The Best Utility Knives

X-Acto No. 1 Precision Knife

Our Thoughts Exactly

There's a reason this brand has been the leader in utility knives for hobbyists and professionals alike for years.

Best Overall

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If you’re looking for precision cuts from an ultra-sharp, fine-tip blade, then the X-ACTO No. 1 Z-Series is the utility knife you’re looking for. This versatile knife includes a #11 fine-point zirconium nitride-coated blade for strength and sharpness, while the lightweight aluminum handle helps you create agile cuts with ease. The X-ACTO knife easily cuts through a wide variety of materials such as paper, fabric, plastic, balsa wood, and even thin metal. The easy-change blade system lets you quickly swap blades during a project, and the included safety cap makes for worry-free storage.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to hold
• Seven times sharper than standard blades
• Trusted brand name for decades

Cons:

• Small and easy to lose
• Only for fine, detailed work

Internet’s Best Premium Utility Knife

Two's a Charm

There's no need to spend a fortune to get a rugged, dependable utility knife — or two.

Best Value

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Internet’s Best premium utility knife is no-frills and all-purpose. Designed with a durable metal casing and a rubber grip that allows for extreme durability, the razor easily cuts and slices boxes, plastic packaging, and elastic straps. The package includes two premium utility knives, which is an even greater value. It’s perfect as a box cutter for use around the home, office, or warehouse. The grip is adjustable to three different blade lengths for exact cuts, and when the job is done, the blade retracts to lock safely within the metal frame.

Pros:

• Includes a refill pouch containing five extra blades
• Compatible with standard blades
• Tough enough to work on drywall

Cons:

• Blade does not lock in open position
• Lack of curvature makes it easy to pick up upside down

Workpro Folding Utility Knife

Cuts Like a Knife

Get more work done with this foldable utility knife that stores up to five extra blades.

Longest Usability

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There are two schools of thought when it comes to utility knives: folding and non-folding. Some prefer the folding knife for easier storage, while others prefer non-folding for generally longer handles and increased spare blade storage space. The Workpro is the best of both worlds, as it provides the convenience of a folding knife but can still hold up to five spare blades within its handle. It also comes with an easy blade release mechanism that allows you to change the blades safely. Simply push the head-cover of the blade to engage and drop down the cover to lock in place.

Pros:

• Anti-slip ABS grip
• Belt clip included for easy portability
• thumb rest near the blade provides both comfort and extra torque

Cons:

• No instructions included
• A little tough to unfold

Lenox Tools Utility Knife

Better Safe Than Sorry

With its retractable blade and other safety features, this is a utility knife you can trust your fingers with.

Best Safety

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Let’s face it: these are some sharp blades, so safety must come first. The folks at Lenox believe this, too, and their utility knife reflects it. The one-piece, titanium-coated, stainless steel nose resists wear, but most importantly, it eliminates spreading, which can make the blade loose and dangerous. The quick-blade release switch you to rotate or change the blade without opening the handle, reducing the risk of cut fingers. We also like features such as the ergonomic handle shape and the rugged aluminum casing, which make the Lenox knife durable and safe.

Pros:

• Includes three shatterproof titanium-edged steel blades.
• Stores multiple blades in the handle
• Fits both standard and Lenox proprietary blades

Cons:

• Wider body than other similar knives
• Blades can rattle inside handle

Home Planet Gear Box Cutter

Get a Grip

A great grip is the key to both safety and smooth, deep cuts, which is why this ergonomic utility knife is so special.

Best Grip

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The Home Planet Gear Box Cutter not only looks different — it is different. With a variable-position blade, you can cut from lengths of  1/8″ to a full 1″. The lock-back design locks the blade in place in any position, while the patented, curve-handle design adds control for precision cutting (and saves your knuckles, too). The durable zinc-alloy body with a comfortable rubber grip is lightweight but holds up against drops and other accidents. Best of all, it’s small enough to fit in your pocket.

Pros:

• Comes with five high-carbon SK5 blades
• Replacement storage built into the handle
• Great for cutting carpet and pad

Cons:

• Not for detailed applications
• Only holds one replacement blade

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sharpen a utility knife?

For the most part, no, as the blades are too small and already very sharp. A box cutter is a good example. The holder for the box cutter takes a refill of several blades. One is inserted, and the knife is ready to start cutting with no sharpening necessary. When that blade is dull, it is broken off, and a sliding button is used to put the next blade into place.

How do I keep my X-Acto blade from getting dull?

Our favorite trick is to place a piece of cardboard under whatever you’re cutting so that when the blade cuts through, it’s hitting a soft but firm surface. This will keep your blade from running up against the desk surface, which can quickly dull your blade and damage whatever is underneath it.