The Best Chef Knife Around $60 Review

A good chef knife is the backbone of any kitchen, whether you're a home cook or a professional. But does a great chef knife have to cost a fortune? Absolutely not. In this review, we explore some of the best chef knives around the $60 mark — affordable, reliable, and trusted by home cooks and professionals alike.

What Are the Top 3 Knives to Own?

While a well-rounded kitchen can have many specialized knives, the following three are the most essential for any cook:

1. Chef’s Knife (8-inch)

Why it’s essential: Versatile for slicing, dicing, mincing, and chopping.

Recommended Models:

l. imarku 8-Inch Chef Knife

II. Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8-Inch Chef’s Knife

III. Dalstrong Gladiator Series Chef’s Knife

Picture from Youtube

 

2. Paring Knife (3.5–4 inch)

Use: Precision tasks such as peeling, trimming, and small cuts.

 

3. Serrated Bread Knife

Use: Cutting through crusty bread, soft cakes, and even tomatoes with ease.

These three cover 90% of kitchen prep needs — invest in them, and your cooking experience will level up instantly.

 

What Is the Best Reasonably Priced Chef Knife?

In the $50–$70 range, you can find knives that offer great balance, sharpness, and durability. Here are a few top contenders:

1. imarku 8-Inch Chef Knife

Material: German high carbon stainless steel

Features: Razor-sharp edge, ergonomic pakkawood handle

Pros:

• Excellent sharpness retention
• Great balance and grip
• Beautiful presentation for gifting

Price: Around $50

Best For: Home cooks and semi-professionals

 

2. Victorinox Fibrox Pro

Material: Stainless steel

Features: Lightweight, non-slip handle

Pros:

• Endorsed by America’s Test Kitchen
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons:

• Lacks aesthetic appeal
• Doesn’t come with a sheath or gift box

Price: Around $55

3. Mercer Culinary Millennia Chef’s Knife

Material: Japanese steel

Features: Ergonomic handle with textured finger points

Pros:

• Affordable
• Widely used in culinary schools

Price: Around $35–$45

 

Which Knife Is Best for a Chef?

Professional chefs look for knives that offer:

1. Edge Retention: A sharp blade that lasts

2. Balance & Weight: Comfortable handling during long prep hours

3. Blade Material: High-carbon stainless or Japanese VG-10 steel

4. Ergonomic Grip: Prevents fatigue and slippage

 

Professional Choice: 

I Dalstrong Gladiator Series – heavier build, full tang, premium finish

II imarku 8-Inch Chef Knife – affordable with pro-level sharpness and grip

III Mac Professional Series (for higher budget users)

While Dalstrong may edge out in branding and premium feel, imarku offers near-equivalent quality at a more accessible price.

 

imarku vs Dalstrong – Which Chef Knife Is Better?

Feature	imarku 8-Inch Chef Knife	Dalstrong Gladiator Series
Blade Material	German HC Stainless Steel	High-carbon German Steel
Handle	Pakkawood / G10 Options	G10 Garolite
Balance & Grip	Ergonomic and lightweight	Heavier with full bolster
Design	Sleek and minimal	Bold with logo and detailing
Sharpness	15° angle per side	14–16° angle per side
Price	~$50	~$70–$90 $(onsale,usually$100)
Best For	Everyday home use & gifting	Semi-pro or pro kitchens

 

If you're looking for value + performance, imarku wins for the price. If you want a slightly heavier knife with more design flair, Dalstrong is a great option — but you’ll likely pay more.

Final Verdict: Best Chef Knife Under $60

If you want the best all-around chef knife for under $60, the Imarku 8-inch Chef Knife is the top choice. It offers excellent sharpness, durability, and comfort at an unbeatable price. Whether you're a beginner learning to cook or a home chef preparing daily meals, a well-made chef knife will make your kitchen tasks safer, faster, and more enjoyable. 

What’s your favorite chef knife under $60? Let us know in the comments!