Topex · Reviewed by Kalin Ankov · Published 2026-05-30
Based on a review by Kalin Ankov (accessed 2026-05-30).
Based on this review alone: skip it — significant loss of sharpness (64%) after testing, unless most affordable option at 10 cents per blade is your only priority.
The Stanley FatMax II Tech blade demonstrated the best sharpness retention in this controlled test, followed closely by Milwaukee. Stanley offered a good balance of performance and price. Topex experienced a significant loss of sharpness, and Magus, despite good initial sharpness, lost a substantial amount during the test.
This video conducts a comparative test of five popular utility knife blade brands: Topex, Magus Black Edition, Stanley 1992, Milwaukee, and Stanley FatMax II Tech. The reviewer uses a BESS sharpness tester to objectively measure the initial sharpness of each blade, followed by subjecting them to identical cutting cycles on corrugated cardboard and drywall in a custom-built test setup. The primary goal is to determine which blade best retains its sharpness after use.
This blade is the most budget-friendly option in the test, but its significant sharpness loss after use makes it difficult to recommend for anything beyond light, infrequent tasks. It recorded the highest BESS score of 700g after cutting cardboard and drywall, representing a 64% reduction in sharpness. This poor edge retention positions it as the least durable among the tested blades. If you prioritize the absolute lowest cost for very light-duty, disposable applications, this blade could suffice. However, if consistent cutting performance and lasting sharpness are important, you should definitely look for more durable alternatives.
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The reviewer measured the initial sharpness of each new blade using the BESS tester before any cutting tasks. The results showed that differences in sharpness were already apparent among the blades even before their first cut.
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The reviewer explains using a BESS sharpness tester, model PT50C, which provides a specific numerical value in grams by measuring the force required to cut through a standardized test medium. A lower gram value indicates a sharper blade.
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The reviewer created a custom testing setup designed to ensure identical conditions for all blades, applying a constant load of 2.5 kg to 5 kg. Each blade underwent the same number of cutting cycles on corrugated cardboard and drywall.
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After the controlled cutting test, the Topex blade measured 700g on the BESS tester, indicating approximately a 64% loss of sharpness.
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The Magus blade measured 500g after the test, which corresponds to about a 75% loss of its initial sharpness.
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The standard Stanley blade measured 400g after the cutting test, indicating approximately a 56% loss of sharpness.
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The Milwaukee blade measured 325g after the test, indicating about a 54% loss of sharpness, which was considered a very good performance.
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The Stanley FatMax II Tech blade measured 275g after the test, demonstrating approximately a 45% loss of sharpness, which was the best retention among all tested blades.
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The reviewer listed the per-blade prices for each brand: Topex (10 cents), Magnus Black Edition (14 cents), Stanley 1992 (25 cents), Milwaukee (40 cents), and Stanley FatMax II Tech (53 cents).
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The packaging for the Milwaukee utility knife blades states a claim of 'five times longer life.'
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The packaging for the Stanley FatMax II Tech blades is labeled as having '10 times longer life.'
In the controlled BESS sharpness test conducted on corrugated cardboard and drywall, the Stanley FatMax II Tech blade exhibited the best sharpness retention, losing only 45% of its initial sharpness. The Milwaukee blade followed closely in second place, also showing very good retention.
The reviewer emphasized that while initial sharpness varies among blades, the critical question for practical use is which blade maintains its cutting qualities the longest. A blade that starts very sharp but dulls quickly is less effective in real-world applications than one that retains its edge over time.
The Milwaukee blade, which claims 'five times longer life,' performed very well in sharpness retention, securing second place. The Stanley FatMax II Tech blade, labeled with '10 times longer life,' demonstrated the best retention in the test. While both showed superior performance, the test measured sharpness loss, not a direct validation of the specific 'times longer life' multiples against an unspecified baseline.
Considering both performance and price, the standard Stanley blade (25 cents per blade) showed a 56% loss of sharpness. The reviewer noted this as a good balance, suggesting it provides a favorable price-to-quality ratio, especially when compared to the higher-priced top performers or the less durable budget options.
The Topex blade, priced at 10 cents per blade and presented as a budget option, demonstrated a substantial sharpness loss of approximately 64% after the test. This suggests that while cost-effective upfront, such blades may require more frequent replacement due to poor edge retention, potentially impacting long-term value.
100/100 source quality
This review objectively compares the sharpness retention of five utility knife blades from Topex, Magus, Stanley, Milwaukee, and Stanley FatMax II Tech. Utilizing a BESS sharpness tester and a custom test rig, the blades were measured for initial sharpness and then re-evaluated after consistent use on cardboard and drywall. The methodology aimed to provide a scientific basis for evaluating performance beyond marketing claims. Key findings highlighted superior sharpness retention in Stanley FatMax II Tech and Milwaukee blades, offering valuable insights for consumers.
Full transcript is not redistributed here to respect the original creator’s rights.
This page converts Kalin Ankov's review of the Topex Topex Utility Knife Blade into structured evidence — timestamped claims, pros & cons, and buyer questions. It is not the original review and does not replace watching or reading the full source.