A good set of knives is a chef’s best friend and a great knife block is all you need to make food preparation in the kitchen faster, easier, and far more enjoyable. More than just for preparing ingredients, your knife block can also be a stylish feature for your kitchen. Below we summarise why you should consider buying a knife block over a knife set or individual collection of knives, our selection of best-selling knife blocks, and what makes them so popular.

With so many different knife block choices in the market, there is much to consider before making a purchase. Your cooking style and kitchen design will ultimately contribute to how you select the perfect knife block for your home, thus making this decision a very personal choice. In this blog, get to know what to look for when choosing knife blocks, knives, knife styles, and blade materials. Our top 8 picks for knife block sets are also meant to be a perfect match for any kitchen!

Why Should I Buy a Knife Block? 

Knife blocks often come with a combination of essential knives to perform most food preparation tasks in a stylish housing for storage. This convenience is beneficial in 4 ways:

1. A knife block is more affordable: While block sets have a lot to offer, they typically come at more affordable prices than if you were to purchase each knife individually, giving you far more value for money.
2. A knife block makes it easier to work in the kitchen: Your knife block offers easy access to all your essential knives. This is undeniably a step up from leaving your knives in the drawers and frantically looking for the right blade each time you cook.
3. A knife block protects your knives: They store the blades safely and prevent them from being damaged or chipped from colliding with other knives in a drawer.
4. A knife block is a stylish feature for a kitchen: With everything housed securely in a beautiful knife block, not only do they make your knives more accessible but can really add a touch of character and style to your kitchen.

Which Essential Knives do I need when choosing a Knife Block? 

If this is your first knife purchase, you may want to choose a knife block that includes these 3 knives we consider essential for any kitchen:

1. The Chefs Knife: Extremely versatile, a Chefs knife is useful for chopping and dicing fruits, vegetables, and herbs as well as for cutting through meat with ease. These are usually the most used knife in any kitchen.
2. The Utility Knife: A utility knife can do anything a paring knife does and more thanks to its longer length. It is ideal for cutting vegetables, slicing cheese, halving sandwiches, and working your way through tender pieces of meat allowing its long edge and slender blade to make filleting easier.
3. The Serrated Bread Knife: Bread is a staple food in many homes, so a good serrated bread knife is certainly handy to have on hand, especially with fresh crusty sourdough loaves!

You’ll notice that a block set comes in many variations and combinations of knives and sometimes with added accessories like kitchen shears, steak knives or a knife sharpener.

We recommend looking at each piece in the block carefully and determining if you actually need that knife before purchasing. Take note of your existing blades and exclude the knife blocks that contain the knives you already own to save on cash and storage space.

Our view is that it is worth spending the same for a knife block with fewer knives but of a higher quality than a knife block that's loaded with knives that aren't as good quality.

Western Style VS Asian Style Knives 

In general, the two most commonly used knives are either Western or Asian styles. What are the differences between the two, and do they matter? Yes! These knives are designed for very different purposes, so you should definitely consider these factors when purchasing knives for your kitchen.

Most western knives are double-beveled with the most common shape being the V-shape while Asian knives are usually thinner with a straight edge. This allows the Asian knife to be sharper than its western counterpart even when their edge becomes dull.

Western knives are usually heavier than Asian style knives, feature a gradual curved shape to facilitate a rocking motion when cutting, and tend to last longer. On the other hand, Asian-style knives are sharper and more lightweight for easy maneuvering and fast slicing, but they are more delicate than Western knives and require more care.

Western knives like Wusthof are also designed to prepare heavier foods with lots of meat and high fiber vegetables; these knives are ideal for chopping, dicing, and breaking down harder ingredients. Crafted for preparing more delicate foods such as seafood and softer vegetables, Asian-style knives like Furi, Global, and Shun are perfect for making precise slices, trimming, mincing, and more.

Which Blade Material is Best?

The material of your blade will determine its sharpness, toughness, corrosion resistance, and how easy it is to resharpen. So which material should you choose? The most commonly seen materials used for knives are carbon steel and stainless steel.

Carbon steel knives tend to have a higher Rockwell hardness and tend to hone and create the sharpest of edges. However, carbon steel will require more care and maintenance, is vulnerable to rust, corrosion, and may discolour in the long run.

On the other hand, stainless steel knives are highly popular as they are very durable and corrosion and rust resistant. Their blades are generally a composite of materials including at least 11% chromium, molybdenum, iron, nickel, and carbon. However, you might see variations in grades of stainless steel blades due to the different alloy percentages in the composition. Stainless steel blades may also not be as sharp as carbon steel knives.

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Our Top 8 Knife Blocks for Any Kitchen

1. The Best Japanese Knife Block: Global Ikasu 7-Piece Knife Block Set

This gorgeous Ikasu Knife Block by Global Knives sets the benchmark for style and functionality. This set includes high-quality knives every chef needs, housed in a stunning wooden block with clear panels on the side so you know which knife to reach for.

