10 Best Kitchen Knife Sets in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Chef
Whether you're a professional or a home cook, a good kitchen knife set is essential. Buying individual knives may be more economical, but a whole set gives you many options for handling different tasks more efficiently.
Investing in a kitchen knife set is not a luxury but a daily necessity that can last for years with proper care and maintenance. In our buying guide fact-checked by Chef Terence Fereday Jr., we've laid out some great tips on how to find the right knife set for your kitchen. We've also curated a list of the top 10 kitchen knife sets that are worth the investment.
Quick List - Top Kitchen Knife Sets
Wusthof
Chef-approved Traditional Knives That Will Last for Years
Chef Terrence has 30 years of experience working in the professional kitchen. He graduated from the Professional Culinary Institute in California, USA, and he was a former Culinary Instructor, Corporate Chef, and Executive Chef. He also won several awards in culinary competitions and is the founder and owner of Zilla Pizza.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Essential Knives Every Kitchen Should Have?
- How to Choose a Kitchen Knife Set – Buying Guide
- Choose Between Forged or Stamped Knives1
- Know the Common Knife Blade Materials2
- Check if the Knife Handle Provides Good Control3
- Select the Knife Tang That Works Best for You4
- Consider the Overall Knife Balance and Weight5
- Look for Specialty Knives That Add More Value6
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Many Kitchen Knives Do You Need?
- Where to Put Kitchen Knife Set?
- How Often Do Kitchen Knives Need to Be Sharpened?
- Cut Your Food Preparation Time in Half
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
What Are the Essential Knives Every Kitchen Should Have?
Before we proceed with the buying guide, let's get to know first the fundamental types of knives that should always be present in any kitchen.
The Chef’s Knife Is an All-Around Tool
First on the list is the highly utilized, multi-purpose chef's knife. It has a curved blade with a sharp tip designed to chop, mince, slice, or dice any type of vegetable, fruit, poultry, or fish. The thicker heel is used for hard root vegetables or meats. This usually comes in an 8-inch length, which is the preferred size among chefs and cooks.
A Paring Knife Is Ideal for Precision Cutting
A paring knife is the best tool for tasks that are difficult to handle with a chef's knife. Due to its shorter size, it can create precise cuts on smaller fruits or vegetables. It's also quite handy for trimming pieces of meat. A paring knife of around 3-4 inches is just about the right length for any kitchen.
Serrated Knives Are Perfect for Bread and Cakes
The bread knife or serrated knife is your next important tool in food preparation. This is typically used to slice bread and cakes cleanly without destroying their form.
You can also use it on fruits and vegetables with a tough skin but softer interior, like tomatoes or pineapples. Although the blade cannot be sharpened through sharpening steel, you can have an expert do the job for you.
A Sharpening Steel Keeps Your Knives in Shape
Even though it's technically not a knife, a sharpening steel is part and parcel of the primary knife group that should be in everyone's kitchen. No matter how beautiful and elegant your knife set is, the sharp edges will eventually get blunt and out of alignment with use. The sharpening steel will re-sharpen and re-align the edges for a smooth and even cutting performance.
Anyone can purchase this separately, and it comes in various sizes. But the best gauge on how to get the right steel size is that it must be longer than the longest kitchen knife that you have. If you're aiming for a safe measurement, get the 10" sharpening steel.
How to Choose a Kitchen Knife Set – Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Choose between forged or stamped knives.
- Know the common knife blade materials.
- Check if the knife handle provides good control.
- Select the knife tang that works best for you.
- Consider the overall knife balance and weight.
- Look for specialty knives that add more value.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Choose Between Forged or Stamped Knives
The basic method of creating a knife is through stamping or forging. It is important to know this so you can assess if the price is congruent with its production value.
Stamped Knives Are Thinner and Lightweight
Entirely machine-made, stamped knives are cut out or "stamped" by a hydraulic press from a large sheet of metal. It is tempered and heat-treated to make it durable and honed or ground several times for sharpness. Stamped knives have a lighter and thinner blade but are not as balanced as forged knives.
Many chefs and cooks favor the lightness of stamped knives to reduce fatigue after extensive hours in the kitchen. Because of their thinner profile, they can cut through food easily. A stamped knife is the right choice for slicing versus a forged knife.
Forged Knives Are Heavier and More Durable
Forged knives are usually formed from a single piece of steel that's heated and pounded with intense pressure to achieve its form. The pounding or hammering helps to "rearrange" the molecules of the steel to make it harder and stronger.
