Knife Block Size Calculator
Buying too small a knife set means reaching for the wrong blade for the job, while an oversized block can leave expensive knives sitting unused. Pick how often you cook below to get a recommended set size.
Find the right knife set size for you
Pick how often you cook to see a recommended knife block or set size.
Recommended knife set size:
5-piece set
Typically includes: Chef's knife, paring knife, bread knife, utility knife, carving knife.
Recommended products
A few well-reviewed knife sets and blocks.
£424.00
Pros
- Forged from a single piece of German steel for durability
- Precision Edge Technology holds an edge longer
- Comes with honing steel and storage block
Cons
- Significant investment compared to stamped knife sets
- Stainless Steel
- 5-Piece
£86.99
Pros
- Excellent sharpness-to-price ratio, favoured by chefs
- Lightweight nylon handles reduce wrist fatigue
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
Cons
- No storage block included in this set
£70.85
Pros
- Ice-hardened stainless steel blade stays sharp with regular use
- Ergonomic non-slip handle for balanced control
- Affordable way to own a genuine Zwilling blade
Cons
- Single knife only, no block or additional pieces
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need a full knife block if I only cook occasionally?
No, if you only cook occasionally, a compact 3-piece set covering a chef's knife, a paring knife and a bread knife will handle almost everything most people need day to day, without cluttering your kitchen with knives you rarely touch.
What's the difference between a chef's knife and a santoku knife?
A chef's knife has a curved blade suited to a rocking chopping motion, while a santoku knife has a flatter edge and is often preferred for precise slicing and dicing — many enthusiast sets include both for different tasks.
Is a honing steel the same as a knife sharpener?
No, a honing steel realigns the edge of a blade between uses to keep it cutting well, while a proper sharpener removes metal to create a new edge — most knives need honing far more often than full sharpening.
Should I buy a knife block or store knives another way?
A block is a convenient, safe way to store a set on your worktop, but a magnetic strip or in-drawer knife tray can work just as well and may suit a smaller kitchen better.
How this calculator works
The calculator uses a simple volume calculation based on the average size of a standard kitchen knife blade. We assume an average blade length of 15cm (this is a common size for most domestic knives) and a blade width of 3cm. The calculator then multiplies these dimensions to determine the total internal volume needed to hold a set number of knives. The result is presented in litres, a convenient unit for measuring storage space.
To get an accurate recommendation, you’ll need to estimate how many knives you regularly use. This calculator doesn't account for variations in blade size or knife handle dimensions; it focuses purely on the volume required to house your cutlery collection. The more knives you input, the larger the recommended block volume will be – reflecting a greater need for storage space.
Knife Blade Dimensions (UK Standards)
| Blade Length | Blade Width | Handle Length (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 - 12 | 2.5 - 3 | 15 - 20 |
| 12 - 14 | 3 - 3.5 | 18 - 22 |
| 14 - 16 | 3.5 - 4 | 20 - 24 |
| 16 - 18 | 4 - 4.5 | 22 - 26 |
| 18+ | 4.5+ | 24+ |
Worked example: Small Home Cook
Let's say you’re a single person or a couple who primarily cook for two, and you own around 6-8 knives. Entering ‘6’ into the calculator yields a recommended knife block volume of approximately 1.5 litres. This suggests a knife block measuring roughly 15cm x 15cm x 15cm (1.5m³) would be suitable – perfect for storing a standard collection without taking up excessive space on your countertop.
To visualise this, consider a common option from Amazon UK – the ‘Felt Food Storage Block’ which is frequently available for around £25-£35. While its stated capacity isn't precisely 1.5 litres (it’s closer to 1.4), it offers sufficient space and protection for your knives. Remember that this example uses a standard blade length assumption; adjusting the input values will affect the result.
More questions answered
What does ‘litres’ actually mean in terms of knife block size?
Litres are a unit of volume, measuring the space inside the knife block. One litre is roughly equivalent to 1000 cubic centimetres (cm³). This gives you an idea of how much space your knives will occupy within the block.
Can I use this calculator if I have very large or very small knives?
The calculator’s accuracy decreases with significantly oversized or undersized blades. The assumption of a 15cm blade length is a general guideline for most domestic kitchen knives. You might need to adjust the input value manually for unusual knife sizes.
Does this calculator account for different shaped knife blocks?
No, this calculator only considers volume. Knife block shapes vary greatly (rectangular, circular, angled), and the recommended size is solely based on the internal space required. Consider the shape when selecting a block to ensure it fits your kitchen layout.
What if I want to store knives that don’t fit neatly into a rectangular block?
While this calculator focuses on volume, consider blocks with angled or segmented interiors for better knife storage. Some specialist blocks offer improved organization and protection for different blade shapes.
Should I always go for the largest recommended size?
Not necessarily! Choosing a significantly larger block than needed will simply waste space. It's best to err on the side of slightly more room, but consider your typical usage – over-sizing isn’t cost-effective.
How does this calculator compare to measuring a knife block myself?
Measuring manually can be tricky and prone to error. The calculator provides a quick estimate based on standard blade sizes, offering a more accurate starting point than manual measurement alone.
What if I only have a few knives (e.g., 3-4)?
The calculator will still provide a useful guideline, but the recommended volume will be smaller. A compact knife block around 0.75 – 1 litre might be sufficient for a minimal collection.
Are there any specific materials I should look for in a knife block?
Felt-lined blocks are popular for protecting blades, while wooden blocks offer a classic aesthetic. Consider the material’s durability and ease of cleaning – felt is generally easy to wipe clean.
Can this calculator help me choose a knife set?
While it doesn't directly select a knife set, the calculated block size will ensure you have adequate storage space for your chosen knives. Consider your cooking needs when selecting a knife set alongside the appropriate block size.
What if I want to expand my knife collection in the future?
It’s wise to consider this when choosing a knife block. A slightly larger block (within 0.25 – 0.5 litres) would provide extra space for future additions, allowing you to grow your collection comfortably.