"World's first ultrasonic chef's knife" vibrates for easier chopping

At the CES tech fair in Las Vegas, US manufacturer Seattle Ultrasonics is presenting its ultrasonic C-200 knife, which vibrates over 30,000 times per second to create cleaner, smoother cuts.

These high-frequency vibrations, which can't be seen, heard or felt, reduce friction and, according to Seattle Ultrasonics, allow the eight-inch knife to behave "sharper than it physically is"

Founder Scott Heimendinger spent six years creating the C-200 knife, which is based on ultrasonic technologies he witnessed being used in industrial cutting machines.

"I asked myself, 'could I fit that technology into a chef's knife?'," Heimendinger said. "After years of research, development and more than a few setbacks, the answer is yes."

The ultrasonic knife vibrates more than 30,000 times per second

An orange button on the knife's handle activates piezoelectric ceramic crystals mounted to the blade, which expand and contract at a microscopic level to produce shock waves that cause the metal to vibrate more than 30,000 times per second.

This helps reduce friction from the blade so that cuts require up to 50 per cent less force, according to Heimendinger, who previously worked as director of applied research at the Modernist Cuisine culinary laboratory.

The ultrasonic resonance of the blade also creates a "non-stick" effect that prevents soft and sticky foods from clinging to the surface and makes the knife easier to clean.

C-200 is designed to perform well even without the ultrasonic function, thanks to a blade made from triple-ply Japanese steel.

A removable battery pack concealed in the handle allows for cordless operation and charging using a USB-C cable.

An optional wireless charging tile made from solid hardwood offers invisible charging with magnetic attachment, so the knife and charger can be mounted on a wall.

The C-200 knife is available for pre-order from the manufacturer, with expected delivery in January 2026.

Other highlights from this year's CES include a biodegradable paper battery, headphones that twist to turn into a speaker and smart Lego bricks.

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is on in Las Vegas, USA from 6 to 9 January 2026. See Dezeen Events Guide for an up-to-date list of architecture and design events taking place around the world.

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