They are commonly made of premium materials such as carbon steel, Damascus steel, or other special materials. They are thicker and heavier than stamped knives and come with a bolster between the heel and handle for balance and handling.
The skill and expertise of a craftsman or a highly specialized machine are required to produce an excellently forged knife. Because of its stronger edge and full tang, the price is significantly higher, but it could last for years.
Know the Common Knife Blade Materials
Blade materials come in different types and compositions. Most are derived from engineering alloys, which makes them lighter, stronger, more durable, and just plain better in many ways than other blade metals. Here are some popular materials used for kitchen knives.
Choose Stainless Steel for a Budget-Friendly Option
Stainless steel is the most popular choice when it comes to stamped knives, as it's easier and cheaper to manufacture. Unfortunately, it can also be considered disposable since it doesn't last long and cannot be re-sharpened too well. The material is softer, more prone to bending or flexing, and goes blunt faster.
One upside of this type is its resistive quality against corrosion. Plus, the lightness will ease much of the strain from working long hours in the kitchen.
Opt for Carbon Steel for a Balance Between Price and Durability
When steel is mixed with carbon, it becomes firmer and much easier to sharpen, so some professional cooks love to use this type of blade material. It is the traditional material used on knives because it can hold an edge much longer. The downside is that it's prone to rust when not properly maintained.
Some chefs even allow the forming of a patina on its surface to prevent the transfer of metallic tastes on some foods as the blade goes through them. To do this, it requires a light touch of mineral oil from time to time.
Select High-Carbon Stainless Steel for Professional Standard Quality
High-carbon stainless steel is a "signature" steel that offers the best balance in terms of sharpness, edge retention, corrosion resistance, and re-sharpening convenience. This is considered the standard material for professionally-owned kitchen knives.
In fact, it's the material of choice for Japanese craftsmen renowned for their sharper and stronger blades. Of course, you can expect that this type of knife comes with a higher price tag, too.
Try Ceramic Knives for a Low Maintenance Option
If you need a lightweight and super-sharp but ultra-hard material, you might want to have a ceramic knife. You are not required to do any maintenance on this type of blade, since it won't rust and holds an edge longer than any other material.
It's not too expensive, but in the rare cases that it needs to be re-sharpened, it must be brought back to its supplier. Ceramic is very hard, so it needs a diamond sharpener. Just be careful not to drop or bend it because it's prone to chipping. Also, the edges should be protected when not in use.
Check if the Knife Handle Provides Good Control
Kitchen knives generally have three types of handle materials - plastic, wood, and metal. Below are what you can expect with each type:
- Plastic: lightweight, smooth, and devoid of grooves that could trap dirt and grime.
- Wood: adds a lot of character to a knife set but needs more maintenance.
- Metal: highly durable and easy to maintain; may be textured for better ergonomics.
Select the Knife Tang That Works Best for You
When it comes to a knife's handle construction, there are three main tang types: full, rat-tail, and half tang. A tang refers to the unexposed and unsharpened part of the blade that goes into the handle. The length of the extended section is crucial in a knife's handling and performance. Below are the different types of tang you'll find in kitchen knives:
- Full tang: the blade is extended fully through the handle and provides the best balance for cutting.
- Half tang: the blade extends only halfway through the handle.
- Rat-tail tang: the tang is narrower than the blade; it is welded on the base of the blade and secured to the handle with a bolt.
Consider the Overall Knife Balance and Weight
Ideally, the balance between the handle and blade should be equal. If the blade is heavier than the handle, it will be uncomfortable to use. Conversely, if the handle is too heavy, it won't cut effectively. The cutting motion should be smooth with lesser effort and strain on the user.
The overall balance is also relative to the total weight of the knife. One cannot tell a user which one is the perfect weight for him or her, as this comes down to personal preference. With modern steel alloys, though, a lighter knife could have all the best qualities of an older and heavier version without putting much stress on your hand and wrist.
Look for Specialty Knives That Add More Value
The beauty of having a set is the wide range of functionality you can have. The more knives in a set, the more options you'll have for different cutting tasks. Here are the most common types of knives you might encounter in a set, in addition to the basic knives discussed above.
- Utility knife: a small version of the chef's knife that's often used as an all-purpose knife.
- Boning knife: a thin knife for separating meat from the bone.
