7 Best Utility Knives for Vinyl Plank Flooring 2026

This is a game-changer for professionals laying LVT and LVP flooring—where precision meets endurance. The full aluminum body gives it a premium heft that signals durability, while the specialized blade edge profile slices through luxury vinyl with surgical accuracy, leaving clean edges without fraying. Unlike standard utility blades that dull fast or tear material, this knife’s carbon steel blades are engineered specifically for flexible sheet goods, solving the all-too-common frustration of ragged cuts and frequent blade swaps. It’s built for installers who demand reliability and performance across long workdays.

In real-world testing, the 61-0800 excels in tight corners and around obstacles, where control is everything. The curved blade geometry allows for smooth scoring and easy tuck-under trimming, especially when fitting around baseboards or transitions. With a 45-degree cutting angle, it powers through 5mm+ vinyl plank underlayment without bogging down, and the molded comfort grip reduces hand fatigue significantly during repetitive cuts. However, it’s less effective on rigid composites or thick rubber-backed sheet vinyl—materials beyond its intended scope. That said, within its niche, it’s one of the most consistent performers we’ve tested.

Compared to the ROBERTS 3-in-1, this model sacrifices some versatility but delivers superior precision and blade longevity for dedicated LVT/LVP work. It doesn’t try to do everything—instead, it masters one job exceptionally well. Ideal for flooring contractors and serious DIYers who prioritize clean, repeatable cuts over multi-tool functionality, this knife sets the benchmark. It’s more refined than the budget ROBERTS Pro and better specialized than general-purpose retractables, making it the top pick when cut quality is non-negotiable.

When precision and consistency are paramount in vinyl flooring installation, the Zimpty ZY325 stands out with its SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade and thoughtfully curved edge that glides through sheet vinyl like butter. Each knife in this 2-pack delivers razor-sharp performance right out of the box, making it a favorite for detail work like inside corners, around pipes, or trimming seams. The soft rubber handle offers exceptional grip without stickiness—a subtle but critical win for users who sweat or work long shifts—ensuring control even during intricate cuts. It solves the all-too-familiar problem of slipping and overcutting, especially on smooth vinyl surfaces.

During hands-on use, the curved blade profile proved ideal for scoring and tucking, allowing installers to maintain constant pressure without hand cramping. It handles standard 2mm–4mm vinyl sheeting with ease and performs reliably on linoleum and carpet as well. The hanger hole adds workshop-friendly convenience, and the dual-pack means a backup is always ready when blades dull. That said, it struggles slightly with thicker 5mm+ LVP underlays, where the blade flexes and requires multiple passes. Still, for fine cutting tasks, it’s impressively accurate and comfortable over extended sessions.

Against the Goldblatt stainless steel model, the Zimpty trades a bit of heft and blade rigidity for better ergonomics and lower price—a fair compromise for most users. While not as durable for heavy-duty jobs, it’s tailor-made for precision-focused installers who need reliable, sharp tools without overspending. It’s more specialized than the Veltec retractable and more affordable than the AccuTec Personna, making it the go-to when you need two high-quality knives for under $15.

The ROBERTS 3-in-1 is a Swiss Army knife for floor installers, blending carpet, vinyl, and utility functions into one rugged tool that adapts on the fly. Its patented 3-position insert system lets you switch between carpet blades, utility blades, and hook blades in seconds—no extra tools needed—making it incredibly versatile for jobs that demand multiple cutting styles. Whether you’re slicing through thick felt-backed carpet, scoring vinyl plank, or opening supply boxes, this knife transitions seamlessly, eliminating the need to carry three separate tools. It solves the real-world pain point of tool clutter on job sites while maintaining professional-grade performance.

In testing, the 45-degree swivel head proved excellent for scoring rigid materials like luxury vinyl plank, delivering straight, clean lines with minimal effort. The recessed nose design exposes just enough blade for precise slicing, while the thumb-pressure ridge improves control during push cuts. It handled carpet padding and double-glue-down vinyl without hesitation, though switching blades frequently can slow workflow if you’re not organized. The SWIVEL GRIP storage holds up to 20 loose blades or a 10-pack cartridge, keeping spares secure and accessible—though loose blades can rattle.

Compared to the AccuTec Personna, it’s less specialized but far more adaptable, making it ideal for contractors who work across flooring types. It’s more functional than the basic ROBERTS Pro and better organized than generic utility knives. For those who hate carrying multiple tools, this is the ultimate all-in-one solution, offering broader utility at a moderate cost.

