Best Putty Knives of 2026

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 24, 2026

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Putty knives are a versatile tool used for a variety of tasks, from spreading putty and spackling to scraping paint and removing wallpaper. They are typically made of metal or plastic and come in a range of sizes and shapes, including straight-edged, angled, and rounded. The blade of a putty knife is thin and flexible, allowing for precision and control when working with fine materials or tight spaces. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, a putty knife is an essential tool to have in your toolbox.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Sibosen 12-Pack Flexible Plastic Putty Knife Set Cover #TOP 2
Sibosen 12-Pack Flexible Plastic Putty Knife Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ALLWAY CS6 Soft-Grip Contour Scraper Set Cover #TOP 3
ALLWAY CS6 Soft-Grip Contour Scraper Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Putty Knives

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife

Amazon Basics
X2F-AZ
Black, Silver
Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife Cover
Amazon Basics Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife Scraper, with Carbon Steel Blade, 2"

The Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife is a classic-style handle that provides a sturdy hold and a professional look and feel. The blade is made of taper-ground, mirror-polished carbon steel and is highly flexible, perfect for small and intricate filling jobs. The handle is made of 55% carbon steel and 45% nylon, and is reinforced with two heavy-duty rivets for added support. It is backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Comfortable grip
Flexible blade
Affordable price
Versatile usage
What We Don't Like
Blade could be sharper

Sibosen 12-Pack Flexible Plastic Putty Knife Set

CPSBSHW-HSYD002
Sibosen 12-Pack Flexible Plastic Putty Knife Set Cover
12 Pack Plastic Putty Knife Black Flexible Plastic Paint Scraper Tool Putty Knife Scraper Used for Repairing Walls Pasting Plaster Spackling Applying Mud (Mix)

The Sibosen Plastic Putty Knives come in a complete set of 12, giving you plenty of tools to handle your daily repair and construction tasks without worrying about wear and tear. With six different sizes ranging from 1.5 to 8 inches, you can easily find the perfect scraper for any job, whether it’s small touch-ups or larger surface work. Made from durable, rust-resistant PP material, these knives are built to last. Their flexible design lets you spread putty and paint smoothly and precisely, making your work look professional. Plus, they’re easy to clean—just rinse with water after use, so you save time and reduce waste.

What We Like
Complete 12-piece set
Variety of sizes
Flexible design
Durable, rust-resistant material
Easy to clean and reuse
#TOP 3

ALLWAY CS6 Soft-Grip Contour Scraper Set

Allway Tools - CS6
Color
ALLWAY CS6 Soft-Grip Contour Scraper Set Cover
ALLWAY CS6 Soft-Grip Contour Scraper Set with 6 Blades and Blade File

The ALLWAY CS6 Scraper Set is a handy tool kit designed for detailed contour scraping in painting projects. It comes with six different stainless-steel blades, each shaped for specific tasks like scraping narrow grooves, flat moldings, large rods, or rounded casings, giving you the right blade for every job. The set also includes a blade file stored right in the handle, so you can easily sharpen your blades on the go, keeping them ready for use. Changing blades is simple and organized, thanks to the included storage case that keeps everything neat. Plus, the soft-grip, offset handle makes it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.

What We Like
Versatile blade selection
Ergonomic handle design
Effective on curved surfaces
Easy blade sharpening
Quick paint and finish removal
What We Don't Like
Blade case difficult to open
Minor blade swapping inconvenience
#TOP 4

Beyotool Putty Knife Set

Beyotool-putty
2,3,4,5in
Beyotool Putty Knife Set Cover
Putty Knife, 4Pcs Spackle Knife Set (2, 3, 4, 5 in), Stainless Steel Paint Scraper, Taping Knife Tool for Repairing Drywall, Removing Wallpaper, Applying Putty, Plaster, Cement, Adhesive

The Beyotool Putty Knife Set is a great choice for home improvement projects. This set includes four stainless steel blades with rubber handles for a comfortable grip. The blades are rust-resistant and come in four different sizes, making them perfect for applying putty, plaster, cement, adhesives, and more. Customers have praised the high-quality materials and beveled edges, making this set a great value for the price.

