9 Best Knife Block Sets with Sharpeners (November 2026)

The best knife block sets with sharpeners include the McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block for complete everyday prep, the Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block for dishwasher-friendly care, and the Henckels Statement 15 pc Knife Block Set for a separate sharpening steel.

On this page (6 sections)

1. How we chose the best knife block set with sharpener
2. Best knife block sets with sharpeners
3. What should you look for in a knife block with sharpener built in?
4. Is a built-in sharpener better than a sharpening steel?
5. How do you care for a knife block set with sharpener?
6. Verdict: which best knife block set with sharpener should you buy?

The best knife block set with sharpener for most kitchens is the McCook 15-piece set, because it combines a built-in sharpener, forged German stainless steel and a broad knife mix. Ninja is the stronger choice for 17 pieces and NeverDull sharpening, while Henckels and Cuisinart suit cooks who prefer a separate sharpening steel.

A knife block with sharpener built in can keep the sharpening tool beside the knives. The main trade-off is that some sets use a built-in sharpener, while others include a honing or sharpening steel that requires a separate step.

For help identifying the right blade for each task, start with our guide to types of kitchen knives. If you want a wider comparison beyond sharpening systems, see our picks for the best kitchen knife sets with block.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for complete everyday prep

   McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for dishwasher-friendly care

   Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a separate sharpening steel

   Henckels Statement 15 pc Knife Block Set

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Astercook 15 Pieces Kitchen Knife Block Set

   Best for a black hardwood block
   Check it
5. 5

   Ninja® 17Pc Knife Block Set

   Best for the largest knife selection
   Check it
6. 6

   Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block

   Best for full-tang control
   Check it
7. 7

   Astercook Knife Set

   Best for a cream-white finish
   Check it
8. 8

   ASETY Knife Set

   Best for bold purple styling
   Check it
9. 9

   CAROTE 14-Piece Knife Set with Wood Block

   Best for a traditional sharpening steel
   Check it

How we chose the best knife block set with sharpener

The best knife block built in sharpener options should match the knife mix to your daily cooking. One kitchen may need a bread knife and slicing knife every week, while another may rarely use anything beyond a chef knife and paring knife.

We compared the stated blade material, construction, piece count, included knives, block design and sharpening method for each set. Those details matter more than piece count alone because a large set is only useful if the blades suit the foods you actually prepare.

A built-in sharpener is most convenient when you want the sharpening step to happen at the storage block. The McCook, both 15-piece Astercook sets, Ninja, the cream-white Astercook and ASETY all include a sharpener integrated into the block.

That design keeps the tool in one place and avoids hunting through a drawer. It also means the block needs a countertop spot where you can pull a knife through the sharpener safely and return it straight away.

Henckels, Cuisinart and CAROTE take a different approach. Each includes a sharpening steel, so you need to store and use that tool separately.

A separate steel gives you more control over the angle and pressure. It also takes more learning and practice, which is why the right choice depends on how comfortable you are with manual edge care.

Blade construction is another key point of comparison. Forged blades, stamped blades and full tang handles can feel different in balance, weight and daily handling, so we noted the construction stated for each set.

Care instructions also shape the shortlist. Some sets are described as dishwasher safe, while others recommend hand washing and prompt drying to protect the finish and handles.

Read our honing rod vs knife sharpener guide before deciding which method fits your routine. The guide helps explain the practical difference between the two approaches.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you are shopping for. We also considered who each set suits, from busy cooks who want simple cleanup to cooks who prefer a traditional steel.

Best knife block sets with sharpeners

The top pick is McCook for a complete everyday set with a built-in sharpener. The remaining products suit different needs, including dishwasher-friendly care, larger knife selections, separate sharpening steels and distinctive finishes.

1

McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block: Best for complete everyday prep

9.7/10Our score

• 15-piece set
• Forged German stainless steel
• Built-in sharpener
• 15-degree cutting angle

McCook combines a 15-piece knife mix with forged German stainless steel and a block with an integrated sharpener. It suits cooks who want steak knives, shears and everyday prep knives stored together.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Broad 15-piece mix
• Built-in sharpener
• Full tang construction

Cons

• Hand washing is recommended
• Not dishwasher safe

McCook is the strongest all-around choice for a buyer who wants a coordinated knife block with sharpener built in. The 15-piece set includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 5 in fine-edge santoku, 5.5 in serrated utility knife, 5 in utility knife and 3.5 in paring knife.

