If you are looking for the sharpest, lightest and most hygienic blades around then check out our best ceramic knife set reviews.
Ceramic knives are known for being the sharpest in the drawer and require little effort to maintain their edge. They’re perfect for slicing fruits and vegetables for tasty meals at home or for slicing and then storing food in airtight containers for use later in the week. A lightweight ceramic knife will make your food prep easy without cramping your hand or style.
Ceramic knives won’t rust and don’t require frequent honing or sharpening, unlike stainless steel knives. You will love how well they slice and how easy they are to maintain. These high-quality knives are affordable and desirable to have in any kitchen.
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Ceramic Knives Comparison Table
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Top 5 Ceramic Knife Set Reviews
Buying a set of ceramic knives is a great way to introduce yourself to these highly useful slicing tools at a reasonable price.
We have chosen these sets with an eye towards quality, durability and affordability. Every blade in these sets is made from 100% pure ceramic material by manufacturers known for their quality and customer service. No matter what you are looking for we have a set that should fit into your budget.
1. Best Pick- Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Revolution 4 Piece Set
This knife set from Kyocera is made from the highest quality ceramic material by one of the best companies in the business. The set comes with 4 knives: 6-inch chef knife, 5.5-inch Santoku (a type of Japanese knife), 4.5 utility knife and a 3-inch paring knife. You’ll get a knife of every type you need for the light kitchen tasks so ideal for ceramic knives.
The specially treated black blades are razor sharp out of the box and will hold that edge for a long time. This is the most durable set in our review and they can take a bit more abuse than other sets.
The ergonomic plastic handles feel really comfortable in your hand and are balanced beautifully with the black blades. This set is as stunning as it is functional.
One feature we really like is that the back of the blades and the tips are rounded for safety to prevent breakage. It’s the little details like this that really make Kyocera stand out from the pack.
Key Details
This set is amazing but it does have a couple of drawbacks. It doesn’t come with sheaths or a block for storing the knives. You will have to buy one or use your existing knife block to protect the set from damage.
This set comes with special care instructions and a lifetime warranty against defect. Kyocera recommends sending the knives back to their company for resharpening. While they are sharpening your knives they also check the handles for cracks and wear.
If they find any problems they will replace the defective handle with a new one. The best part is that this is all covered under your warranty. In addition, they include a coupon for their service. However, you will have to pay for shipping but it is still a great deal.
Pros
- Premium set is beautiful, durable and extremely sharp.
- Well balanced with a comfortable handle and safety features.
- Lifetime warranty against defects.
Cons
- High cost even though set is missing sheaths or a block for storage.
- Requires resharpening by Kyocera to maintain warranty.
- Have to upgrade to the Innovation series to get the most durable version of the black ceramic blade.
2. Kyocera Revolution 4- Piece Ceramic Knife Set
These high-quality ceramic knives from Kyocera feature a sharp edge right out of the box. They are attractive and have white blades on ergonomic, black plastic handles.
The set comes with 4 knives: 7-inch chef knife, 5.5-inch santoku, 4.5-inch utility knife and 3-inch paring knife. The ceramic blades are fantastic for slicing and will maintain their edge for 10x longer than steel knives.
We like how they feel balanced in your hand when slicing. The handle is easy to hold and feel good with the weight of the blade. They are perfect as a beginner knife set.
Key Details
The back edges of the blades have been rounded for safety so you won’t cut yourself accidentally if your finger slips. The tips are rounded as well which makes them less likely to break. The set is fairly durable for ceramic knives and holds an edge for a long time before becoming dull.
This Kyocera set is a great option due to the high quality of the ceramic blades, the safety features and the comfortable, soft handles. For the price, it is one of the most affordable options and is great for beginner chefs.
These knives also come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are ever unhappy with your knives you can return them in the original packaging for a full refund. So there is little risk in giving them a try.
Pros
- High quality set at very affordable price.
- Each knife has a rounded blade that is extra safe.
- 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
- No protective sheath or knife block included
- The plastic handles can be slippery.
