Best Knife for Slicing Onions – 7 Recommendations
A good knife for slicing onions can produce smoother cuts, minimize juice release, and maintain texture. It is also easier to slice onions with a good onion knife equipped with the right balance and sharpness. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, finding the right knife can make all the difference.
When choosing a knife for slicing onions, consider the blade material to slice through onions. Consider the handle ergonomics, as it plays a significant role in comfort and control. Aside from that, sharpness and maintenance are crucial considerations to reduce onion juice spillage.
However, the options are vast, from versatile chef’s knives to specialized slicing knives. But how do you know which one is best for you? Stick around to discover my top 7 knives for slicing onions and wave goodbye to watery eyes in the kitchen.
Editor’s Choice
Best For:
- Home chefs and beginners seeking an affordable and versatile chef’s knife
Key Features:
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) handle
- Non-slip grip handle
- Tapered stainless steel edge
- Dishwasher safe
- Low maintenance design
Runner Up
Best For:
- Home cooks and professional chefs for exceptional cutting performance
Key Features:
- High-carbon Japanese steel blade
- Non-slip and ergonomic handle
- Textured finger points
- Easy to care
Best Value
Best For:
- Professional chefs and home cooks with added accessories for convenience
Key Features:
- High carbon German stainless steel blade
- Laser-engraved pattern
- Ergonomic stainless steel handle
- Full tang construction
- Finger guard
Best Knife for Slicing Onions – My 7 Recommended Models
Cooking with onions adds flavor and depth, but slicing onions can be frustrating if you have the wrong knife. As a result, I have listed below my top recommendations for slicing onions:
- Victorinox 8-inch Swiss army chef’s knife for cutting onions
- Mercer Culinary 8-inch onion cutting chef’s knife
- MOSFiATA 8″ professional onion-cutting chef’s knife
- HENCKELS classic razor-sharp 8-inch slicing knife
- Home Hero 7-inch multipurpose onion chopping knife
- Farberware Edgekeeper 3.5-inch knife for cutting onions
- Brewin Japanese chef knife for chopping onions
1. Victorinox 8-inch Swiss Army Chef’s Knife for Cutting Onions
The Victorinox Swiss Army Fibrox Chef’s Knife is my top recommendation for any kitchen for slicing through onions. This knife’s exceptional features make it a standout option for both budding and professional cooks, and its durability is impressive, making it worth the purchase.
Best For:
- Home chefs and beginners seeking an affordable and versatile chef’s knife
Key Features:
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) handle
- Non-slip grip handle
- Tapered stainless steel edge
- Dishwasher safe
- Low maintenance design
The knife’s ergonomic handle is made from thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) and is designed for a non-slip grip, ensuring that you remain comfortable and safe as you use it. This handle is tailored to comfortably accommodate large and small hands, making this knife a delight to use for extended periods.
Moreover, the ergonomic TPE handle minimizes fatigue and reduces wrist tension, protecting you from unwanted injuries. This knife’s tapered stainless steel edge is sharpened to a razor’s edge, making it perfectly balanced and suitable for all kitchen tasks.
Another advantage of this knife is its dishwasher safety, and its low maintenance design makes it easy to clean. Its construction is such that it can survive the rigors of everyday kitchen usage, including regular sharpening. This affordable knife offers long-term durability and endless application around the kitchen.
Pros:
- The ergonomic design ensures safety and comfort when using the knife
- The tapered stainless steel edge makes cutting easy and efficient
- Low maintenance and dishwasher safe, so it’s easy to use
- Offers an excellent value for the price
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks or cutting through bones
2. Mercer Culinary 8-Inch Onion Cutting Chef’s Knife
As a food lover, I know that having the right knife makes all the difference when cutting veggies. That’s why I was excited to review the Mercer culinary onion-cutting knife. This knife has a lot to offer, from its durable Japanese steel blade to its ergonomic handle.
Best For:
- Home cooks and professional chefs for exceptional cutting performance
Key Features:
- High-carbon Japanese steel blade
- Non-slip and ergonomic handle
- Textured finger points
- Easy to care
One of the things I appreciated about this knife right away was how well it cut through food. The blade will remain sharp and precise regardless of whether you slice onions or other vegetables.
The high-carbon Japanese steel makes a difference in maintaining that sharpness over time. Plus, the 8-inch blade is long enough to handle larger items like watermelons or pumpkins but not so long that it feels unwieldy.
Another standout feature of this knife is its ergonomic handle. It fits comfortably in your hand and has textured finger points that prevent slipping. I also appreciate that the handle is made of a durable Polypropylene material that will last over time.
