Joybuy Insights

Buying steak knives: Your guide to cleanly cutting meat and pizza

A steak knife should cut through the crust and meat without crushing the piece or unnecessarily tearing the fibres. In practice, however, the right choice is not determined by glossy packaging, big promises or an inexpensive set price, but by specific product data. This selection guide from the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer explains what households, home cooks, barbecue enthusiasts and catering businesses should look for when buying.

Common pitfalls when buying steak knives

1. “Sharp” is confused with having a suitable blade

A sharp steak knife can have either a smooth or serrated edge. For steaks and crispy pizza, a serrated steak knife is often practical because the serrations grip the firm crust. A smooth blade, on the other hand, allows controlled, straight cuts and is more suitable as a meat knife for preparation or carving.

The key factor is therefore not just the advertised sharpness, but the combination of blade shape, blade length and intended use.

2. Dishwasher suitability is equated with optimal care

The label “dishwasher-safe” means that, according to the product information, a knife can be cleaned in the dishwasher. Frequent washing, harsh detergents, heat and contact with other cutlery can nevertheless put more strain on the edge and handle than gentle hand washing.

With a steak knife set, you should therefore check whether this information applies to the complete product. For wooden handles or certain handle connections, hand washing is usually the gentler option.

3. The set size does not match your actual needs

A steak knife set with four, six or twelve knives may initially seem economical for larger households or catering businesses. For two people, however, a large set may take up unnecessary storage space. Conversely, four steak knives may not be enough for regular barbecues with guests.

Before buying, ask yourself three questions:

  • How many people regularly use the steak cutlery?
  • Will the knives also be used for pizza, quiche or other firm crusts?
  • Is a uniform look important for a well-laid table?

Important buying criteria for steak knives

Blade length and edge type

An 11 cm steak knife is compact and easy to handle at the table. This length is also found in many combined steak and pizza knives. A 12 cm steak knife offers a little more cutting surface and may be more comfortable when cutting larger pieces of meat.

A serrated blade is not automatically suitable for every task. It can grip crispy surfaces and help reduce the crushing of soft foods. For precise carving of a roast, however, a longer meat knife with a straight edge is recommended. A pizza knife with a wavy edge, meanwhile, is designed for dough crusts and does not need to have the same properties as a classic kitchen knife.

Blade material

Stainless steel is widely used in everyday products because it offers good corrosion resistance with normal care. However, the precise type of steel, hardening and manufacturing process affect edge retention. Product information such as “stainless steel” alone therefore does not indicate how long an edge will remain sharp in individual use.

With forged knives, the blade and handle may be joined particularly securely. One example is the ZWILLING Pro Cornelia Poletto carving knife with a 16 cm blade, specially developed stainless steel and FRIODUR hardening. Hand washing is recommended according to the product description, so it is not the obvious choice for buyers looking exclusively for dishwasher-safe steak cutlery.

Handle, balance and storage

The handle should sit securely in your hand without requiring you to adjust your grip frequently. Plastic handles are often straightforward to clean. Wooden handles can provide a classic look, but require gentler care. When storing knives, do not leave them unprotected in a cutlery drawer. A knife block, magnetic rail or blade guard reduces the risk of damage and cut injuries.

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners
Tefal Ice Force steak knives, 11 cm, 4-piece set

Tefal Ice Force steak knives, 11 cm, 4-piece set

Why this product suits the profile: With four 11 cm blades, this set is a manageable size for smaller households and occasional barbecues. The product information specifies stainless steel blades, black ABS handles and dishwasher suitability.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of pieces is clearly stated, avoiding a hard-to-assess combination. The 11 cm length is suitable for use at the dining table without replacing a large kitchen knife.

Main benefit & strengths

Four knives, 11 cm blades, stainless steel and dishwasher suitability according to the product information.

Ideal for: Buyers with high quality expectations
Zwilling steak knife set, 4-piece, stainless steel, black

Zwilling steak knife set, 4-piece, stainless steel, black

Why this product suits the profile: The steak knife set contains four knives with 12 cm blades, a serrated edge and handles made from stainless steel and wood. It is aimed at buyers who value a coordinated table setting and clearly specified materials.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The serrated edge is explicitly stated, as is the set size. This makes it easier to distinguish the knife from a smooth-edged meat knife or kitchen knife.

Main benefit & strengths

Four serrated knives with 12 cm blades; dishwasher suitability according to the product information, with hand washing recommended for gentle care.

Ideal for: Specific uses & frequent users
Victorinox Swiss Classic steak and pizza knife, 11 cm, serrated, black

Victorinox Swiss Classic steak & pizza knife, 11 cm, serrated, black

Why this product suits the profile: This Swiss steak knife has a serrated 11 cm stainless steel blade and an ergonomic polypropylene handle. As a 6-piece set, it is suitable for families, regular guests and catering use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its suitability for steak and pizza is clearly stated. The product data also lists the blade type, length, handle material, set contents and dishwasher suitability.

Main benefit & strengths

Six Swiss steak and pizza knives with a serrated edge; dishwasher suitability according to the product information.

Ideal for: Large households & entertaining
Silit Trend steak knife set, 12-piece

Silit Trend steak knife set, 12-piece

Why this product suits the profile: Twelve steak knives with serrated blades cater for larger gatherings, holiday lets or catering applications. The product description specifies 18/10 stainless steel, a one-piece construction and dishwasher suitability.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The large number of pieces is easy to justify for regular entertaining. The serrated edge is clearly specified rather than being described only through a general claim of sharpness.

Main benefit & strengths

12-piece set, 18/10 stainless steel and dishwasher suitability according to the product description.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Care and safe use

  • Only use steak knives on suitable wooden or plastic chopping boards.
  • Do not cut on glass, stone or ceramic, as hard surfaces can damage the edge.
  • Do not use a table steak knife to cut bones, frozen food or packaging.
  • Dry completely after cleaning and do not store loose in a drawer.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a dishwasher; hand washing can help protect the blade and handle.
  • Store sharp knives out of children’s reach.

Steak knife FAQ

Is a serrated or smooth-edged steak knife more suitable?

It depends on how you intend to use it. A serrated steak knife grips firm crusts and is often suitable for pizza too. A smooth blade allows controlled cuts and, if designed appropriately, can be used as a meat knife for carving. The edge type should be explicitly stated in the product information for the intended purpose.

What blade length is typical for a steak knife?

11 cm and 12 cm are common sizes for table knives. 11 cm is compact and practical for steaks and pizza. 12 cm offers a little more cutting surface. Longer kitchen knives or specialist carving knives are more suitable for large joints of meat.

Are steak knives dishwasher-safe?

According to the manufacturer’s information, some models and sets are dishwasher-safe, including certain products from Victorinox, Tefal, Zwilling and Silit in this selection. For the longest possible service life, you should still follow the care instructions and take the handle material and recommended cleaning method into account.