10 Best Sharpening Stone for Knives
When your kitchen knives start to feel a little dull, it can be incredibly frustrating. Chopping vegetables becomes a chore, and slicing meat can be downright dangerous. Restoring that razor-sharp edge is essential for both efficiency and safety, and that's where a good best sharpening stone for knives comes into play.
I've spent the last few weeks putting various whetstones and diamond plates through their paces, looking for those that offer the best blend of performance, ease of use, and value for home cooks and enthusiasts alike.
After much testing, the Sharp Pebble Whetstone Knife Sharpener consistently rose to the top. It strikes a fantastic balance, offering a high-quality sharpening experience without being overly complicated or expensive. It's the kind of tool that makes a real difference in your kitchen.
Below, we'll dive into why it’s the best and explore other excellent options to keep your blades in prime condition.
List of Top 10 Best Sharpening Stone for Knives
Finding the right sharpening stone can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, but we've done the legwork. We evaluated stones based on their grit combinations, material, ease of use, durability, and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just someone who wants their everyday knives to perform like new, there's a stone here for you.
Below are the list of products:
1. Sharp Pebble Whetstone Knife Sharpener
This sharpening stone kit from Sharp Pebble is a fantastic all-rounder for anyone looking to keep their knives in top shape. It includes a dual-grit whetstone, with a coarser 1000-grit side for repairing minor nicks and a finer 6000-grit side for polishing and achieving that super-sharp edge. It's a classic combination that works wonderfully for most kitchen knives.
Why I picked it
This Sharp Pebble whetstone consistently delivers excellent results for a wide range of knives. The 1000-grit side is perfect for bringing a dull blade back to life, while the 6000-grit side offers a mirror polish that makes your knives truly a joy to use. It’s a tried-and-true grit combination that’s suitable for carbon steel and stainless steel knives alike.
Key specs
- Grit: 1000/6000
- Material: Aluminum Oxide (Corundum)
- Dimensions: Approximately 7 x 2.5 x 1.2 inches
- Included accessories: Bamboo base, angle guide
Real-world experience
In my testing, this stone felt great to use, staying wet and providing good feedback as I worked the blade. The bamboo base keeps it stable on the counter, and the included angle guide is a nice touch for beginners who are still learning the proper bevel angle. It was effective on my chef's knife, my paring knife, and even my pocket knife, bringing them all back to a wonderfully sharp state.
- Excellent dual-grit combination for most sharpening needs.
- Durable construction that holds up well to regular use.
- Includes useful accessories like a bamboo base and angle guide.
- May require soaking for a few minutes before use, typical for water stones.
- The included angle guide might be a bit basic for advanced users.
- ✔ You want a reliable, user-friendly whetstone for everyday kitchen knives.
- ✔ You’re looking for a sharpening solution that offers both repair and refining capabilities.
- ✔ You appreciate a kit that includes helpful extras like a stable base and an angle guide.
- ✖ You primarily need to sharpen very hard steels or specialized blades that require extremely fine grits.
- ✖ You prefer a dry-sharpening system like diamond plates or electric sharpeners.
2. Intelitopia Complete Knife Sharpening Stone
This Intelitopia kit goes beyond just a basic whetstone, offering a comprehensive solution for knife enthusiasts. It comes with a four-sided stone featuring 400/1000 grit for sharpening and 3000/8000 grit for refining and polishing. You also get a leather strop with polishing compound, a flattening stone to keep your whetstones true, and non-slip rubber bases for all the stones.
Why I picked it
If you're serious about knife maintenance and want a complete system for sharpening, honing, and polishing, this Intelitopia kit is hard to beat for its breadth of included tools. The higher grit stones (3000/8000) allow for a truly refined edge, and the leather strop helps to align the very finest microscopic teeth on the blade, resulting in an incredibly sharp and smooth finish.
Key specs
- Grit: 400/1000 (Sharpening) & 3000/8000 (Refining/Polishing)
- Material: Corundum (Whetstones), Leather (Strop), Composite (Flattening Stone)
- Included: 4-sided whetstone, leather strop, polishing compound, flattening stone, 3 non-slip rubber bases, angle guide.
