8 Cutting-Edge Kitchen Knife sets for Students on a Budget

So, you’ve decided to brave the culinary wilderness of student living, haven’t you? Good for you.

You’re probably picturing yourself whipping up gourmet meals, but let’s be real, you’re more likely staring at a sad, blunt butter knife attempting to saw through a potato. This is where we swoop in, because having a decent set of kitchen knives isn’t just about looking fancy; it’s about not losing a finger trying to slice a tomato.

We understand your budget is tighter than a drum, which is precisely why we’re here to guide you through the sharpest (pun intended) and most affordable knife sets available. Investing in one of these sets means you’ll spend less time wrestling with your ingredients and more time actually eating, saving you money on takeaways and helping you impress anyone brave enough to share your kitchen.

Top Picks

What We Looked For: Cutting Through the Nonsense

Choosing a knife set when your wallet feels a bit thin requires some clever thinking, or as we like to call it, strategic budgeting. We weren’t just grabbing any old blade; we focused on what truly matters for the student lifestyle.

Firstly, price was paramount. We made sure these sets wouldn’t force you into a lifetime of instant noodles. Secondly, sharpness and durability were key.

Nobody wants a knife that dulls after its first encounter with a carrot, or one that snaps mid-chop. We also considered safety features, like blade covers, because emergency room visits are expensive and inconvenient. The variety of knives in each set was important too, ensuring you have the right tool for whatever culinary masterpiece (or basic pasta dish) you’re attempting.

Finally, ease of cleaning was a big plus, because let’s face it, nobody enjoys scrubbing endlessly after a long day of lectures.

Amazon Basics 12-Piece Knife Set

Alright, let’s be real, your current kitchen knife situation might involve a butter knife trying its best, or maybe a single, sad, rusty blade you inherited. But fear not, future culinary maestro.

The Amazon Basics 12-Piece Knife Set is here to rescue your kitchen adventures, without requiring you to sell a kidney. This set is basically your culinary starter pack, offering everything from a trusty paring knife for those fiddly bits to a proper chef’s knife for when you’re feeling adventurous (or just chopping a mountain of onions). It’s not just about utility, either; the vibrant colours mean you can pretend you’re a Michelin-star chef organising your tools by mood, or simply avoid cross-contamination by assigning ‘red for meat, blue for veggies’ – a lifesaver when you’re half-asleep. Whether you’re whipping up a quick student stir-fry, attempting a Sunday roast for housemates, or just trying to open a stubborn packet of biscuits, these knives will get the job done.

Plus, with their matching covers, you won’t accidentally impale yourself rummaging through the drawer. For the price of a couple of fancy coffees, you get a whole arsenal that will make you feel like you actually know what you’re doing in the kitchen. Seriously, add this to your basket now; your future self (and your fingers) will thank you.

Saving Your Pennies In The Long Run

Look, buying cheap, flimsy knives means you’ll be replacing them constantly, which totally adds up over time. This Amazon Basics set is surprisingly durable for its price, meaning fewer trips to the shop for replacements and more cash for, well, student things. You might even save a bit on plasters too, thanks to those handy blade covers.

It’s a smart investment in not just your cooking skills, but your future budget.

How Easy Is It To Use

Why This Set Is Your Kitchen BFF

• You get a whole arsenal with 6 different knives, plus matching covers to keep them safe and sound.
• Their durable stainless-steel blades hold an edge pretty well, so you’re not constantly struggling with bluntness.
• The colourful nonstick coating is super handy, making chopping veggies less of a sticky nightmare.
• Each knife is colour-coded, which is brilliant for avoiding mixing up your chicken knife with your carrot knife – major hygiene points.
• Ergonomic handles mean they feel comfy in your hand, even when you’re speed-chopping for a crowd.

Current Price: £10.44

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 24285+)

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Loya Crafts 6-Piece Knife Set

Alright, if you’re still using that one wonky knife you found at the back of the cupboard, it’s time for an upgrade that won’t break your student budget. Enter the Loya Crafts 6-Piece Knife Set, which is basically an instant glow-up for your kitchen.

