9 Best Knife Sets with Built-In Sharpeners 2026

This 21-piece powerhouse from Astercook delivers unmatched versatility without breaking the bank—ideal for households craving a complete kitchen overhaul. The standout here is the built-in sharpener, seamlessly integrated into the sleek black block, allowing one-handed touch-ups that keep blades razor-ready. Crafted from 1.4116 high-carbon German stainless steel, each knife offers excellent edge retention and stain resistance, while the black non-stick coating actively fights oxidation—a rare feature at this price point that ensures long-term durability.

In real-world use, these knives handle everything from delicate herb chiffonade to carving roasted turkey with impressive stability. The 8″ chef’s knife balances well for rocking cuts, and the serrated bread knife glides through crusty loaves without crushing. However, the lightweight build of some smaller knives—like the 3″ peeling knife—feels less substantial during prolonged prep work. Though labeled dishwasher safe, repeated machine washing may dull edges faster than hand washing, so frequent users should consider hand-cleaning to preserve longevity.

Compared to the premium Ninja Foodi systems, this Astercook set sacrifices some heft and sharpening sophistication but wins on value-packed utility. It’s perfect for budget-conscious families or new cooks setting up their first kitchen. While not as refined as Japanese-grind models like the KnifeSaga set, it offers far more tools than most entry-level kits. For the price, you get more pieces and rust protection than rivals in the under-$100 range, making it a smarter long-term investment than basic block sets.

Step into precision cooking with the KnifeSaga 14-piece set, where Japanese craftsmanship meets modern metallurgy in a stunning fusion of form and function. These blades boast an ultra-thin 10° edge angle—sharper than most Western knives—delivering paper-thin tomato slices and clean cuts through sushi-grade fish with minimal drag. The ergonomic ABS handles feel balanced and secure, reducing hand fatigue during marathon meal prep, while the angled hardwood block keeps countertops organized and knives safely stored.

During testing, the 8″ chef’s knife excelled in fine dicing tasks, showing superior control compared to heavier German-style knives. The non-serrated steak knives cleanly cut through medium-rare ribeye without tearing—uncommon in bundled sets—thanks to their polished edges and high-hardness steel. However, the lack of dishwasher safety means hand washing is mandatory, which could deter busy users. Also, the straight-edge blades demand more frequent sharpening if used on hard ingredients like winter squash or frozen foods.

Positioned between traditional German heft and Asian finesse, this set outperforms other mid-range options like the Emojoy 18-piece when it comes to cutting precision and comfort. It’s ideal for home chefs who prioritize surgical accuracy and refined handling over brute strength. While it doesn’t offer as many tools as larger sets, its focus on quality over quantity makes it a better match for serious cooks than all-in-one mega-blocks. Compared to similarly priced German sets, it trades raw durability for exceptional sharpness and slicing finesse.

The Emojoy 18-piece white knife set stands out as a true workhorse for professional-grade performance in home kitchens, blending German engineering with thoughtful ergonomics. Each knife features a hand-sharpened 16-degree edge and full-tang construction, delivering the kind of balance and durability found in commercial kitchens. The ABS handle with finger bolster and reinforced endcap provides exceptional grip security, even with wet hands, making it a top pick for users who spend hours prepping meals.

Real-world testing revealed strong performance across diverse tasks—the 8″ slicing knife handled roasts with grace, while the 5.5″ boning knife maneuvered around joints with surgical precision. The built-in sharpener kept blades responsive between deep sharpenings, though it works best as a quick touch-up tool rather than a full restoration system. One limitation is the white finish, which shows smudges and water spots easily, requiring frequent wiping to maintain its pristine look.

When stacked against the Ninja Foodi series, the Emojoy set matches them in blade quality but lacks the foolproof NeverDull sharpening mechanism. Still, its professional handle design and broader tool selection—including a dedicated tomato knife—give it an edge for culinary enthusiasts. It’s best suited for intermediate to advanced cooks who want commercial-style control and reliability without paying luxury prices. Though not as flashy as Ninja’s stainless-accented blocks, it offers comparable durability and superior grip design at a significantly lower cost.

The Ninja K32012 redefines convenience with its revolutionary NeverDull Technology—a built-in sharpening system so intuitive, even knife-averse users will keep their blades razor-sharp with a single swipe. This 12-piece German stainless steel set combines professional-grade materials with foolproof maintenance: the dynamic stone sharpening wheel automatically applies the correct angle and pressure, restoring edges in seconds. For anyone who’s ever struggled with whetstones or pull-through sharpeners, this is a game-changing innovation.

In daily use, the 8″ chef’s knife feels solid and well-balanced, slicing through root vegetables and poultry with minimal effort. The 6 serrated steak knives deliver restaurant-quality cuts, cleanly piercing through steak without shredding. However, the compact block holds only 12 pieces, leaving little room for expansion or additional tools like a cleaver or fillet knife. Also, while the blades resist rust well, the plastic-heavy block doesn’t feel as premium as solid wood alternatives.

Compared to the larger Ninja K32017, this model serves smaller households better with its space-saving footprint and lower price point. It’s ideal for modern kitchens where ease of maintenance trumps sheer volume. While it doesn’t include a bread knife—a surprising omission—the included santoku can compensate in a pinch. Against budget sets like the Astercook 15-piece, it offers far superior sharpening tech and build refinement, justifying its premium status despite fewer tools.