Crafted in Japan and made with Global's patented CROMOVA 18 stainless steel, these knives are ice tempered and hardened, and have become iconic, easily identifiable by their unique dimpled handles. Their innovative straight-edged blade is extremely sharp and will remain sharper than western knives even when it's dull. Carefully weighted to perfection, these knives feel well balanced in your hand for a seamless cutting experience. Each knife in this block is also resistant to rust, corrosion and stains, which means cleaning and maintaining these knives are a breeze!

The Global Ikasu Knife Block Set is suitable for: Those purchasing their first knife block or replacing a current set. Those who prefer lighter and evenly balanced Japanese knives without the high maintenance (and price!).

Set includes:

• Paring Knife (8cm)
• Utility Knife (11cm)
• Cook's Knife (13cm)
• Vegetable Knife (14cm)
• Cook's Knife (20cm)
• Bread Knife (22cm)
• Wooden Knife Block with Clear Acrylic Sides for space-efficient storage

What other Ikasu blocks are there?

For those who want take their Ikasu block a step further, there's also the larger 10-piece Ikasu X 10-piece knife block set that adds even more or Globals best knives into a similar styled block.

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2. Basic is Best: Global Hashira 5-Piece Knife Block Set

On the lookout for a set of high-quality knives that can also complement your kitchen style? Global Knives' Hashira Knife Block Set features 5 essential knives for everyday cooking, including a cook’s knife and a utility knife stored securely in a more luxurious walnut block with clear panels. This set will prepare all kinds of ingredients without a hitch as Global’s high-quality knives are designed to feel great in your hand with sharp blades that retain their edge well. Global's CROMOVA 18 stainless steel construction resists stains, rust, and corrosion, ultimately contributing to easy cleaning and maintenance making these a great balance of Japanese precision with durability and low-maintenance that's ideal for the busy home cook juggling family life.

The Global Teikoku Knife Block Set is suitable for: Those wanting just the essential knives, owners of small kitchens (thanks to its compact block) or aspiring chefs or home cooks that aren't experienced or wanting the upkeep of more expensive and delicate Japanese knives.

Set includes:

• 1 x Paring Knife (9cm)
• 1 x Vegetable Knife (14cm)
• 1 x Cook's Knife (20cm)
• 1 x Bread Knife (20cm)
• 1 x Walnut Storage Block

Other Hashira block options?

If you love the look of this 5-piece Hashira block but want to add some larger knives to the mix, there is also the larger Global Hashira 7-piece knife block set as an option.

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3. The Knife Block to Impress: Wusthof Classic Ikon 7-piece Knife Block Set

Wusthof Knives is renowned for creating high-quality knives favoured by world famous chefs like Gordon Ramsay, so it’s only natural for the iconic German knife brand to make an appearance on our top list. This Classic Ikon Knife Block Set in black offers a sleek, modern look that is perfect to suit professional and contemporary kitchens alike.

The knives in the set are from the Classic Ikon range. Wusthof knives are produced in Solingen, Germany's epicenter of knife making. Each knife undergoes a meticulous 40-step process featuring a full-tang construction that is drop forged from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel and hardened to a Rockwell 58 rating. In other words, these knives are extremely durable, razor-sharp, and made to retain their edge longer than regular knives. The contoured handle and edges provide an ergonomic, comfortable fit, ideal for easily completing any kitchen task.

The Wusthof Classic Ikon Knife Block Set is suitable for: Enthusiasts and professional chefs who need the best and prefer European knives that are made to last a lifetime. Bonus too is that Wusthof knives have free lifetime sharpening! All you have to pay for is return postage, and Wusthof Australia will gladly sharpen your Wusthof knives for the lifetime of their use.

Set includes:

• Paring Knife (9cm)
• Sausage Knife (14cm)
• Sandwich Knife (16cm)
• Santoku Knife (17cm)
• Cooks Knife (20cm)
• Bread Knife (20cm)
• 3-Tier Knife Block

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4. Peformance and Luxury: Wusthof Amici 6-Piece Knife Block Set

The Amici Knife Block from Wusthof Knives features a lovely wooden knife block bound in leather that holds each knife that has uniquely grained Calabrian olive wood handles. One look at these Wusthof knives, you know you’re getting the best knives with incredible sharpness and craftmanship that the brand is renowned for with the striking warm contrast of the luxurious olive wood handles that are also naturally anti-bacterial and water repellent.

We love that this knife block set combines both a Cooks knife and Santoku knife in one block, perfect when preparing mixed meat and vegetable dishes.

The Wusthof Amici Knife Block Set is suitable for:  Professional chefs wanting a luxurious block for their home without compromising performance. Those wanting the best where budget is not a factor.

