When it comes to choosing a reliable chef's knife without breaking the bank, America's Test Kitchen has you covered. In a recent video, the team at America's Test Kitchen, led by hosts Julia and Adam, explored the best chef's knives available for $75 or less. They highlighted key aspects that make a great knife, focusing on performance, comfort, and sharpness.

Key Qualities of a Great Chef's Knife

A good chef's knife should effortlessly cut through various ingredients, have a comfortable handle, and maintain its sharpness. The challenge is finding such a knife without spending a fortune. America's Test Kitchen has long recommended the Victorinox Swiss Army Chef's Knife, affectionately known as "Old Faithful," but with new knives constantly entering the market, it's essential to revisit and reassess the best options.

The Testing Process

To evaluate the knives, America's Test Kitchen assembled a lineup of 10 chef's knives, all priced under $75 and featuring stainless steel or stain-resistant blades approximately eight inches long. The team employed an industrial sharpness testing machine to measure sharpness at the start and end of their tests. Testers with varying hand strengths and preferences put the knives through rigorous real-world tasks, including slicing tomatoes, dicing onions, mincing parsley and garlic, breaking down whole chickens, and chopping hard butternut squash.

Factors Influencing Sharpness

One of the surprising findings was that blade geometry, or the angle at which the blade is ground, played a crucial role in how sharp a knife felt. Knives with a narrower blade geometry, around 13 degrees, often felt sharper. However, even knives with a wider angle of up to 16 degrees could perform exceptionally well if they were well sharpened and honed at the factory. This meticulous sharpening process created a smooth, even cutting edge that enhanced the knife's performance.

Design and Comfort

Testers also evaluated the knives' curvature, preferring a gentler curve that allowed for easy rocking motion while chopping. The height of the blade, particularly at the heel near the handle, was another important factor. Knives with adequate blade height provided ample space for knuckles, preventing them from hitting the cutting board. Testers favored knives with thinner blades for precision work and a slight taper towards the tip, which offered better control.

Handles were a significant focus as well. A softer, grippier material was preferred, especially for extended use or when hands are wet. Simple, ergonomic handles without awkward shapes ensured a secure and comfortable grip.

Top Picks: Victorinox and Mercer Culinary

After extensive testing, "Old Faithful" reigned supreme once again. The Victorinox Swiss Army Fibrox Pro 8-Inch Chef's Knife stood out for its balanced blade, comfortable handle, and remarkable sharpness. Priced at around $38, it continues to be a top recommendation for both novice and experienced cooks.

For those who prefer a slightly heavier knife, the Mercer Culinary Renaissance 8-Inch Forged Chef's Knife was another excellent choice. Weighing around eight ounces, it offered more heft while maintaining sharpness and comfort. At approximately $31, it also provides great value for money.

Conclusion

America's Test Kitchen's thorough testing and expert analysis highlight that you don't need to spend a fortune to get a high-quality chef's knife. The Victorinox and Mercer Culinary knives offer exceptional performance and value, making them top choices for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience.