What's the difference between German-style and Japanese-style knife sets?

German-style sets (like McCook and Henckels in this list) tend to use softer, tougher stainless steel with heavier, more durable blades that are easy to maintain and forgiving of abuse. Japanese-style sets (Imarku, Mitsumoto Sakari, HOSHANHO) typically use harder high-carbon steel for thinner, sharper edges, though reviewers note they can be more delicate. Both styles appear across the well-reviewed picks here.