8 Best Pocket Knives Under $200 to Buy in 2026

The Gerber Paraframe Mini punches far above its weight class with a sleek, minimalist design and rock-solid frame lock, delivering confidence in every cut. Its 2.2-inch stainless steel clip point blade offers precision slicing and excellent penetration, while the nail nick opener ensures smooth, controlled deployment—ideal for users who prefer traditional manual folding over assisted mechanisms. At just 1.6 ounces, this featherlight EDC slips into any pocket without bulk, making it a top contender for daily carry purists who value reliability without the heft.

In real-world use, the Paraframe Mini excels at light-duty tasks like opening packages, trimming cord, or slicing fruit, thanks to its high-carbon stainless steel blade that holds an edge well and resists corrosion. The open-frame stainless steel handle not only reduces weight but also prevents grime buildup, a smart touch for outdoor enthusiasts and tradespeople alike. However, the lack of a one-handed thumb stud or flipper means it’s slower to deploy than spring-assisted rivals, and the smooth steel grip can feel slippery when wet or under heavy use—though it’s more than adequate for routine chores.

Compared to the FLISSA Mini or MTech budget options, the Paraframe Mini stands out with superior build quality and a proven locking mechanism typically found on higher-end knives. It’s the go-to choice for minimalists, office workers, and outdoor hobbyists who want a no-nonsense, durable blade that won’t let them down. While it lacks the multifunction tools of some competitors, its simplicity, lightweight profile, and lifetime warranty make it a smarter long-term investment than many pricier alternatives.

The Grand Way 97010 brings old-world charm to modern EDC with its elegant wood-inlay handle and spring-assisted 5Cr15MoV blade, delivering both performance and visual appeal in a sub-$10 package. The titanium nitride coating gives the drop point blade a golden sheen while boosting edge retention and corrosion resistance—meaning it stays sharp longer and looks striking in hand. With thumb studs on both sides, it’s ambidextrous-friendly, and the liner lock clicks securely into place, making it a dependable companion for outdoor tasks or self-defense scenarios.

In real-world use, the Grand Way shines during camping trips and DIY jobs, where its 3-inch cutting edge slices through rope, cardboard, and food prep with ease. The ergonomic wood-and-metal handle offers excellent grip and balance, though prolonged use may cause mild hand fatigue due to the lack of finger grooves. While the spring-assist mechanism is smooth, it can occasionally stick in humid conditions, and the wood inlays, while beautiful, are less durable than G10 or stainless steel—requiring more care to avoid cracking or water damage.

Compared to the MTech or Maxam knives, the Grand Way stands out with premium aesthetics and better blade steel, making it a favorite for users who want a stylish yet functional knife without spending big. It’s best suited for those who appreciate handcrafted details and want a conversation-starting EDC tool. While it’s not as tough as all-metal frames, its blend of form and function outperforms most in its price range, especially when compared to plain black tactical models.

The Maxam Folding Knife is a compact frame lock champion, offering a rare feature at this price point—a full frame lock in a sub-$10 package—making it a standout for safety-conscious EDC users. Its 3-inch closed length and clip point blade deliver precision cutting for everyday tasks, while the skeletonized stainless steel handle keeps weight down and improves grip security. The thumb bump on the blade spine gives excellent control during detailed cuts, and the strong pocket clip ensures it stays put during active use—perfect for tradesmen, hikers, or anyone needing a dependable blade on the go.

In practice, the Maxam handles routine chores like box opening, rope trimming, and food prep with ease, though its 420 stainless steel blade doesn’t hold an edge as long as 5Cr15MoV or 440C steels. It’s corrosion-resistant and low-maintenance, ideal for wet environments, but will need more frequent sharpening for heavy users. The open-frame design prevents dirt buildup but exposes more blade during use—making it less ideal for aggressive stabbing motions, where a solid handle would offer better protection.

Compared to the Gerber Paraframe, the Maxam offers similar lightweight build and frame lock security at a lower cost, though with slightly less refined fit and finish. It’s the best choice for users who want maximum safety and reliability without paying premium prices. While it doesn’t have the flair of wood handles or glass breakers, its focus on core functionality and lock stability makes it a smarter buy than many assisted-opening knives in the same range.

The VIFUNCO Keychain Knife redefines ultra-compact EDC with a tiny, all-steel build that clips directly to your keys—ensuring you always have a blade within reach, no matter where you are. Its 4CR14 stainless steel blade delivers solid edge retention and corrosion resistance for a budget knife, making it perfect for quick tasks like slicing tape, cutting fruit, or opening mail. Weighing next to nothing and measuring just keychain-friendly dimensions, it’s the ultimate discreet carry option for minimalists, travelers, or anyone who hates pocket bulk.

In daily use, the VIFUNCO proved surprisingly capable despite its size, handling light-duty cutting with precision thanks to its sharp drop point tip. The full-metal construction feels durable for its class, and the secure pocket clip keeps it anchored to your keyring—though the lack of a lock means it’s not ideal for heavy use or safety-critical tasks. While it won’t replace a full-size knife for camping or survival, it excels as a backup or convenience tool, especially in urban environments where big knives are overkill.

Compared to the Coast FX200 or Gerber Paraframe, the VIFUNCO sacrifices locking mechanism and blade length for unmatched portability. It’s best for users who want a no-fail, always-with-you blade for micro-tasks, not heavy-duty work. While it doesn’t offer spring assist or multifunction tools, its ultra-affordable price and keychain design make it a smarter daily carry than many larger knives you might forget at home.