
Block SetsOXO
OXO Essentials 14-Piece Knife Block Set
Whetstone scoreEditorial rating from spec, steel and build analysis. Not a customer rating.
The OXO Essentials 14-Piece Knife Block Set is a solid, budget-friendly option for home cooks who want a complete set of reliable, comfortable-to-use knives without investing in a premium forged collection.
- SteelHigh-carbon stainless
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The verdict
The OXO Essentials 14-Piece Knife Block Set is a solid, budget-friendly option for home cooks who want a complete set of reliable, comfortable-to-use knives without investing in a premium forged collection. While it won't satisfy serious culinary professionals, it covers all essential cutting tasks well and offers excellent ergonomics thanks to OXO's signature grips.
Spec sheet
Specifications
Steel family
High-carbon stainless
General-purpose high-carbon stainless used across most block sets and budget knives.
Upkeep
- Piece Count
- 14 pieces
- Blade Material
- High-carbon stainless steel
- Handle Material
- OXO Good Grips soft-touch
- Block Material
- Wood (bamboo/acacia)
- Dishwasher Safe
- Yes (handles recommended hand wash)
- Category
- Knife Block Sets
- Maker
- OXO
Trade-offs
Pros & cons
What we like
- Comfortable soft-grip handles reduce hand fatigue
- Sharp edges out of the box handle most kitchen tasks
- Space-saving block fits easily on most counters
- Good value compared to buying knives individually
- Dishwasher-safe components for easier cleanup
- Balanced weight makes chopping and slicing easier
What to know
- Steak knives are serviceable but not premium quality
- Block design is functional rather than stylish
- Blades may need professional sharpening after heavy use
- Some users find the bread knife blade a bit flexible
- Not a full professional-grade forged knife set
Highlights
What stands out
- 0114-piece set including chef's, bread, santoku, utility, and paring knives
- 02High-carbon stainless steel blades for lasting sharpness
- 03Non-slip OXO Good Grips handles for comfortable control
- 04Built-in sharpening slots inside the block for maintenance
- 05Compact bamboo or acacia wood block with angled slots
- 06Includes 6 steak knives for everyday dining
- 07Kitchen shears included for versatile cutting tasks
In depth
Full review
The OXO Essentials 14 Piece Knife Block Set brings together everything a home cook needs for everyday food preparation in one cohesive collection. At its core are precision-forged, high-carbon stainless steel blades that include a chef's knife, bread knife, utility knife, paring knife, and a set of steak knives, each engineered to hold a sharp edge through repeated use. The full tang construction runs through comfortable, non-slip handles designed in OXO's signature style, offering balance and control whether you're breaking down a chicken, slicing a crusty loaf, or dicing vegetables for a weeknight dinner. These are not decorative knives meant to sit untouched; they are built to be reached for daily, standing up to the demands of real kitchens.
Storage and organization are just as thoughtfully handled as the blades themselves. The included hardwood block features angled slots that keep each knife secure, easily accessible, and safely stored point-down, protecting both the edges and anyone reaching into a drawer. Because every piece has a designated spot, the block doubles as a visual inventory, so missing knives are immediately noticeable and countertop clutter stays to a minimum. The block's compact footprint fits comfortably on most counters near a prep station, placing every tool within arm's reach without requiring excessive space, which makes it a practical choice for apartment kitchens as well as larger family setups.
What distinguishes this set within the kitchen knives and cutlery category is its focus on dependable, no-frills performance rather than flash. OXO has built its reputation on ergonomic, functional design, and this knife block set reflects that philosophy by prioritizing grip comfort, edge retention, and sensible organization over ornamentation. It suits cooks who want a trustworthy, complete cutlery foundation without having to research and assemble individual pieces from different brands. Whether outfitting a first kitchen, replacing a mismatched knife drawer, or simply upgrading to tools that feel secure in hand, the OXO Essentials 14 Piece Knife Block Set delivers a consistent, reliable cutting experience meal after meal.

Ready to cut?
OXO Essentials 14-Piece Knife Block Set
Block Sets · High-carbon stainless · score 8.6/10