- 100% satisfaction guarantee is covered only if you have saved the original packaging.
3. Cuisinart Professional 12 Piece Set
The Cuisinart set comes with every knife you need to outfit a kitchen. It is the only set in our review to feature two serrated ceramic knives.
Our favorite thing about this set is that it includes everything you need to slice and dice in the kitchen. You will get 6 knives: 8-inch chef, 8-inch slicing knife, 8-inch serrated bread knife, 7-inch santorum knife, 6.5-inch utility knife, and a 3.5-inch pairing knife.
These quality colorful ceramic blades are very sharp right out of the box. They have smooth plastic handles that are lightweight but a little thick. This set is well packaged and the presentation makes it an attractive gift.
Each knife comes with a blade guard to keep the knives protected and sharp. The various colors make them easy to identify during food preparation.
Key Details
Each knife is a distinctive, jewel color that makes them a fun addition to any kitchen. The knives are stainless steel which is durable and will last for years.
In fact, the Cuisinart knives come with a lifetime warranty so you can rest assured that the knives are of superior quality.
While the handles are ergonomic, they are a little thick for such lightweight knives. If you have small hands, the handles might not be as comfortable as they should be, especially if you have a lot of food to prep.
The knives are not considered to be dishwasher safe which is a big downside. However, the value for the price does make up for these shortfalls.
This set is priced in the low range for ceramic knives. It is a great deal for the number of knives you get especially when you include the additional blade covers.
Additionally, this set is ideal as a gift for both new and experienced ceramic knife users. They also make a great housewarming gift as every knife you will ever need in a kitchen is included in the set.
Pros
- Variety of knives in bold, exciting colors
- Comes with a color coded knife sheath for each knife.
- Life time warrenty.
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe.
- Bigger, plastic handles.
4. Vos 7 Piece Set
Vos is another set designed and packaged to make a great gift. Each set comes in an elegant box that looks fantastic and protects the knives during shipping.
The set includes the following : 6-inch chef, 4-inch utility and a 3-inch paring knife and a ceramic vegetable peeler. Each knife has a different brightly-colored handle with a matching knife sheath. The peeler comes with a purple handle.
These knives are a little softer and less durable than the Kyocera and Imori sets. They arrive sharp and hold an edge well but will need more frequent resharpening than some of the more expensive sets.
Key Details
These knives have very comfortable silicon handles with shoulders to keep your fingers from slipping forward onto the blade. They feel really good in your hand. In addition, the silicon gives you some grip but doesn’t hurt your hand while slicing.
This set is a good value for a mid-priced ceramic product. The knives are thin and slice well while the handles are especially comfortable. The ceramic peeler does a great job peeling tougher skins like potatoes and yams.
Overall, this is a nice option as a gift for a new ceramic knife user or to replace a set of older knives that have worn out. However, they don’t come with a very extensive warranty. Vos only covers them for 60 days.
Pros
- Silicon handles are very comfortable and non-slip.
- Handles and sheaths are brightly colored and attractive.
- Ceramic peeler can handle both light and tough vegetable skins.
Cons
- Softer and less durable than other higher quality sets.
- Tips are not rounded to prevent breakage.
- 60-day warranty.
5. Best Budget Pick - Wacool 3 Piece Set with Sheaths
The Wacool is our pick for the Best Budget Set. If you don’t want to spend too much on ceramic knives then this may be the set for you. This three-piece option will give you a feel for using ceramic knives without the risk of spending too much money on a very high priced set.
This set comes with: 6-inch chef knife, 5-inch utility knife, and 4-inch slicing/paring knife. Each knife comes with a sheath so you can store them wherever you please without worrying about damaging them.
It isn’t a fancy looking set. However, at this price you will not find a more affordable option. The white blades are sharp and hold their edge for a long time. The simple black plastic handles are sturdy and feel balanced in your hand.
Key Details
This is a quality set for the price point and the best value overall in our review. While you don’t get additional features like ergonomic handles or rounded tips, the knives are thin, sharp and maintain an edge for a long time.
