4 High-Quality Chef Knives Under 50 Dollars
Even though you could make an argument in favor of investing hundreds of dollars in a chef knife – elaborate designs, novel features, handcrafted handles, and so on and so forth – you do not necessarily have to do that in order to get a product that will last you for years. Of course, this does not mean every cheap knife is worth buying, all you need to do is learn where to look. To help you out in your quest to find the best affordable chef knives, we have compiled a small selection of products that excel both from a pricing, and efficiency standpoint. Here are four high-quality chef knives under 50 dollars.
Cuisinart C59CE-8CF – Ceramic Chef Knife
Although stainless steel knives are technically superior to the others, they come with a wide variety of disadvantages that most people will not like – mainly the high maintenance aspect. However, if you are looking for viable alternative, you could consider trying out a ceramic knife, more precisely this model, the C59CE from Cuisinart.
Apart from being one of the best chef knives under $50, costing around $32 (although you can catch it on sale very often), it features an elegant, ergonomic design which makes it extremely easy to handle and use, even for kitchen newbies. Other aspects which users have lauded it for are its sharpness, versatility and comfortable handle.
However, not even this Cuisinart model is spared from the usual downsides that ceramic knives are plagued with. Users have reported that it chips upon being dropped, the tip is not as sturdy as it should be, and that it can crack after several months. However, considering its low weight, easy maneuverability, and the fact that it does not need frequent sharpening, one can easily give Cuisinart a pass for these issues. Therefore, if you are looking for an affordable chef knife that is extremely good at what it does, you should consider buying this model from Cuisinart.
DALSTRONG Gladiator Kiritsuke – For Beginners and Professionals Alike
Who would have thought that you can find an efficient, high-quality professional knife under ? For some people, that seems (understandably) unthinkable. When it comes to chef knives with great price-quality ratios, few are able to surpass this model from Dalstrong. Costing just a smidge under $50 ($49,67), the Dalstrong Gladiator Kiritsuke provides the true world chef experience to all users, regardless of kitchen experience.
Modeled after classic Japanese knifemaking techniques, the Dalstrong Gladiator Kiritsuke features an award-winning, elegant design, which is loosely based on katana models. Granted, the blade is made out of German steel, but the rest of the knife screams of true Japanese mastery – more precisely, the 5” precision-forged, hand-sharpened blade with 16 to 18 degrees per side, full tang construction, and elegant handle. While it might feel a tad unnatural in the hands of a beginner due to its bigger than average size, it is great for push cutting and other tasks that require a certain amount of force and momentum. Overall, the Dalstrong Gladiator is a sturdy, reliable knife that will satisfy both beginners and professional chefs.
Imarku 10-inch
If even the Dalstrong Gladiator Kiritsuke seems too small and you want one of the biggest knives that $50 can afford, this handsome model from Imarku might be right up your alley. While the 10” blade might seem intimidating at first, you will change your opinion as soon as you grab it for the first time. For just $40, you can get a giant, albeit elegant and precise, knife that is capable of effortlessly slicing through hard to cut foods – pork, veal, winter squash, and so on and so forth – like they are made out of butter.
While there are many things to like about this model, its best perk is arguably the ergonomic, Pakka wood handle. And trust us, when it comes to knives bigger than 7”, the quality of the handle could represent the difference between a flawless cutting session and a tiresome, awkward one. This excellent design choice provides excellent, quick cutting motions without being very tiring to the hand.
The catch (because there is always one) is that, according to several user reviews, it dulls easily, and it is prone to developing stains and rust marks. On the flipside, with proper care and maintenance, you can significantly prolong the knife’s longevity.
Aicok USAFF7668
If you are not prepared to handle a 10” monster, this 8” model from Aicok is the perfect compromise. For just $16, you will get a versatile, easy to use knife that features a one-piece construction, 420 stainless steel, and a lifetime.
But apart from the materials and design of the blade, the one thing that truly sets this knife apart from the others is its one-piece construction. Thanks to this design choice, you will never have to deal with bacteria build-ups or the handle falling off. At 7.7 ounces, one could place its weight somewhere in the middle – not too light, nor too heavy. If you want an average-sized, balanced knife with an interesting design that cuts smoothly, you will surely be pleased by this Aicok Model.
Conclusion
The chef knife is the quintessential kitchen tool, and no self-respecting cook would ever think to make do without one. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to drop hundreds of dollars to buy a high-quality chef knife, and the models we have highlighted throughout this article stand as proof. Make sure to read through our selection, and you will surely find an affordable chef knife suitable to your needs.
Maryann D. says
These 4 High-Quality Chef Knives do look like good quality. I am always interesting in finding decent knives to use.
Bonnie Lee says
Cuisinart is a super great brand! I am surprised that there are quite a few under $50! Thanks for posting!!
Angela Saver says
Quality knives are so important and I love the price point for these! Thank you for this!