3.5″ Paring Knife
  • And a block for knives
Pros
  • Handcrafted
  • Tough and durable
  • Edges retention
  • Shart out of the block
  • No stains and corrosion
  • Traditional design
  • Easy to sharp
Cons
  • The number of knives is very few.

10. Kitchen Knife Set, imarku Knife Set with Block

10th Pick
Best knife under $300

imarku Knife Set with Block,14-Piece Premium Knives Set

Specifications:

  • Blade Edge: Serrated
  • Style: Japanese
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 37 x 25.5 x 18 inches

They are extremely sharp and very comfortable for cutting vegetables and meat

Enjoy high-quality performance and maximum precision with this professional grade cutlery set! Sharpness and durability provide an ideal balance in Japanese AICHI steel for effortless slicing. They’re sturdy and don’t dull easily – plus they’re dishwasher safe, so cleaning is a breeze!

You’ll love this 14-piece knife set. This knife’s 18 degree angle blade provides extreme precision for any type of meal preparation. Whether you’re cutting delicate veggies or tough meat, they can handle it. 

It provides a comfortable grip that allows for smooth rocking motions when slicing. Cook like a pro with these brilliant cutting tools that will satisfy both home cooks and restaurant chefs!

The Super Value Knife Set will cover all your kitchen needs. No matter what meal you’re preparing, this set offers plenty of options, from an 8″ chef knife to six serrated steak knives!

Organize beautifully and easily with this acacia wood block. This ultimate collection has everything you need to create culinary masterpieces.

This knife set block will enhance your cooking experience by offering both quality and convenience. It is designed with slots that ensure maximum durability and food-grade safety. As well as a built-in sharpener, it ensures that all of your knives remain razor sharp. Smart ventilation at the bottom improves air circulation, resulting in easier cutting while extending the blade’s life.

Get the most out of your kitchen with Imarku’s stylish and high-performance knives! This set is suitable for all levels of cooks, from amateurs to master chefs. The gift box makes it the perfect present for any occasion, from a housewarming to a wedding anniversary. As well as a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you get 24/7 support for any problems.

Pros
  • This is a great value for the price
  • Large set
  • Retains edges well
  • Great warranty
Cons
  • Storage block slots are full
  • Steel used in steak knives isn’t that great

11. Schmidt Brothers – Zebra Wood, 7-Piece Knife Set

11th Pick
kitchen knife

Zebra Wood, 7-Piece Knife Set

Specifications:

  • Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel
  • Blade Edge:Serrated
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 9 x 3.5 x 9.5 inches

The Schmidt Brothers Zebra Wood 7-Piece Knife Set puts the essentials all in one easy-to-access (and good-looking) place. Designed and fabricated for everyday use, our 7-piece knife set has the blades you need for everything from prepping veggies to breaking down proteins to carving the holiday roast and more.

This modern knife block set has everything the ambitious home cook needs to craft delectable creations, from bread and slicing tasks with an 8.5-inch bread knife and slicer respectively, through to a 7.5-inch santoku for perfect dicing of vegetables and fruits! Plus, there’s also room in the sleek magnetic block – complete with acrylic cover -for your trusty 4 inch paring blade too!

The remarkable strength, durability and edge retention of kitchen essentials crafted from 100% German stainless steel will meet the needs of both professional chefs and aspiring at-home cooks alike. High carbon construction guarantees years of efficient cooking with balanced performance.

Knife handles and bolsters made of Zebra Wood provide superior control, safety, and comfort. This cutting tool features an ergonomic patented design that fits comfortably in your hand while reducing slippage. As a result, you are able to slice, chop, or slice with maximum precision.

Every knife manufactured by Schmidt Brothers is crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail. As for their commitment to quality, all of the wood used in their knives comes from Germany, ensuring that no resources will be depleted across the globe in the process. Obtaining the FSC certification ensures a sustainable source for your kitchen supplies and also contributes to the protection of the environment.

With an industry-leading limited lifetime warranty, you can rest easy knowing that your purchase is fully protected against defects in materials and/or craftsmanship.

Pros
  • High-quality durable stainless steel blades
  • Set includes knife sharpener
Cons
  • Dishwasher safe status is not specified

12. Ninja K32012 Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System, 12 Piece Knife Block Set

12th Pick
ninja knife

Ninja 12 Piece Knife Block Set with Built-in Sharpener

Specifications:

  • Blade Material: Stainless Steel
  • Brand: Ninja
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 14.37 x 7.45 x 12.63 inches

Introducing the Ninja Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System, the premium knives that stay razor-sharp for over 10 years. This versatile set includes forged German stainless steel blades that are durable and perfectly balanced for comfort and control.

