Best Kitchen Utility Knives of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Kitchen utility knives are an essential tool for any home cook or professional chef. These versatile knives are designed to handle a variety of tasks in the kitchen, from slicing fruits and vegetables to trimming meat and poultry. With a sharp blade and comfortable handle, these knives make prep work a breeze. They come in a range of sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you're an experienced chef or just starting out in the kitchen, a good utility knife is a must-have tool.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 6-inch Small Carving Knife Cover #TOP 1
HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 6-inch Small Carving Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Mercer Culinary Genesis Utility Knife Cover #TOP 2
Mercer Culinary Genesis Utility Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HENCKELS Forged Premio Utility Knife Cover #TOP 3
HENCKELS Forged Premio Utility Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Kitchen Utility Knives

#TOP 1

HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 6-inch Small Carving Knife

17540-163
HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 6-inch Small Carving Knife Cover
HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 6-inch Utility Knife, Tomato Knife, German Engineered Informed by 100+ Years of Mastery, Black/Stainless Steel

The HENCKELS Solution Razor-Sharp 6-inch Small Carving Knife is a German engineered, professional-level knife informed by over 100 years of mastery, with superior sharpness for precision cutting. It is lightweight and easy-to-use, great for cutting through mid-sized fruits and veggies, meats, and cheeses. The single-piece, precision-stamped blade construction provides durability and stays sharp longer, even with minimal care. Quick clean up is a no-fuss, dishwasher or hand wash, and the stain and rust-free blades make it worth the splurge.

What We Like
Sharp and holds edge well
Lightweight and balanced design
Good value for the price
Comfortable handle
Suitable for everyday use
What We Don't Like
Blade feels thin and bendable
Not made in Germany
#TOP 2

Mercer Culinary Genesis Utility Knife

M20405
Black
Mercer Culinary Genesis Utility Knife Cover
Mercer Culinary M20405 Genesis 5-Inch Utility Knife,Black

The Mercer Culinary Utility Knife is a versatile tool designed for everyday kitchen tasks. Crafted from high-carbon German steel, it boasts exceptional durability and a finely tapered edge that enhances cutting efficiency, ensuring it remains sharp over time. The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable, non-slip grip, making it easy to use, even with wet hands. This knife is perfect for a variety of tasks, such as slicing fruit, cheese, or sandwiches, making it an essential addition to any kitchen. With proper care, it can serve you well for years to come.

What We Like
Comfortable grip
Very sharp blade
Excellent value
Holds edge well
Lightweight and ergonomic
What We Don't Like
Requires periodic sharpening
Handle may be too long for some
#TOP 3

HENCKELS Forged Premio Utility Knife

16905-161
HENCKELS Forged Premio Utility Knife Cover
HENCKELS Forged Premio Knife, 6 inch Utility, Black/Stainless Steel

The HENCKELS Forged Premio Utility Knife is a high-quality kitchen tool made from German stainless steel with a professional satin-finished blade that offers precision cutting and long-lasting sharpness. The knife features forged bolster construction that provides durability and seamless transition from blade to handle, a modern triple-rivet design for comfort, and a stylish and sturdy stainless steel logo-stamped endcap. Additionally, the knife is dishwasher safe and made in China.

What We Like
High-quality forged construction
Sharp and easy to sharpen
Good weight and balance
Versatile for various tasks
Dishwasher safe
What We Don't Like
Requires careful cleaning
Bent tip possible with mishandling
#TOP 4

HENCKELS Classic 6-inch Utility Knife

31160-161
HENCKELS Classic 6-inch Utility Knife Cover
HENCKELS Classic Razor-Sharp 6-inch Utility Knife, Tomato Knife, German Engineered Informed by 100+ Years of Mastery, Black/Stainless Steel

The HENCKELS Utility Knife is your go-to tool for effortless meal preparation. Its ultra-sharp blade ensures precise cuts, making it easy to slice through a variety of foods, from mid-sized fruits and vegetables to meats and cheeses. You’ll appreciate how it stays sharp for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. Additionally, its lightweight design means you can handle it with ease, allowing you to cut and prepare meals without strain. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this knife enhances your kitchen experience with its convenience and efficiency.

