Possibly one of the hardest decisions for a knife buyer is which one to buy between Wusthof Vs. Calphalon. Both brands manufacture high-quality kitchen knives than the average knives in terms of quality and price. But do they have any differences?
Calphalon is an American brand that is as good as the German big-timer Wusthof. Moreover, high-carbon German steel makes Calphalon, while Wusthof knives are made of chromium-molybdenum-vanadium steel. Furthermore, knife sets from Wusthof are stamped or forged. On the other hand, Calphalon knives are completely forged except for their steak knives.
Continue reading to determine the difference between Wusthof and Calphalon knives.
Contents
Wusthof Vs. Calphalon Knives – Comparison Chart
Here is a chart to give you a quick understanding of the difference between Calphalon and Wusthof. Read them carefully.
| Parameter | Wusthof | Calphalon |
| Blade Material | Molybdenum, Vanadium | High-carbon |
| Handle Material | Polypropylene, Polyoxymethylene, Grenadill African Blackwood and Richlite | Steel |
| Rust-resistant | Yes | Yes |
| Bolster | Full | Full |
| Cleaning process | Hand-washed | Hand-washed |
| Price | Expensive | Affordable |
Wusthof Vs. Calphalon Knives – In-depth Discussion of the Differences
While comparing Wusthof and Calphalon, I looked at their design, performance, material and construction, maintenance and price. I am sharing an in-detail comparison of these features below.
Design
Design is the first factor that most customers consider when buying a knife. In fact, the design will let you understand how well a knife is manufactured.
Wusthof
Wusthof knives are designed with a general style of traditional Western knives. The manufacturer designs them for high performance, safety and comfort. They are well-balanced with a full tang, making them sturdy at the same time.
More importantly, a full bolster is a unique feature of Wusthof knives. Such a design ensures safety and balance. This way, the blade doesn’t slip from the hands accidentally. Wusthof knives are extra sharp and incredibly durable.
Wusthof has a wide range of knife styles to meet every cook’s requirements. That is why finding a suitable Wusthof knife for your needs will be easy.
Calphalon
Calphalon knives as noticeable imperfections. Their knives stand out for their beautiful, classic design featuring steel handles and high-carbon blades. The rivets are also made of the same quality steel, adding durability and strength.
Most Calphalon knives come with a no-stain feature. As a result, cutting any item is a breeze with these knife sets. Also, they have full bolster and full-tang, impacting the cutting performance of the users.
Right out of the box, these knives are ergonomic and sharper compared to other standard kitchen or commercial knives. Once you start using any Calphalon knife, you will see the difference immediately.
Materials & Constructions
Before buying a knife, it is important to look at the material and construction as it gives you an idea of how the knife performs.
Wusthof
All Wusthof knives use carbon steel in their blades. Moreover, this material is mixed with molybdenum and vanadium to make them hard. Also, the material resists rust and corrosion effectively, ensuring durability.
Additionally, the handles of Wusthof knives are designed with a tang to boost sturdiness and balance. The most common handle materials are Polypropylene and Polyoxymethylene, Grenadill African Blackwood and Richlite. However, the handle materials vary from model to model.
Each Wusthof knife is sharpened using PEtec technology with laser precision. This way, ultimate sharpness is confirmed. Plus, full-tang construction ensures a perfect balance of the blade.
Calphalon
Calphalon knife sets are engineered with different materials. For example, high carbon steel is used to make the blade of Calphalon Classic and Select by Calphalon prep knife. That is why the sharpness of these knives remains for many days.
On the other hand, the blades of Calphalon Contemporary and Precision knives are made of German no-stain and high-carbon steel. Whereas Asian steel is used in steak knives.
It is clear that Calphalon considers using the highest quality materials in the blade and handle construction. Besides, similar to other knife manufacturers, Calphalon doesn’t mention the angle of the edges of their product.
Performance
The performance of any knife relies on its construction and design. Here is the comparison of the Wusthof and Calphalon knife’s performance.
Wusthof
Wusthof knives are made keeping comfortability in mind. The handles are ergonomically shaped, so you can easily cut food items without discomfort. Everything can be done with less trouble, cutting meats, chopping vegetables, fileting fish, etc.
Sharpness is one of the biggest features of Wusthof knives. The manufacturer uses a unique PETec mechanism to sharpen the blades.
Moreover, the handles are well-balanced, minimizing fatigue when used for prolonged hours. Wusthof knives are perfect for tasks that require precision dicing, slicing and chopping.
Calphalon
Compared to other knives, Calphalon handles are quite larger. A larger handle provides a good grip, while smaller hands don’t find them great. However, Calphalon knives are comfortable to use. The bolster in all Calphalon knives acts as a finger guard.
As stated earlier, the blades are damn sharp. Moreover, the edges are incredibly sharp, and you can easily cut paper-thin slices of grapes. However, if you use the knives frequently for several months, the edges dull like other knives.
Overall, the performance is decent enough. The blade remains sharp for many days when used infrequently. But they get dull quickly and feel unbalanced if you use them regularly.
Maintenance
How long do Calphalon knives last? What is the longevity of Wusthof knives? Answers to these questions depend on the maintenance.
Wusthof
You can use an electric sharpener, honing steel, a whetstone, a hand-held sharpener, etc., to sharpen the Wusthof knife. The manufacturer recommends using the same brand sharpener according to your knife collection.
Also, cleaning the Wusthof knife is a breeze. These knives should be hand-washed with a sponge and warm soapy water.
Wondering, are Wusthof knives dishwashers safe? It is not recommended to put your Wusthof knives in the dishwasher.
Calphalon
Carefully hand wash Calphalon knives in sudsy warm water. Also, you can use dishwashing powder and a non-abrasive sponge to clean these knives after cutting. Remember to rinse the knives and dry them completely before storing them. This way, water spots and stains can easily be prevented. Moreover, avoid washing them in the dishwasher.
When sharpening the blade, you should use a honing or sharpening steel. Make sure to sharpen every time before using.
Cost
Whether you buy a knife or other kitchen appliances, price always plays a vital role in making a buying decision.
Wusthof
You will have to spend $50-$1,000 to buy Wusthof knives. Learning the price range, you might wonder why Wusthof knives are pricey. In fact, they are worth the price. These knives’ quality and performance justify the cost.
Calphalon
Calphalon knives are well-known for their affordability. These knives are listed as the cheaper grade. Don’t get fooled by cheaper-grade; the reality is they are an excellent competitor of high-quality knife brands. The price range for Calphalon knives is $20-$500.
Wusthof Vs. Calphalon Knives – Which One to Choose?
Finding the winner between Wusthof and Calphalon is really hard as both possess unique features, benefits and drawbacks. The most important thing is to buy one that meets your requirements. Know your kitchen needs and buy based on that.
Wusthof knives are considered high-quality and well-made. Professional chefs prefer them. Buy Wusthof knives, if
- Your priority is quality and performance
- You need a long-lasting knife set for your kitchen
While Calphalon is a reliable and well-known brand. All knives are sturdy, durable and full-tang, letting you use them comfortably. Buy Calphalon knives, if
- You are looking for a good quality kitchen knife set at an affordable price
- You require a set of knives to meet your kitchen needs
Wrap Up
While both models are exceptional in their class, you can make a precise buying decision when you know your needs.
Wusthof is a high-quality brand, whereas you can rely on Calphalon knives for their excellent performance.
Calphalon works for those who want a reasonable price knife offering good results. On the other hand, Wusthof is suitable for those who need a premium-quality classic knife.
Both have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Also, they have a wide range of designs and styles, allowing you to choose between them easily.
Learn your needs and choose the one that fits your culinary tasks.