Six 4.5 in serrated steak knives and 2 pairs of kitchen shears make the set useful beyond vegetable prep. The wood block has an integrated sharpener, so the sharpening tool stays with the knives instead of taking up another drawer.

The blades are forged German stainless steel with a stated 15-degree cutting angle. Full tang construction and stainless steel handles provide the design details to consider if you value balanced control during longer prep sessions.

McCook recommends hand washing, and the set is not dishwasher safe. Choose it when a broad knife selection and built-in sharpening matter more than dishwasher convenience.

2

Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block: Best for dishwasher-friendly care

9.6/10Our score

• 15-piece set
• Forged 1.4116 German stainless steel
• Black coating
• Built-in sharpener

This Astercook set pairs a black coated finish with a 15-piece knife selection and built-in sharpening. Its dishwasher-safe design suits buyers who want simpler cleanup.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Dishwasher-safe design
• Built-in sharpener
• Includes 6 steak knives

Cons

• Polypropylene handles
• Black finish may not suit every kitchen

This Astercook set is a strong fit for buyers who want a black knife block with built-in sharpener and easier cleanup. It has 15 pieces, including an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 7 in santoku, 8 in serrated bread knife, 5 in utility knife and 3.5 in paring knife.

That mix covers the main prep jobs in most kitchens. The chef knife handles chopping and dicing, the paring knife suits smaller tasks, and the bread knife is there for crusty loaves.

Six 4.5 in serrated steak knives and one kitchen shear complete the listed knife mix. The black hardwood block holds the set and includes the sharpener.

The blades use forged 1.4116 high-carbon German stainless steel with a black coating. Astercook describes the set as dishwasher safe, which may suit a busy kitchen that does not want hand washing for every piece.

The polypropylene handles are worth noting if grip is a priority. Some cooks prefer the feel of metal or wood, while others are happy with a lighter molded handle.

Choose it over McCook if dishwasher-friendly care and a black finish are higher priorities. Compare the handle material and coating with your preferred grip and kitchen style before ordering.

3

Henckels Statement 15 pc Knife Block Set: Best for a separate sharpening steel

9.5/10Our score

• 15-piece set
• German engineered
• 14-slot hardwood block
• 9-inch sharpening steel

Henckels uses a 9-inch sharpening steel instead of a sharpener built into the block. The set includes a 14-slot hardwood block, six steak knives, shears and several prep knives.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Includes sharpening steel
• Dishwasher or hand cleanup
• Full tang handles

Cons

• No built-in block sharpener
• Stamped rather than forged construction

Henckels is the best match if you want a traditional sharpening steel instead of a knife block with built in sharpener. The 15-piece set includes a 3 in parer, six 4.5 in steak knives, 5 in and 7 in santoku knives, a 5 in serrated utility knife, 8 in bread and chef knives, shears and a 9 in sharpening steel.

Its 14-slot hardwood block gives each part of the set a storage location. The blades use single-piece stamped stainless steel construction, and the handles are full tang with triple rivets.

The included sharpening steel is useful for maintaining the edge between more substantial sharpening sessions. It is different from a built-in sharpener because you guide the knife against the steel yourself.

Henckels describes the set as suitable for dishwasher or hand cleanup. Choose it if the 7 in santoku, bread knife and separate steel are more useful to you than an integrated sharpener.

4

Astercook 15 Pieces Kitchen Knife Block Set: Best for a black hardwood block

9.4/10Our score

• 15-piece set
• Forged German stainless steel
• Built-in sharpener
• Ergonomic handles

This Astercook set gives you the common chef, slicing, santoku, bread, utility, paring and steak knives in a black hardwood block. The built-in sharpener keeps the storage system self-contained.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Complete 15-piece mix
• Built-in sharpener
• Dishwasher-safe design

Cons

• Large 15-piece footprint
• Polypropylene handles

This Astercook model suits buyers who want a black hardwood block and a complete 15-piece selection. It includes chef, slicing, santoku, serrated bread, utility and paring knives, six 4.5 in steak knives, kitchen shears and a built-in sharpener.

The range is easy to place in a family kitchen. Larger knives cover main prep, smaller knives cover detail work, and the steak knives keep the set ready for serving at the table.

The forged blades use German 1.4116 stainless steel. The set also has ergonomic polypropylene handles and a black finish described as anti-rust and anti-stick.

