· Mason Everett · General · 11 min read
7 Best Bread Knife Models for 2025
Finding the perfect tool to slice through a crusty loaf without crushing the soft interior can be a real challenge for any home baker or cooking enthusiast.
A subpar knife can turn a beautiful sourdough into a squashed mess, which is why selecting the Best Bread Knife is so crucial.
We’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation by rigorously evaluating dozens of options based on critical criteria such as blade quality, ergonomic design, long-term durability, and overall value.
This guide dives deep into the top performers, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision and elevate your kitchen experience.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
Mercer Culinary 10-Inch Bread Knife
This knife delivers professional-grade performance with its high-carbon Japanese steel and a non-slip ergonomic handle. Its 10-inch wavy edge cuts through crusty loaves and delicate cakes with equal precision, making it a versatile kitchen workhorse.
Orblue 8-Inch Serrated Bread Knife
Proving that quality does not always come at a high price, this Orblue knife features a one-piece stainless steel design for incredible durability. Its ultra-sharp edge slices effortlessly through everything from bagels to homemade bread, offering fantastic value.
Global 8.5-Inch Japanese Bread Knife
For those seeking exceptional craftsmanship, the Global G-9 is a masterpiece. Made from high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel, it is incredibly lightweight yet precisely balanced, offering a razor-sharp edge that lasts.
Piklohas 10-Inch Resharpenable Knife
This knife stands out with its exclusive resharpenable serrated design, promising a lifetime of use. Its German stainless steel blade and ergonomic handle that keeps knuckles clear make it a thoughtfully engineered, innovative tool.
Wüsthof Gourmet 8-Inch Bread Knife
From a legendary German brand, this knife is precision-stamped from high-carbon stainless steel for exceptional durability and sharpness. Its classic design excels at slicing through tough crusts without compressing the soft interior.
PAUDIN 10-Inch Serrated Knife
Offering superior performance at a great price, this 10-inch knife is crafted from German high-carbon steel. Its ergonomic handle provides excellent control, making it a versatile and reliable choice for slicing everything from bread to cake.
HENCKELS Statement 8-Inch Knife
Engineered in Germany, this Henckels knife is designed for effortless daily use. It is lightweight, stays sharp longer, and is even dishwasher safe for no-fuss cleanup, making it a practical and reliable addition to any kitchen.
7 Best Bread Knife
A great bread knife is a non-negotiable tool for anyone who loves fresh bread. The right blade glides through the crustiest loaves without a struggle and produces clean, even slices every time. We’ve curated this list of the seven best bread knives to ensure you find the perfect match for your baking creations, transforming your slicing from a chore into a satisfying experience.
Mercer Culinary 10-Inch Bread Knife
Best in class for professional performance
The Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife is a favorite among both professional chefs and home cooks for good reason. Its blade is crafted from one-piece, high-carbon Japanese steel, renowned for its ability to hold a sharp edge and resist stains. The 10-inch length with a wavy edge provides ample surface area to tackle large loaves, from rustic sourdough to delicate brioche, without tearing. The standout feature is its ergonomic handle, a blend of Santoprene for comfort and polypropylene for durability. It includes textured finger points and a protective finger guard, ensuring a secure, non-slip grip even when your hands are wet. This knife is designed for performance, offering excellent balance and control that makes slicing effortless and precise.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | High-Carbon Japanese Steel |
| Blade Length | 10 Inches |
| Handle Material | Santoprene/Polypropylene |
| Edge Type | Wavy Serrated |
| Construction | Stamped |
Features
- High-Carbon Japanese Steel: Ensures easy edge maintenance and long-lasting sharpness.
- 10-Inch Wavy Edge: Ideal for slicing large loaves, cakes, and even tomatoes without tearing.
- Ergonomic Handle: A combination of Santoprene and polypropylene provides a comfortable, non-slip grip.
- Textured Finger Points: Offer enhanced grip and control during use.
- One-Piece Construction: Provides excellent balance and durability.
- NSF Certified: Meets high safety standards for professional kitchen use.
What We Like
- Exceptional sharpness and edge retention
- Superior grip and comfort
- Great value for professional-grade quality
- Versatile for various food items
- Durable and well-balanced
What We Don't Like
- Requires hand washing to maintain blade integrity
- The 10-inch blade might be long for some users' storage
Why We Selected This Product
We selected the Mercer Millennia as our top choice after observing its flawless performance across various bread types. During our tests, it produced consistently clean slices with minimal crumb, even on very crusty artisan breads. Its combination of a razor-sharp Japanese steel blade, superior ergonomic handle, and exceptional balance at an affordable price point makes it an unbeatable overall package. It simply outperforms many more expensive knives.
User Experience
Users consistently praise this knife for its incredible sharpness right out of the box. Many home bakers report that it transformed their bread slicing experience, allowing them to cut paper-thin slices without crushing the loaf. The comfortable, non-slip handle is another frequently mentioned highlight, especially for those who do a lot of slicing. It is widely recommended for its durability and professional feel, making it a staple in many kitchens.
Orblue 8-Inch Serrated Bread Knife
Best in class for unbeatable budget value
The Orblue Serrated Bread Knife is a testament to the fact that high performance doesn't have to come with a high price tag. This knife boasts a unique one-piece stainless steel construction, which means there are no joints between the blade and handle where food can get trapped or which could loosen over time. This seamless design not only enhances hygiene but also ensures remarkable durability. The 8-inch blade features an ultra-sharp wavy edge that grips and cuts through bread crusts cleanly and effortlessly. Its ergonomic handle is designed to fit comfortably in any hand, providing a secure grip for safe and easy slicing. For a budget-friendly option, its quality and cutting ability are truly impressive, making it a smart choice for any kitchen.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length | 8 Inches |
| Handle Material | Stainless Steel |
| Construction | One-Piece Stamped |
| Weight | Approx. 6 oz |
Features
- One-Piece Stainless Steel Design: Offers superior durability and hygiene with no weak points.
- Ultra-Sharp Serrated Edge: Grips and slices through tough crusts and delicate pastries with ease.
- Ergonomic Handle: Provides a comfortable and secure grip for effortless cutting.
- 8-Inch Blade: A versatile length suitable for most breads, bagels, and cakes.
- Lightweight Construction: Easy to handle and maneuver.
- Includes Rubber Safety Guard: A thoughtful addition for safe storage.
What We Like
- Excellent value for the price
- Durable and hygienic one-piece design
- Surprisingly sharp and effective blade
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
- May not hold its edge as long as high-carbon steel knives
- The thin blade might feel less substantial to some users
Why We Selected This Product
We chose the Orblue knife for its outstanding performance-to-price ratio. In our evaluation, it sliced through bagels and crusty loaves with a surprising ease that rivals more expensive models. The single-piece stainless steel construction is a feature typically found on premium knives, and its inclusion here makes the knife incredibly sturdy and easy to clean. It represents the perfect entry-point for anyone needing a reliable bread knife without a significant investment.
User Experience
Owners of the Orblue knife are often shocked by its quality given its low price. It is frequently described as surprisingly sharp and effective, easily handling everything from soft sandwich bread to hard, crusty sourdough. Users love the sleek, modern look of the one-piece design and appreciate how easy it is to wash. Many have purchased it as a secondary knife but found it quickly became their primary tool for slicing.
HENCKELS Statement 8-Inch Knife
Best in class for everyday reliability
The HENCKELS Statement 8-inch Bread Knife brings over a century of German engineering expertise into your kitchen. This knife is designed for dependability and ease of use. The single-piece, precision-stamped blade is made from high-quality stainless steel that is both stain and rust-free. Its professional, satin-finished blade is finely honed for long-lasting sharpness, allowing you to slice through baguettes, cakes, and large fruits with minimal effort. The traditional triple-rivet handle is comfortable to hold and provides excellent balance, while the full tang adds to its durability. A huge plus for busy households is that this knife is dishwasher safe, making cleanup completely hassle-free. It's a workhorse knife built to last and perform reliably day after day.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | High-Quality Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length | 8 Inches |
| Handle Material | Polymer |
| Construction | Precision-Stamped |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Features
- German Engineered: Informed by over 100 years of knife-making mastery.
- High-Quality Stainless Steel Blade: Resists stains and rust for long-term durability.
- Precision-Stamped Construction: Provides durability from a single piece of steel.
- Triple-Rivet Handle: Offers excellent balance and a secure, comfortable grip.
- Dishwasher Safe: Allows for quick and easy cleanup.
- Satin-Finished Blade: Finely honed for long-lasting sharpness and precision cutting.
What We Like
- Reputable brand with a history of quality
- Durable and stays sharp
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Comfortable and balanced handle
- Versatile for multiple cutting tasks
What We Don't Like
- Stamped blade may not feel as hefty as a forged one
- May require more frequent sharpening than premium forged knives
Why We Selected This Product
We selected the HENCKELS Statement because it offers the perfect balance of performance, durability, and convenience from a highly reputable brand. During testing, it proved to be a reliable cutter, handling various textures with ease. Its ability to be cleaned in the dishwasher is a major advantage for those who prioritize easy maintenance. It's a knife that you can trust to perform consistently without needing special care, making it ideal for everyday kitchen tasks.
User Experience
Users appreciate the HENCKELS brand reputation and find that this knife lives up to it. It's often praised for being sharp, well-balanced, and comfortable to use. Many reviews highlight its versatility, using it not just for bread but for slicing tomatoes and other soft vegetables. The low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe aspect is a huge selling point for many customers who want quality without the fuss of hand-washing.
Piklohas 10-Inch Resharpenable Knife
Best in class for innovative longevity
The Piklohas Bread Knife is designed to be the last one you'll ever need, thanks to its innovative, patented resharpenable serrated edge. Fabricated from high-quality German stainless steel, this knife promises both durability and incredible sharpness. The 10-inch blade provides a long, smooth cutting stroke that minimizes crumb dispersion and effortlessly slices through tough crusts, large fruits, and even boneless hams. What truly sets it apart is its humanized handle structure. The ergonomic, triple-rivet handle provides excellent balance, and its unique design ensures your knuckles won't hit the cutting board, preventing injury and providing a more comfortable experience. It's a premium, thoughtfully designed tool that makes for a fantastic gift or a lifetime investment for your own kitchen.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | German Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length | 10 Inches |
| Handle Material | Polymer |
| Construction | Fully Forged |
| Special Feature | Resharpenable Serrations |
Features
- Resharpenable Serrated Design: A unique, patented feature that allows for a lifetime of use.
- High-Quality German Stainless Steel: Ensures durability and long-lasting sharpness.
- 10-Inch Blade: Perfect for large loaves and efficient, smooth slicing.
- Ergonomic Knuckle-Clearance Handle: Prevents fingers from hitting the countertop for enhanced safety and comfort.
- Fully Forged Construction: Offers superior durability and balance.
- Triple-Rivet Handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip.
What We Like
- Can be resharpened, ensuring long-term performance
- Excellent ergonomic handle design
- Extremely sharp and provides clean cuts
- Durable, high-quality materials and construction
- Great as a gift due to its unique features
What We Don't Like
- Resharpening requires a specific tool or technique
- Premium price point compared to standard serrated knives
Why We Selected This Product
The Piklohas knife earned its spot for its unique resharpenable design, a feature that addresses the primary drawback of most serrated knives—the difficulty of sharpening them. We found its cutting performance to be exceptionally smooth and clean. The ergonomic handle design that elevates the user's hand is a brilliant and practical innovation that significantly enhances comfort and safety. This combination of longevity, performance, and user-centric design makes it a truly standout product.
User Experience
Customers are highly impressed with the knife's sharpness and the clean cuts it produces. The ability to resharpen the blade is a game-changer for many, who see it as a long-term investment. The ergonomic handle is frequently praised for its comfort and the clever knuckle-clearance feature. It's often described as having a satisfying weight and a premium feel, making the slicing process a genuine pleasure.
Global 8.5-Inch Japanese Bread Knife
Best in class for premium Japanese craftsmanship
The Global G-9 Bread Knife is an icon of modern Japanese cutlery design. It is instantly recognizable by its seamless, stainless-steel construction and unique dimpled handle. The blade is crafted from Global's proprietary CROMOVA 18, a high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel that is ice-tempered and hardened to achieve exceptional edge retention. This knife is incredibly lightweight and precisely balanced, with a hollow handle filled with sand to achieve the perfect weight distribution. The 8.5-inch serrated blade is razor-sharp and makes quick work of any loaf of bread. The dimpled pattern on the handle provides a surprisingly safe and slip-resistant grip. This is a high-performance instrument for those who appreciate precision, elegance, and superior craftsmanship in their kitchen tools.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | CROMOVA 18 Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length | 8.5 Inches |
| Handle Material | Stainless Steel |
| Construction | Stamped (from proprietary steel) |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
Features
- CROMOVA 18 Steel: High-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel for exceptional edge retention.
- Lightweight and Balanced: Hollow handle is filled with sand for perfect balance.
- Seamless Construction: Hygienic and incredibly durable.
- Dimpled Handle: Provides a safe, comfortable, and slip-resistant grip.
- Razor-Sharp Edge: Retains its sharpness exceptionally well over time.
- Made in Japan: Represents the pinnacle of Japanese knife craftsmanship.
What We Like
- Exceptionally lightweight and perfectly balanced
- Incredibly sharp with long-lasting edge retention
- Hygienic and durable seamless design
- Unique and effective grip
- Lifetime warranty against defects
What We Don't Like
- Premium price point
- The unique handle may not be for everyone's taste
- Requires careful hand washing
Why We Selected This Product
We chose the Global G-9 for its unparalleled balance, lightweight feel, and extraordinary sharpness. It feels less like a tool and more like an extension of your hand. In our tests, it glided through bread with surgical precision, creating flawless slices with almost no effort. The unique construction and premium materials justify its price, offering a cutting experience that is a clear step above the competition. It's a lifetime investment for the serious home cook or baker.
User Experience
Users who invest in a Global knife rarely go back. The G-9 is celebrated for its incredible lightweight feel, which reduces fatigue during repetitive tasks. Its sharpness is legendary, with many users noting it's the sharpest bread knife they've ever owned. The seamless design is praised for its beauty and hygiene, and the dimpled grip, while unconventional, is highly effective and secure. It is consistently rated as a top-tier knife that is worth every penny.
PAUDIN 10-Inch Serrated Knife
Best in class for high-performance value
The PAUDIN 10-inch Bread Knife delivers premium features and performance without the premium price tag. It is crafted from high-quality German high-carbon stainless steel, which gives it excellent rust resistance and durability, with a Rockwell hardness of 56+ ensuring it maintains a sharp edge. The long, 10-inch serrated blade allows you to slice through large sourdough loaves or delicate cakes in one smooth, continuous motion, producing clean, uniform slices every time. The knife is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring an ergonomic handle that provides a secure grip and optimal control. This balance and comfort make slicing feel effortless. Presented in an elegant gift box, this versatile knife is a fantastic value proposition for any home cook.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | German High-Carbon Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length | 10 Inches |
| Hardness | 56+ Rockwell |
| Handle Material | Polymer |
| Construction | Stamped |
Features
- German High-Carbon Steel: Provides lasting performance and excellent edge retention (Rockwell Hardness 56+).
- 10-Inch Serrated Blade: Enables precise, clean slicing through large loaves and cakes.
- Ergonomic Handle: Designed for a secure grip, comfort, and optimal control.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for bread, cakes, sandwiches, and more.
- Corrosion and Stain Resistant: Ensures long-lasting durability and easy maintenance.
- Elegant Gift Packaging: Makes it an excellent present for any occasion.
What We Like
- Made with high-quality German steel
- Very sharp and effective
- Long 10-inch blade is great for large items
- Comfortable and well-balanced
- Excellent value for the quality
What We Don't Like
- Handle material may feel less premium than wood or composite
- Requires hand washing for best care
Why We Selected This Product
The PAUDIN knife impressed us with its high-quality materials and excellent cutting ability at such an accessible price. The German steel blade performed exceptionally well, matching the clean cuts of more expensive competitors. Its 10-inch length is a huge plus for those who bake larger loaves. The combination of a top-tier blade material, an ergonomic design, and beautiful packaging makes it an outstanding value that is hard to ignore.
User Experience
Users are very satisfied with the PAUDIN bread knife, often highlighting its incredible sharpness and the ease with which it cuts through crusty bread. The 10-inch length is frequently mentioned as a major benefit for tackling large sourdoughs. Many reviews comment on the comfortable handle and the knife's solid, well-balanced feel. It is often recommended as a high-quality, affordable alternative to more famous German brands.
Wüsthof Gourmet 8-Inch Bread Knife
Best in class for trusted German craftsmanship
The Wüsthof Gourmet 8-inch Bread Knife embodies centuries of German knife-making tradition. Wüsthof is a name synonymous with quality, and this knife is no exception. It is precision-stamped from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel, using laser technology for a blade that is incredibly sharp and easy to maintain. The serrations are expertly designed to cut through hard crusts without applying pressure, thereby protecting the soft interior of the bread. The full tang runs through a durable, triple-riveted synthetic polypropylene handle that is designed to resist fading, heat, and impact. This construction provides superb balance and control. It’s a reliable and durable tool from one of the most respected names in cutlery, crafted to last a lifetime.
Product Specs
| Blade Material | High-Carbon Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length | 8 Inches |
| Handle Material | Polypropylene |
| Construction | Laser-Cut Stamped |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
Features
- High-Carbon Stainless Steel Blade: Precisely laser-cut for incredible sharpness and durability.
- Specialized Serrated Edge: Guides the blade through tough crusts without compressing the inside.
- Durable Polypropylene Handle: Triple-riveted for security and resistant to fading, heat, and impact.
- Full Tang Construction: Provides excellent balance and maneuverability.
- Made in Solingen, Germany: Crafted in the 'City of Blades', known for the strictest quality standards.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty: Backed by Wüsthof's commitment to quality.
What We Like
- Exceptional build quality from a top-tier brand
- Extremely sharp and effective serrations
- Durable, comfortable, and well-balanced
- Resists corrosion and dulling
- Made in Germany
What We Don't Like
- Higher price than many stamped knives
- Must be hand washed
- The 8-inch length may be short for very large, round loaves
Why We Selected This Product
We chose the Wüsthof Gourmet because it represents the gold standard of German cutlery at an accessible price point. Its performance is flawless; the blade bites into crusts instantly and saws through smoothly with minimal crumbs. The build quality is immediately apparent, from the heft and balance to the seamless fit and finish of the handle. It's a knife that inspires confidence and delivers consistent results, backed by a brand with an impeccable reputation.
User Experience
Owners of the Wüsthof Gourmet bread knife praise its exceptional quality and cutting ability. Many report that it slices through bread like butter and feels sturdy and well-balanced in the hand. It is often cited as a significant upgrade from cheaper knives, with users noting the clear difference in performance and durability. The Wüsthof brand name carries a lot of weight, and customers feel they are making a wise, long-term investment in their kitchen.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Bread Knife
Choosing the right bread knife can significantly improve your kitchen experience. It’s not just about sharpness; factors like blade length, handle ergonomics, and material all play a crucial role. This guide will walk you through the key considerations to help you select a knife that will serve you well for years to come.
Find Your Need - Compatibility and use case considerations
Before you buy, think about what you’ll be slicing most often. Are you an artisan baker who tackles large, crusty sourdough loaves? A 10-inch blade like the Mercer Culinary M23210 will be your best friend, providing long, smooth strokes. If your needs are more modest—slicing bagels, sandwich bread, or cakes—a standard 8-inch blade will be perfectly sufficient and easier to handle and store. Consider also if you need a versatile knife that can handle delicate items like tomatoes or roasts. Some serrations are more aggressive than others.
Budget - Setting realistic price expectations ($X-$Y ranges)
Bread knife prices can range from under $20 to over $150.
- Budget Tier ($15 - $30): You can find highly effective knives in this range, like the Orblue Serrated Knife. These are typically stamped from good-quality stainless steel and offer fantastic performance for the price, though they may need sharpening or replacing sooner.
- Mid-Range Tier ($30 - $70): This is the sweet spot for many home cooks. Brands like HENCKELS and Wüsthof’s Gourmet series offer knives made with higher-quality German or Japanese steel, better balance, and more durable handles. This is where you’ll find the best bread knives for most people.
- Premium Tier ($80+): Here you’ll find forged knives from top-tier brands like Global or premium Wüsthof lines. They feature superior materials, exceptional craftsmanship, perfect balance, and blades that hold an edge for an incredibly long time.
Key Features - Most important technical specifications
- Blade Material: Look for high-carbon stainless steel. This material combines the corrosion resistance of stainless steel with the hardness and edge retention of high-carbon steel. German and Japanese steels are industry standards for quality. Check out our review of the best Japanese bread knives for more options.
- Serration Type: Look for wide, pointed, or scalloped serrations. These ‘teeth’ are what allow the knife to grip and cut through crusty exteriors without requiring downward pressure. Avoid knives with small, saw-like teeth, as they tend to tear rather than slice.