Pros:
- High-carbon Japanese steel for easy edge maintenance
- Long-lasting sharpness
- Ergonomic handle with textured finger points
- Non-slip grip, comfort, and safety
- Versatile for various kitchen tasks
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe
3. MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Onion Cutting Chef’s Knife
In my honest assessment, the MOSFiATA professional onion-cutting knife is a top-performing kitchen tool that effortlessly slices and minces onions. Its superior design, materials, and added accessories make it an excellent investment for professional chefs and home cooks.
Best For:
- Professional chefs and home cooks with added accessories for convenience
Key Features:
- High carbon German stainless steel blade
- Laser-engraved pattern
- Ergonomic stainless steel handle
- Full tang construction
- Finger guard
The MOSFiATA chef’s knife delivers on this front with its razor-sharp edge that easily slices through onions and other ingredients when slicing onions. Its laser-engraved pattern on the blade surface ensures a durable, anti-corrosion, and anti-tarnish blade, making it a long-lasting addition to any kitchen.
With a stainless steel handle and full tang construction, this knife offers additional stability and control in your hand. Also, the finger guard adds an extra layer of safety, preventing accidental slips and cuts.
This chef’s knife also includes a blade cover that protects the blade when not used, while the knife sharpener ensures that the blade stays sharp for long periods. This adds great value to the product, as you don’t have to worry about purchasing these items separately.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp edge for effortless cutting and mincing
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable grip and optimal balance
- Finger guard for added safety
- Comes with a blade cover and knife sharpener
Cons:
- Needs frequent sharpening
4. HENCKELS Classic Razor-Sharp 8-inch Slicing Knife
If you’re looking for an onion-slicing knife that offers professional-level sharpness, I recommend the Henckels Slicing Knife. Its lightweight and durable construction makes it suitable for slicing, chopping, mincing, and more.
Best For:
- Professional chefs for precision cutting and effortless meal prep
Key Features:
- Ultra-sharp blades
- Satin-finished blade
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Stain & rust-free blades
- No-fuss cleanup
The Henckels 8-inch slicing knife has been engineered in Germany, where precision and quality are highly valued. This knife has been built with over 100 years of mastery, which ensures its superior quality.
It is not only excellent for slicing, but it also offers versatile performance for chopping, mincing, and more. Its lightweight and durable construction makes it easy to handle and use.
Experts have praised this Slicing Knife for its balance and edge retention. The knife’s fine honing ensures it will hold its edge well and make meal prep a breeze.
Pros:
- Ultra-sharp blades for precision cutting
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Fine honing ensures long-lasting sharpness
- Suitable for various kitchen tasks
Cons:
- Require sharpening after extended use
5. Home Hero 7-inch Multipurpose Onion Chopping Knife
A multipurpose onion chopping knife such as the Home Hero multipurpose onion is a must-have item for any home cook. This knife is specifically intended for onion chopping, making it a great investment for those who frequently use this ingredient for their meals.
Best For:
- Home chefs looking for precise cutting and meal prep tasks
Key Features:
- High-quality stainless steel
- Stays sharp for years
- Ergonomic handle
- Comfortable grip and maneuverability
- Protective sheath
The Home Hero 7-inch onion chopping knife is specifically designed to make onion chopping easier and more efficient. Its sharp blade ensures a clean and precise cut, while its ergonomic handle allows for comfortable and efficient chopping.
While this knife is specifically designed for onion chopping, it can also be used for other meal prep tasks. Its sturdy and sharp blade makes it suitable for cutting meats, fruits, vegetables, and bread. This multi-purpose feature makes it a versatile and practical addition to any kitchen.
I can also assure you its sharpness and sturdiness make it easy to sharpen and maintain, ensuring it stays sharp for years. The ergonomic handle also adds to its durability, allowing for comfortable and efficient use for extended periods.
Pros:
- Super sharp blade for precise cutting
- Made from high-quality and durable materials
- Protective sheath for safe storage
- Provides a comfortable grip and maneuverability
Cons:
- Issues with the wooden handle
6. Farberware Edgekeeper 3.5-inch Knife for Cutting Onions
In my opinion, the Farberware Edgekeeper Paring Knife is one of the sharpest knives I’ve ever reviewed. This small knife is not only sharp and durable, but it also offers a convenient self-sharpening feature that ensures consistent cutting performance.