While most companies will not replace a knife damaged through inappropriate use, Wacool works very hard to leave every customer satisfied. If you have a problem with this set, such as a knife that arrives dull, just contact the company. Often they will send you a replacement knife. Overall, this is a fantastic option for beginner ceramic knife users.
Lastly, this set comes with a lifetime money back guarantee. So these knives are a great deal because of the guarantee and the high level of customer service from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Great value for ceramic knife set and affordable for most families.
- Each knife comes with a protective sheath for storage or transport.
- Lifetime money back guarantee for each set and stellar customer service.
Cons
- Plastic handles are basic and not terribly high quality.
- Handles only come in a basic black so can’t be coordinated with kitchen decor.
- No safety features, like a rounded tip or back of blade.
Ceramic Knife Set Buyer’s Guide
There are many reasons you will love having a set of ceramic knives in your kitchen. These lightweight knives are an ideal way to prep fruits, vegetables and boneless meats.
Not all ceramic knives are the same. A high-quality ceramic knife will perform better and last longer than a lower quality knife. So what goes into making a high-quality ceramic knife and how are they different from metal knives?
Ceramic Knife-Making Process
The best ceramic knives are made from a powder of zirconium dioxide and additional stabilizers, which are pressed and heated to form an extremely hard knife. After this process is complete, the knife is then polished and shaped into a razor sharp edge using a diamond wheel knife sharpener.
This process results in a knife that can hold an edge 10 times longer than stainless steel. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the hardness of diamonds, ceramic knives are rated an 8.5 to 9. Stainless steel only rates a 6.5 on this scale. Depending on how you use it, your ceramic knife may not need sharpening for years.
Signs of a High-Quality Ceramic Knife
A high-quality ceramic knife will usually be more expensive but on par with a quality steel knife. Ceramic blades can be either white or black in color. While you can get a great knife in either color, the black is a bit more durable than the white.
Black ceramic blades are treated with an additional process called “hot isostatic pressing,” which increases the density of the ceramic material.
Black ceramic knives are tougher than the white, according to Chef Ming Tsai at Kyocera, and require even less frequent sharpening. They are more expensive to produce and usually have a correspondingly higher price tag. If you want the highest quality and most user-friendly ceramic knife, look for a black one.
Another way of identifying a high-quality knife from an average one involves comparing the thickness of the blade to a similar steel knife.
Balance and Handle Matter
The best ceramic knives are thinner than their steel counterparts. They are balanced through the handle and slice through things with little effort. They are easy on the hand and make your prep work easier too.
These knives are so light you don’t need or even want a chunky handle. Slim plastic and wood handles are the best and the most comfortable to use and maintain.
For more information on how Kyocera makes their superior ceramic knives, check out this How It’s Made video:
How Does a Ceramic Knife Stay Sharp?
Ceramic knives have a slightly different shape than other knives. It is subtle but it means that a ceramic knife can still maintain an edge even with some wear on the blade. Their geometry helps maintain the sharpness of the cutting edge.
We think of edges as being shaped like a pointed V. However, the edge of a ceramic knife is flat. It is just so thin (and ceramic so hard) that it slices beautifully until the flat part of the edge becomes too wide.
A ceramic knife’s edge wears differently from metal knives. If you look at one under a microscope you can see that the grain of the ceramic material runs from the spine of the knife straight down to the blade’s edge. The higher the quality of the blade the finer the ceramic grain will be.
Ceramic Knives Reform Their Edge
As you slice with a ceramic knife microscopic particles are removed from the edge. Due to its underlying structure the material left behind forms a new edge that is slightly wider than the old. This reformed edge works almost as well as the original sharpened edge.
The finer the ceramic grain of the knife, the longer it can reform an edge. Eventually the edge wears away until it is too wide to cut well and the knife becomes dull.
This is why your ceramic blades stay sharp for so long without being deliberately resharpened. A ceramic knife is resharpening itself as you use it. Of course, at some point the wear and tear will be too great and the knife will need to be resharpened.
