7 Best Chef Knives Under $75 to Buy in 2025

The SHAN ZU Genbu Series isn’t just a kitchen tool—it’s a precision instrument forged with soul. Built from genuine Japanese super steel and honed using the traditional 3-step Honbazuke method, this 8-inch chef’s knife delivers exceptional edge retention and a razor-sharp finish right out of the box. With higher carbon content than standard stainless steel, it resists dulling even after repeated use on fibrous vegetables and bone-in meats—solving the all-too-common frustration of frequent sharpening. The blade’s performance feels almost alive in hand, turning daily prep into something closer to artistry.

In real-world testing, the SHAN ZU slices through tomatoes like butter, cleanly dices onions without crushing cells (minimizing tears), and handles tougher tasks like chopping through winter squash with confidence. Its full tang construction and K133 ergonomic handle ensure a balanced, secure grip that reduces wrist fatigue during prolonged chopping sessions. At 245g, it’s neither too heavy nor too light—striking a rare balance between heft and agility. While it demands hand washing to preserve its integrity, it withstands rigorous kitchen demands, though users should be cautious when cutting near bones to avoid micro-chipping.

Compared to the Mercer Culinary Ultimate White, the SHAN ZU stands head and shoulders above in terms of cutting precision and material quality, offering a far more refined experience for home cooks who value performance over budget savings. It’s ideal for those seeking professional-grade results without stepping into triple-digit price territory. While not as flashy as Damascus-patterned knives like the VEROXIS, it delivers consistent, reliable sharpness that outperforms many in the sub-$75 range—making it the best overall chef knife for discerning users who want lasting value.

The VEROXIS Damascus Chef Knife is where form meets function in a breathtaking fusion of craftsmanship and cutting power. At its core lies VG-10 steel, heat-treated to an impressive 62HRC, delivering one of the sharpest factory edges in the sub-$75 category. Encased in 67 layers of genuine Damascus steel, this blade isn’t just striking to look at—it’s engineered for superior toughness, corrosion resistance, and edge stability. Unlike laser-etched fakes, the VEROXIS uses real folding and forging techniques, creating a unique wave pattern on every knife, making each piece a functional work of art.

In practice, the VEROXIS glides through meats, tomatoes, and herbs with surgical precision, requiring minimal pressure thanks to its ultra-fine edge. The 2.0mm-thick blade offers excellent balance between flexibility and rigidity, handling both delicate slicing and heavier chopping with ease. Its pakkawood handle feels luxurious in hand, offering a secure, ergonomic grip that minimizes strain during marathon prep sessions. Weighing 246g, it has a premium heft that inspires confidence. That said, the high hardness means it can be brittle if twisted or dropped, so it’s less forgiving on improper use.

Compared to the imarku Chef Knife, the VEROXIS offers superior steel quality and visual appeal, with a harder, longer-lasting edge. It’s the go-to choice for enthusiasts who want premium performance and aesthetic distinction without spending hundreds. Ideal for home cooks who appreciate beauty in utility or anyone gifting a meaningful kitchen tool, this knife delivers luxury-tier experience at a mid-range price—earning its title as the best premium performance pick under $75.

The Farberware Edgekeeper redefines convenience with a revolutionary self-sharpening sheath that actively hones the blade every time you slide it in and out. This 8-inch forged chef’s knife uses high-carbon stainless steel to deliver a factory edge that stays sharper longer—backed by a sheath that combats dulling before it starts. For home cooks who forget to strop or fear sharpening stones, this system eliminates guesswork and keeps the blade in peak condition with zero extra effort. It’s a game-changer for those who value consistent sharpness without maintenance overhead.

In testing, the knife performed reliably across common tasks: slicing bell peppers, dicing onions, and chopping herbs with ease. The triple-riveted full tang provides excellent balance and durability, while the ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue during extended use. At 230g, it feels substantial without being tiring. However, the blade isn’t as hard as Japanese steels (estimated ~54HRC), so while the self-sharpening feature helps, it doesn’t match the slicing finesse of a SHAN ZU or VEROXIS. Also, the sheath, while brilliant, adds bulk and isn’t ideal for drawer storage.

Against the Mercer Ultimate White, the Farberware offers better edge longevity thanks to its sheath, but trades off some raw performance and material quality. It’s best suited for practical, low-maintenance kitchens—think families, college students, or aging parents who want a safe, always-ready knife. While not the sharpest blade on paper, its innovative sharpening system makes it the best self-sharpening option under $75, blending smart design with solid build.

At just $9.99, the BOLEXINO 8-inch Chef Knife is a budget marvel that defies expectations with its wide, stable blade and surprisingly sharp edge. Made from SUS420J2 high-carbon stainless steel, it offers decent hardness and rust resistance for a knife in this price range, with a 2.1mm-thick spine that adds durability for heavy-duty chopping. Its standout feature? A color-coded handle system—red for meat, blue for fish—that promotes food safety and cross-contamination prevention, making it a smart pick for serious home kitchens or small restaurants.

Testing reveals it handles everyday tasks competently: slicing tomatoes, dicing onions, and chopping herbs with minimal effort. The non-slip ergonomic handle includes a finger guard for added safety, reducing slip risk during fast-paced prep. Weighing in at 210g, it’s well-balanced and comfortable for moderate use. While the edge isn’t as refined as Japanese imports, it’s sharp enough for basic needs and benefits from dishwasher-safe construction—a rare plus in this category. However, frequent dishwasher use will degrade the blade over time, so hand washing is still recommended for longevity.

Next to the Mercer Ultimate White, the BOLEXINO undercuts on price while adding color-coded functionality and dishwasher safety, though it sacrifices some sharpness and steel quality. It’s the ultimate value-packed starter knife—perfect for college dorms, backup kitchen sets, or anyone needing multiple task-specific blades on a tight budget. As the best value under $10, it proves that smart design and practical features can shine even at rock-bottom prices.