These aren’t your average flimsy blades; they’re crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, meaning they’re built to last and stay sharp through all your culinary escapades (or just your weekly meal prep). You get a versatile collection of six different knives, ready for everything from expertly dicing an onion without tears (well, fewer tears) to effortlessly slicing that crusty loaf of bread.

The non-stick coating is a total game-changer, making chopping smoother and cleanup less of a dread. And let’s talk about those ergonomic handles – they’re comfortable to hold, even when you’re preparing a feast for your entire flat. Whether you’re experimenting with new recipes or just trying to get dinner on the table without any kitchen mishaps, these knives will make you feel like you actually know what you’re doing. Plus, each knife comes with its own protective sheath, keeping them safe in your drawer and saving your fingers from accidental encounters.

Seriously, for the cost, this set is a genuine winner for any student kitchen.

A Smart Buy For Your Budget

Opting for a durable set like this Loya Crafts one means you’re not constantly replacing dull or broken knives. Their robust stainless steel and protective sheaths are designed for longevity, which translates to fewer unexpected costs down the line.

You’re making a smart investment in tools that will actually last through your student years, saving you money for more important things, like more ingredients (or a cheeky takeaway when cooking isn’t happening).

Are They Easy To Use

What Makes These Knives a Cut Above

• You get six essential knives, covering all your chopping, slicing, and dicing needs, so you’re ready for anything.
• Made with high-carbon stainless steel, these blades are designed to hold their edge, saving you from constant sharpening struggles.
• The non-stick coating means food slides right off, making your cutting tasks much smoother and clean-up a breeze.
• Their ergonomic handles offer a comfy, non-slip grip, so your hands won’t be protesting halfway through cooking.
• Each knife comes with a protective sheath, which is super handy for keeping them sharp and safely stored in your bustling student kitchen drawer.

Current Price: £11.89

Rating: 4.5 (Total: 175+)

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Sharpze 5-Piece Knife Set

Right, if your current knife situation involves wrestling with blunt edges and praying for the best, it’s high time you met the Sharpze 5-Piece Knife Set. This isn’t just a bunch of blades; it’s practically a kitchen intervention for the budget-conscious student. You’re looking at high-carbon stainless steel, which basically means these aren’t giving up on you after a couple of weeks of chopping. They’re designed to stay sharp and withstand the glorious chaos of student cooking.

This snazzy set includes five essential knives: a chef’s knife for all your big chopping dreams, a bread knife for perfectly crusty loaves (no more squished sandwiches), a Santuko knife for versatility, a utility knife for those in-between jobs, and a paring knife for fiddly bits. Each one comes with its own protective blade guard, which is a lifesaver for keeping them safe in your cutlery drawer and your fingers intact.

The ergonomic handles mean you can chop away without your hand feeling like it’s done a marathon. Whether you’re whipping up a gourmet meal for your flatmates or just attempting to make a decent stir-fry, these knives will make you feel like a proper kitchen wizard.

They’re easy to clean too, which is a massive win when you’re short on time and patience. This set is a solid choice for anyone looking to up their kitchen game without emptying their student loan.

A Clever Investment for Your Cash

Choosing a robust set like this Sharpze one means you’re investing in tools that are built to last, sidestepping the annoying cycle of constantly replacing cheap, flimsy knives. The high-carbon stainless steel and anti-rust coating mean these knives are in it for the long haul, reducing your need to shell out more cash later.

Think of it as freeing up more of your precious budget for, say, extra snacks, a decent coffee, or maybe even an actual social life.

How Easy Are They To Handle

What Makes This Set a Sharp Choice

• You get five essential knives, covering all your chopping, slicing, and dicing needs, so you’re ready for any recipe.
• Crafted with high-carbon stainless steel, these blades promise durability and a longer-lasting edge, saving you from constant re-sharpening.
• The ergonomic, non-slip handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, making food prep safer and less tiring.
• Each knife comes with a protective blade guard, keeping them neatly stored and your fingers out of harm’s way.
• Designed with an anti-rust nonstick coating, making cleanup less of a chore and keeping your knives looking fab.