Make your kitchen stand out with German stainless steel blades! This set of rust-resistant culinary instruments is crafted from premium materials. With every use, you can count on premium quality and durability.

Slicing and chopping have never been easier than with Sharp Precision! Its superior sharp edge efficiently cuts through even the toughest ingredients, giving you a precise cut every time. Let Sharp Precision make preparation faster and more efficient for all your cooking needs.

Forget about fatigue and strain when you cook- this ergonomic, chef-approved design will become an extension of your arm. Its perfectly balanced for ultimate comfort and control that makes chopping a breeze!

Enjoy a professional weight-in-hand with the durable and wear resistant handle featuring full tang construction. Crafted for strength, this robust design is perfect for any kitchen need!

Keep your knives as sharp and precise as the day you bought them with NeverDull Technology! Built into each storage block, this professional feature allows you to achieve a razor-sharp edge that will last up to 10 years.

Keep your knives sharp and ready for every task with our simple, failsafe home-sharpening system. With just a single swipe of the handle on its exterior, you’ll get razor-edged blades that make prepping ingredients easier than ever before!

Restore your blade to superior sharpness in no time with FOOLPROOF’s Stone Sharpening Wheel. Using a dynamic stone wheel, the perfect angle and optimal pressure is captured as you swipe; giving you a razor-sharp edge that cuts through any material!

Pros
  • 12 piece set
  • Built-in sharpener
  • Durability and sharpness
Cons
  • Dishwasher safe status is not specified

What to Consider Before Purchasing a Knife or the Whole Set

Does the Blade or the Handle Feels Heavy

Before finalizing a knife or a knife set you have to make sure that how it feels on your hands. It shouldn’t be a bulky one that feels a bit heavy. The blade should also be on the lighter side. It should be curved so that it could move freely back and forth. The handle should allow a firm grip and feels smooth when you hold it.

What’s a Knife Made of

Another important that you must consider is the orientation of the knife. I mean what does it made of? Today, most of the knives out there in the market are passioned from high-quality carbon stainless steel.

These blades are easy to maintain. Sharpening them is not an issue at all. Its edges can be maintained for longer but there are some drawbacks too. These knives keep their color for longer. Rusting is one of the main issues with these knives. So, you need special care to properly work.

Two types of knives but which one suits you the best

The manufacturing of knives involves two methods. Forged and stamped from steel. Both have their limitation and advantages. In the forged method, the knife is made from a single piece of molten metal while stamped blades are punched out of a large sheet of steel. 

Forged knives are more reliable, and keep their shape for longer. Sharpening is not an issue at all. These knives come with perfect weightless handles. They are easy to operate. Edges remain sharpened for longer. They are a touch more expensive and less flexible.

On the other hand, these knives are ideal cutlery material. Durability is what you can rely on. Lightweight and slightly budget-friendly. Re-sharpen might be an issue.

Look for the Style

 There are two styles quite these days when it comes to selecting the best stylish knife. Check whether the set of the knife is following Japanese style or European style. Let’s have a look at these two styles so that we could make difference when we are out shopping.

European Style

European-style knives are quite different from Japanese-styled knives. These knives come with a thicker blade and have a curve that helps knives to rock back easily. They are heavier in general.

Japanese Knives 

Japanese knives are lighter with slightly thin blades. They are almost straight with no curves. This shape helps you maximize procession. 

Both styles are still quite common and sometimes confusing too. Looking at the shape you will not be able to distinguish whether this is a European-style knife or a Japanese style. 

Affordability

In the market some knives are expensive. That is why we have brought a list of the Best Kitchen Knife Set Under $300. These are affordable and capable of doing daily tasks with ease.

Conclusion

That’s all for the topic “Best Kitchen Knife Set Under $300”. Every set of knives has different features from the others. For selecting the best one, you should know your requirements. Only this way you can get to the best set of knives.

If you do not know your needs it will be difficult to find the one you aim to buy. You might end up buying a fancy one but that might not be your requirement. So, first of all, read the whole article with a clear destination to achieve. If you are clear about your needs, we hope that you will find the set of knives for which you are here on our website. 

What I recommend are;

  1. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Signature Stainless-Steel 11-Piece knife set
  2. Shun Sora 6-Piece Knife Set

FAQs

What are the 3 most important kitchen knives?

The three important kitchen knives are;
1. Chef’s Knife
2. Paring Knife
3. Serrated Knife

What is the best kitchen knives on the market today?

The knives that are mentioned in the article are some of the best knives on the market.

What brand of knives do most chefs use?

Different brands are suing by different chiefs the following
Wusthof
Global
Mercer
Mac Knife

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