The latest CS2 Trade Up update has dramatically reshaped the skin market, causing prices of many knives to drop or spike overnight. For players looking to add a knife to their loadout without spending thousands, this is the perfect time to buy.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the best cheap CS2 knives under $350 available after the update — ranked by price, rarity, and overall visual appeal. No matter if you’re a collector chasing unique patterns or a budget-minded player who just wants a clean blade, these knives deliver high style without breaking the bank.
Contents
- 1 CS2 Trade Up Update and Knife Market Shift
- 2 Top Affordable CS2 Knives After Update
- 3 Flip Knife | Autotronic
- 4 Huntsman Knife | Tiger Tooth
- 5 Bayonet | Bright Water
- 6 Bayonet | Black Laminate
- 7 Ursus Knife | Tiger Tooth
- 8 Bayonet | Stained
- 9 Stiletto Knife | Stained
- 10 Falchion Knife | Tiger Tooth
- 11 Gut Knife | Gamma Doppler
- 12 Survival Knife | Marble Fade
- 13 Bowie Knife | Crimson Web
- 14 Nomad Knife | Damascus Steel
- 15 Shadow Daggers | Doppler
- 16 Skeleton Knife | Rust Coat
- 17 Bowie Knife | Lore
- 18 Conclusion: Which Cheap Knife Is Worth It in 2025?
- 19 FAQ – Cheap CS2 Knives (2025 Update)
- 20 What is the cheapest knife in CS2 right now?
- 21 Can you get knives from Trade Up contracts in CS2?
- 22 Are cheap CS2 knives a good investment?
CS2 Trade Up Update and Knife Market Shift
The October 2025 Trade Up update completely reshaped how players obtain knives in CS2.
Since you can now craft knives through Trade Ups, the supply of certain models increased — lowering prices on some, while making rare patterns more desirable.
For a full overview of the new system, check out our detailed guide — CS2 Knife Crafting Explained.
Top Affordable CS2 Knives After Update
| Knife | Release Date | Starting Price (USD) | Quality | Case(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flip Knife | Autotronic | June 16, 2016 | ~$325 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Gamma Case, Gamma Case 2 |
| Huntsman Knife | Tiger Tooth | March 16, 2017 | ~$266 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Spectrum Case, Spectrum 2 Case |
| Bayonet | Bright Water | June 16, 2016 | ~$259 (Factory New) | Covert Knife | Gamma Case, Gamma 2 Case |
| Bayonet | Black Laminate | June 16, 2016 | ~$246 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Gamma Case, Gamma 2 Case |
| Ursus Knife | Tiger Tooth | March 14, 2019 | ~$235 (Factory New) | Covert Knife | Prisma Case, Prisma 2 Case |
| Bayonet | Stained | August 14, 2013 | ~$229 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Multiple cases (Vanguard, Phoenix, Bravo, eSports, etc.) |
| Stiletto Knife | Stained | August 3, 2018 | ~$229 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Horizon Case, Danger Zone Case |
| Falchion Knife | Tiger Tooth | March 16, 2017 | ~$229 (Factory New) | Covert Knife | Spectrum Case, Spectrum 2 Case |
| Gut Knife | Gamma Doppler | June 16, 2016 | ~$221 (Factory New) | Covert Knife | Gamma Case, Gamma 2 Case |
| Survival Knife | Marble Fade | April 3, 2025 | ~$220 (Factory New) | Covert Knife | Fever Case |
| Bowie Knife | Crimson Web | February 18, 2015 | ~$212 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Operation Wildfire Case |
| Nomad Knife | Damascus Steel | April 3, 2025 | ~$209 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Fever Case |
| Shadow Daggers | Doppler | March 16, 2017 | ~$201 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Spectrum Case, Spectrum 2 Case |
| Skeleton Knife | Rust Coat | April 3, 2025 | ~$199 (Well-Worn) | Covert Knife | Fever Case |
| Bowie Knife | Lore | September 22, 2021 | ~$194 (Minimal Wear) | Covert Knife | Operation Riptide Case, Dreams & Nightmares Case |
Each knife on this list was selected based on:
- Market price (under $325) on Steam Market
- Visual appeal and pattern uniqueness
- Popularity among players and traders after the Trade Up update
The knives in this list are arranged from highest to lowest price.