What We Like
Multiple size options
Good value for price
Sturdy handles
Flexible stainless blades
Useful for various projects
What We Don't Like
Slightly thin blades
Handles could be better
#TOP 5

Bates- Putty Knife Set, 6 Pack

Bates- Putty Knife Set, 6 Pack Cover
Bates 6 Pack Plastic Putty Knife Set - Paint Scraper, Spackle Tool, Spreader

The Bates- Putty Knife Set, 6 Pack is a great alternative to metal knife options. The set includes six different sizes ranging from 1.5" to 6" inches, making it easy to find the perfect size for your needs. The plastic scrapers are flexible and solvent resistant, making them perfect for spackling, patching, and painting. The Bates Putty Knifes set is a great addition to any DIY toolkit.

What We Like
Various sizes included
Versatile for many tasks
Sturdy and flexible plastic
Comfortable grip
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Not for heavy-duty use
May break under pressure
#TOP 6

Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife Set

Stainless steel
Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife Set Cover
Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife, Set, 1" 2" 3" 4" 5" Scraper, Spackle Knife, Paint Scraper, Scraper Tool, No Rusting, Perfect For Repairing Drywall, Removing Wallpaper, Mud, Plaster Scraping

The Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife Set is a great choice for any DIYer. This set includes five different sizes of putty knives, each made of high-quality stainless steel that won't rust or corrode. The handles are a combination of soft rubber and plastic for a comfortable grip, and the blades are sharp and precise. This set is perfect for repairing drywall, removing wallpaper, decals, mud, and plaster scraping. Customers have praised the quality and value of this set.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable build
Comfortable ergonomic handles
Variety of blade sizes
Great value price
Blades don't bend easily
What We Don't Like
Handles slightly short for big hands
#TOP 7

LEVEL5 6" Soft-Grip Stainless Steel Drywall Joint Knife

5-142
LEVEL5 6" Soft-Grip Stainless Steel Drywall Joint Knife Cover
6" Soft-Grip Stainless Steel Drywall Joint Knife - LEVEL5 | Pro-Grade | Comfortable Finishing Hand Tool | Metal Hammer End | Sheetrock Gyprock Plasterboard Mud | 5-142

The LEVEL5 6" Soft-Grip Stainless Steel Drywall Joint Knife is a professional-grade finishing hand tool designed for reliable, daily use on job sites. Its precision hollow-grind provides better feel for faster application rates, optimum blade control, and smoother finishes. The knife also features a durable metal alloy hammer head and an ergonomic, lightweight soft comfort grip handle designed for all-day use with minimal fatigue. Polished for easy cleanup, this putty knife is built to last and guaranteed to exceed expectations.

What We Like
High quality construction
Comfortable, sturdy grip
Rust-resistant stainless steel
Flexible blade
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Slightly high price
Inconsistent blade curvature design
#TOP 8

Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife

4824
Black
1.5"
Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife Cover
Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife , Black

The Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife is a great tool for a variety of tasks. It features a high carbon steel blade that is rust-resistant and fully extends through the sturdy solvent-resistant handle. The unique breakaway tab allows for pegboard hanging. Customers love the flexibility of the blade and its ability to get into tight spaces. It is great for applying wood putty, scraping gaskets, and paint. However, some customers have noted that the handle is sharp and cheap.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Comfortable grip handle
Good blade flexibility
Easy to clean
Versatile use cases
What We Don't Like
Some label adhesive difficult to remove
#TOP 9

LifHap Plastic Putty Knife Set

3pcs
LifHap Plastic Putty Knife Set Cover
3 Pcs Putty Knife,Flexible Plastic Paint Scraper Tool for Spackling,Spreader, Spackle, Putty Knife Scraper, Tamale Spreader Tool 3-Pack: 1-1/2", 3", 6", 3 Pcs Putty Knife

The LifHap Putty Knife Set includes three versatile sizes—1.5", 3", and 6"—made from durable plastic. These knives are great for various tasks like spackling, patching, and painting, providing an excellent alternative to metal options. If you're preparing homemade tamales, these tools will help you spread dough easily and efficiently. Additionally, carpenters and handymen will appreciate their suitability for slab and tile jobs, making projects more manageable. Lightweight and easy to handle, this set is also perfect for artists working on large canvases or simple crafts, allowing for seamless application of different mediums.

What We Like
Flexible blade design
Multiple size options
Easy to clean
Scratch-resistant material
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Slightly difficult cleaning with some materials
#TOP 10

Stainless Steel Bucket Scoop - LEVEL5 | 5-210

5-210
Stainless Steel Bucket Scoop - LEVEL5 | 5-210 Cover
Stainless Steel Bucket Scoop - LEVEL5 | 5-210

The LEVEL5 | 5-210 Stainless Steel Bucket Scoop is a reliable and durable tool designed for professional use on job sites. It features a premium quality stainless steel blade that matches the curvature of most joint compound buckets, and an ergonomic composite handle that provides comfort during use and easy cleanup. This professional grade tool is built to last and guaranteed to exceed your expectations.