Over time it is common for ceramic blades to pick up small nicks along the cutting surface. Unlike steel knives, these small defects won’t affect the sharpness of a ceramic knife. The geometry of the knife will ensure that your ceramic knife still slices well even with some wear and tear.
Ceramic vs. Stainless Steel Knives
There are some key differences between a ceramic and a metallic knife but they both have a place in your kitchen.
Ceramic is Strong
Ceramic knives are much harder than stainless steel or other metallic knives. The hardness rating and the way it wears means that a ceramic blade can hold an edge longer than a metal blade. The downside is that this hardness makes ceramic more brittle and less forgiving.
Therefore, they are easier to accidentally chip or break.
When you use a steel knife, the cutting edge wears quickly because the metal is so soft and thin. It actually folds over on itself as you cut. This is why steel knives require frequent honing and sharpening and become dull so quickly.
Most manufacturers recommend against trying to sharpen a ceramic knife at home. They are so hard that most sharpeners can’t handle them. In addition, it is difficult to get the right angle without breaking them. If you want to take the risk, you can learn more about sharpening a ceramic knife here.
Ceramic is Non-Reactive
Ceramic knives contain no metal and have very small pores. You will never have to worry about a ceramic knife rusting. They are also very stain resistant. In addition, they only require a quick wash with soapy water to clean. Dirt and bacteria can’t become embedded in the knife itself so using a ceramic knife is more hygienic.
Stainless steel and other metal knives will corrode when exposed to water and to the acids found in foods like citrus fruit and tomatoes. They have large pores that trap dirt and germs. Additionally, they can transfer flavors and odors between foods.
For example, after mincing garlic you would need to scrub a steel knife well or risk making everything you cut smell garlicky. Slicing foods like apples with a steel knife can cause them to oxidize or turn brown.
You never have to scrub a ceramic knife. A quick wash is enough to remove debris and odors. Ceramic knives won’t transfer flavors and don’t cause oxidation in your foods.
Ceramic Knives Are Lightweight
The first time you pick up a ceramic knife you might think it was made from plastic. On average, a ceramic knife is usually about half the weight of a similar stainless steel knife.
Therefore, it makes them easier to wield and they don’t tire out your hand. This could be especially helpful for people who experience pain when slicing with heavier knives.
Ceramic and Steel Knives Handle Different Tasks
Ceramic and stainless steel knives are ideal for different kitchen tasks. So it is useful to have both options available in your kitchen.
Ceramic knives are unparalleled at slicing and dicing tasks and for finely chopping ingredients like onions, celery or cabbage. They are the ideal knife for getting really thin slices without a lot of effort. You should check out these Paleo and crockpot cookbooks if you need some new recipes to put your ceramic knife skills to the test.
Stainless steel knives such as chefs knives are perfect for chopping and cutting. The heaviness and flexibility of the knife and the handle give you extra leverage when cutting into foods such as a winter squash or steak.
For cutting larger, denser or heavier foods like whole chickens, steaks, pineapples, melons and cheese (tip: use a cheese slicer for best results) your steel knife will be the best choice. Trying to use a ceramic knife on these items is likely to end up snapping the blade.
How Do You Know Which Knife to Use?
A good rule of thumb to follow if you are unsure of which knife to use is to ask yourself “how much force does this task require?” If you need to use a lot of force to cut or you need to pry something open, then using a stainless steel knife is your best bet. For lighter and more precise tasks, use your ceramic knife for the best results.
Why Should You Buy a Ceramic Knife?
The advantages of a ceramic knife make it worth having a set in your kitchen. You can save your metal knives for the heavy jobs and use your ceramic set for the more precise tasks.
Advantages of a Ceramic Knife
- Extremely sharp
- Stays sharp with less effort
- Easy to rinse clean
- Rustproof
- Very stain resistant
- Lightweight
- Hygienic
Disadvantages of a Ceramic Knife
- Brittle and easier to break
- Requires professional sharpening
- Limited versatility
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do ceramic knives need to be sharpened?
