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Guide5 min read

Chef's Knife vs Santoku: Which Should You Choose?

The Great Debate

Both are excellent everyday knives. Here's how to choose.

Chef's Knife

Pros:

  • Versatile - rocks for mincing
  • Familiar to most cooks
  • Great for tough vegetables
  • Many sizes available

    • Cons:

  • Requires more technique
  • Curved blade takes getting used to

    • Best For:

  • Rock chopping
  • Hard vegetables
  • Traditional cooking styles

    • Santoku

    Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Flat blade for push cuts
  • Hollow edge reduces sticking
  • Great for precision work

    • Cons:

  • Smaller blade (typically 5-7 inches)
  • Less versatile
  • Takes getting used to

    • Best For:

  • Push cutting
  • Fish and vegetables
  • Japanese cooking

    • Our Recommendation

    **Get Both:** They're complementary, not competing.

  • Use chef's knife for big jobs
  • Use santoku for precision work

    • If You Can Only Get One:

  • Choose chef's knife for versatility
  • Choose santoku if you prefer precision

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