Current Price: £15.99

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 2769+)

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Home Hero 5-Piece Knife Set

Alright, hands up if you’ve ever tried to slice a tomato with a butter knife because your ‘proper’ knives are just… sad.

Been there, done that, nearly lost a finger. That’s where the Home Hero 5-Piece Knife Set swoops in to save your culinary dignity.

This isn’t just a collection of blades; it’s practically a declaration that you’re ready to tackle proper cooking, even on a student budget. You get a fantastic five pieces: a trusty chef knife for your main chopping duties, a bread knife that actually works (no more squashed loaves), a carving knife for those ambitious roast dinners (or, let’s be real, hacking apart a pizza), a utility knife for everything in between, and a handy paring knife for the smaller, fiddlier bits.

Each one comes with its own sheath, which is a genius move for keeping them sharp and your fingers safe in a crowded drawer. Plus, Home Hero chucks in a two-stage sharpener, so you can keep these bad boys in tip-top slicing condition for ages.

The non-stick coating is a dream for easy food release and even easier cleaning – seriously, who has time for scrubbing glued-on food? And with those ergonomic handles, you’ll be chopping comfortably and safely.

Whether you’re making a quick stir-fry or trying to impress housemates with a semi-fancy meal, this set has got your back. It’s a proper kitchen upgrade without the eye-watering price tag.

Cooking Smart, Spending Less

Think of this Home Hero set as your kitchen companion for years, not just a fleeting fling. By investing in quality stainless steel knives that come with their own sharpener, you’re pretty much signing up for a long-term relationship with sharp blades.

No more throwing out dull, cheap knives every few months and having to shell out for new ones. Plus, the sheaths and non-stick coating help them last, saving you hassle and cash in the long run. That’s more money in your pocket for important things, like takeaways when cooking feels like too much effort, or maybe even those textbooks you keep forgetting about.

Getting Started Is A Piece Of Cake

Why This Set Slices Above The Rest

• You get a comprehensive 5-piece set, including a chef, bread, carving, utility, and paring knife, covering all your daily kitchen needs.
• A two-stage knife sharpener is included, ensuring your blades stay incredibly sharp for the long haul.
• Crafted from durable 3Cr13 stainless steel, these knives are built to last, and individual sheaths protect the blades.
• A clever non-stick coating means food slides right off, making both slicing and cleanup a breeze.
• The ergonomic handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, making every chop safer and more controlled.

Current Price: £16.98

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 17045+)

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Yabano 7-Piece Knife Set

Ever tried to prep a meal with blunt knives that make you question your life choices. You know, when chopping an onion feels like a wrestling match. Well, let’s talk about the Yabano 7-Piece Knife Set, because it’s here to rescue your kitchen adventures.

This isn’t just a handful of blades; it’s a full-on starter kit for culinary triumph, perfect if you’re living that student life on a budget. You get a solid lineup: a chef’s knife for your big chopping tasks, a bread knife that won’t mangle your sourdough (or cheap supermarket loaf), a slicing knife, a utility knife for those in-between moments, a paring knife for fiddly bits, and even kitchen scissors – because let’s be honest, you’ll use those more than you think.

All of this comes neatly tucked away in a sleek PE knife block. What’s cool about that.

It’s not wood, so it’s super easy to keep clean and won’t absorb smells or moisture. Plus, the knives themselves are rust-resistant with a non-stick coating, so food doesn’t cling on for dear life, making cleanup a breeze.

And here’s the kicker: the block has a built-in sharpener. That means no more sad, dull blades or fumbling with a separate tool. Whether you’re whipping up a quick student stir-fry, attempting a Sunday roast, or just trying to open a stubborn food package, this set has you covered. It’s a smart, affordable choice that’ll make you feel like a proper chef, even if you’re mostly making instant noodles.

Smart Spending For Sharp Savings

Let’s be real, you’re on a student budget, and every penny counts. This Yabano set is a champion when it comes to long-term value. With rust-resistant, durable stainless steel blades and a smart PE block that’s easy to maintain, you’re looking at a set that’s built to last. No more replacing cheap, rusty knives every year.

