For a more budget-friendly alternative, we like the Mercer Culinary Millenia Bread Knife. It's lightweight, has a rounded tip for a smooth slice, and a quarter of the price of our top pick.

This Mercer Culinary chef's knife was the one we received that day and what we would use for 90% of our daily tasks. That should give you an idea of what this knife is capable of — and of its ...