Are Cheaper Knives Worth Getting Professionally Sharpened?

If you’ve ever bought a budget-friendly knife, you might wonder: is it worth investing in professional sharpening? After all, sharpening services can cost a bit, so should you save that money for better knives instead? Let’s break down whether cheaper knives deserve professional sharpening and how to get the most out of them.

The Reality About Cheaper Knives

Cheaper knives often come with softer steel and less refined craftsmanship. This means they tend to lose their edge faster and may not hold a sharp blade as long as high-quality knives. They might also be more prone to chipping or bending if not handled carefully.

Can Professional Sharpening Help?

Yes—and no.

• Yes, professional sharpening can restore a dull blade and improve cutting performance, even on cheaper knives. A skilled sharpener can fix minor chips and reprofile the edge to make it feel sharper and more efficient.

• No, because if the steel quality is low, the edge won’t stay sharp for long. Frequent sharpening might even wear down the blade faster over time.

When It Makes Sense to Sharpen a Cheaper Knife

• If you’ve invested in a particular budget knife and want to extend its lifespan.

• When the knife has sentimental value or works well for your basic cooking needs.

• If the blade is still in decent condition (no major damage) but just dull.

When It’s Better to Upgrade

If your cheaper knife:

• Needs sharpening very frequently (like every few weeks),

• Has deep chips or a badly damaged blade, or

• Feels uncomfortable or unbalanced,

it might be more cost-effective and satisfying to invest in a better-quality knife, like those from Soshida or other reputable brands.

Tips for Caring for Cheaper Knives

• Always use a proper cutting board (wood or plastic).

• Avoid cutting hard materials like bones or frozen foods.

• Hand wash and dry immediately to prevent corrosion.

• Store knives safely to avoid damage to the edge.

Final Thoughts

Professional sharpening can definitely breathe new life into cheaper knives, but it’s not a permanent fix if the steel quality isn’t great. Sharpening can be worthwhile to get better performance and longer use out of your budget knives, but don’t hesitate to upgrade when it’s time for a better blade.