Is an 8‑inch chef’s knife standard?

Yes. 8 inches (~20.3 cm) is the most common all‑purpose chef’s knife length.

What size knife should I buy first?

Most home cooks start with an 8‑inch chef’s knife, then add a paring knife and a bread knife.

What blade length is best for beginners?

An 8‑inch chef’s knife covers most tasks and is a great first size.

Do slicers need to be 12 inches?

Longer slicers (10–12 in) make single clean strokes on large roasts and fish, reducing tearing.

ATELIER

Blade Length Converter & Guide

Convert between inches and centimeters and learn what each size is best for. Quick presets for common chef knife lengths.

Choosing a blade length comes down to working space and the food you prep most. Shorter blades (3–4 in) excel at detail work. Mid‑length blades (6–8 in) cover everyday prep. Longer blades (10–12 in) offer more reach for slicing larger items and roasts.

Explore chef knives, or learn about steels in our Steel Explorer. When you’re ready to sharpen, plan your sequence with the Grit Planner.

Blade length (in)

// Result

8 in = 20.3 cm

Chef’s knife standard — versatile for most tasks

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// FAQs

Is an 8‑inch chef’s knife standard?
Yes. 8 inches (~20.3 cm) is the most common all‑purpose chef’s knife length.
What size knife should I buy first?
Most home cooks start with an 8‑inch chef’s knife, then add a paring knife and a bread knife.
What blade length is best for beginners?
An 8‑inch chef’s knife covers most tasks and is a great first size.
Do slicers need to be 12 inches?
Longer slicers (10–12 in) make single clean strokes on large roasts and fish, reducing tearing.