The absolute game-changer here is the built-in sharpener in the block – this means you can easily keep your blades keen as a razor, saving you money on professional sharpening services or constantly buying new knives. Think of it as investing in your future culinary self, freeing up your cash for, well, whatever else students spend money on. Like more avocado toast.

Effortless Kitchen Prep

Why This Set Cuts The Mustard

• You get a comprehensive 7-piece collection, including essential knives, kitchen scissors, and a handy knife block.
• The knives feature a ceramic non-stick coating, so your food glides off, making slicing easier and cleaning simpler.
• A clever PE knife block is included, which is waterproof and designed to maintain its looks without the fuss of wood.
• The block has a built-in sharpener, letting you keep your blades razor-sharp without needing extra tools.
• Ergonomic, lightweight handles with non-slip air holes ensure comfort and safety during all your chopping escapades.

Current Price: £22.99

Rating: 4.5 (Total: 252+)

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Joyfair 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set

Alright, let’s talk about the Joyfair 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set. If you’re anything like me, your current ‘knife collection’ probably consists of a single blunt butter knife and a pair of questionable scissors.

But imagine this: a full arsenal of sharp, professional-grade blades all in one place. This set is basically your culinary starter pack on steroids, especially if you’re trying to impress flatmates (or just feed yourself properly).

You get everything from a beefy chef knife for those serious chopping sessions to six steak knives, so everyone at your next dinner party (or microwave meal night) feels fancy. They’re made from high-carbon stainless steel, meaning they’re built to stay sharp and resist rust – a student miracle.

Plus, they come with a sleek black block to keep everything organised and safe, and yes, it even includes a sharpener. No more struggling with squishy tomatoes or tearing up your bread. This set makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like you actually know what you’re doing. Perfect for daily use, or when you’re attempting that ambitious recipe your mum sent you.

Future-Proof Your Kitchen (And Wallet)

Investing in the Joyfair 15-piece set is a savvy move for your student budget. You’re not just buying knives; you’re buying a complete, durable solution. Because they’re high-carbon stainless steel with anti-rust coatings, these blades are built to last, saving you from constantly replacing worn-out tools. The included sharpener is a total game-changer, meaning you can keep them razor-sharp yourself, cutting down on replacement costs or professional sharpening fees.

And with 15 pieces, you won’t find yourself needing to buy extra specialized knives down the line. It’s an upfront cost that pays dividends in convenience and savings, letting you save your hard-earned cash for more important things, like takeaways when cooking doesn’t happen.

Chopping Made Easy

Why This Set Is A Cut Above

• You get a whopping 15 pieces, including six steak knives, chef’s knife, bread knife, scissors, and a sharpener, covering all your kitchen needs from prep to plate.
• Made from high-quality carbon stainless steel, these knives are designed for precise, easy cutting and are rust-free, making them super durable.
• Ergonomically designed handles give you a comfy, secure grip, so your hand won’t ache, even during long cooking sessions.
• The stylish black knife block keeps everything tidy and safe, with individual slots. Plus, the smooth surface means they’re a breeze to clean by hand.
• It comes with a sharpener to keep your blades perpetually keen, saving you from dull knife frustration.

Current Price: £26.99

Rating: 4.8 (Total: 8+)

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ACOQOOS 14-Piece Knife Set

Right, let’s talk about the ACOQOOS 14-Piece Knife Set. If your idea of ‘cooking’ currently involves more wrestling with sad, blunt knives than actual food prep, this set might just be your kitchen’s new best friend.

Imagine gliding through tomatoes and crusty bread with satisfying ease. This comprehensive collection gives you everything you could possibly need – from a hefty chef’s knife for serious chopping to a full set of steak knives for when you’re feeling fancy (or just making a big sandwich). The super handy built-in sharpener means you’ll never have to suffer a dull blade again, saving you from culinary frustration. Plus, they’re crafted from high-carbon stainless steel with a non-stick, rust-resistant coating, which is basically a fancy way of saying they’re tough, stay sharp, and clean up like a dream.

The sleek block keeps them all tidily tucked away, making your kitchen look a bit more grown-up, even if your diet still largely consists of instant noodles. Perfect for everyday student meals or when you decide to brave a proper dinner party.

