Every functioning (or at least semi-functioning) adult needs a good set of flatware. And ideally, we're talking about flatware that can be used for every occasion, be it a dressy dinner party or just a regular weeknight meal. The thing is, there are seemingly endless options when it comes to flatware. There are different finishes, materials, textures, designs, and colors to choose from. Some flatware is more contemporary, some more traditional; some flatware was made to stand the test of time, some wasn't made to withstand the dishwasher. So, how do you even know where to start, or how to pick the right flatware for your household? Luckily for you, we've already done the work of researching and vetting flatware sets, so you don't have to. And here, grouped by category, are some of the best of them. AmazonBasics 65-Piece Flatware Set Sheer PerfectionThis AmazonBasics flatware set wins on all counts: style, versatility, size, and durability. Best OverallFind on Amazon A good set of flatware should be versatile, classic, easy to hold, and easy to clean. Ideally, it should also be made from excellent quality stainless steel – and the 65-piece set from AmazonBasics nails these criteria on all counts. This flatware has simple, clean, yet elegant lines that make it appropriate for fancy gatherings as well as everyday meals, and crucially, it’s pleasurable to hold, as well as dishwasher-safe. We also really love that you get to select from several design options, including square, round, scalloped, or pearled edge. There’s even a one-year warranty, but there’s no doubt that you’ll have this flatware for years and years to come. Pros: High-quality stainless steel with a polished silver finish Simple, clean, elegant lines Dishwasher-safe The perfect weight Backed by a one-year (limited) warranty Choose between pearled, round, scalloped, or square edge Cons: You can’t leave this flatware soaking in water overnight (or for more than a few hours) Lianyu 68-Piece Silverware Set Serve Meals in StyleGet ready for some serious dinner parties when you invest in this Lianyu flatware set.Best with Serving UtensilsFind on Amazon The Lianyu 68-piece silverware set comes with everything you need to throw a dinner party, or just to serve yourself dinner every night. In addition to all the usual suspects (salad fork, teaspoon, butter knife, etc.), this set comes with every possible serving utensil, including a serving spoon, slotted spoon, pizza server, and salad server. Made from top-notch stainless steel, every piece is lightweight and well-balanced, and each gleams with a shining mirror polish. The lines are clean and classic with no decorative frills. All in all, if you don’t want to spend extra money buying serving utensils, this is the flatware set to get. Pros: Perfect for everyday use or special occasions (contains 12 complete place settings) Comes with all the serving utensils you need Made from pure, rust-resistant stainless steel Superior mirror polish You can choose from a 48-piece or 68-piece Comes with a nice gift box Cons: On the pricey end Topbooc Store Portable Flatware Set On the GoThe Topbooc Portable Flatware Set is your best bet for road trip-friendly utensils.Best for TravelFind on Amazon If you love taking road trips and going camping, then you absolutely need this set from Topbooc. Sure, it has all the essentials, but it’s also very easy to transport and carry thanks to the ultra-lightweight feel. The materials are plenty durable, though, and each piece is smooth and simply designed with no rough edges. All that, and this set comes at a very accessible price point. Say hello to your new favorite flatware for your travels. Pros: Very easy to carry and transport Lightweight pieces Simple, smooth design, without rough spots Excellent value Cons: Slightly flimsy (although this is be expected of most portable flatware) Artaste Stainless Steel Flatware Set Practical-Chic at its FinestSimple, classic, and unfussy; that's this lovely flatware set from Artaste.Best 36-Piece SetFind on Amazon The Artaste Stainless Steel Flatware Set will take you from casual to formal and back again, with its top-of-the-line 18/10 stainless steel construction, elegant-yet-practical style, and thick, ergonomic handles that make each piece feel perfectly balanced in your hand. This flatware also has a gorgeous gleam to it, with a reflective mirror finish that shines like a metal sun and looks great with virtually all of your dishes. You can choose from one of four shades (gold, silver, copper, and black); and, rest assured that every piece is dishwasher-safe. Pros: Made from 18/10 stainless steel (you can’t get better quality than this) Expertly crafted and will last for years Elegant, chic rain pattern and reflective mirror finish Extra-thick ergonomic handle Choose from one of four classy shades: copper, black, silver, and gold Cons: Pretty prone to spotting E-Far Store Hammered Silverware Set A Truly Eye-Catching LookFor something a little different, the E-Far Flatware Set is a cool, ultra-modern find.Best Modern DesignFind on Amazon To add some contemporary flair to your dinner table, opt for E-Far’s hammered silverware set. This chic, modern set is made from top-quality 18/0 stainless steel to prevent rust and corroding, and it’s the ideal weight: not too flimsy, not too heavy. However, it’s the design that sets this flatware apart from the crowd – each piece features a square handle with a cool hammered design on the front side. Pros: Super-cool hammered style on the front side of each square handle Shiny mirror finish Made from 18/0 stainless steel to prevent rust and fading Medium weight and a comfy grip Durable enough for everyday use Cons: The fork tines are rather sharp, so you have to be careful when using these Frequently Asked Questions What should I look for in a good flatware set? First and foremost, you should look for a flatware set that you can use for multiple occasions, in a range of dining situations. (There’s no use keeping a fancy set of silverware on hand because you’ll likely only use it once or twice a year, if that.) Next, it’s important to consider the percentages of nickel and chromium. Nickel is what keeps silverware from rusting and fading, so a high percentage of this ingredient is crucial. And of course, budget and quantity are important factors, as well – before shopping for flatware, you should determine how many place settings you’ll need and how much you’re willing to spend. What materials are the highest-quality in a good flatware set? Stainless steel and sterling silver are two of the best materials for flatware. However, do note that, while sterling silver is gorgeous, it’s much harder to care for – you have to polish it regularly, and you can’t put it in the dishwasher. With stainless steel, as we’ve already discussed, it’s crucial to look for a high percentage of nickel and chromium (especially nickel)—in fact, it’s best to go with 18/10 or 18/8 stainless steel. Related posts:Powered by SearchIQ The Best Raised Dog Bowls Read more The Top 5 Best Glass Dog Bowls For Clean Chow Read more The Best Leash and Collar Sets Read more