The block keeps the sharpening function in the same countertop system as the knives. Astercook describes this version as dishwasher safe, which makes it a practical alternative to hand-wash-only sets.

That care option is a clear trade-off to weigh. Dishwasher convenience may suit daily use, even if some cooks still prefer hand washing to look after finishes for longer.

Choose this set if the black block, full knife mix and dishwasher-safe design fit your kitchen. It is similar in purpose to the other Astercook 15-piece set, so compare the stated finish and model details carefully.

5

Ninja® 17Pc Knife Block Set: Best for the largest knife selection

9.2/10Our score

• 17-piece set
• NeverDull built-in sharpener
• German stainless steel
• 8 steak knives

Ninja offers the largest set here, with 17 pieces including a boning knife and eight steak knives. Its NeverDull system uses a lever and ceramic sharpening wheel inside the block.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Largest set here
• Built-in ceramic sharpener
• Includes boning knife

Cons

• Heavier 8.7 lb set
• Needs more counter space

Ninja is the best choice when you want the largest set in this roundup and a built-in ceramic sharpening wheel. Its 17 pieces include an 8 in chef knife, 8 in bread knife, 7 in santoku, 8 in slicing knife, 6 in boning knife, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, eight steak knives, kitchen shears and the NeverDull block.

The block uses a lever to engage the ceramic sharpening wheel. Ninja says the system can maintain a razor-sharp edge for up to 10 years when used and maintained as directed.

The blades are stamped from German stainless steel, and the handles are stainless steel. At 8.7 lb, this is the heaviest stated set here, so plan the counter location before choosing it.

Pick Ninja if you will use the boning knife, eight steak knives and lever-operated sharpener. Choose a smaller set if counter space or total weight matters more.

An in-drawer knife block organizer can also free up counter space.

6

Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block: Best for full-tang control

9.0/10Our score

• 15-piece set
• Forged high-carbon stainless steel
• Full tang handles
• 8-inch sharpening steel

Cuisinart is a good fit if you want forged high-carbon stainless steel, full tang handles and a sharpening steel. Its white handles and wood block create a coordinated countertop set.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Full tang construction
• Includes sharpening steel
• Six steak knives

Cons

• No built-in block sharpener
• White handles need regular cleaning

Cuisinart suits cooks who want forged high-carbon stainless steel and full tang handles with a separate sharpening steel. The 15-piece set includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 7 in santoku, 5.5 in serrated utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife and 2.75 in bird's beak paring knife.

Six 4.5 in steak knives, household shears, a wood block and an 8 in sharpening steel complete the set. The white triple-riveted handles give it a distinct look compared with the black, natural and cream options here.

The extra-wide safety bolster and full tang design are relevant if you want a more substantial handle and blade connection. Cuisinart recommends hand washing and drying the knives immediately after use.

Choose it if a sharpening steel and full-tang forged construction matter more than a built-in block sharpener. For more options from the brand, see our guide to the best Cuisinart knife block set.

7

Astercook Knife Set: Best for a cream-white finish

8.8/10Our score

• 14-piece set
• High-carbon stainless steel
• Full tang construction
• Built-in sharpener

This 14-piece Astercook set stands out for its cream-white look and full tang construction. It includes six steak knives, kitchen shears and a built-in sharpener.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Distinct cream-white finish
• Full tang design
• Built-in sharpener

Cons

• No santoku knife listed
• Higher stated 99-year warranty claim needs checking

This 14-piece Astercook set is a good fit for buyers who want a cream-white knife block set with a built-in sharpener. It includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 8 in serrated bread knife, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, six 4.5 in serrated steak knives, kitchen shears and the block.

The set uses high-carbon stainless steel blades and full tang construction. Its stainless steel handles and cream-white color make it visually different from the black Astercook options.

The included sharpener is built into the hardwood block, so you do not need a separate sharpening tool for the stated setup. Astercook also describes the set as dishwasher safe.

Choose it for the finish and full tang design. The listed knife mix does not include a santoku knife, so choose another set if that blade is part of your normal prep routine.