Best For:
- Home cooks and professional chefs for precision tasks
Key Features:
- 3.5-inch high-carbon stainless steel blade
- Ergonomic handle
- Self-sharpening blade cover
- Intricate and delicate cut
Its 3.5-inch high-carbon stainless steel blade allows precise cutting of fruits, vegetables, and other delicate ingredients while maintaining its sharp edge over time. I find this knife especially useful when slicing onions for salads or garnishes, as it allows for precise cuts without crushing the onion.
The ergonomic handle is one of its key selling points. It provides a comfortable grip, even during extended use, which is important when preparing multiple ingredients. The handle’s design also ensures a stable grip, even when your hands are wet or oily.
According to my analysis, the cover sharpens the blade every time you insert or remove the knife, which ensures consistent cutting performance with every use. I have a hunch that this feature can prolong the blade’s life, as it reduces the need for constant sharpening.
Pros:
- Durable high-carbon stainless steel blade
- 3.5-inch high-carbon stainless steel blade for sharpness
- Comfortable ergonomic handle for extended use
- Self-sharpening blade cover for consistent cutting performance
Cons:
- Hard to put back into the sheath
7. Brewin Japanese Chef Knife for Chopping Onions
When slicing onions, you’ll appreciate the ultra-sharp blades and ergonomic design of the Brewin Japanese knife set with an Elegant Red Pakkawood handle. This knife set features premium-quality knives that have undergone stringent quality inspection and development with leading kitchen experts.
Best For:
- Professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts seeking a high-quality and durable knife set
Key Features:
- Elegant red Pakkawood handle
- Ultra-tough 1.4116 German stainless steel
- Three reinforced anchor points
- 5-piece set of knives
The razor-sharp blades are crafted from ultra-tough 1.4116 German stainless steel, ensuring durability and precision. It features a perfectly balanced handle with a luxurious Pakkawood texture and three reinforced anchor points, providing elegance and comfort while slicing.
This 5-piece set, presented in luxurious gift packaging, includes two 8-inch knives, a santoku Japanese knife, a 5-inch utility knife, and a paring knife. Experts have praised the knives’ sharpness, weight, and quality, making them a popular choice for professional and home kitchens.
Pros:
- Ultra-sharp blades crafted from German stainless steel
- Perfectly balanced handles
- Luxurious Pakkawood texture for comfort and elegance
- Complete 5-piece set for versatility
Cons:
- Relatively higher price point compared to other knives
Comparison Table for the Best Onion Slicing Knife
Features | Victorinox | Mercer Culinary | MOSFiATA | HENCKELS | Home Hero | Farberware | Brewin |
Blade Material | Stainless Steel | High-carbon Japanese Steel | High Carbon German Stainless Steel | Ultra-sharp Blades | High-quality Stainless Steel | High-carbon Stainless Steel | 1.4116 German Stainless Steel |
Blade Length | 8 inches | 8 inches | 8 inches | 8 inches | 7 inches | 3.5 inches | 8 inches |
Handle Material | Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) | Polypropylene | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Plastic | Ergonomic Handle | Elegant Red Pakkawood |
Handle Design | Non-slip Grip | Ergonomic with Textured Finger Points | Ergonomic | – | Ergonomic with Comfortable Grip | Ergonomic | Triple Rivet Handle |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | – |
Maintenance | Low maintenance | Easy to care | Easy to Maintain | No-fuss cleanup | Protective Sheath | Self-sharpening Blade Cover |
Considerations When Choosing the Best Knife for Slicing Onions
I have listed several factors you should consider when purchasing a knife for slicing onions.
Blade Material
When considering a knife for slicing onions, evaluating the blade material becomes essential due to its significant impact on the knife’s performance and longevity. Blade material affects sharpness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.
Different blade materials offer varying hardness, toughness, and ease of sharpening, directly impacting the knife’s effectiveness. Understanding these properties helps select a knife that effectively meets the specific requirements for slicing onions.
Stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance, and high-carbon steel, favored for sharpness and ease of sharpening, are common choices. However, Damascus Steel requires proper care with its unique aesthetic appeal and performance.
Whether it’s the corrosion resistance, ability to hold a sharp edge, or unique aesthetic appeal, the blade material is crucial in ensuring a tear-free onion-slicing experience.
Handle Ergonomics
Its handle ergonomics plays a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable and secure grip for extended use when slicing onions.
The handle design should prioritize a non-slip grip, providing stability and control during slicing tasks. An ergonomically designed handle reduces hand fatigue and strain, making the slicing process more comfortable and efficient.
When selecting a knife for slicing onions, consider the handle’s material, as it should offer a comfortable and secure grip, especially when dealing with wet or oily foods. The shape and contour of the handle should fit your hand comfortably, promoting a natural and relaxed grip for slicing onions.