- Blade Length: As mentioned, 8 inches is a versatile standard, while 10 inches is better for larger loaves. An offset blade, where the handle is higher than the blade, can also be a great feature to prevent your knuckles from hitting the cutting board.
Quality & Durability - What to look for in construction
- Forged vs. Stamped: Forged knives are made from a single bar of steel that is heated and hammered into shape. They are typically heavier, have a bolster (the thick junction between blade and handle), and are more durable. Stamped knives are cut from a large sheet of steel, making them lighter and less expensive. While high-quality stamped knives perform very well, forged knives are generally considered a lifetime investment.
- Tang: The tang is the part of the blade that extends into the handle. A ‘full tang’ means it runs the full length of the handle, providing superior balance and strength. It’s a key indicator of a well-made knife.
Brand Reputation - Importance of established manufacturers
Brands like Wüsthof, Henckels, Mercer, and Global have built their reputations over decades (or centuries) by producing high-quality, reliable cutlery. While lesser-known brands can offer great value, choosing an established manufacturer often comes with the assurance of quality materials, consistent manufacturing standards, and good customer support or warranties. Researching reviews for specific models, like the best Miyabi bread knife, can provide valuable insight.
Portability/Size - Considerations for space and storage
Consider the size of your kitchen and storage options. A 10-inch or 12-inch knife can be cumbersome to store in a standard knife block or drawer. An 8-inch knife is often more practical for smaller spaces. Always use a blade guard or a proper knife block to protect the blade’s edge (and your fingers) during storage.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy bread knife?
Investing in a dedicated bread knife is one of the wisest decisions a home cook or baker can make. While it might seem like a standard chef’s knife can do the job, the reality is quite different. A chef’s knife, with its smooth edge, requires significant downward pressure to break through a hard crust, which inevitably crushes the soft, airy crumb inside. The result is a squashed, torn slice. A high-quality bread knife, with its specialized serrated edge, acts like a saw. The points of the serrations grip the crust and slice through it cleanly, while the gullets (the valleys between the points) reduce friction and prevent tearing of the interior.
This specialized tool preserves the texture and integrity of your hard-baked creations, from crusty artisan loaves to delicate cakes and pastries. Beyond bread, it’s also the best tool for slicing soft fruits and vegetables with tough skins, like tomatoes or pineapples, without turning them to mush. While the initial cost may seem like an extra expense, a good bread knife will last for years, if not a lifetime. It saves you the frustration of mangled loaves, reduces food waste, and elevates the presentation of your food. Compared to the alternative of consistently butchering your bread, the long-term benefit and satisfaction it provides make it an essential and highly valuable kitchen investment.
What Is the Best Way to Choose bread knife?
Choosing the best bread knife involves a methodical approach that balances your personal needs with the key attributes of a quality knife. Following these steps can help you find the perfect match for your kitchen.
Assess Your Primary Use: Start by identifying what you’ll be cutting most frequently. If you’re a dedicated sourdough baker dealing with large, crusty boules, a longer blade (10+ inches) and a sturdy build are paramount. If you’re mostly slicing softer sandwich loaves, bagels, and cakes, an 8-inch knife will be more than adequate and easier to handle.
Set a Realistic Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend. As outlined in our buying guide, there are excellent options in every price tier. A budget of $30-$70 will get you a high-quality, durable knife from a reputable brand that will last for years. If you view it as a lifetime investment, you might consider a premium forged model.
Prioritize Blade Quality: Look for knives made from high-carbon stainless steel. This material offers the best combination of sharpness, durability, and corrosion resistance. Pay attention to the shape of the serrations—you want scalloped or pointed teeth that are well-spaced, not tiny, jagged ones. These larger serrations will slice cleanly rather than tear.
Focus on Comfort and Balance: A knife should feel like a natural extension of your hand. If possible, hold the knife before you buy it. Does the handle feel comfortable? Is it secure and non-slip? Does the knife feel balanced, or is it too blade-heavy or handle-heavy? An offset handle, which is raised above the blade, is a great ergonomic feature to look for as it provides knuckle clearance.
Research Brands and Reviews: Leverage the experience of others. Read reviews for the specific models you’re considering. Look for feedback on edge retention, comfort, and long-term durability. Stick with established cutlery brands known for their quality, such as Wüsthof, Mercer, Global, or Henckels. For specific styles, you might research the best Damascus bread knives or best Dexter bread knives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Choosing Looks Over Function: A beautiful handle is nice, but an ergonomic, non-slip grip is far more important for safety and performance.