If you’re specifically aiming to craft a Butterfly Knife, see our step-by-step tutorial — How to Craft a Butterfly Knife in CS2.
Flip Knife | Autotronic
- Release Date: June 16, 2016
- Price: starting ~$325 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Gamma Case, Gamma Case 2
The Flip Knife | Autotronic in CS2 features a sleek, futuristic design with a metallic red blade accented by silver edges and a black frame, giving it a high-tech, mechanical vibe. Its hollow sections and anodized finish make it stand out as one of the most visually striking knives in the game.
Huntsman Knife | Tiger Tooth
- Release Date: March 16, 2017
- Price: starting ~$266 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Spectrum 2 Case, Spectrum Case
The Huntsman Knife | Tiger Tooth in CS2 showcases a bright, golden-yellow blade with bold tiger stripe patterns etched across its surface. Its angular, tactical shape and polished finish give it a fierce, premium look that perfectly matches its aggressive name.
Bayonet | Bright Water
- Release Date: June 16, 2016
- Price: starting ~$259 (Factory New)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Gamma Case, Gamma 2 Case
The Bayonet | Bright Water in CS2 features a cool blue camouflage pattern that blends shades of navy, aqua, and teal across its blade. Combined with its sleek, military-style bayonet shape, it gives off a clean, aquatic aesthetic that stands out among classic knife designs.
Bayonet | Black Laminate
- Release Date: June 16, 2016
- Price: starting ~$238 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Gamma Case, Gamma 2 Case
The Bayonet | Black Laminate in CS2 sports a dark, refined look with a matte black blade accented by subtle gray laminate patterns. Its minimalist, tactical design gives it a stealthy and professional appearance favored by collectors who prefer understated elegance.
Ursus Knife | Tiger Tooth
- Release Date: March 14, 2019
- Price: starting ~$235 (Factory New)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Prisma 2 Case, Prisma Case
The Ursus Knife | Tiger Tooth in CS2 features a vibrant golden blade with sharp black tiger stripes running along its curved edge. Its solid, no-handle design and mirror-like polish make it both bold and elegant — a perfect mix of ferocity and style.
Bayonet | Stained
- Release Date: August 14, 2013
- Price: starting ~$229 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Revolver Case, Operation Vanguard Weapon Case, Operation Phoenix Weapon Case, Winter Offensive Weapon Case, CS:GO Weapon Case 3, eSports 2013 Winter Case, CS:GO Weapon Case 2, eSports 2014 Summer Case, Operation Bravo Case, eSports 2013 Case, CS:GO Weapon Case
The Bayonet | Stained in CS2 has a weathered, silver-gray blade with a tarnished, uneven finish that gives it a battle-worn, realistic look. Its subtle discoloration and aged metal texture make it feel like a trusted weapon that’s seen countless battles.
Stiletto Knife | Stained
- Release Date: August 3, 2018
- Price: starting ~$229 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Danger Zone Case, Horizon Case
The Stiletto Knife | Stained in CS2 features a slender, needle-like blade with a faded silver finish covered in natural wear and light discoloration. Its classic Italian switchblade design combined with the stained, aged metal gives it a vintage yet dangerous aesthetic.
Falchion Knife | Tiger Tooth
- Release Date: March 16, 2017
- Price: starting ~$229 (Factory New)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Spectrum 2 Case, Spectrum Case
The Falchion Knife | Tiger Tooth in CS2 boasts a curved, golden blade decorated with bold black tiger stripes that shimmer under light. Its distinct sweeping shape and polished finish give it a striking, exotic look that perfectly balances style and aggression.