Smart Spending for Sharp Cuts

Thinking about the long game (because even students do that sometimes), this ACOQOOS set is a smart investment that actually saves you cash. Because they’re built with high-quality stainless steel and that anti-rust coating, these knives are practically indestructible, so you won’t be constantly forking out for replacements. The real gem is that built-in sharpener; it means you can keep your blades performing like new, skipping expensive professional sharpening services or the need to buy separate tools. With 14 pieces, you’ve got every knife covered, so no impulse buys for that ‘one specific knife’ you suddenly need.

More money left over for pizza, anyone?

Effortless Prep Time

Why This Set Is a Kitchen Hero

• You’re getting a fantastic 14-piece lineup, including six steak knives, kitchen shears, and all the essential blades you’ll ever need for daily chopping, slicing, and dicing.
• The clever built-in sharpener in the block is a lifesaver, meaning your knives stay razor-sharp with minimal effort and no extra gadgets needed.
• Made from durable high-carbon stainless steel with a non-stick, rust-resistant coating, these knives are designed to last and make food prep feel smooth and effortless.
• With their ergonomic handles, you’ll find these knives super comfortable to hold, even when you’re tackling a mountain of veggies for a big batch cook.
• The stylish knife block keeps everything neatly organised and safe on your counter, adding a touch of class to your student digs.

Current Price: £49.99

Rating: 4.5 (Total: 3792+)

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HOBO 15-Piece Chef Knife Set

Alright, let’s dive into the HOBO 15-Piece Chef Knife Set. If your current kitchen adventures involve more blunt-force trauma than precise slicing, this collection could be your culinary saviour.

It’s a seriously comprehensive kit, giving you everything you could possibly need: a versatile chef’s knife, a bread knife for those crusty loaves, a handy santoku, utility and paring knives for the finer details, plus six steak knives for when you’re feeling a bit posh. You even get kitchen scissors and a sharpener, all neatly tucked into a wooden block.

These blades are crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, which sounds fancy but really just means they’re built to stay sharp and resist rust – so no more wrestling with a tomato. The wooden handles feel good in your hand, making everyday chopping a breeze.

This set is a solid, practical choice for any student wanting to upgrade their kitchen arsenal without spending a fortune, perfect for whipping up everything from quick snacks to a proper Sunday roast.

Saving Your Pennies, One Slice At A Time

Let’s be real, student budgets are tight. That’s why the HOBO 15-Piece Chef Knife Set is actually a clever long-term investment. Unlike those flimsy supermarket knives that warp after a few uses, these high-carbon stainless steel beauties are built to last.

You won’t be constantly forking out for new individual knives because this comprehensive set has you covered from day one. Plus, with the included sharpener, you can maintain their edge yourself, dodging expensive professional sharpening fees down the line.

It’s a one-and-done solution for all your slicing needs, meaning more money stays in your pocket for important things, like takeaway or textbooks (maybe).

Cutting Made Simple

Why This Set Is a Kitchen Must-Have

• You’re getting a full 15-piece assortment, including a variety of kitchen knives, scissors, a sharpener, and six steak knives – basically, every cutting tool imaginable.
• The blades are made from high-carbon stainless steel with hand-polished edges, meaning they start off super sharp and are ready to tackle anything you throw at them.
• Designed for comfort and control, the knives are well-weighted and feature ergonomic Pakkawood handles that are a joy to hold during all your chopping escapades.
• The included wooden block isn’t just for show; it keeps all your knives organised and safe on the counter, making your student kitchen look much more put together.
• This set offers impressive durability, built to withstand daily use, so you won’t be needing replacements any time soon.

Current Price: £67.98

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 1541+)

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FAQ

How sharp are these “cutting-edge” knives, really, and do they stay that way for a student’s chaotic kitchen?

You’ll be pleased to know that many of these budget beauties arrive razor sharp straight out of the box, ready to tackle anything from a stubborn avocado to a sad-looking onion. Reviewers often rave about how effortlessly they glide through food. While they might not maintain that initial surgical edge indefinitely (let’s be real, you’re not a Michelin-starred chef, you’re a student!), a quick rub on a knife sharpener (some sets even include one, like the Home Hero at £16.98 or ACOQOOS at £49.99!) or even the bottom of a ceramic bowl will get them back in slicing shape.