What We Like
Efficient material removal
Makes bucket cleaning easy
Sturdy and durable build
Fits bucket curves well
Saves money on supplies
Buying Guide Image

How to Select Putty Knives: The Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Putty Knives

Putty knives, also known as scraper knives, are handy tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as applying and smoothing putty, removing old Sturm und Drang or scraping away stubborn wallpaper. They are typically made of metal or plastic, and come in a range of sizes and shapes to suit different applications. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when choosing the right putty knife for your needs.

Blade Shape and Size

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a putty knife is the shape and size of the blade. Putty knives typically have either a straight or curved blade, with each type having its own advantages and disadvantages. Straight blades are best suited for tasks that require precision, such as applying putty to small cracks or corners. Curved blades, on the other hand, are better for smoothing putty over large surfaces, as they can more easily follow the contours of the surface.

In terms of size, putty knives are typically available in widths ranging from 1 inch to 6 inches. For most general purpose tasks, a blade width of 3 inches is a good choice. However, for more precise tasks, a smaller blade may be more suitable, whereas for covering larger surfaces, a wider blade will be more efficient.

Blade Material

Putty knives are typically made of either metal or plastic. Metal blades are more durable and can be used for heavy-duty scraping tasks, such as removing old paint or wallpaper. However, they can also scratch and damage delicate surfaces if not used carefully. Plastic blades, on the other hand, are more flexible and less likely to cause damage, but are not as strong as metal blades and may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

Handle Design

The handle of the putty knife is another important factor to consider, as it determines the comfort and control of the tool. Putty knives with ergonomic handles are more comfortable to grip and use for extended periods of time, and can also help to reduce hand fatigue. Some putty knives also have textured or non-slip handles for improved grip, which can be useful for tasks that require a lot of force.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right putty knife involves considering the blade shape and size, blade material, and handle design. By considering these factors, you can select a putty knife that is well-suited for your specific tasks and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a putty knife used for?

Putty knives are versatile tools used to apply and spread materials. They come in different widths for various purposes, such as filling small nail holes or applying drywall compound. Narrow blades are suitable for small-scale tasks, while wider blades are used for larger surfaces.

2. What is the difference between putty knife and taping knife?

Putty knives are smaller, stiffer, and designed for heavy scraping. On the other hand, taping knives are wider, more flexible, and better suited for spreading, feathering, and delicate scraping work. Taping knives are commonly used in drywall taping and related tasks.

3. Who uses a putty knife?

Putty knives are essential tools for drywallers, but they are also versatile and can be used by anyone. They are commonly used to apply filler materials like drywall compound and spackle to create a tight seal. Putty knives are a valuable addition to any toolbox.

4. Is a plastic or metal putty knife better?

Metal putty knife blades, particularly those made of carbon steel or stainless steel, are generally better than plastic blades. Plastic blades are disposable and not as durable for continued use. Carbon steel blades are more durable but require proper maintenance to prevent rusting. Stainless steel blades are the premium option, offering durability without the risk of rust.

Editor's Notes

During our putty knives research, we found 25 putty knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 90,890 customer reviews through our big data system to write the putty knives list. We found that most customers choose putty knives with an average price of $6.81.

The putty knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of putty knives, including Sibosen, ALLWAY, Beyotool, Bates Choice, Rerdeim. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.

Putty Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics Sibosen ALLWAY Beyotool Bates Choice Rerdeim LEVEL5 Red Devil Harniruco LEVEL5
Material Carbon Steel - Stainless Steel Stainless Steel blade + Rubber handle Plastic Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Blend, Carbon Steel Plastic Stainless Steel
Handle Material Nylon - Soft-grip material Rubber Plastic Rubber Nylon Wood Plastic Stainless Steel
Unit Count - - 1.0 Count - - 1.0 Count 1.00 Count 1.0 Count 1.0 Count 1.0 Count
Recommended Uses For Product Home Improvement, Construction - - - spackling, patching, painting Construction and home improvement applying and smoothing joint compounds, drywall finishing - spackling, patching, painting, preparing large canvases or for simple arts and crafts, slab and tile jobs, tamale making, paint scraper tool -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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