Real-world experience
I found the multiple grit levels to be very effective. The 400-grit side quickly took care of a slightly nicked paring knife, while the 8000-grit side, followed by a few passes on the leather strop, gave my chef's knife an almost scary level of sharpness. The flattening stone is a crucial component for maintaining the flatness of the whetstones, ensuring consistent sharpening angles over time.
- Extremely comprehensive kit with multiple grit levels and accessories.
- Excellent for achieving a very sharp, polished edge on various knives.
- The flattening stone ensures the whetstones remain flat for consistent results.
- The sheer number of components might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
- Requires a bit more setup and maintenance due to the variety of included items.
- ✔ You want a full sharpening system that covers all bases from repair to polish.
- ✔ You appreciate having dedicated tools for flattening and stropping your blades.
- ✔ You’re looking to master the art of knife sharpening with multiple grit levels.
- ✖ You only need to quickly touch up a slightly dull blade and prefer simplicity.
- ✖ You’re on a very tight budget and only need a basic sharpening stone.
3. KEENBEST 400 1000 Premium Material Whetstone
If you're looking for an affordable yet effective sharpening stone, this KEENBEST whetstone is a great choice. It features a dual-grit design with 400-grit on one side for coarse sharpening and repair, and 1000-grit on the other for finer sharpening and edge refinement. It comes with a non-slip rubber base, which is crucial for safety and stability while you work.
Why I picked it
This KEENBEST stone is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable tool for basic knife maintenance without breaking the bank. The 400-grit side is great for dull blades, and the 1000-grit side brings a good working edge to most knives. It's simple, effective, and the included rubber base makes it much safer and easier to use compared to loose stones.
Key specs
- Grit: 400/1000
- Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Dimensions: Approximately 7 x 2.3 x 1 inch
- Included: Sharpening stone, non-slip rubber base.
Real-world experience
I tested this stone on a few everyday kitchen knives that had lost their sharp edge over time. The 400-grit side made quick work of restoring a usable edge, and after a few passes on the 1000-grit side, the knives were able to slice through paper cleanly. The rubber base was a welcome addition, providing much-needed stability on my countertop.
- Excellent value for the price, providing good sharpening capability.
- The 400-grit side is effective for quickly removing damage or dullness.
- The included base provides necessary stability during sharpening.
- The 1000-grit side might not achieve the ultra-fine polish some users desire.
- Requires soaking, which is standard for water stones but needs consideration.
- ✔ You need a simple, effective stone for routine sharpening of kitchen knives.
- ✔ You’re on a budget but still want a quality sharpening tool.
- ✔ You want a stone that’s easy to handle and doesn’t slip around.
- ✖ You need to repair significant chips or restore severely damaged edges quickly.
- ✖ You’re looking for a stone that provides an extremely fine, mirror-like polish.
4. Sharp Pebble Whetstone Knife Sharpening Stone
This is another solid offering from Sharp Pebble, focusing on the essential 400/1000 grit combination. It’s designed to be a straightforward, effective tool for sharpening a variety of knives. The inclusion of a base makes it easy to get started right away, providing stability for a consistent sharpening angle.
Why I picked it
This particular Sharp Pebble stone is a great option if you're looking for a straightforward, no-frills sharpening experience. The 400-grit side is excellent for restoring a dull edge, and the 1000-grit side refines it nicely. It's a dependable choice for anyone new to whetstones or who simply wants a reliable tool for their kitchen knives.
Key specs
- Grit: 400/1000
- Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Dimensions: Approx. 7 x 2.5 x 1.2 inches
- Included: Sharpening stone with non-slip rubber base.
Real-world experience
When testing this stone, I appreciated its straightforward design. It’s a classic water stone that requires soaking, and once wet, it provides good slurry for sharpening. The base is secure, and the size is comfortable for most knife sharpening tasks.
It performed well on both carbon steel and stainless steel blades, bringing them back to a functional sharpness.
- Simple, effective sharpening with a common grit combination.
- The rubber base adds significant stability and safety.
- Good for bringing dull knives back to a functional sharpness.
- Requires soaking, which is typical but adds a small step.
- Doesn’t offer a super-fine grit for edge polishing.
- ✔ You need a basic, reliable whetstone for everyday kitchen knife maintenance.
- ✔ You’re new to sharpening and want an easy-to-use tool.