- Cleaver: a wide and heavy knife for chopping, crushing, or pulverizing food.
- Steak knife: a small serrated knife used for cutting or dicing cooked food.
- Fillet knife: a long, thin, and flexible knife for delicate food like fish.
Aside from cutting fish into thin slices, a fillet knife, as its name suggests, is best used for actually filleting the fish or separating the meat from the bones.
10 Best Kitchen Knife Sets to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Wusthof Gourmet 2-Piece Knife & Sharpener Set | | Chef-approved Traditional Knives That Will Last for Years | |
2 | Global Knife Set of 4 With Magnetic Wall Rack｜G-251138 | | A High-End Knife Brand for Professional Use | |
3 | ITAMAE Manta Series Essential Set | | A Combination of Performance and Art | |
4 | Masflex 6-Piece Knife Set With Stainless Steel Block | | A Good Alternative to Pricey Knife Sets | |
5 | Black Ceramic Knife Set | | A Fuss-Free and Inexpensive Ceramic Knife Set | |
6 | Scanpan Classic 6-Piece Knife Block | | A Reliable Knife Set From a Danish Brand | |
7 | Famco 6-Piece Knife Set With Acacia Wood Knife Block | | Forged From German Steel for Durability and Balance | |
8 | Carl Schmidt Sohn Soltau 6-Pc Knife Block Set | | Give Your Kitchen a Warm and Natural Look With This Knife Set | |
9 | Farberware 12-Piece Black Copper Cutlery Set | | A Modern Knife Set with Ergonomically Designed Handles | |
10 | Eiderfinch 6-Piece Knife Set With Non-Stick Coating | | A Unique Starter Set for Budding Cooks |
Chef-approved Traditional Knives That Will Last for Years
Wusthof is one of the most trusted brands, if not the most, by chefs all over the world. They are definitely pricier than other brands, but their knives are always a sound investment. This starter set is one of their less expensive sets and is a great pick for no-nonsense buyers who may want only the basics but also the best.
Laser-cut from high-carbon steel, the blades are rust-resistant and have a traditional edge angle of 18.5 degrees per side. The full tang bolstered by three rivets along the handle ensures a balanced and secure grip as you work. The set also includes a sharpener, so you can keep your knives sharp yourself. This is a set that will stand the test of time and is worth every peso!
GlobalKnife Set of 4 With Magnetic Wall Rack ｜ G-251138
A High-End Knife Brand for Professional Use
These knives from Japanese company Global are among the most sought-after ones in the culinary world. The brand has a cult followingーincluding the late Anthony Bourdainーfor their unique design. The first thing that stands out is the blade; Global blades are made of CROMOVA-18 stainless steel, which holds a sharper edge longer and resists rust and stains.
Aside from that, the edge is sharpened steeply on both sides of the blade at an acute angle, perfect for precision cutting. Their handles are also different from that of conventional knives. Instead of a full tang, the handle is hollow and filled with sand for correct balance. If you want to get serious about cooking, you can't go wrong with Global!
A Combination of Performance and Art
With a stylish look inspired by the manta ray, these Japanese knives combine form and function flawlessly. While it offers only three knivesーchef's, paring, and Santokuーthe selection is versatile enough for a variety of cutting tasks. It also has a chopping board as part of the set.
Loyal users of this brand enjoy the level of craftsmanship each knife bears. The blades are fully forged German steel with a full tang for balance and stability. The surface of the Santoku knife also has oval indentations to make food release easier. On top of that, the best part about Itamae knives is that you can have your name laser engraved for a personalized set!
A Good Alternative to Pricey Knife Sets
This simple 6-piece knife set would be an excellent addition to your home kitchen. It has a classy, streamlined look that would blend perfectly in homes with a minimalist theme. Each blade is fully forged to ensure greater durability and heightened precision. And at such an affordable price, this set is a real steal!
The full tang with three rivets adds even more to its balanced control and well-rounded structure stability. The plastic handle is designed to fit snugly into your hand as well. Aside from that, the set comes with a stainless steel block to organize and protect the knives when not in use.
A Fuss-Free and Inexpensive Ceramic Knife Set
If you prefer a maintenance-free knife set, check out this budget-friendly black blade set. It offers 4 sizes of chef's knives and a ceramic peeler. Each knife is extremely lightweight and balanced, which is ideal for straight cuts of fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats.