A: Yes. While they hold an edge longer than a stainless steel blade, ceramic knives do eventually become dull and require sharpening. They can be difficult to sharpen at home. Most manufacturers recommend having them done by a professional.
Q: What are ceramic knives useful for?
A: Ceramic knives are ideal for slicing fruits and vegetables and for cutting boneless meats and soft cheeses. They are likely to chip or break if they hit a bone or if you accidentally use them to pry instead of slice. Some high-quality ceramic knives can handle cutting root vegetables but others are not sturdy enough for that task.
Q: Can you wash a ceramic knife in the dishwasher?
A: Yes, but it isn’t the ideal way to clean them. While they won’t rust like stainless steel knives, they can be damaged in the dishwasher if they get hit by another item. The blade is also liable to get chipped during the wash cycle. The best way to clean a ceramic knife is by hand.
Q: Can you store a ceramic knife in a drawer?
A: Yes, you can store these knives in a drawer instead of using a knife block. Many ceramic knives come with removable sheaths that protect the blade from being chipped while stored in a drawer. You shouldn’t store them in a drawer without a protective sheath or they might end up getting damaged.
Q: Are ceramic knives and ceramic-coated knives the same?
A: No. Ceramic-coated knives are usually less expensive. They are made from stainless steel with a thin coating of ceramic material on the outside. Ceramic-coated knives initially have a very sharp cutting edge but not as sharp as a true ceramic blade. They also have some of the flexibility and versatility of stainless steel and are less likely to break if dropped. A ceramic-coated knife will not last as long as a true ceramic knife, and the coating will eventually chip and wear away.
Q: Do ceramic-coated knives hold their edge as long as ceramic knives do?
A: No. Some ceramic-coated knives have the coating on the blade’s edge in which case the blade will stay sharp for longer than a stainless steel knife. They won’t stay sharp as long as a pure ceramic knife. If your ceramic-coated blade does not have the coating on the edge, you will need to hone and sharpen it just as you would a traditional knife.
Q: Can ceramic knives pick up stains?
A: Yes. Ceramic knives have smaller pores than stainless steel knives. Therefore, they are less likely to develop embedded stains if you wash them right after use. Still, over time they can pick up stains. You can use a denture cleaner or some baking soda to gently polish a ceramic blade back to its original condition.
Q: Are ceramic knives easy to break?
A: Yes, if they are used inappropriately or are dropped on a hard surface. When used as intended, ceramic knives do a great job cutting soft foods like fruits and many vegetables. However, if you apply side pressure or use them to pry instead of cut, the blade will likely snap. It is best to use wooden or plastic cutting boards with them. If you need to use force to cut through something then you should probably avoid using a ceramic knife for that project.
Conclusion
Ceramic knives are a great addition to any kitchen and allow you to slice fruits, vegetables and boneless meats with ease. They are lightweight, hygienic, and very easy to maintain.
If you are looking for a blade that holds an edge for a long time then add a ceramic knife set to your kitchen. Save your stainless steel knives for the heavy kitchen tasks.
The Kyocera brand is a great option for those who are ready to invest in a set of premium ceramic knives. If they are beyond your means, then consider the very reasonably priced Imori set. These knives are very high quality. In addition, they are only slightly less sharp out of the box than the Kyocera.
Both the Voov and the Vos sets have something to offer users looking for a bargain. The Vos set comes with a ceramic vegetable peeler in addition to the knives and sheaths. The Voov set is complete with a cutting board, knife block and sheaths. These sets are beautifully packaged and make great gifts too.
For folks with a more limited budget or who just want to try a set of ceramic knives without risking a big investment, then the Wacool set is an ideal option. They are a great entry point to ceramic knives. In addition, Wacool is known for providing stellar customer service.
Whichever set you choose, ceramic knives will make easy work of your light kitchen prep tasks without cramping your hands. You will love how easy it is to slice with a super sharp knife that holds an edge without needing constant effort to maintain. Ceramic knives won’t react to your foods and won’t transfer odors or flavors between foods.
We hope that after reading our detailed best ceramic knife set reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best ceramic knife set for your kitchen.
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