In the culinary world, Chinese knives are known for their high-quality which leads to durability and precise cutting. Searching among the various knives can still be a challenge even once you have narrowed the options down to Chinese knives. This list of the top 6 best Chinese chef knives and cleavers should help get you started. Simply think about what style and size you need.
Table of content:
- List of best chinese chef knives and cleavers.
- Detailed review of best chinese chef knives and cleavers.
- What to look for in the best Chinese cleaver before purchasing.
- Ultimate ways to use chinese chef knives & cleavers
List of best Chinese chef knives and cleavers
| Picture | Name | Blade length | Origin | Warranty | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Top Chef by Master Cutlery | 7 inch | Not listed | Not listed | $$ | 4.9 |
 | Wusthof | 8 inch | Germany | Not listed | $$$ | 4.8 |
 | WINCO | 8.3 inch | Not listed | No | $ | 4.7 |
 | Winco | 8 inch | Not listed | No | $ | 4.6 |
 | Mac Knife | 6.5 inch | Japan | Not listed | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | Concord Cookware | 7 inch | Not listed | Not listed | $ | 4.4 |
 | Mercer Culinary | 8 inch | Not listed | Not listed | $$$ | 4.3 |
 | Professional Stainless Steel | 7 inch | China | Yes | $ | 4.2 |
 | Artaste 59083 | 6 inch | Not listed | No | $ | 4.1 |
 | Utopia Kitchen | 7 inch | China | No | $ | 4.0 |
Detailed review of best Chinese chef knives and cleavers:
#6 – Concord Cookware Heavy Full Stainless Steel Cleaver Chef Knife, 7-Inch
This is a full tang heavy cleaver with a 7-inch blade, making the overall length 12 inches. Because of the style of knife, it is extremely heavy, weighing around a pound. As such, only strong, experienced chefs should use it. The blade is 4 mm thick and made with the highest and heaviest quality stainless steel while the handles are made from high-density nylon. There is a convenient hole for hanging the knife and it is versatile enough to chop bread, vegetables, meat, bones, and more.
#5 – Mac Knife Japanese Series Vegetable Cleaver, 6-½-Inch
This is not technically a Chinese knife, but its Japanese origins provide a similar product. The blade is 2.5 mm thick and molybdenum steel and the handle is made from sturdy Pakka wood. To preserve the knife and keep it in great shape, always wash this knife by hand. It is ideal for slicing vegetables into thin sheets, but also works as a heavy cleaver, for most fruits and vegetables, or for meat and seafood.
#4 – Winco Blade Chinese Cleaver W/ Wooden Handle – Blade 8”x3 ½” Overall Length 12 ½”
This is one of the top 6 best Chinese chef knives and cleavers for its comfortable wooden handle and high carbon steel blade. The handle is 4.5 inches while the blade is 6 ¾ inches long and 3 ½ inches wide. This blade is easier to maintain than some of the other options because it is dishwasher safe.
#3 – WINCO Chinese Cleaver With Stainless Steel Handle
An affordable option among the top 6 best Chinese chef knives and cleavers, this WINCO product has a notched handle that allows for a secure, comfortable grip. Both the blade and handle are made from stainless steel, so the cleaver is dishwasher safe. The handle is 4 inches long and the blade is 8.3 inches.
#2 – Wusthof Gourmet 8-Inch Vegetable Cleaver
Wusthof manufactures the best cutlery products and hence we have included this in our list of best chinese chef knives. This one has a long-lasting sharp edge which is perfect for boning raw meats and poultry. Its made in Solingen, Germany and if you purchase this then make sure to wash it by hand.
#1 – Top Chef By Master Cutlery 7” Chopper/Cleaver – Best Chinese Chef Knives Winner
This Master Cutlery cleaver leads the list of top 6 best Chinese chef knives and cleavers. The stainless steel blade has been ice-tempered and has a precision sharpened edge with hollow ground that reduces sticking. The steel handle includes seamless polished and bonded bolsters. The blade is 6.5 inches and the handle is 5.3 inches.
Any of these top 6 best Chinese chef knives and cleavers would be a great addition to your kitchen. They are ideal for cutting tough objects such as bones or creating thin slices of other items, such as vegetables. Simply consider your budget, whether you want an authentic Chinese cleaver, and how long of a blade you would like. No matter your requirements, at least one of the items on the list should fit your needs.
What To Look For Before Buying A Chinese Cleaver
Among the various knives and cleavers chefs like to have on hand is the Chinese cleaver. These cleavers are incredibly versatile since you can use the blade to cut and tenderize meat with the blunt side. You can even use the side of the cleaver to smash garlic or ginger. The large size of the Chinese cleaver even lets you transfer food items with ease. Because Chinese cleavers are so useful, there are numerous options available to choose from. To narrow down the choices, be sure to look at the right features and characteristics.
Pay Attention To The Blade
The most important factor when buying a Chinese cleaver is a quality blade. Traditional blades were made using carbon steel, but this can rust easily. It also sometimes leaves a metallic taste in the food you prepare with it. Because of this, you should pick a Chinese cleaver that at least combines stainless steel with carbon steel although one made just from stainless steel will be ideal.
Quality
You also want to pay attention to the overall quality of the Chinese cleaver. Although they may cost a little bit more, the best cleavers will be made to last an entire lifetime. Some will even have extensive guarantees with the occasional lifetime warranty. It is well worth spending the extra money on one of these Chinese cleavers since you won’t have to replace it – ever.
Comfort
Don’t forget to read reviews about the Chinese cleavers you are considering to figure out which ones are the most comfortable. Cleavers are heavy and should feel solid, but you don’t want it to be too heavy where it becomes uncomfortable to use. The best options will have a firm, comfortable handle that is ergonomic in design and easy to grip. This prevents slipping when using it.
Washing Instructions
Think about whether you are willing to hand wash your Chinese cleaver or would prefer to get one that can go in the dishwasher. Nearly every model will at least suggest hand washing to extend its lifespan, but you easily find an option that is dishwasher-safe, even if putting it in the machine isn’t suggested.
Easy To Sharpen
At some point, you will need to sharpen your Chinese cleaver to ensure it keeps working to its full capabilities. Read the instructions of all potential cleavers and knives to see how the manufacturer suggests sharpening it and make sure you are comfortable doing so this way. If you already have a sharpening steel or sandstone for sharpening, make sure that the cleaver you are considering can be sharpened using this tool.
Storage
To take care of your Chinese cleaver and help preserve it for the longest possible time, you will want to store it in a knife block or sleeve that has a similar design. Many products will already come with this storage method so pay attention to whether or not the one you are considering does. If not, check its dimensions to ensure it fits in the knife block you currently have so you don’t have to make additional purchases.
Ultimate ways to use chinese chef knives & cleavers
There’s a many amazing ways to use chinese chef knives & cleavers. It will help you to develop your culinary skills and cook your food easily and quickly.
Also, see our Nakiri knives and cheese knives here.