The Goldblatt linoleum knife is a titan of ergonomics and balance, built for installers who spend hours on their knees cutting and trimming. Its dual-honed, serrated edge bites into vinyl and linoleum without slipping, while the HRC55 hardened stainless steel blade resists dulling far longer than standard carbon blades—meaning fewer changes and more uptime. The soft-grip matte handle is a standout: it stays put in sweaty hands, reduces vibration, and distributes pressure evenly, drastically cutting down on hand fatigue during marathon installations. It’s engineered for those who’ve suffered from wrist strain or blisters from cheaper, poorly balanced knives.

In real-world use, the 8-7/8-inch blade length offers excellent reach under edges and behind cabinets, and the curved tip excels at pull cuts and tucking. It slices cleanly through multi-layer vinyl, asphalt-backed roofing felt, and even synthetic turf, making it useful beyond flooring. However, the serrated edge can leave micro-tears on ultra-thin vinyl films, so it’s better suited for thicker gauge materials. While not as nimble as smaller knives for tight corners, its leverage and cutting power are unmatched in its class.

Against the Zimpty ZY325, the Goldblatt trades some maneuverability for superior durability and comfort. It’s more robust than the Veltec retractable and better balanced than most budget models. For professionals who need a do-it-all knife that won’t quit, this is the gold standard in ergonomic performance and long-term value.

Don’t let the price fool you—the ROBERTS Pro is punching far above its weight with a design that’s simple, effective, and built for real-world use. The beveled flat-top blade delivers clean, burr-free cuts on vinyl sheeting and LVP, while the no-roll handle stays put on your workbench or in your palm, preventing accidental rolls during storage or use. Its textured grip ensures control even with gloves on, a small but meaningful detail for cold job sites or extended use. It solves the budget buyer’s dilemma: affordable without being flimsy.

Testing revealed it handles standard 4mm vinyl flooring with confidence, scoring and tucking without jagged edges. The curved stainless steel blade holds its edge reasonably well, though it dulls faster than pricier models—expected at this tier. It’s not meant for heavy carpet or rubber underlayment, but for basic vinyl installations, it’s impressively capable. Where it stumbles is in longevity under heavy use; contractors doing multiple rooms daily will burn through blades quickly. But for DIYers or part-time installers, it’s a reliable, no-frills performer.

Compared to the Lanties carbide scorer, it’s less durable on hard materials but more intuitive for soft flooring cuts. It lacks the storage and versatility of the ROBERTS 3-in-1 but delivers focused performance at a fraction of the cost. For those who want professional results without professional pricing, this is the smartest entry-level choice.

When you’re dealing with harder composites like fiberboard, acrylic, or LVP with rigid cores, the Lanties carbide scorer is in a league of its own. Its reversible carbide tips stay sharp through dozens of scoring passes, effortlessly scribing materials that would destroy steel blades in seconds. The elbow-angle head design lets you apply downward pressure at the perfect angle, then snap the material cleanly along the line—ideal for straight cuts in laminate or vinyl plank without chipping. It solves the chronic issue of blade wear and inconsistent scoring on tough substrates.

In practice, it shines on LVP, PMMA sheets, and plastic laminates, delivering factory-like precision. The ABS handle is lightweight yet sturdy, and the compact 5.7-inch size makes it easy to stash in a tool pouch. Each pack includes two cutters, doubling lifespan and value—perfect for crews doing large installations. However, it’s not designed for freehand cutting or curves, so it won’t replace a standard flooring knife. It also struggles on thick rubber-backed vinyl, where scoring isn’t effective.

Versus the ROBERTS Pro, it’s not a general-purpose knife but a specialized scoring tool—and it outperforms in that niche. It’s more durable than any steel-blade model for rigid materials and a better long-term investment than constantly replacing dull blades. For installers working with hard-surface planks and composites, this is the essential precision partner.

The Veltec retractable is a workhorse with brains, combining heavy-duty construction with smart features that boost safety and efficiency. Its 3-position locking mechanism lets you expose just enough blade for the task—ideal for controlled vinyl cuts without over-penetration—while the auto-loading blade change makes swaps fast and tool-free. The SK5 steel blades are sharp out of the box, and having five reversible blades (one loaded, four stored) means you’re rarely caught unprepared. It solves the universal problem of lost blades and awkward changes on active job sites.

In testing, it handled vinyl, drywall, and carpet padding with ease, and the wide blade design provided stability during long straight cuts. The ergonomic non-slip grip stayed secure even with oily hands, and the retractable feature made it safe to toss in a bag. However, the blade tends to wobble slightly at full extension, reducing precision on delicate work. It’s also less specialized than the AccuTec Personna for pure vinyl flooring tasks. Still, for general site use, it’s one of the most reliable budget retractables we’ve tested.

Next to the ROBERTS 3-in-1, it’s less versatile but more compact and safer for casual users. It’s not as precise as the Zimpty for fine flooring cuts, but it covers more ground across trades. For DIYers or handymen who need a durable, no-fuss cutter for mixed tasks, this delivers maximum utility at minimal cost.