8

ASETY Knife Set: Best for bold purple styling

8.7/10Our score

• 15-piece set
• High-carbon stainless steel
• 15-degree edge
• Built-in sharpener

ASETY suits buyers who want a purple and black knife set with a 15-degree edge and built-in sharpener. The mix includes chef, bread, slicing, santoku, utility, paring and steak knives.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Distinctive color
• Complete knife mix
• Dishwasher-safe design

Cons

• Stamped construction
• Exact block capacity is not specified

ASETY is the best fit for a bold purple and black knife set with an integrated sharpener. The 15-piece mix includes 8 in chef, bread and slicing knives, a 7 in santoku, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, six 4.5 in steak knives, kitchen scissors and the block.

The mix is broad enough for everyday prep and table use. Chef and santoku knives cover chopping, the utility and paring knives cover smaller jobs, and the steak knives cover serving.

The high-carbon stainless steel blades have a stated 15-degree edge. The polypropylene handles use a curved design described as anti-slip, and the set is described as dishwasher safe.

Its built-in sharpener keeps the sharpening function with the block. The purple color is the main visual difference from the more neutral black, natural, white and cream sets in this roundup.

Color is a personal choice, but it can matter in an open-plan kitchen. A bold finish may suit a modern space, while a neutral set may blend in more easily.

Choose ASETY if the color fits your kitchen and you want a complete knife mix. Choose a forged set instead if construction type is a higher priority, because ASETY is listed as stamped.

9

CAROTE 14-Piece Knife Set with Wood Block: Best for a traditional sharpening steel

8.2/10Our score

• 14-piece set
• Forged stainless steel
• 13-slot hardwood block
• Sharpening steel

CAROTE uses forged stainless steel, full tangs and triple-riveted handles in a traditional wood-block set. It includes a sharpening steel rather than a sharpener built into the block.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Forged construction
• 13-slot hardwood block
• Includes bread and santoku knives

Cons

• No built-in sharpener
• Plastic handles

CAROTE is the right choice if you prefer a traditional hardwood block and sharpening steel. The 14-piece set includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in bread knife, 7 in santoku, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, six steak knives, kitchen shears and a sharpening steel.

The 13-slot hardwood block has nonslip feet. The blades are forged stainless steel with full tangs, extra-wide bolsters and triple-riveted plastic handles.

That construction gives the set a familiar, traditional feel. Full tang handles and bolsters can suit cooks who like a solid connection between blade and handle during heavier prep.

Because the sharpening tool is a steel rather than a block sharpener, this set requires a different maintenance routine from the McCook, Astercook, Ninja and ASETY options. That can be useful if you already know how to use a sharpening steel.

A steel also needs its own storage and careful handling during use. Cooks who are new to that routine may find a built-in sharpener simpler to learn.

Choose CAROTE for forged construction and a traditional setup. For more material-focused comparisons, read our guide to the best stainless steel knife block set.

What should you look for in a knife block with sharpener built in?

Look for a knife mix that covers your actual prep work, then check the sharpener type and care instructions. A built-in sharpener is convenient, but it does not replace the need to use the right knife and clean the set as directed.

Chef, paring, utility and slicing knives cover common prep tasks. Bread knives help with crusty loaves, santoku knives suit chopping and mincing, and steak knives serve cooked food.

A boning knife is useful only if you regularly work around bones.

Block size also matters. A 17-piece set with eight steak knives needs more storage capacity than a smaller set, while a 14-slot block may have limited room for additions.

For a broader guide to choosing a best chef knife set, compare the main chef knife, handle design and sharpening method before focusing on the accessory count.

Is a built-in sharpener better than a sharpening steel?

Neither option removes the need to follow the brand's care instructions. The right routine depends on the set you buy, the edge type on each knife and how the manufacturer describes cleaning and sharpening for that model.

McCook, Astercook, Ninja and ASETY put the sharpener in the block. Ninja specifies a ceramic wheel, while the other products describe an integrated block sharpener without the same level of sharpening mechanism detail.

A built-in system can be easier for everyday use because the tool is already in place. You pull the knife through the designated slot, which keeps the angle and pressure more consistent than freehand work.

Henckels, Cuisinart and CAROTE include sharpening steels. A steel is not the same as a built-in abrasive sharpener, so choose based on the routine you are willing to follow.

A sharpening steel is mainly used to realign the edge between bigger sharpening sessions. It gives experienced cooks more control, but it also asks for practice and a safe working space.

The trade-off is convenience against control. Built-in sharpeners suit cooks who want a quick, repeatable step at the block, while a steel suits cooks who prefer to manage the angle themselves.

Avoid using a sharpener on a serrated edge unless the instructions specifically allow it. Serrated steak and bread knives have different edge shapes from plain-edge chef knives.

