Best Utility Knives of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Utility knives are a versatile and essential tool for any household or workplace. With a sharp blade and sturdy handle, these knives are perfect for a variety of tasks, such as cutting through thick materials like cardboard or opening packages. They are also ideal for precision cutting, making them great for crafting or even in the kitchen. Utility knives come in a range of sizes and styles, from retractable blades to fixed blades, ensuring that there is a knife to suit every need. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional tradesperson, a utility knife is a must-have tool in your arsenal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife Cover #TOP 1
WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Fastback Utility Knife 6in1 Cover #TOP 2
Fastback Utility Knife 6in1
ftb score rating icon 9.8
8 Pack Utility Knife Box Cutters Cover #TOP 3
8 Pack Utility Knife Box Cutters
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Utility Knives

WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife

W013053
1-Pack
WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife Cover
WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife, Retractable All Metal Heavy Duty Box Cutter, Quick Change Blade Razor Knife, with 10 Extra Blades

The WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife is a heavy-duty box cutter that is durable and lightweight, with SK5 razor blades that are up to 64 HRC. It has a retractable blade with 3 adjustable positions and a quick-release button for easy blade replacement. It can slice through cardboard, carpet, drywall, rope, vinyl, leather, and flooring, making it great for general and precision cutting. The matting body and ergonomic design make it hand and environment-friendly, and it comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee and lifetime support.

What We Like
Very sharp blade
Easy blade replacement
Comfortable ergonomic grip
Durable construction
Includes extra blades
What We Don't Like
Mechanics less smooth than premium brands
#TOP 2

Fastback Utility Knife 6in1

MILWAUKEE - 48-22-1505
Fastback Utility Knife 6in1 Cover
FASTBACK UTIILY KNF 6IN1

The Fastback Utility Knife 6in1 offers a variety of features to make your cutting tasks easier. The folding 1/4" bit holder and reversible Phillips #2 and Slotted 1/4" bit provide versatility for different screw types. The durable wire belt clip reduces pocket tearing, making it easy to carry around. The blade holder is designed for scoring, and the wire stripper allows you to strip wires without the need for additional tools. This utility knife is a great addition to any toolbox.

What We Like
Solid construction
Multi-function design
One-handed operation
Tool-free blade changes
Ergonomic handle
What We Don't Like
Slightly bulky in pocket
Screwdriver bit may loosen
#TOP 3

8 Pack Utility Knife Box Cutters

8 Mix
8 Pack Utility Knife Box Cutters Cover
8 Pack Utility Knife Box Cutters (9mm Wide Blade Cutter 4 Colors) Box Cutter Retractable, Compact Utility Knives, Extended Use for Office, Craft, Razor Knife, Paper Knife, Disposable Box Opener

The 8 Pack Utility Knife Box Cutters by DIYSELF is exactly what you need for economical and disposable box cutting blades. The comfortable grip and wider retractable blade make cutting easy and prevent blade slipping with the lock tab. The 9mm wider blade is heavy-duty, ideal for thicker cuts, and can be used for commercial or industrial applications like thicker paper, tape, plastic, cardboard, balsa, bass wood, photos, coupons, cardstock, mat board, foam board, delicate fabrics, crafts, Amazon, UPS, or post office packages. Always keep your blade fresh and sharp by snapping off the blade for a new sharp cutting tip.

What We Like
Sharp 9mm blades
Lightweight and compact
Retractable blade safety
Multiple color options
Great value pack
What We Don't Like
Not for heavy-duty cutting
Build not super strong

JETMORE Folding Utility Knife 4 Pack

ASXER
Multicolor
4 Pack
JETMORE Folding Utility Knife 4 Pack Cover
JETMORE 4 Pack Folding Utility Knife with Extra 10Pcs Blades, Box Cutters for Home, Office, Warehouse, Durable Razor Knife, Box Knife, Box Opener, Small Box Cutter with Clip, Navajas de Trabajo

The JETMORE Folding Utility Knife is designed to make cutting tasks easier and safer for you. Its sharp blades allow you to slice through various materials quickly and smoothly, saving you time and effort. Thanks to a secure locking system, the knife stays firmly open while you work, preventing any accidental closures or slips. Made from rust-resistant ABS and aluminum, this tool is built to last, so you can rely on it for many projects. Plus, changing blades is simple—just press a button for a quick swap, keeping your work uninterrupted and hassle-free.