Because of the ceramic material, these knives won't leave a metallic taste and smell on food. The blade doesn't rust or corrode when it comes into contact with acid, oil, or other elements, too. And unlike conventional knives, ceramic knives can go for years without re-sharpening and retain their edge longer. Thus, they are perfect for those with busy schedules.
ScanpanClassic 6-Piece Knife Block
A Reliable Knife Set From a Danish Brand
The Scanpan Classic knife set is another product that's popular with many cooks and chefs. Designed in Denmark, these knives are reliable and create sharp, precise cuts. Each blade is forged from premium quality German stainless steel and ground to a 30-degree angle.
In the hand, the knife sits with excellent weight distribution and balance. The ergonomic handle with a rounded spine adds even more comfort for the user. This set also comes with a beech wood block for storage. Take note, though, that handwashing is recommended to clean them instead of the dishwasher.
Famco6-Piece Knife Set With Acacia Wood Knife Block
Forged From German Steel for Durability and Balance
German steel is known in the knife industry for being durable, and this one from Famco is a perfect example. Each blade is forged in one piece to give you a balanced cutting experience. Out of the box, these knives are ready for smooth and precise cutting since they are sharpened to a 15-degree angle for less friction.
The blade extends completely into the ergonomic wooden handle and is secured by three stainless steel rivets, giving it a double safeguard against wobbling. Another great thing about this set is its great contrast between the sleek design of the knives and the warm color of the acacia wood block.
Give Your Kitchen a Warm and Natural Look With This Knife Set
If you're Team Kahoy, you're going to love the warmth this set from Carl Schmidt Sohn will add to your kitchen. With wooden handles and a block to go with the set, this will fit in perfectly with your home's overall theme. The set includes a cleaver, a chef's knife for all-purpose utility, a paring knife, a utility knife, and universal scissors you can use for opening bottles and jars.
And it doesn't just look good; it performs superbly, too. Made in Germany, the blade is forged from high-quality steel and has a full tang for perfect balance and durability. The wood handles also have a sloping design to give you an ergonomic grip. This set is definitely a great buy to make your meal prep easier!
A Modern Knife Set with Ergonomically Designed Handles
The contemporary design of these knives from Farberware will surely refresh your kitchen and bring in a modern appearance. Its blade is made of stainless steel coated with a black resin that aids in preventing any food materials from sticking. The set includes 6 knives, each with its own sheath to protect the blade when not in use.
The copper finish on the bolster adds a nice contrast to the full black handle and blade. It feels quite comfortable when held, thanks to the soft-grip handles made of ABS plastic and polypropylene with thermoplastic rubber. Satisfied users also vouch for the sharpness and perfect balance of the knives in this set.
A Unique Starter Set for Budding Cooks
If you're new to cooking and you're not ready to splurge on a knife set yet, this one from Eiderfinch is a good place to start. It's got everything you need for efficient meal prep: a cleaver, chef's knife, serrated carving knife, utility knife, paring knife, ceramic peeler, and kitchen shears. The blades are made of stainless steel and have sleek plastic handles.
These uniquely designed knives also have a black non-stick coating to prevent chopped food from clinging to the knife. Plus, the blade surface has additional grooves for immediate food release when sliced. This textured design creates air pockets that help to push the food away from the blade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
How Many Kitchen Knives Do You Need?
For a basic set, you only need three knives: a chef's knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife. Any additional knives are useful but not considered necessary.
Where to Put Kitchen Knife Set?
There are three ways to store a kitchen knife set properly: on a countertop knife block, in a drawer (preferably with inserts for the blades), or on wall-mounted magnetic strips.
How Often Do Kitchen Knives Need to Be Sharpened?
It depends on the frequency of use, but generally, kitchen knives need sharpening every 1 to 2 months.
Cut Your Food Preparation Time in Half
Getting tired of all the daily cutting and dicing during food preparation? Plenty of innovations have been made for kitchen appliances that can cut your cooking time with just a touch of a button. Find out more with the links below!
Author: Chafi Lacson
Re-editor: R. Umlas
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Kitchen Knife Sets
No. 1: Wusthof｜Gourmet 2-Piece Knife & Sharpener Set
No. 2: Global｜Knife Set of 4 With Magnetic Wall Rack｜G-251138
No. 3: ITAMAE｜Manta Series Essential Set
No. 4: Masflex｜6-Piece Knife Set With Stainless Steel Block
No. 5: ｜Black Ceramic Knife Set
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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