What We Like
Sharp out of the box
Light and well-balanced
Durable construction
Holds edge well
Comfortable handle
What We Don't Like
Steel may be hard to sharpen
#TOP 5

Cutluxe Artisan Series Utility Knife

ART-UTL-05-1
Black
5.5" Straight Edge
Cutluxe Artisan Series Utility Knife Cover
Cutluxe Kitchen Utility Knife, 5.5" Paring Kitchen Knife – Razor Sharp Blade, High Carbon German Steel, Full Tang Ergonomic Handle Design – Artisan Series

The Cutluxe Utility Knife from the Artisan Series is a multipurpose kitchen knife that is perfect for all your slicing needs. Its razor-sharp edge effortlessly slices through vegetables, fruits, sandwiches, cheeses, fish, and meat. The blade edge is hand sharpened to ensure maximum sharpness and edge retention. The luxury pakkawood handle is laminated and polished for a sanitary build and is triple-riveted for a sure grip and absolute stability, ensuring comfort and maneuverability. The knife is precisely forged of high-carbon German steel engineered to perfection at 56+ Rockwell hardness for long-lasting performance, rust, and stain resistance. The Cutluxe Utility Knife comes with a lifetime warranty against material or workmanship defects, making it a risk-free purchase.

What We Like
Excellent cutting performance
Comfortable handle design
Sharp and easy to clean
Great value for quality
Well-crafted with a lifetime warranty
What We Don't Like
Handle may require adjustment
Slightly heavy for delicate tasks

HENCKELS Forged Premio Serrated Utility Knife

16910-131
HENCKELS Forged Premio Serrated Utility Knife Cover
HENCKELS - 16910-131 HENCKELS Forged Premio Serrated Utility Knife, 5-inch, Black/Stainless Steel

The Henckels International Forged Premio 5" Serrated Utility Knife is a small but versatile knife that is perfect for slicing through foods with a hard exterior and soft interior, such as tomatoes, sausages, bread, and cheese. The knife is made from high-quality German stainless steel, and the blade is finely honed for long-lasting sharpness. The forged bolster construction offers durability and balance, while the triple-rivet handle is curved for comfort. The knife also features a stylish stainless steel endcap that adds aesthetic appeal to your knife block.

What We Like
Excellent cutting ability
Sturdy and well-balanced
Versatile for various tasks
Comfortable grip
Comes with safety sleeve
What We Don't Like
Somewhat expensive
Initial sharpness may cause accidents
#TOP 7

Cuisinart Triple Rivet Collection 5" Serrated Utility Knife

C77TR-5SUT
Black
Cuisinart Triple Rivet Collection 5" Serrated Utility Knife Cover
Cuisinart C77TR-5SUT Triple Rivet Collection 5" Serrated Utility Knife, Black

The Cuisinart Triple Rivet Collection 5" Serrated Utility Knife features high-carbon stainless steel blades for precision and accuracy. It has a durable extra-wide safety bolster that provides perfect stability and control. The full-tang blade is secured to the ergonomically designed handle with stainless steel rivets. This knife also comes with a blade guard to protect the blade when not in use.

What We Like
Sharp and effective cutting
Good weight and balance
Attractive design
Affordable price
Serrated edge ideal for tomatoes
What We Don't Like
Requires more effort than premium brands
Not for professional use
#TOP 8

WÜSTHOF Classic 5" Utility Knife

1040136812
One Size
WÜSTHOF Classic 5" Utility Knife Cover
WÜSTHOF Classic 5" Utility Knife, Black, Stainless Steel

The WÜSTHOF Utility Knife is an essential tool for any kitchen. Its versatile design makes it perfect for chopping, mincing, slicing, and dicing, allowing you to handle a variety of meal preparations with ease. The knife features a uniquely curved blade that provides both heft for rock cuts and precision for delicate tasks. With its durable construction, it resists corrosion and dulling, ensuring long-lasting performance. Plus, being part of the renowned WÜSTHOF Classic Series, you can trust it's crafted with centuries of tradition and quality in mind.

What We Like
Super sharp blade
High-quality craftsmanship
Ideal size for prep work
Good balance and feel
Excellent for intricate cuts
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected
Requires careful handling
#TOP 9

Babish 5 Inch Utility Knife

138196.01R
Babish 5 Inch Utility Knife Cover
Babish High-Carbon 1.4116 German Steel 5 Inch Full Tang, Forged Utility Kitchen Knife

The Babish Utility Kitchen Knife is crafted from high-carbon 1.4116 German steel, ensuring you have a durable and precise tool for your kitchen. Its sharp 13° cutting edge allows you to make clean, accurate cuts, making meal prep a breeze. The full-tang design and double-bolstered handle provide excellent balance and strength, giving you confidence while slicing ingredients. With this knife, you can enjoy effortless handling and control, enhancing your cooking experience.

