Sharp knife is safer. Less force = more control. How to keep them sharp.
Whetstones
Flat abrasive. Hold angle, draw across. Coarse/medium/fine grits. Complete control. Any knife type. Keenest edges. Lasts decades. Learning curve. 10-20 min per knife.
Electric
Pull through slot. Fast (1 min). No skill. Consistent. Removes excess metal. Fixed angles. Not for single-bevel. Cannot match stone refinement.
Choose
High-quality knives: stones. Mid-range convenience: electric. Middle ground: honing steel between sharpenings. Most important: sharpen regularly.