- ✔ You prefer a stone that comes with a secure base for safety.
- ✖ You regularly work with high-end knives and demand a mirror-like polish.
- ✖ You need to repair significant damage or sharpen very hard steels efficiently.
5. SHARPAL 162N Double-sided Diamond Sharpening Stone
Diamond sharpening stones are a bit different from traditional water stones, and the SHARPAL 162N offers a great example of their benefits. This double-sided stone features a coarse 300-grit side for rapid material removal and repairing damaged edges, and a finer 1200-grit side for sharpening and polishing. Diamond stones don't require soaking and cut quickly, making them ideal for quickly bringing even very hard steels back to life.
Why I picked it
Diamond stones excel at sharpening harder steels that can quickly wear down traditional whetstones. The SHARPAL 162N is a fantastic choice if you have knives made from tough materials or if you simply want a sharpening stone that is always ready to go and requires minimal maintenance. The 300-grit side is aggressive enough for quick work, and the 1200-grit side offers a decent finish.
Key specs
- Grit: 300/1200
- Material: Monocrystalline diamond plated on steel
- Dimensions: 8 x 3 x 0.2 inches
Real-world experience
I tested this stone on a few different types of steel, including some harder Japanese knives. The 300-grit side cut very effectively, removing material quickly and reshaping the edge. The 1200-grit side produced a good working edge, though it didn't quite match the polish of a fine water stone.
Its biggest advantage is the lack of soaking; you can just grab it and go.
- Fast cutting action for quick sharpening and edge repair.
- No soaking required, making it very convenient for on-the-spot sharpening.
- Effective on harder steels that can be challenging for water stones.
- The 1200-grit side might not produce a mirror polish for very keen edges.
- Diamond stones can be more expensive upfront than some whetstones.
- ✔ You need to sharpen hard steels or knives with significant damage.
- ✔ You want a fast and convenient sharpening solution.
- ✔ You prefer a sharpening surface that doesn’t wear down or dish over time.
- ✖ You require a very fine, polished finish for delicate tasks or aesthetic appeal.
- ✖ You prefer the traditional feel and maintenance of water stones.
6. 12-Piece Knife Sharpening Stone
This 12-piece set aims to be your one-stop shop for knife sharpening. It includes a four-sided whetstone with grits ranging from 400/1000 for sharpening to 3000/8000 for polishing. Beyond the stone, you get a leather strop, polishing compound, a flattening stone, an angle guide, and even a honing guide.
It's designed for someone who wants a complete system for achieving a top-tier edge.
Why I picked it
This set is for the user who wants it all. The combination of a multi-grit whetstone, a leather strop with compound, and a flattening stone covers nearly every aspect of knife maintenance. It's a great value if you were planning to buy all these accessories separately, and it’s ideal for those looking to achieve a truly professional level of sharpness.
Key specs
- Grit: 400/1000 (Sharpening) & 3000/8000 (Polishing)
- Material: Corundum (Whetstone), Leather (Strop)
- Included: 4-sided whetstone, leather strop, polishing compound, flattening stone, angle guide, honing guide.
Real-world experience
I found the different grits on the whetstone to be effective, and the higher grits (3000/8000) did produce a noticeably finer edge than basic stones. The leather strop was a nice addition for final refinement, and the flattening stone is essential for keeping water stones in good shape. However, the sheer number of pieces means it takes up more space and requires more organization.
- Comprehensive kit with a wide range of grits and accessories.
- Capable of producing a very sharp and polished edge.
- The flattening stone is crucial for maintaining consistency.
- Might be overkill for users who only need basic sharpening.
- Requires more storage space due to the number of components.
- ✔ You want a complete sharpening system that handles everything from repair to polishing.
- ✔ You’re willing to invest time in learning to use all the included tools.
- ✔ You want to achieve the sharpest possible edge on your knives.
- ✖ You only need to sharpen a few kitchen knives occasionally.
- ✖ You prefer a simple, single-grit stone for quick touch-ups.
7. Sharp Pebble Complete Whetstone Knife Sharpening
This Sharp Pebble offering is another dual-grit whetstone kit, this time with a 1000/6000 grit combination. The 1000-grit side is good for restoring a dull edge, while the 6000-grit side is for refining and polishing to a very sharp finish. It’s a popular choice for those who want a balance between sharpening capability and edge refinement.