Gut Knife | Gamma Doppler
- Release Date: June 16, 2016
- Price: starting ~$221 (Factory New)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Gamma Case, Gamma 2 Case
The Gut Knife | Gamma Doppler in CS2 showcases a vibrant green and black blade with a mesmerizing, marble-like gradient pattern that shifts with the light. Its unique gut hook and glossy finish give it a bold, futuristic appearance that stands out in any loadout.
Survival Knife | Marble Fade
- Release Date: April 3, 2025
- Price: starting ~$220 (Factory New)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Case: Fever Case
The Survival Knife | Marble Fade in CS2 features a vivid, tri-colored blade blending red, blue, and yellow hues in a smooth, flame-like gradient. Its rugged, serrated spine and tactical handle give it a battle-ready look that contrasts beautifully with its colorful, artistic finish.
Bowie Knife | Crimson Web
- Release Date: February 18, 2015
- Price: starting ~$212 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Case: Operation Wildfire Case
The Bowie Knife | Crimson Web in CS2 sports a deep red blade overlaid with a black spiderweb pattern, creating a bold and menacing aesthetic. Its large, heavy design and glossy crimson finish make it a standout choice for players who like dramatic, eye-catching skins.
Nomad Knife | Damascus Steel
- Release Date: April 3, 2025
- Price: starting ~$209 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Case: Fever Case
The Nomad Knife | Damascus Steel in CS2 features a sleek silver blade adorned with the distinct swirling patterns of folded Damascus metal. Its rugged, survival-style build and textured steel finish give it a refined yet battle-hardened appearance.
Shadow Daggers | Doppler
- Release Date: March 16, 2017
- Price: starting ~$201 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Spectrum 2 Case, Spectrum Case
The Shadow Daggers | Doppler in CS2 showcase a pair of dual blades with a glossy, color-shifting finish that blends deep purples, blues, and pinks. Their compact, symmetrical design combined with the vibrant Doppler gradient gives them a sleek, modern, and flashy appeal.
Skeleton Knife | Rust Coat
- Release Date: April 3, 2025
- Price: starting ~$199 (Well-Worn)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Case: Fever Case
The Skeleton Knife | Rust Coat in CS2 has a worn, corroded blade covered in patches of orange-brown rust that highlight its rugged, post-apocalyptic style. Its bare metal handle and minimalist frame give it a raw, survivalist look that feels both gritty and authentic.
Bowie Knife | Lore
- Release Date: September 22, 2021
- Price: starting ~$194 (Minimal Wear)
- Quality: Covert Knife
- Cases: Operation Riptide Case, Dreams & Nightmares Case
The Bowie Knife | Lore in CS2 features a gold-accented blade engraved with an intricate Celtic-inspired pattern along its edge. Paired with its dark green handle and imposing size, it exudes a legendary, high-end aesthetic reminiscent of ancient craftsmanship.
Conclusion: Which Cheap Knife Is Worth It in 2025?
If you’re after the best-looking knife for value, the Flip Knife | Autotronic and Falchion Knife | Tiger Tooth lead the pack with modern finishes and bright color appeal.
For traders and investors, knives like the Nomad Knife | Damascus Steel and Bowie Knife | Lore are likely to hold strong long-term value because of their rarity and case exclusivity.
The CS2 Trade Up update has created a window where some knives are undervalued — perfect for anyone looking to start or expand their collection before prices rise again.
FAQ – Cheap CS2 Knives (2025 Update)
What is the cheapest knife in CS2 right now?
As of late 2025, the Skeleton Knife | Rust Coat and Bowie Knife | Lore are among the most affordable knives, both priced under $200 on the Steam Market. Their lower cost makes them excellent entry-level picks for new collectors.
Can you get knives from Trade Up contracts in CS2?
Yes — following the 2025 Trade Up update, players can now use 10 Covert skins of the same rarity to craft a knife. This new system reshaped the CS2 economy, making certain knife models more accessible and lowering entry prices for players.
Are cheap CS2 knives a good investment?
They can be. Skins linked to discontinued cases or unique finishes (like Lore, Damascus Steel, or Tiger Tooth) often gain value over time. Buying during market dips — especially after major updates — can lead to solid long-term returns for traders and collectors alike.