- Ignoring the Tang: A knife without a full tang will likely have poor balance and will not be as durable in the long run.
- Buying the Cheapest Option: While budget knives can be good, the absolute cheapest options often use soft steel that dulls quickly and can make slicing a frustrating chore.
FAQ
What is the best bread knife for beginners?
For beginners, the Mercer Culinary 10-Inch Millennia is an excellent choice. It offers professional-level sharpness and an incredibly comfortable, non-slip handle at a very affordable price. Its performance is forgiving and effective, helping new users get clean slices without needing perfect technique. It’s a fantastic knife to learn with that will continue to serve you well as your skills grow.
How much should I spend on bread knife?
You can get a very good bread knife for $20-$50. This price range includes excellent options like the Mercer Millennia or HENCKELS Statement, which are made from quality materials and will last a long time with proper care. Spending over $80 typically gets you into premium, forged knives with superior balance and edge retention, which are a great investment for serious enthusiasts.
What features are most important in bread knife?
The three most important features are the blade’s serrations, the quality of the steel, and the handle’s ergonomics. Look for wide, sharp serrations that can grip a crust. High-carbon stainless steel is ideal for holding an edge and resisting rust. Finally, a comfortable, well-balanced handle is crucial for control and safety during slicing.
How do I maintain my bread knife?
To maintain your bread knife, always wash it by hand with warm, soapy water and dry it immediately. Avoid the dishwasher, as the harsh detergents and high heat can dull the blade and damage the handle. Store it in a knife block or with a blade guard to protect the serrated edge from damage. Most serrated knives are difficult to sharpen at home, so investing in a quality one that holds its edge is key.
Are expensive bread knife worth it?
For serious bakers or those who value premium tools, an expensive bread knife can be worth it. High-end knives like the Global G-9 offer superior balance, are made from higher-grade steel that stays sharp longer, and exhibit a level of craftsmanship that makes them a joy to use. While a budget knife can get the job done, a premium knife elevates the experience and can last a lifetime.
What brands make the best bread knife?
Several brands are renowned for making excellent bread knives. Wüsthof and Henckels are classic German brands known for their durability and craftsmanship. Mercer Culinary offers professional-grade quality at an excellent value. Global is a top-tier Japanese brand famous for its unique design and incredibly sharp blades.
How long do bread knife typically last?
A high-quality bread knife, when cared for properly, can last for many years, even decades. The main factor in its lifespan is the quality of the steel and how well it retains its sharpness, as serrated edges are difficult to sharpen. Knives from reputable brands are designed for longevity and will far outlast cheap, low-quality alternatives.
Can I find good bread knife on a budget?
Absolutely. The Orblue Serrated Knife and the Mercer Culinary Millennia are prime examples of excellent bread knives available on a budget. They prove that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a sharp, durable, and effective tool that can slice through crusty bread without issue. Look for one-piece construction or high-carbon steel for the best value.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison, the Mercer Culinary M23210 Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife stands out as the clear winner for Best Overall. It strikes the perfect balance between professional-grade performance, ergonomic comfort, and outstanding value. Its sharp Japanese steel blade and secure grip make it a reliable workhorse for any kitchen.
For those on a tighter budget, the Orblue Serrated Bread Knife is an unbeatable choice. Its durable one-piece stainless steel design and impressive sharpness offer incredible performance for a fraction of the price of premium models.
If you’re looking to invest in a top-of-the-line tool, the Global G-9 8.5-Inch Bread Knife is our premium recommendation. Its flawless Japanese craftsmanship, perfect balance, and legendary sharpness provide a cutting experience that is second to none.
Ultimately, choosing the right bread knife will transform how you enjoy your baked goods. We are confident that any of the knives on this list will help you achieve perfect, effortless slices every time.
Mason Everett
Senior Writer
With a deep-rooted love for hands-on projects and over a decade in DIY home solutions, I focus on making home improvement accessible for everyone. At Cosy Home Creation, I share tried-and-true tips for enhancing your space—whether you're remodeling a room, upgrading your storage, or just making things a little more functional. My goal is simple, help you build a home that feels good to live in, one practical project at a time.
