Top Product: Victorinox Paring Knife (3 1/4") | Amazon
A paring knife can be a true game-changer in the kitchen. We’re talking about chopping onions without crying and peeling potatoes without a peeler. It’s the perfect tool for all of those little tasks that require high precision.
But don’t worry if you’re not rolling in dough! You can get a great paring knife while still cutting corners, excuse the pun, financially.
Here are the best paring knives based on insights from experts and everyday average users alike. Let’s get to it.
Best From America’s Test Kitchen: Victorinox Paring Knife (3 1/4")
At an affordable price of $8, this Victorinox knife is the originator of the Swiss Army knife. Designed for intricate tasks, this blade is thin as hell, so you’ll be able to slice the skin off of apples easily. The plastic handle is ergonomic and textured with a non-slip grip for optimum safety. You can even switch between having a larger plastic handle or go for a serrated blade instead for heavy-duty chopping. It has even been recommended by America’s Test Kitchen.
Best Wüsthof: Wüsthof 3” Paring Knife, Black
The Wüsthof 3” paring knife is precisely cut with a laser to offer superb quality and value. This paring knife is designed for close-hand tasks, and the clip allows you to easily carve and peel fruits and vegetables. Wüsthof cutlery is crafted to resist corrosion and dulling and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Nicely balanced, lightweight, comfortable handle, and a good blade that keeps its edge. Great kitchen/cooking knife, and a good value. - cat mom 4, Amazon Contributor
Best for the Money: ZYLISS with Sheath Cover, 3.5-Inch Blade
“I bought this as a camping utility knife, as I’m an avid backpacker and camper, but it quickly ended up in my kitchen drawer. It became my go-to, for a few reasons: 1) It holds an incredibly sharp edge... and has held up against cutting up several pecks of cucumbers for pickles, use by my Italian mother in her cooking, and the side pocket of my pack in the rain. Never once has it rusted, and it does wonderfully in the dishwasher. It is a bit heavy, for how small it is, but the handle has an excellent grip even when wet, and the blade has a decent balance. I was surprised... I will buy again!” - Antonia M Housas, Amazon Contributor
Best Ceramic: Kyocera Revolution 3-Inch Paring Knife in Red
The Kyocera Revolution 3-Inch paring knife in red is manufactured with a strong ceramic blade and is ground to microscopic precision with diamond wheels. The sharpness lasts 10 times longer than steel knives. It’s super lightweight and impervious to acids, juices, oils, and salts, which may alter the taste or appearance of your food. The handle is constructed from Pakka wood and is recommended to be hand-washed only.
The proof is in the testimonials from shoppers such as the one below:
“The best knife I’ve ever used for veggies and fruit (primarily). It stays very sharp and is light! After having a ceramic knife in your kitchen, You’ll never want to be without one!” - Bed, Bath & Beyond Customer
Best High-End: Zwilling® J.A. Henckels “S” 4-Inch Paring Knife
Looking for a high-quality knife to deliver superior performance in the kitchen? The Zwilling J.A. Henckels Pro “S” paring knife has an ice-hardened blade that has been hand-honed to be extremely durable. It’s been manufactured from Zwilling’s special formula of high-carbon without any stainless steel. Its triple-riveted polymer handle creates a comfortable grip for easy handling.
Best Global: Global 4-Inch Paring Knife
Fashioned with a dimpled handle, the Global 4-Inch Paring Knife is a super lightweight, perfectly balanced blade. It’s ice-tempered and resistant to rust, stains, and corrosion.
“I love it!! This is one sharp little beauty of a paring knife. It’s light and feels great in my hand. It cuts everything effortlessly and stays sharp for a long time. I’ve only honed it on a steel a couple of times and it’s still sharp! Highly recommend this knife and I’m looking forward to getting other types of knives from this maker.” - Deidre C, Global Reviewer
Best for Peeling Potatoes: Dalstrong Gladiator Series 2.75"
Forged using cutting-edge technology, this stunning Dalstrong paring knife has a bird’s beak shape, perfect for peeling potatoes. It’s also great for fluting mushrooms or creating decorative fruit and vegetable garnishes if you’re into that sort of thing. One reviewer calls it a must for any kitchen.
“I’ve never been any good at peeling potatoes with a knife. I always seemed to end up with half the potato I started with. With this knife, I’m able to remove just the peel. It’s so nice to be able to use one tool, to peel and cut. It’s quite the time saver. This blade is also exceptional at preparing decorative fruit and vegetable garnishes. The craftsmanship of these knives makes them as much a pleasure to look at, as to use. The beautiful black pakkawood handle is triple riveted (with a signature Dalstrong center rivet), and is perfectly balanced. I would recommend this knife for the serious chef, to the beginner at home cook, or even an avid collector.” - C. Oliver, Amazon Contributor
This story was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher on 09/28/2020 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 04/09/2021.