Set includes:

• 1x Amici Paring Knife (9cm)
• 1x Amici Serrated Utility Knife (14cm)
• 1x Amici Granton Edge Santoku (17cm)
• 1x Amici Cook's Knife (20cm)
• 1x Amici Bread Knife (23cm)
• 1x Amici 6-Slot Villa Wood and Leather Knife Block

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5. Japanese Knife Lovers choice by Chefs: The Shun Kanso Classic 7-Piece Knife Block Set

Well known for their superior sharpness and hand-crafted finishes,  Shun knives are made in Japan in Seki City, an area with a long history of being the epicentre of Japanese samurai sword makers and knife craftsmen of today. Adored by chefs around the world, Shun produces high-quality knife blocks for home or professional use, our favourite being the Kanso Classic Knife Block Set.

Featuring the essentials like the utility and chef’s knife, this set is perfect for most kitchens. The paring knife, carving knife, and kitchen shears also provide additional functionality and convenience that you’ll come to appreciate in this knife block. Furthermore, each knife is painstakingly handcrafted for superior quality and sharpness with a 14-degree edge. The Damascus-style blade profile is not only highly attractive and reveals Shun's incredible craftsmanship but it also reduces sticking when cutting ingredients, helping you to finish your food preparations faster and easier.

The Shun Kanso Classic Knife Block Set is suitable for: Those who want a set of Japanese knives complete with unmatched sharpness and a touch of elegance and prestige.

Set includes:

• Paring Knife (9cm)
• Utility Knife (15cm)
• Chef's Knife (20cm)
• Carving Knife (20cm)
• Honing steel (23cm)
• Multi Purpose Kitchen Shears
• Wooden Block

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6. The Chefs Essentials: Shun Kanso Classic 5-Piece Knife Block Set

This Kanso Classic 5-Piece Knife Block Set by Shun Knives features the same great quality listed in the 7-piece set above; the only difference is the pieces included. The pieces in this set are more basic than the 7-piece above with only a paring knife, santoku knife, chef’s knife, and kitchen shears included. Nevertheless, this basic set comprises all the essentials you'll need for basic cooking.

The versatility provided by the santoku and chef’s knives will allow you to prepare all sorts of different foods without fuss. Slice, dice, and chop your way through vegetables, fruits, and meat in style. Complete with a stunning wooden block to store your knives and kitchen shears, this block has extra room to spare if you want to add additional knives at a later time.

The Shun Kanso Classic Knife Block Set is suitable for: New homeowners or aspiring chefs who want to begin with a starter set.

Set includes:

• Paring Knife (9cm)
• Santoku Knife (17cm)
• Chefs Knife (20cm)
• Multi-purpose Kitchen Shears
• Wooden Knife Block

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7. Stylish Affordability: Furi Pro Terrazzo 6-Piece Knife Block Set

If you’re a think-out-of-the-box kind of chef, this Block Set combining wood and Terrazzo stone from Furi Knives could be the right set for you. Featuring a gorgeous geometric knife block that holds your knives vertically to reduce wasting space on your kitchen countertop, this block is both impressive in appearance and functionality.

Furi knives were originally designed in Australia. They are well-balanced and fitted with an ergonomic wedge-shaped handle to prevent hand fatigue while you cut, slice, and chop up a storm for a lovely dinner party with your loved ones. Each knife is carefully constructed from a single piece of Japanese stainless steel, resulting in a seamless finish and an ultra-sharp edge for the most delicate cuts.

The Furi Pro Terrazzo Knife Block Set is suitable for: First-time knife buyers and home cooks on a budget who want to add some style to their kitchen.

Set includes:

• 1x Cook's knife 20cm
• 1x East West™ Santoku 17cm
• 1x Bread 20cm,
• 1x Utility 15cm
• 1x Asian Utility 12cm
• 1x Terrazzo stone block

 

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8. The Knife Block with a Rustic Charm: Furi Pro Capsule 9-Piece Knife Block Set

The 9-Piece Pro Capsule Knife Block Set by Furi Knives is a great option for those . The beautiful acacia capsule knife block is the star of this set – featuring an upright design, universal-sized knife slots, and non-slip feet, this block will store your knives without taking up much space.

As mentioned in the Furi knife block above, these knives are also constructed using a single piece of Japanese stainless steel. Why you may choose this knife block is that it offers both a chefs knife for the majority of tasks as well as a Santoku knife that is great for fast chopping of vegetables and herbs. There is also the addition of a carving knife and fork so a great choice for those who love making roast dinner be it for lazy Sunday roasts or entertaining guests with a slow-roast of lamb or beef.

The Furi Pro Capsule Knife Block Set is suitable for: Those on a budget wanting value for money and who roast meats often.

Set includes:

• Paring Knife (9cm)
• Asian Utility Knife (12cm)
• Utility Knife (15cm)
• Serrated Utility Knife (15cm)
• East/West Santoku Knife (17cm)
• Cook's Knife (20cm)
• Carving Knife (20cm)
• Carving Fork (18cm)
• Capsule Knife Block

We hope you'll love the knife blocks on this list as much as we do! As you enjoy your knives, don't forget to resharpen them from time to time to keep your knives in tip top condition. For Asian knives, we recommend a Global knife sharpener, and a Wusthof knife sharpener for Western blades. See our complete collection of knife sharpeners here.

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Next Read: The Best Cookware Brands in Australia

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