Using the wrong tool on a serrated edge can damage the teeth and make cutting worse. Keep serrated knives to the cleaning and storage guidance for your set and use the sharpener only on the plain-edge knives it is designed for.

Think about where you will sharpen as well as how. A stable countertop, clear space around the block and a dry blade make any method safer and easier to repeat.

How do you care for a knife block set with sharpener?

Dry the knives before returning them to the block, keep the block on a stable surface and follow the cleaning method for the specific set. Hand washing is recommended for McCook, while Astercook, Henckels and ASETY describe dishwasher-safe care.

That difference should be checked before you buy rather than after. The care method for one brand does not automatically apply to another set, even if the sets look similar on the counter.

Dishwasher-safe does not mean every wash cycle is ideal for long-term finish care. If you want to preserve handles and blade appearance, check the care instructions and dry the knives fully before storage.

Moisture left on a blade or in a block slot can cause spots over time. Wiping knives dry and letting the block air out helps the set stay in better condition.

Use the built-in sharpener lightly and according to its design. A sharpener should support regular edge maintenance, not replace safe cutting habits, a stable cutting board and careful knife storage.

Light, even passes are usually enough for routine upkeep. Pressing too hard or rushing the motion can work against the edge you are trying to maintain.

Store each knife in its slot so the blade stays protected. That also keeps the set organized and makes it easier to see which knife you are reaching for.

Never leave loose knives in a drawer where edges can strike other tools. A block protects the blades and keeps the set ready for the next prep session.

Keep the block away from heat and damp taps if you can. A dry, stable spot near your prep area is easier to use every day and kinder to the wood and finishes.

Verdict: which best knife block set with sharpener should you buy?

The McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block is the best knife block set with sharpener for most buyers who want a broad 15-piece mix, forged German stainless steel and a built-in sharpener. Choose Ninja for 17 pieces and its NeverDull ceramic system.

McCook suits cooks who want one coordinated set for daily prep, steak knives and shears. The trade-off is hand washing, since McCook recommends hand washing and is not dishwasher safe.

Pick Astercook if dishwasher-friendly care and a black block matter most. The 15-piece Astercook sets and the cream-white Astercook all include a built-in sharpener, so compare finish, handle material and knife mix before deciding.

Pick Henckels or Cuisinart if you prefer a separate sharpening steel, and choose CAROTE for forged construction with a traditional wood-block setup. Those sets need a different care routine from the built-in sharpener options.

Pick ASETY if bold purple styling is part of the appeal. Its mix is complete for everyday use, but it is listed as stamped construction rather than forged.

Counter space is worth a final check as well. Larger sets, especially the 17-piece Ninja, need a stable spot where the block can stay put for storage and sharpening.

For another direct comparison, see the best kitchen knife sets with a sharpener. If your main concern is serving steak, our guide to steak knife use explains where that knife belongs in your set.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for complete everyday prep

   McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for dishwasher-friendly care

   Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a separate sharpening steel

   Henckels Statement 15 pc Knife Block Set

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best knife block set with sharpener?

The McCook 15-piece set is the best overall choice here because it combines forged German stainless steel, a 15-degree cutting angle, a broad knife mix and a built-in sharpener in the wood block. Choose Ninja if you want 17 pieces and a NeverDull ceramic sharpening wheel.

Are knife blocks with built-in sharpeners worth it?

A knife block with a built-in sharpener is worth considering if you want the sharpening function stored beside the knives. It reduces the need for a separate tool, but you still need to follow the sharpener instructions and choose a set with the right knife mix for your cooking.

Which knife sets include a sharpening steel instead?

Henckels includes a 9-inch sharpening steel, Cuisinart includes an 8-inch sharpening steel and CAROTE includes a sharpening steel. These sets do not use the same built-in block sharpener setup as McCook, Astercook, Ninja and ASETY.

Can knife block sets go in the dishwasher?

Care instructions vary by set. Astercook, Henckels and ASETY describe dishwasher-safe designs, while McCook recommends hand washing and is not dishwasher safe.

Cuisinart recommends hand washing and immediate drying, so check the care guidance before washing any set.

How many pieces should a knife block set have?

A 14- or 15-piece set usually covers common prep knives, steak knives, shears and a storage block. A 17-piece set adds more pieces, such as Ninja's boning knife and eight steak knives.

Choose by the knives you will use, not the count alone.