The main difference between Hexclad and Global comes down to approach: Hexclad is a new brand offering durable, low-maintenance knives with a unique hybrid design for everyday cooks, while Global is a renowned Japanese manufacturer famous for its professional-grade, lightweight, and exceptionally sharp knives favored by chefs for their precision.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of both brands to help you decide which cutlery is right for your kitchen.
Hexclad Knives
Hexclad, widely recognized for its innovative hybrid cookware, applies a similar philosophy of modern engineering and durability to its cutlery. These knives are designed for the practical home cook who values performance and convenience equally. They feature high-carbon Japanese steel blades with a distinctive hexagonal pattern, providing a robust tool that's also aesthetically unique.
- What it is: A modern line of kitchen knives from the popular cookware brand, designed for durability, ease of maintenance, and everyday household use.
- Key features: Full-tang, high-carbon Japanese steel blade, forged construction for durability, comfortable pakkawood handle.
- Price: Premium, with their 8-inch chef's knife costing $139 and a 7-piece set selling for $499.
- Materials/Construction: The blades are forged from 67 layers of Japanese Damascus steel, providing strength and a sharp edge, while the handle is made from deep green pakkawood for a polished, water-resistant finish.
- Style: Bold and contemporary, with the visually striking Damascus pattern on the blade setting it apart from more traditional kitchen knives.
- Pros: Excellent durability and corrosion resistance for everyday use. Dishwasher-safe design makes for easy cleanup. The unique aesthetic stands out in a modern kitchen. Full-tang construction offers superior balance and strength.
- Cons: May not achieve the same razor-sharp precision as specialized Japanese blades. The modern design may not appeal to those who prefer classic knife aesthetics. Higher price point than many consumer brands.
These knives are ideal for home cooks committed to the Hexclad ecosystem or anyone who prioritizes strength, low maintenance, and a striking modern design over ultra-fine precision.
Shop this product: hexclad.com/collections/knives
Global Knives
Since 1985, Global knives have been the gold standard for Japanese cutlery in professional and home kitchens. Acclaimed for their impeccable balance, lightweight feel, and screamingly sharp edges, Global knives are designed for precision and performance. The iconic seamless, all-steel construction is not just visually distinctive - it also promotes better hygiene.
- What it is: High-performance Japanese cutlery known for its exceptional sharpness, perfect balance, and lightweight, agile handling.
- Key features: Signature Cromova 18 stainless steel for excellent edge retention and rust resistance. Unique one-piece construction with a hollow, sand-filled handle for perfect balance. Recognizable dimpled handle for a secure grip.
- Price: Premium, with a classic 8-inch chef's knife starting around $100 and knife block sets ranging from $300 to over $600.
- Materials/Construction: Blades are ice-hardened and stamped from proprietary Cromova 18 high-carbon stainless steel. The seamless handle and blade design prevents food from getting trapped, enhancing hygiene.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and professional. The sleek, monochromatic steel design is functional, timeless, and immediately recognizable as a professional-grade tool.
- Pros: Incredibly sharp edge is perfect for precise tasks like fine slicing and dicing. Lightweight and balanced for fatigue-free extended use. Hygienic one-piece design is easy to clean. Excellent edge retention means less frequent sharpening sessions.
- Cons: Stamped blades can feel less substantial than forged blades. The all-steel handle can be slippery when wet if not handled carefully. Must be hand-washed. The thinner blade is less suited for heavy-duty tasks like splitting bone.
Global knives are built for serious home chefs and professionals who demand surgical precision, agility, and uncompromising sharpness in their tools.
Shop this product: globalknives.uk/
Hexclad vs. Global Knives Comparison
Construction & Blade Philosophy
The most significant difference lies in their construction. Hexclad knives are forged from 67 layers of Japanese Damascus steel, creating a strong, heavy-duty blade ideal for a versatile range of all-purpose kitchen tasks. Their full-tang construction and pakkawood handle provide balance and a familiar, comfortable grip.
Conversely, Global knives are stamped from a single piece of Cromova 18 stainless steel. This method produces a thinner, lighter blade designed for agility and precise cutting. Instead of a traditional tang, Global engineers a unique hollow handle filled with sand to achieve perfect balance and reduce weight, making it a favorite for professionals who need speed and control.