Think of it as a low-effort gym for your blades. Prices vary, with a 12-piece Amazon Basics set at about £10.44, up to a 15-piece HOBO set at £67.98.

You’ll definitely notice the difference from that rusty butter knife you’ve been using!

Given the budget, will these knife sets survive the student lifestyle, or will they rust quicker than your motivation to do laundry?

Ah, the age-old question of durability versus dodgy student habits! Most of these knives boast stainless steel blades, which are generally rust-resistant. However, a little TLC goes a long way.

While some, like the LOYA CRAFTS set at £11.89, claim to be dishwasher safe, reviews often suggest hand washing and immediate drying is best practice to prevent any cheeky rust spots or dulling. The Amazon Basics set, priced at £10.44, explicitly says “No” to the dishwasher, so heed that warning unless you fancy a rusty surprise.

Treat them kindly, and they’ll likely outlast your questionable takeaways. Just try not to leave them soaking in the sink overnight – your flatmates will thank you, and your knives will too!

What’s typically included in these budget-friendly knife sets, and are they safe for clumsy student hands?

You’re in luck! These sets usually cover the basics you’ll need for whipping up student-chef masterpieces.

You can expect a versatile collection that often includes a chef’s knife, a utility knife, a bread knife, and a paring knife. Some larger sets, like the 15-piece Joyfair for £26.99 or the 14-piece ACOQOOS for £49.99, might even throw in steak knives or kitchen scissors for good measure.

Safety is surprisingly well-considered too. Many sets, such as the Amazon Basics or Sharpze (at £15.99), come with individual protective sheaths or covers for each blade, meaning no more accidental finger decorations when rummaging through the cutlery drawer.

Others, like the Yabano set at £22.99, include a handy knife block to keep everything organised and safely tucked away. Your digits will appreciate the thought!

Student Scran Slicers

Student Scran Slicers are, quite simply, the essential cutlery arsenal you deploy against the daily culinary chaos of university life. When choosing between the Amazon Basics 12-piece, Loya Crafts 6-piece, or Sharpze 5-piece sets, youre primarily weighing up quantity versus actual cutting efficacy – do you need a blade for every possible (and impossible) kitchen mishap, or just a few that actually make it through that dodgy frozen pizza?

Ultimately, its a strategic decision between sheer number of knives and the desperate hope they’ll still have an edge after a week of student-level abuse.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a rundown of some truly affordable and capable knife sets that won’t leave your bank account in tears. Equipping yourself with a decent set of knives is more than just a kitchen upgrade; it’s a step towards culinary independence and avoiding those inevitable takeaways.

You’ve seen that even on a shoestring budget, you can find sharp, durable, and safe tools that will make your student cooking adventures much more palatable. Forget struggling with blunt edges; now you can slice, dice, and chop your way to deliciousness without breaking the bank.

Happy cooking, and try not to cut yourself.

Product	Image	Rating	Price	Number Of Pieces	Blade Material	Handle Material
Amazon Basics 12-Piece Knife Set		4.7/5 (24,285 reviews)	£10.44	12	Stainless Steel	Plastic
Professional Kitchen Knives Set of 6		4.5/5 (175 reviews)	£11.89	6	High Carbon Stainless Steel	Polypropylene and Thermoplastic Rubber
Kitchen Knife Set of 5		4.6/5 (2,769 reviews)	£15.99	5	High Carbon Stainless Steel	Plastic
Home Hero Ultra-Sharp Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set		4.6/5 (17,045 reviews)	£16.98	5	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel
Yabano No Rust Kitchen Knives with PE Universal Knife Block		4.5/5 (252 reviews)	£22.99	7	High Carbon Stainless Steel	Plastic
Joyfair Kitchen Knife Set, 15 Pieces		4.8/5 (8 reviews)	£26.99	15	Stainless Steel with Non-stick Coating	Plastic

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