Kitchen gear worth buying on Amazon
If you are building a kitchen from Amazon, start with a good chef's knife, a cast-iron skillet, an instant-read thermometer and a digital scale. These four tools handle most everyday cooking, and each pick below is a current top recommendation in a published, test-based review.
How we chose these picks
We did not test these products ourselves. Each pick is a current recommendation in a published review that describes its own testing, cross-checked against the maker's specs. We favor products that have stayed recommended for years, because long track records matter more than launch hype. Prices change constantly, so we link to Amazon instead of quoting a number.
Our picks
- Victorinox Swiss Classic 8-Inch Chef's Knife: Best value chef's knife
- Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: Best cast-iron skillet
- Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo: Best instant-read thermometer for most people
- ThermoWorks Thermapen One: Fastest instant-read thermometer
- Escali Primo Digital Scale: Best kitchen scale
Victorinox Swiss Classic 8-Inch Chef's Knife
Wirecutter calls it the best knife you can buy for the price, and it is a long-running favorite of budget-conscious home cooks. An 8-inch blade is the standard all-purpose size for chopping, slicing and dicing.
Good to know: Hand wash and dry it. Dishwashers dull and damage almost any kitchen knife.
Source: Wirecutter: The Best Chef's Knife.
Check price on AmazonLodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet
Wirecutter has tested 16 skillets since 2017 and names this one its top pick. Its reviewers note it is lighter than many cast-iron pans and sears well.
Good to know: Cast iron is heavy even when it is the light one. If you plan to toss food or lift the pan one-handed, consider a 10-inch size.
Source: Wirecutter: The Best Cast-Iron Skillet.
Check price on AmazonLavatools Javelin Pro Duo
Wirecutter's meat thermometer guide recommends the Javelin Pro Duo as a speedy, full-featured, reasonably priced instant-read thermometer. A thermometer is the cheapest way to stop overcooking chicken and pork.
Good to know: Instant-read means you probe and pull it out. For long roasts or smoking, a leave-in probe thermometer is a separate tool.
Source: Wirecutter: The Best Meat Thermometers.
Check price on AmazonThermoWorks Thermapen One
Wirecutter calls the Thermapen One the fastest instant-read thermometer it has tested. It costs more than the Javelin, so it makes sense for people who cook meat often or want a gift that lasts.
Good to know: ThermoWorks sells through its own site as well as retailers, so compare where you buy and check the seller name on Amazon.
Source: Wirecutter: Why we rely on ThermoWorks thermometers.
Check price on AmazonEscali Primo Digital Scale
Wirecutter says the affordable Escali Primo has been its top pick for almost a decade and is the best scale for most home baking and cooking. Weighing flour instead of scooping it is the single easiest way to get consistent baking results.
Good to know: Look for the tare button (it zeroes out the bowl) and a weight limit that covers your largest mixing bowl plus ingredients.
Source: Wirecutter: The Best Kitchen Scales.
Check price on AmazonFrequently asked questions
What kitchen tools should I buy first?
A chef's knife, a large skillet, a cutting board, an instant-read thermometer and a digital scale cover most daily cooking. Add specialty gadgets only after you know you will use them.
Are kitchen items cheaper on Prime Day or Black Friday?
Popular kitchen brands are often discounted during both events, but not every listed discount is real. Check the item's price history before buying, as explained in our price history guide.
Is it safe to buy knives and cookware from third-party sellers on Amazon?
Check the seller name under the buy button. Items sold by the brand or by Amazon itself are the lowest-risk option for avoiding counterfeits.