Life
The 5 Best Knife Sets Under $200
by Kim Quindlen
While knives can be expensive, you don't need to shell out thousands of dollars to get a quality set — you just need to be a savvy shopper. When looking for the best knife sets under $200, there are a few key features that you'll want to consider:
- Weight: Although previous generations of knife sets consisted of heavier blades, it's now possible to have lightweight knives that are still incredibly sturdy. A more lightweight knife can reduce cramping and hand fatigue and make it easier to quickly cut malleable vegetables and meats, while a heavier weight is better for cutting thicker and denser foods.
- Balance: The balance of your knife should be evenly allocated between the blade and the handle. This provides a secure grip while simultaneously reducing cramping in your hand and arm.
- Material: A good knife can be made from a few different materials, including stainless steel, ceramic, and carbon steel. Although ceramic blades are sharp, they break fairly easily, which is why the knife sets below are made from either stainless steel or carbon steel blades. There are pros and cons to both materials. Carbon steel is easy to sharpen, but it rusts more easily. Meanwhile, stainless steel is more durable but harder to sharpen. Here, it comes down to personal preference.
A reliable set of knives can be the ticket to a hassle-free cooking experience. With one of the best knife sets at your fingertips, you can feel like head chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant — right in your own kitchen.