8 Best Bread Knives for Slicing Through Bagels and Boules

While there are dozens of varieties of kitchen knives, from paring to carving to something called a Santoku (which originated in Japan and typically has a thinner blade than a chef’s knife), one tool no kitchen should be without is a serrated bread knife. Even if you avoid the kitchen as much as possible, chances are high that you’re going to need to slice open a sandwich loaf or split a bagel for breakfast. And that smooth-edge chef’s blade in your knife set, no matter how sharp, will never be able to do the job as well as a quality bread knife.

So whether you’re looking for a top-of-the-line bread knife that will last generations or a budget-friendly pick to make breakfast a little easier, these are the best bread knives to buy right now.

What to Consider

When buying a new bread knife, one of the first things to consider is its length. Longer knives, with at least a 10-inch blade, are useful for slicing all the way through the diameter of especially big loaves, such as a sourdough boule. On the other hand, shorter bread knives are better for slicing small rectangular loaves, bagels, and other baked goods.

In addition to the blade’s length, consider the handle material. You'll want something that feels comfortable and secure when you hold it. Rubberized plastic and wood tend to offer a softer grip than hard plastic or stainless steel. Also consider the handle design. A bolster, the small dip in a knife between the handle and blade where you can rest your thumb as you cut, provides a more comfortable and steady grip, so you’re less likely to slip up. However, not all knives, especially bread knives, have a bolster. If you like the added security, choose a bolstered blade.

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When shopping for a knife, you may see the terms full- or partial-tang. Full-tang means that the knife’s blade extends completely through the length of the handle. These knives are generally heavier and can be sturdier and more durable. A partial-tang blade extends only partway into the handle. An offset knife has a blade that’s somewhat offset from the handle, typically an inch or more lower. Offset knives are great for slicing through sandwiches and bagels, as they offer more leverage.

Finally, there’s a significant price range when it comes to bread knives. Generally speaking, more expensive knives are made with higher-quality materials and finer craftsmanship, which means they’re more likely to hold up well to years of use and require less maintenance. Cheaper knives tend to need more-regular sharpening, as less-expensive stainless-steel blades will not hold their edge as long. This list includes knives from all price points, so there’s something for everyone.

How We Selected

I am a trained chef, recipe developer, and food writer for outlets including Insider, Munchery, and Simply Recipes. I’m also a passionate baker who has been nourishing a dear sourdough starter for years. With all the time, work, and resources I put into baking, I always want to treat my loaves with respect, which is why a high-quality serrated knife is a must. To help you find the best bread knife for your slicing needs, I’ve researched and tested the most popular bread knives available. I’ve compiled this list based on product tests and consumer reviews, as well as price and availability. Whether you need a lightweight and flexible knife that doubles for cake-trimming duty or a firm all-stainless blade to work through large, dense loaves of your favorite seeded rye, there’s a knife on this list for you.