What We Like
Great value for the price
Comfortable handle and good balance
Sharp and retains edge well
Durable and easy to maintain
Simple and elegant design
What We Don't Like
May cause hand discomfort over time
#TOP 10

OXO Good Grips 5-in Serrated Utility Knife

OXO
22181
Silver, Black
OXO Good Grips 5-in Serrated Utility Knife Cover
OXO Good Grips 5-in Serrated Utility Knife,Silver/Black

The OXO Good Grips 5-in Serrated Utility Knife is a versatile kitchen tool with a sharp, stainless steel blade that slices through delicate fruits like tomatoes and citrus without crushing. Its soft, comfortable handle ensures a safe and secure grip. The 5-inch blade is perfect for detailed cutting tasks. To maintain its quality, hand wash with warm, soapy water and promptly dry.

What We Like
Sharp blade for easy cutting
Comfortable grip and ergonomics
Versatile for vegetables and meats
Good value for the price
Efficient for slicing tomatoes
What We Don't Like
Weight may not satisfy all users
Some may prefer sharper alternatives
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a kitchen knife and a utility knife?

The main difference between a kitchen knife and a utility knife is their size and purpose. Kitchen knives, like chef knives, have a larger, broader blade that is suitable for chopping and slicing larger quantities of food quickly. Utility knives, on the other hand, have a smaller blade, often with serrations, that is designed to handle various kitchen tasks with precision.

2. What are utility knives for kitchen?

Utility knives are versatile tools in the kitchen. They typically have a longer, narrower blade compared to a chef's knife. They are great for slicing fruits, tender pieces of meat, or making sandwiches. Utility knives are often referred to as the 'knife of all trades' as they can handle a wide range of everyday kitchen tasks.

3. Which kitchen knife stays sharpest longest?

Carbon steel knives are known for their ability to maintain sharp edges for a longer time compared to other materials. They make chopping, slicing, and shaving safer and easier in the kitchen. Investing in a carbon steel knife can ensure that you have a knife that stays sharp for an extended period, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

The three most popular knives that can handle almost any kitchen task are the chef's knife, paring knife, and serrated knife. With just these three knives, you can accomplish a wide range of cutting and slicing tasks in the kitchen. They provide versatility and efficiency, making them essential tools for any cooking enthusiast.

5. What not to do with a utility knife?

When using a utility knife, it is important to avoid applying excessive force. The razor-sharp blade of a utility knife can cut through most materials with light pressure. Keep your holding hand clear of the blade and avoid swinging the blade through the cut. It is also important to change the blade when it becomes dull and never pull the knife directly toward you.

6. Do you really need a utility knife?

Having a utility knife in your kitchen can be highly beneficial. It serves as a versatile tool and can be used for various tasks when your other knives are already in use. The smaller size of a utility knife compared to a chef's knife makes it suitable for cooks with smaller hands or those who prefer a higher degree of control in their cuts.

Editor's Notes

During our kitchen utility knives research, we found 24 kitchen utility knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 63,826 customer reviews through our big data system to write the kitchen utility knives list. We found that most customers choose kitchen utility knives with an average price of $25.92.

The kitchen utility knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of kitchen utility knives, including HENCKELS, Mercer Culinary, ZWILLING, Cutluxe, Cuisinart. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Kitchen Utility Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP5
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#TOP10
Brand HENCKELS Mercer Culinary ZWILLING HENCKELS Cutluxe HENCKELS Cuisinart Wusthof Babish OXO
Blade Material Plastic High Carbon Steel Stainless Steel Plastic High Carbon Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel, High Carbon Stainless Steel Stainless Steel
Color Black/Stainless Steel Black Black/Stainless Steel Black/Stainless Steel Black Black/Stainless Steel Black Black, Stainless Steel Utility Knife - High Carbon Stainless Silver, Black
Handle Material Stainless Steel Santoprene Stainless,Stainless Steel,Steel Stainless Steel Steel Stainless,Stainless Steel,Steel Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Plastic Stainless Steel
Blade Edge Plain Plain straight_edged straight_edged Plain Utility Knife Serrated Plain Plain Serrated
Blade Length 6 Inches 5 Inches 6 Inches 6 Inches 6 Inches 5 Inches 5 Inches 5 Inches 5 Inches 5 Inches
Construction Type Stamped Forged Stamped, Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged
Item Weight 3.04 ounces 3.52 ounces 0.4 Pounds 1.6 ounces 0.33 Pounds 4.2 ounces 0.2 Pounds 5.4 ounces 6.4 ounces 1.76 ounces
Is Dishwasher Safe
Item Length 6 Inches 5 Inches 6 Inches 10.5 Inches 10 Inches 5 Inches 12 Inches 10 Inches 8 Inches 9.88 Inches
Size 6" 5" 6" 6" 5.5" Straight Edge 5" 5" One Size 5" 5"
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy