Is it better to buy a knife set or individual knives?

The r/chefknives consensus is consistent: serious cooks are usually better served buying a chef's knife, a paring knife, and a bread knife individually rather than a 15+ piece block set, because most large sets pad the count with steak knives and shears. Block sets still make sense if you want a coordinated look, gift-ready packaging, or a one-purchase kitchen setup.