What We Like
Excellent value for price
Sharp, reliable blades
Easy blade replacement
Lightweight and compact design
Color-coded for easy identification
What We Don't Like
Small handle size
Lightweight feel (not heavy-duty)
#TOP 5

Amazon Basics Folding Utility Knife

Amazon Basics
DS-CKAMZ019
Amazon Basics Folding Utility Knife Cover
Amazon Basics Folding Utility Knife, Lightweight Aluminum Body, Red

The Amazon Basics Folding Utility Knife is a durable and lightweight option for general purpose and precision cutting. The stainless steel fold-out blade housing and aluminum handle with anti-slip grip provide comfortable and secure use. The lock-back design ensures safety by keeping the blade in place when in use. Blade replacement is made easy with the quick-change mechanism, which is compatible with most standard sized blades. This utility knife is perfect for cutting boxes, rope, carpet, plastic, leather, wallpaper, and more.

What We Like
Lightweight and sturdy build
Easy blade change
Affordable price
Comfortable grip
Reliable for daily use
What We Don't Like
Large size when closed
Blade may come loose (rare)
#TOP 6

Silaoburi All-Metal Manual Utility Knife with 10 #23 Blades

Silaoburi
KF2025
Silver
Small
Silaoburi All-Metal Manual Utility Knife with 10 #23 Blades Cover
Utility Knife, All-Metal Manual Box Cutter with Quick-Change Stainless Steel Blade,Folding Cutting Tool Set with 10pcs #23 Replacement Blades,SILVER

The Silaoburi Metal Utility Knife is designed for safety and ease of use. You control the blade manually with your thumb, allowing you to extend or retract it safely, much like a standard box cutter. Replacing the blade is simple and doesn't require any tools, thanks to the included 10 professional #23 stainless steel blades that slide and lock into place securely. Its all-metal construction makes the knife durable and long-lasting, while the anti-slip handle ensures a firm grip during use. Plus, it's lightweight and easy to carry, with a metal clip that lets you attach it conveniently to your pocket or belt.

What We Like
Smooth switch-blade mechanism
Replaceable blades
Solid build quality
Compact and pocket-friendly
Includes extra blades
What We Don't Like
Replacement blades availability uncertain

M MEEPO Box Cutter, Tough Folding Utility Knife

4-Pack
M MEEPO Box Cutter, Tough Folding Utility Knife Cover
M MEEPO Box Cutter, 4-Pack Tough Folding Box Cutter for Heavy Duty Purpose, Razor Sharp Blade, Comfortable Handle, with Extra 10-Piece Blades, Can cut Drywall, Sheet Plastic, Linoleum, Boxes, Rope

The M MEEPO Box Cutter is a set of 4 tough folding utility knives that are made for heavy duty purposes. The ergonomic handle, easy blade change design and lightweight feeling make it easy to use for daily life. The blades are heat treated steel and will remain sharp for a long time, making this an essential tool that you can trust. The set comes with 10 extra blades and the utility knife can be used to cut through a wide range of materials including drywall, sheet plastic, boxes, rope and more.

What We Like
Sharp blades
Comfortable grip
Easy blade change
Compact folding design
Bright, easy-to-spot colors
What We Don't Like
Occasional loose screw
Basic plastic casing

Slice 10400 Box Cutter with Ceramic Blade

10400
Locking Blade
10400
Slice 10400 Box Cutter with Ceramic Blade Cover
Slice - 10400 Box Cutter, 3 Position Manual Button with Ceramic Blade, Locking blade

The Slice 10400 Box Cutter is an innovative and stylish utility knife that is safer to use than traditional knives. It features a 3-position manual slider button that allows the blade to stay locked in three positions, a zirconium oxide ceramic blade that stays sharp up to 10x longer than steel blades, and easy blade change without tools. The ceramic blade is non-conductive, anti-magnetic, chemically inert, and never rusts. It is designed for cutting corrugated packaging, foam, vinyl, boxes, cardboard, etc. To cut paper and thinner items, try the Slice 00116 Precision Cutter or 00100 Safety Cutter.