So, I recommend prioritizing handling ergonomics, which will enhance your slicing experience and make slicing onions more enjoyable and tear-free.
Sharpness and Maintenance
Consider the razor-sharp edge of the knife as a crucial factor when choosing a blade for slicing onions. A sharp knife ensures clean and precise cuts, reducing the likelihood of onion cells being crushed and releasing more irritants that cause tears.
Look for a knife that retains its sharpness, making your onion-slicing experience easier and more efficient. Choose a knife that’s easy to maintain with regular honing and occasional sharpening. Low-maintenance knives that are also easy to clean will ensure their sharpness and performance over time.
When considering the material and construction of the knife, keep in mind that it can impact its sharpness and maintenance requirements. Proper sharpening and honing techniques are essential for maintaining the knife’s sharpness and overall performance.
Versatility and Use
When selecting a knife for slicing onions, I advise you to ensure it offers versatile performance and ease of use for various kitchen tasks such as cutting, slicing, chopping, mincing, and dicing. Look for a knife that balances performance and affordability, providing value for its intended use.
Choosing a knife suitable for home chefs and professional use is important, with features like a non-slip grip, comfortable handle, and suitable blade length. Also, ensure the knife is easy to clean and maintain, with options for low maintenance and occasional sharpening.
Consider the knife’s suitability for specific applications, such as slicing onions, cutting meats and vegetables, and other kitchen tasks. Considering these factors, you can find a knife that excels at slicing onions and is invaluable for a wide range of kitchen activities.
Quality and Durability
Selecting a high-quality and durable knife for slicing onions ensures long-lasting performance and value for your money. Look for high-carbon stainless steel and full tang construction, which signify superior quality and durability.
Additionally, ergonomic designs and reinforced anchor points contribute to the knife’s durability and provide a comfortable grip suitable for extended use. Knives with good edge retention, resistance to corrosion and tarnishing, and the ability to hold up well in use indicate high quality and durability.
Considering the knife’s overall craftsmanship, balance, and weight can also contribute to its durability and long-term performance. By prioritizing these factors, you can ensure that your knife will stand the test of time and provide consistent, reliable performance when slicing onions.
What knife is best for cutting onions?
Well, if you’re looking to chop, dice, or slice an onion, I recommend using one of the best chef’s knives. These knives are designed to be versatile and efficient, allowing you to handle various ingredients easily.
When chopping onions, have a knife sharp enough to slice through the onion with minimal resistance. This is where a quality chef’s knife comes in, as it will make cutting onions much easier and more efficient, allowing you to chop through them easily.
Can I use a serrated knife to cut onions?
While a chef’s knife is recommended for cutting onions, a serrated knife can also be used. The key is to ensure that your serrated knife is nice and sharp, as this will prevent it from damaging the cells within the onion.
By using a sharp serrated knife, you can slice through the onion without crushing it, which will help keep its flavor intact.
In addition, by slicing the onion with a sharp serrated knife, you’ll reduce the amount of syn-propanethial-S-oxide released. This compound causes your eyes to water when you cut onions, so it’s a win-win situation.
What knife cut is suitable for onions and garlic?
For onions and garlic, I recommended using the mincing technique with any of the mentioned knives, such as a chef’s knife or a serrated knife. Mincing involves chopping the onion or garlic into small pieces until it reaches a paste-like consistency.
This is the ideal cutting technique for aromatics, as it helps to release the flavors and aromas more uniformly. By mincing the onion or garlic, you’ll get a more consistent flavor throughout your dish, which is especially important for soups and stews.
Choose the Best Onion Cutting Knife for a Hassle-Free Experience
To sum it up, selecting the best knife for slicing onions takes a bit of research and consideration of its sharpness, blade material, and maintenance. A sharp, well-maintained knife with a thin, flexible blade and a comfortable handle will allow you to slice onions easily.
Whether you’re a pro chef or a home cook, these knives will have you dicing and slicing like a boss. Although all the knives mentioned above are excellent, the Victorinox Swiss Army Chef’s Knife Black is my strongest recommendation.
This knife’s exceptional features make it an excellent choice for budding and professional cooks. It’s also durable, so it’s worth the money. So invest in this quality knife and experience a hassle-free onion-slicing experience.
Best For:
- Home chefs and beginners seeking an affordable and versatile chef’s knife
Key Features:
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) handle
- Non-slip grip handle
- Tapered stainless steel edge
- Dishwasher safe
- Low maintenance design
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API