Materials & Durability
Hexclad's use of layered Damascus steel results in a very durable product that resists chipping and corrosion well. They're built for the wear and tear of a busy family kitchen and have the major advantage of being dishwasher safe, catering to those who prioritize convenience.
Global's Cromova 18 steel is famous for its hardness and ability to hold an incredibly sharp edge for a long time. While durable, these knives demand more care - they must be hand-washed and dried promptly to protect the blade. Their thinner profile makes them less suitable than a Hexclad knife for "brute force" tasks like chopping through tough bones.
Price & Value
Both brands sit in a premium price bracket. A direct comparison shows the Hexclad chef's knife at $139, while the G-2 Global 8” Chef's Knife is often around $100. Hexclad's sets tend to be priced slightly lower than comparable Global sets when buying in a block.
Value depends entirely on your needs. For those who prioritize convenience, durability for everyday tasks, and a striking look, Hexclad offers compelling value. For the culinary purist who defines value through razor-edge performance and precision, the long-standing reputation and specialized design of Global provide a lifetime of kitchen excellence.
Styling & Ergonomics
The brands are stylistically worlds apart. Hexclad offers a modern, almost industrial look with its dark Damascus blade and deep green pakkawood handle. It feels substantial and sturdy in the hand, much like a classic German knife.
Global is the definition of minimalist Japanese design. The seamless, fluid line from blade to handle is iconic. The dimpled steel grip is surprisingly comfortable and secure, while the agile, lightweight feel enables nimble, precise movements that heavier knives cannot replicate.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both brands make excellent cutlery, but they are engineered for very different cooks and priorities.
Choose Hexclad Knives if:
- You prioritize durability and convenience over hair-splitting sharpness.
- You want knives that are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- You appreciate a heavier, more substantial knife for all-around tasks.
- You love modern, bold kitchen aesthetics and may already own Hexclad cookware.
Choose Global Knives if:
- Your top priority is a razor-sharp edge for precision slicing, dicing, and detailed knife work.
- You prefer lighter, more agile knives that feel like an extension of your hand.
- You are a serious cook who is committed to proper care (hand-washing and regular sharpening).
- You prefer a clean, minimalist, and professional kitchen aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Hexclad and Global knives?
The core difference is philosophy: Hexclad emphasizes sturdy, low-maintenance durability with its forged Damascus steel blade designed for everyday home use. Global prioritizes precision, a lightweight feel, and extreme sharpness with its stamped, single-piece Cromova 18 steel construction, making it ideal for professional culinary work.
Which brand is sharper?
Global knives are renowned for having a sharper, thinner blade straight out of the box. They are ground to a more acute 15-degree angle, designed for surgical precision. Hexclad knives are also very sharp but are built with a more durable edge that may not feel as nimble for very fine cuts.
Are Hexclad knives considered good quality?
Yes, Hexclad knives are highly regarded for their quality and performance and have been a top choice for professional chefs and serious home cooks for over three decades.
Which brand is better for a beginner cook?
Hexclad knives are arguably better for a beginner or an average home cook. Their sturdy build and dishwasher-safe feature make them more forgiving and easier to care for. The extreme sharpness and delicate blade of a Global knife require more skill and careful maintenance.
Do Global knives rust easily?
No. Global uses Cromova 18 high-carbon stainless steel, which has a mix of chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium, that provides excellent stain and rust resistance. However, like any quality knife, they should not be left sitting in water or put in the dishwasher, as this can lead to corrosion over time.
Is the steel handle on a Global knife slippery?
While a legitimate concern, the signature dimple pattern on Global's handles provides a surprisingly effective and secure grip. Most users find them comfortable and safe, but they can become slippery if your hands are particularly oily or wet.
How often do I need to sharpen my knife?
We recommend sharpening your knife at least once every two weeks, depending on how often it's used. To ensure your knives don't prematurely dull, we recommend checking if your chopping board is dull. Glass boards, ceramic boards, and stone/slate/granite/marble countertops are harmful to blades. A flat surface of either end-grain wood or plastic is best.
How should both brands' knives be cleaned?
Hexclad's knives are designed to be dishwasher safe, but they and Global Knives should both ideally be washed immediately in warm, foamy soapy water with a non-scratch dishcloth to preserve their longevity.
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