Don’t let the rock-bottom price fool you—the Astercook 15-piece set punches way above its weight, offering essential performance at an unbeatable entry-level cost. This is the go-to choice for renters, college grads, or anyone building a kitchen from scratch without overspending. The 1.4116 German stainless steel blades are surprisingly sharp out of the box, and the integrated sharpener makes upkeep simple, requiring no extra gadgets or skills.

In practice, the 8″ chef’s knife handles daily chopping with confidence, though it lacks the heft for dense squash or thick meat blocks. The 6 serrated steak knives perform adequately for casual dinners but struggle slightly with well-done cuts. Being dishwasher safe is a major perk for fast cleanup, but doing so regularly may accelerate edge degradation. On the upside, the black hardwood block resists stains and keeps knives accessible.

Versus pricier Astercook models, this version skips the anti-rust coating but retains core durability and ease of care. It’s a smarter buy than single-knife upgrades for users needing a full toolkit fast. While it can’t match the refinement of Japanese or premium Ninja sets, it delivers more functionality than dollar-store alternatives and even outperforms some $50+ kits. For sheer budget-friendly practicality, it’s hard to beat—especially with a lifetime warranty backing every purchase.

Built for large families and frequent entertainers, the Ninja K32017 expands on the K32012 with more steak knives, added specialty tools, and enhanced storage capacity—all powered by the same NeverDull sharpening technology. The 8-piece steak knife set means no one fights over the good cutlery at dinner, while the 8″ bread knife and 6″ boning knife cover tasks the smaller Ninja model misses. This is a true all-in-one solution for households that cook big and host often.

Performance-wise, every blade maintains that signature Ninja glide, slicing tomatoes in one pass and deboning chicken thighs with control. The stone sharpening wheel continues to impress, delivering consistent results with zero learning curve. However, the larger block demands significant counter space, making it impractical for small kitchens. And like other Ninja models, the plastic-mixed block feels less luxurious than solid wood—especially at this price.

Compared to the Emojoy 18-piece, the K32017 offers better sharpening automation and superior edge retention, though Emojoy wins on handle ergonomics. It’s best for families who value low-maintenance performance and hassle-free upkeep over artisanal aesthetics. While it’s one of the most expensive sets in the lineup, its combination of scale and smart sharpening justifies the investment. Against the K52015 Wood Series, it trades walnut elegance for greater knife variety and user-friendly engineering.

Priced firmly under $50, this 15-piece German steel set hits the sweet spot between affordability and reliability, making it a standout for cost-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on core quality. The 1.4116 stainless steel blades are forged for durability and tested through 999 dishwasher cycles—a bold claim that speaks to its rugged design. The patented anti-rust tech keeps blades looking new, even after repeated washes, which is rare in this tier.

In real use, the chef’s and bread knives dominate large-cut tasks, while the 5″ utility fillet knife adds unexpected versatility for fish prep. The ergonomic handle fits both left and right hands snugly, reducing slippage during fast slicing. But the plastic-like sheen on the block feels cheap next to solid wood models, and the sharpener slot is tight, making some blades awkward to pull through.

Against other sub-$50 sets, this one edges out the basic Astercook model with better handle design and dishwasher resilience. It’s perfect for young professionals or small families needing a dependable, no-fuss setup. While it doesn’t offer the luxury feel of Ninja or KnifeSaga, it delivers essential performance and peace of mind where it counts. For the price, it offers better build confidence and rust protection than most competitors in the same bracket.

What sets the Astercook 15-piece with black coating apart is its advanced defense against rust and corrosion—a real win for humid climates or high-use kitchens. The jet-black PVD coating not only gives it a sleek, modern look but actively prevents oxidation, keeping blades non-stick and rust-free even after weeks of heavy use. Combined with 1.4116 German steel and a tapered edge grind, this set offers both protection and precision in one striking package.

In testing, the serrated bread knife crushed crusty baguettes, and the santoku handled fine mincing with ease. The built-in sharpener remains quick and effective, though it doesn’t restore edges as deeply as stone wheels. One downside: the coating can scratch over time if knives are stored loosely or washed with other utensils. Still, for users tired of spotting or pitting on blades, this is a major upgrade over standard stainless sets.

Next to the uncoated Astercook models, this version is worth the slight price bump for anyone prioritizing blade longevity. It’s ideal for coastal homes or frequent cooks battling moisture issues. While it lacks the heft of professional sets, it outperforms similarly priced kits in corrosion resistance and visual appeal. Compared to the Ninja K32012, it sacrifices sharpening sophistication but wins on rust protection and value-focused innovation.

If you’re looking for the ultimate fusion of performance, design, and smart tech, the Ninja K52015 Wood Series is the undisputed champion of built-in sharpener sets. Housed in a premium walnut-stained block, this 15-piece system blends artisanal aesthetics with industrial-grade function, offering the same NeverDull sharpening wheel as other Ninja models—but now in a sleek, space-saving wooden tower that elevates any countertop.

Every blade—from the 8″ chef’s knife to the 5″ boning knife—cuts with surgical precision, thanks to the perfectly tensioned stone wheel that restores edges in seconds. The full-tang German steel construction ensures balance and durability, while the stainless steel accents add a modern touch. However, at nearly $420, it’s the most expensive option, and the walnut finish requires occasional oiling to prevent drying.

Against the K32017, this model trades raw quantity for refined elegance and smaller footprint, making it ideal for high-end kitchens where style matters. It’s perfect for culinary enthusiasts who want restaurant-quality tools with zero sharpening hassle. While other sets offer more pieces or lower prices, none match its combination of luxury materials, compact design, and foolproof edge maintenance. It delivers Ninja’s best tech in its most beautiful package yet.