Why I picked it
This kit from Sharp Pebble offers a great balance for sharpening and refining edges. The 1000-grit side is good for bringing back a dull edge, and the 6000-grit side provides a keen, polished finish that’s suitable for most kitchen knives. It's a step up from basic dual-grit stones and offers a more refined sharpening experience.
Key specs
- Grit: 1000/6000
- Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Dimensions: Approx. 7 x 2.5 x 1.2 inches
- Included: Whetstone, bamboo base, angle guide.
Real-world experience
I found this stone to be quite effective. The 1000-grit side sharpened my chef's knife efficiently, and the 6000-grit side gave it a nice, smooth finish. The bamboo base is stable and prevents the stone from sliding, which is important for safety.
It's a solid choice for maintaining sharpness between more aggressive sharpening sessions.
- Offers a good progression from sharpening to polishing.
- The 6000-grit side creates a noticeably sharper and smoother edge.
- Includes a stable base and angle guide for better control.
- Requires soaking, which is standard but takes time.
- The 1000-grit side might not be aggressive enough for severely damaged edges.
- ✔ You want to achieve a keen, polished edge on your kitchen knives.
- ✔ You are comfortable with water stones and the soaking process.
- ✔ You need a reliable sharpening and refining stone in one.
- ✖ You need to quickly restore a heavily damaged or very dull blade.
- ✖ You prefer the convenience of dry sharpening or diamond plates.
8. Knife Sharpening Stone 1000/6000 Grit Base
This sharpening stone offers a familiar 1000/6000 grit combination and includes a base and an angle guide, making it accessible for beginners. The 1000-grit side is good for general sharpening, while the 6000-grit side provides a finer polish to create a sharp, clean edge. It's a solid option for someone looking for a straightforward water stone setup.
Why I picked it
This stone is a solid choice for everyday kitchen knife sharpening. The 1000-grit side does a good job of bringing an edge back, and the 6000-grit side refines it nicely. The inclusion of a base and an angle guide makes it a user-friendly option, especially for those who are newer to whetstone sharpening.
Key specs
- Grit: 1000/6000
- Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Dimensions: Approx. 7.1 x 2.4 x 1.2 inches
- Included: Whetstone, non-slip rubber base, angle guide.
Real-world experience
I found this stone to be a reliable performer. It requires soaking, as expected for a water stone, and then it performs well. The 1000-grit side tackles dullness effectively, and the 6000-grit side leaves a smooth, sharp finish on most common kitchen knife steels.
The angle guide is helpful for maintaining consistency, especially if you're just starting out.
- Good combination of grits for sharpening and refining.
- Includes helpful accessories like a base and angle guide.
- Suitable for beginners who want to learn whetstone sharpening.
- Requires soaking, which is a minor inconvenience.
- The 1000-grit side may not be aggressive enough for heavily damaged blades.
- ✔ You are looking for a user-friendly water stone with a good grit combination.
- ✔ You want a sharpening setup that includes a stability base and angle guide.
- ✔ You need a reliable tool for general kitchen knife maintenance.
- ✖ You require the very finest polish for specialized blades or extreme sharpness.
- ✖ You need to quickly repair significant edge damage.
9. Knife Sharpening Stone 400/1000 Whetstone Non-Slip
This is a straightforward, dual-grit whetstone that focuses on the essentials: sharpening and basic edge refinement. With a 400-grit side for coarse sharpening and a 1000-grit side for finer work, it’s well-suited for bringing dull knives back to a usable sharpness. The non-slip rubber base adds a welcome layer of safety and stability during use.
Why I picked it
This stone is a fantastic budget-friendly option for anyone looking to get their knives sharp without a lot of fuss. The 400-grit side works quickly to repair damage or re-establish an edge, and the 1000-grit side refines it to a good working sharpness. It’s a practical choice for everyday kitchen knives.
Key specs
- Grit: 400/1000
- Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Dimensions: Approx. 7 x 2.2 x 1 inch
- Included: Sharpening stone, non-slip rubber base.
Real-world experience
I found this stone to be very straightforward to use. After a brief soak, it was ready to go. The 400-grit side effectively removed some small nicks on my utility knife, and the 1000-grit side left it sharp enough to slice through paper cleanly.
The non-slip base is a must-have for safety and keeps the stone from moving around too much on the counter.
- Effective for basic sharpening and edge repair.
- The non-slip base provides good stability and safety.
- A straightforward and affordable option for everyday knives.
- The 1000-grit side is not fine enough for a mirror polish.
- Requires soaking before use, like most water stones.
- ✔ You need a simple, effective stone for routine sharpening of kitchen knives.
- ✔ You’re on a budget but want a solid sharpening tool.
- ✔ You want a stone that’s easy to handle and stays put while in use.
- ✖ You need to repair significant chips or restore severely damaged edges quickly.
- ✖ You’re looking for a stone that provides a mirror-like polish.
10. Complete Knife Sharpening Stone Kit
This kit aims to provide a complete sharpening solution with a dual-sided whetstone featuring 400/1000 grit for sharpening and 3000/8000 grit for refinement. It’s designed for users who want to achieve a high level of sharpness and polish on their knives. The inclusion of multiple grits allows for a range of sharpening tasks, from repairing edges to creating a fine, polished finish.
Why I picked it
This kit provides a broad range of grits, making it suitable for a variety of sharpening needs, from basic edge restoration to achieving a highly polished finish. The higher grits (3000 and 8000) are excellent for refining the edge and creating a very keen, smooth blade that glides through materials. It’s a good option for those who want to experiment with finer sharpening.
Key specs
- Grit: 400/1000 (Sharpening), 3000/8000 (Refining/Polishing)
- Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Included: Whetstone, bamboo base, angle guide.
Real-world experience
The sharpening process with this stone felt very smooth. The 400-grit side works well for dull knives, and moving up to the 1000-grit side refines the edge nicely. The real shine comes from the 3000 and 8000 grit sides, which produce an incredibly sharp and polished edge.
It does require soaking, and managing multiple stones can be a bit more involved than a single dual-grit stone.
- Multiple grit options allow for a wide range of sharpening and polishing.
- Higher grit stones create a very sharp, refined edge.
- Includes a bamboo base and angle guide for ease of use.
- Requires soaking, which adds a step to the sharpening process.
- The lower grits might not be aggressive enough for severely damaged edges.
- ✔ You want to achieve a very sharp and polished edge on your knives.
- ✔ You are comfortable using water stones and the soaking process.
- ✔ You want a versatile stone for both sharpening and refining.
- ✖ You only need to do occasional touch-ups on slightly dull knives.
- ✖ You prefer a quick, maintenance-free sharpening solution like diamond plates.
How I picked
To put together this list of the best sharpening stones, I followed a pretty thorough process. My goal was to find stones that would work well for a range of users, from beginners to those who are more experienced with knife maintenance.
First, I looked at a variety of sharpening stones based on their material (whetstones, diamond plates) and grit combinations. I paid close attention to stones that offered dual-grit options, as these provide more versatility for different sharpening needs. I also considered stones that came with useful accessories like bases, angle guides, or strops.
Then, I dove into user reviews and manufacturer specifications for each stone. I specifically looked for feedback on how well the stones sharpened different types of steel, how easy they were to use, and how durable they were over time. I also evaluated whether the included accessories were genuinely helpful or just fluff.
Finally, I narrowed down the list to the top 10, focusing on those that offered the best balance of performance, ease of use, durability, and overall value. I made sure to include options for different budgets and skill levels, so everyone could find something that fit their needs. I didn't test for long-term durability beyond what user reviews indicated, as my testing period was focused on immediate performance and initial impressions.
Buying guide — what actually matters for best sharpening stone for knives
When you're looking for the perfect sharpening stone, it's not just about picking one off the shelf. You've got to consider a few key things to make sure you get the best results for your knives and your skills.
Grit: The foundation of your edge
Grit is probably the most important factor. Sharpening stones come with different grit numbers, and the lower the number, the coarser the grit and the more material it removes. Higher grit numbers mean finer grit, which polishes the edge to a sharper, smoother finish.
- Coarse grits (under 1000): These are for repairing significant damage, like chips, or for quickly restoring a very dull edge. Use these sparingly, as they remove a lot of metal.
- Medium grits (1000-3000): This is your workhorse range for general sharpening. A 1000-grit stone is excellent for bringing a dull knife back to a functional sharpness.
- Fine grits (3000-8000+): These are for refining and polishing the edge, creating that razor-sharp, almost mirror-like finish. They deburr the edge and make it incredibly smooth.
Most people will do just fine with a dual-grit stone (like 1000/6000) that covers sharpening and refining.
Material: Whetstone vs. Diamond
The material of your sharpening stone affects how it cuts and how it needs to be maintained.
- Water Stones (Whetstones): These are traditional stones, usually made of aluminum oxide or ceramic. They require soaking in water before use, which creates a slurry that helps with sharpening. They offer a great feel and can produce a very fine polish. However, they can wear down and require flattening over time.
- Diamond Stones: These have tiny diamond particles bonded to a metal surface. They cut very aggressively and don't require soaking (just a drop of water or oil). They are very durable and don't wear down like whetstones. They can be excellent for sharpening very hard steels, but they might not produce as fine a polish as the best water stones.
Ease of use and Stability
A stable sharpening stone is crucial for safety and achieving a consistent angle.
- Non-slip Base: Many stones come with a rubber or silicone base that grips your countertop. This is a huge plus, preventing the stone from sliding around while you're sharpening. If your stone doesn't have one, you can often buy one separately or use a damp cloth underneath to provide some friction.
- Angle Guides: For beginners, an angle guide can be incredibly helpful. It clips onto the spine of your knife and helps you maintain a consistent angle as you move the blade across the stone. This helps prevent gouging or creating an uneven bevel.
Maintenance and Durability
How long your stone will last and what kind of upkeep it needs are also important.
- Flattening: Water stones, especially finer grit ones, can develop a slight curve over time as you use them. This is called "dishing." A flattening stone or a piece of sandpaper on a flat surface (like glass) is needed to keep your water stones perfectly flat for consistent results. Diamond stones generally stay flat much longer.
- Durability: Diamond stones are generally more durable and last longer than whetstones, as they don't wear down as much. Whetstones, while effective, will gradually get smaller with use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a sharpening stone worth it for home use?
Absolutely! While electric sharpeners and pull-through sharpeners are convenient, a good sharpening stone offers superior control and can achieve a much sharper, more refined edge. They also tend to be gentler on your knife blades over time, preserving their lifespan.
For anyone who uses their kitchen knives regularly, investing in a sharpening stone is a game-changer for performance and safety.
How often should I sharpen my knives with a stone?
This depends on how often you use your knives and what you're cutting. For kitchen knives used daily, a quick touch-up on a finer grit stone once a week or every couple of weeks can maintain a good edge. For more significant dulling or damage, you'll need to use a coarser grit.
Some enthusiasts sharpen every few uses, while others do it less frequently.
Do I need different stones for different types of knives?
For general kitchen knives, a dual-grit whetstone (like 1000/6000) is usually sufficient. If you have knives made from very hard steels (common in Japanese knives), you might find that diamond stones or very fine grit water stones work more effectively and efficiently. You can also use different stones for different tasks: a coarse stone for repair, a medium stone for sharpening, and a fine stone or strop for polishing.
How long does a sharpening stone last?
This varies greatly depending on the material and how often it's used. High-quality whetstones, with proper care and regular flattening, can last for many years. Diamond stones are exceptionally durable and can last even longer.
You'll know a stone is nearing the end of its useful life when it becomes significantly dished or the abrasive particles are no longer effective.
Can I use a sharpening stone on serrated knives?
Generally, traditional sharpening stones are not ideal for serrated knives. Serrations have angled teeth that require a different sharpening approach, often using a ceramic rod or a specialized jig. While you can try to sharpen the flat parts of a serrated edge with a stone, it’s difficult to maintain the original geometry.
Final verdict
If you're looking to bring your kitchen knives back to life and maintain a truly sharp edge, the Sharp Pebble Whetstone Knife Sharpener is our top pick. Its excellent 1000/6000 grit combination provides both effective sharpening and a satisfying polish, all while being user-friendly. For those on a tighter budget who still want a quality edge, the KEENBEST 400 1000 Premium Material Whetstone offers great value and reliable performance.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I'd actually buy myself.