What We Like
Safe ceramic blade
Ergonomic handle design
Easy to use
Replaceable blade
Attractive colors
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for heavy materials
Blade may dull over time
#TOP 9

THINKWORK 3-in-1 Utility Knife

W6289-US
Green
THINKWORK 3-in-1 Utility Knife Cover
THINKWORK Utility Knife, 3-in-1 Box Cutter Retractable, Heavy-Duty Aluminum Alloy Body Sharp Razor Knife for Cardboard, Carpets, Blade Storage, Includes Extra 6 Blades, Gift for Men

The THINKWORK Utility Knife is more than just a box cutter—it’s a versatile tool designed to make your tasks easier. Its built-in wire stripper helps you cut package ropes smoothly, while the small stainless steel hammer at the end is perfect for light tapping or emergency needs. Changing blades is simple and safe with a quick-release button and an easy-loading system, plus you get six extra blades stored right inside. The knife’s blade depth can be adjusted in three stages, so you can handle everything from delicate crafts to thick carpets. Its durable aluminum body offers a strong, comfortable grip that won’t slip, even during precise cuts.

What We Like
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Easy blade replacement
Durable aluminum alloy body
Built-in blade storage
Multi-functional features
What We Don't Like
Rope cutter less effective
Glass breaker utility questionable
#TOP 10

Slice Micro Safety Cutter 2 Pack

50301
Green
2 Pack
Slice Micro Safety Cutter 2 Pack Cover
Slice Micro Safety Cutter | Safe Ceramic Box Cutter Lasting 11x Longer than Metal | Keychain Box Opener | 2 Pack | Green

The Slice Safety Cutter is designed to keep your fingers safe while opening packages, thanks to its small ceramic blade that barely exposes the cutting edge. This makes it perfect for safely slicing through boxes, food packaging, and plastic clamshells without damaging the contents inside. Its ceramic blade is also highly durable, lasting 11 times longer than traditional metal blades and eliminating worries about rust. Lightweight and compact, this cutter fits easily on your keychain, making it convenient for both home use and on-the-go tasks. Plus, its ergonomic and non-slip design ensures a comfortable grip every time you use it.

What We Like
Very sharp cutting blade
Compact and easy to handle
Magnetic storage convenience
Safe for fingers
Effective for opening packages
What We Don't Like
Blade is quite small
Magnet strength could be better
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Utility Knives to Meet Your Needs

Introduction

Utility knives are an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional tradesperson. They are versatile, handy, and easy to use, making them a valuable addition to any toolbox. But with so many different types of utility knives available on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?

Consider Your Needs

Before you start shopping for a utility knife, it's important to consider what you need it for. Are you going to be using it for heavy-duty tasks like cutting through thick materials, or do you just need a knife for everyday tasks like opening boxes and cutting packaging?

If you're going to be using your utility knife for heavy-duty tasks, you'll want to look for a knife with a strong, durable blade that can handle the abuse. Some options to consider include knives with retractable blades, which can be extended and locked into place for added strength and stability.

On the other hand, if you just need a utility knife for everyday tasks, you can opt for a simpler, more compact design. Pocket knives and folding knives are great for this purpose, as they can easily be carried in your pocket or bag and deployed quickly when needed.

Choose the Right Blade

Another important factor to consider when choosing a utility knife is the type of blade it uses. Most utility knives come with either a fixed blade or a replaceable blade.

Fixed blades are generally more durable and sturdy, as they are made from a single piece of metal. They are also typically easier to sharpen, as the blade can be honed to a fine edge without worrying about damaging the knife's mechanism. However, fixed blades can be more difficult to replace once they become dull, so you'll need to be prepared to sharpen them regularly.

Replaceable blades, on the other hand, are easier to swap out when they become dull. This can be a convenient option if you don't have the time or expertise to sharpen your own blades, or if you're going to be using your utility knife for a large project that will require frequent blade changes. However, replaceable blades can be less durable and may not hold their edge as well as fixed blades.

Consider the Handle

The handle of your utility knife is another important factor to consider. A comfortable, ergonomic handle will make it easier to use your knife for extended periods of time, reducing hand fatigue and improving your overall experience.

Look for utility knives with handles that have a textured grip, which will provide a secure, non-slip hold. Some utility knives also have padded handles, which can provide extra comfort and support.

Don't Forget the Extras

In addition to the basic features discussed above, some utility knives come with extra features that can be useful depending on your needs. For example, some utility knives have built-in rulers or measuring guides, which can be useful for tasks like cutting drywall or carpeting to size. Others have built-in wire strippers, which can save you time and effort when working with electrical cables.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a utility knife, there are many factors to consider. From the type of blade and handle to the extra features, it's important to take the time to find the right knife for your needs. By considering your needs and doing your research, you can find the perfect utility knife that will serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the utility knife used for?

A utility knife is a versatile tool that is longer than a paring knife and narrower than a chef's knife. It is commonly used for slicing fruits, tender meats, or sandwiches. It is a go-to knife for everyday tasks in the kitchen.

2. What not to do with a utility knife?

When using a utility knife, it is important not to apply excessive force as it is already razor sharp and can cut most materials with light pressure. Keep your holding hand away from the knife blade, avoid swinging the blade through the cut, change the blade when it's dull, and never pull the knife directly towards you.

3. Do you really need a utility knife?

A utility knife is a versatile tool that can be used for various purposes. It is an excellent backup option when your other knives are in use. Its smaller size compared to a chef's knife makes it suitable for cooks with smaller hands or those who prefer greater control in their cuts.

4. What knife stays sharp longest?

A bread knife is commonly 8 inches long and has a serrated blade, making it ideal for cutting bread and tough-skinned foods. It is also known to stay sharp for longer periods on its own and requires less frequent professional sharpening.

5. What knife blade is easiest to sharpen?

Carbon steel blades are generally made for rough use and are known for their toughness and durability. They can be sharpened easily and are commonly found in survival knives and machetes.

6. What do you use a 5 inch utility knife for?

A 5-inch utility knife, although shorter than a bread knife, is still a great choice for smaller loaves. Its serrated edge allows for slicing through baguettes, bagels, and tender fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, peaches, and summer squash without crushing them.

Editor's Notes

During our utility knives research, we found 24 utility knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 191,498 customer reviews through our big data system to write the utility knives list. We found that most customers choose utility knives with an average price of $7.58.

The utility knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of utility knives, including WORKPRO, Milwaukee, DIYSELF, Jetmore, Silaoburi. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,628 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Utility Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand WORKPRO Milwaukee DIYSELF Jetmore Amazon Basics Silaoburi M MEEPO Slice THINKWORK Slice
Material Metal, Plastic Plastic Plastic Carbon Steel Aluminum Stainless Steel Plastic,Alloy Steel,Zinc Alloy Shell Bamboo Aluminum, High Carbon Steel Rubber, Zirconia
Color Red Red 8 Mix Multicolor Red Silver Orange, Blue, Yellow, Green Locking Blade Green Green
Style Utility knife 6-in-1 8 Pack 4 Pack Box Cutter Folding Utility Knife Auto Ergonomic Manual,Simple Industrial style Safety Cutter
Handle Material Metal Plastic Plastic,Wood Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Aluminum Handle,Plastic,Stainless,Steel - Plastic,Steel Glass Filled Nylon Alloy Steel, Aluminum Rubber
Blade Material Metal Stainless Steel Plastic High Carbon Steel Stainless Steel - Alloy Steel, Plastic Ceramic High Carbon Steel Ceramic
Item Length 6.3 Inches 8.75 Inches 5.2 Inches 3.5 Inches 5.5 Inches - 6 Inches 6.97 Inches - 2.41 Inches
Item Weight 91 Grams 150 Grams - - 0.29 Pounds - 0.32 Kilograms 96 Grams 0.59 Pounds 0.21 Ounces
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 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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