Should You Choose Knobs or Handles For Your Kitchen Cabinets?

So, you’ve decided to give your kitchen cabinets a makeover. You may have a color in mind, possibly even selected a professional to paint or refinish them, and you’re ready to put it all together. 

But one crucial detail still needs deciding: Should you go with knobs or handles for your cabinet hardware? This decision might seem simple, but it can impact your cabinet’s look, functionality, and how you experience your kitchen or bathroom every day. The wrong choice could mean cabinets that are harder to use, or even a style you don’t love.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we've seen countless cabinet transformations. We've worked with Omaha homeowners who want cabinets that not only look great but also function well in their space. With 28+ years of experience in cabinet refinishing and working with all sorts of hardware choices, we understand the difference between choosing knobs or handles.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between knobs and handles, comparing their functionality, design impact, and practical benefits for your cabinets. By the end, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether knobs or handles are the right choice for your home. 

The Pros and Cons of Knobs For Cabinets

Pros of Choosing Knobs

1. Cost-Effective
   Knobs tend to be more affordable than handles. Because they’re generally smaller and simpler, they cost less to manufacture, which means you’ll likely save money if you have a lot of cabinets.
2. Easier to Install
   If you’re doing a DIY install, knobs are typically easier to put in than handles. You only need one screw per knob, which makes it quicker to install, especially if you’re updating many cabinets at once.
3. Classic, Timeless Look
   Knobs have been around for centuries, and there’s something inherently timeless about them. If you want a simple, classic look for your cabinets, knobs are a great choice. They can blend into a variety of styles, from farmhouse to contemporary.
4. Upper Cabinet Benefits 

Because knobs are small and less obtrusive, they work well on upper cabinets, where a bulky handle might look out of place or overwhelm the space.

Cons of Choosing Knobs

1. Less Grip, Less Control
   One of the main drawbacks of knobs is that they can be harder to grip, especially on larger drawers or heavier cabinet doors. If you have kids or if someone in your household has arthritis or reduced hand strength, knobs might not be as functional.
2. Limited Designs
   Knobs offer less design flexibility compared to handles. While they do come in different shapes, they tend to look simpler. If you’re aiming for a modern or industrial style, you may find that knobs limit your design choices.
3. Potential Wear and Tear on Cabinet Finish
   Because knobs concentrate the force of pulling in a smaller area, they can cause wear and tear over time, especially on painted cabinets. Every time you pull, the paint around the knob may rub off more quickly than it would with a handle.

The Pros and Cons of Handles for Cabinets

Pros of Choosing Handles

1. More Control and Grip
   Handles offer a more secure grip, which is especially helpful for heavier or larger cabinet doors and drawers. For wider drawers that hold more weight, like pots, pans, or pantry items, handles make it easier to pull open without excessive effort.
2. Designs
   Handles come in a wide range of shapes, lengths, and styles, making them a popular choice if you want to make a statement with your hardware. Whether your style is modern, rustic, or vintage, handles offer a lot of flexibility for different aesthetics.
3. User Friendly
   If you or anyone in your home has trouble with grip strength, handles are a better choice. They’re easier to grasp and pull, and they work well for households with young kids, seniors, or anyone who appreciates an easier opening motion.
4. Better for Lower Cabinets and Heavy Drawers
   Handles are typically the better choice for lower cabinets and large drawers because they offer that extra leverage. You’ll find they’re also popular on appliances, as they support a heavier load.

Cons of Choosing Handles

1. More Expensive than Knobs
   Because handles require more materials and involve more intricate designs, they’re generally more expensive than knobs. If you’re upgrading on a budget, this is something to consider.
2. Requires More Precision in Installation
   Handles need two screws, so installation takes a bit more precision. Misaligned handles can make your cabinets look uneven. If you’re going the DIY route, be prepared to take extra care when installing handles to ensure they’re level.
3. Bulky Look on Smaller Cabinets
   For smaller cabinets or more delicate styles, handles might look oversized or out of place. This can be particularly noticeable on upper cabinets in smaller kitchens or bathrooms.

Things to Keep In Mind When Choosing Cabinet Hardware

1. Drill Holes: If you're considering switching from knobs to handles (or vice versa), be aware that this change may require new holes in your cabinet doors or drawers. Knobs typically need only one screw, while handles usually require two, which are spaced further apart. If you currently have knobs and want to switch to handles, you’ll likely need to drill an extra hole for each handle. Likewise, if you’re changing from handles to knobs, you may need to fill in the extra holes left by the handles to maintain a clean look. This additional step can be a bit more work and it’s important to plan for it ahead of time if you want a seamless, professional finish.
2. Rust: Omaha experiences a mix of seasons, and handles or knobs in durable, rust-resistant materials may last longer, especially in kitchens where steam, cooking oils, and general humidity can impact hardware over time. 
3. Kitchen Use: Consider how often you use your kitchen. If your family cooks at home often, functionality may outweigh aesthetics, making handles the practical choice.
4. Cohesion with Other Fixtures: Look around your kitchen or bathroom: Are your light fixtures and faucets modern or traditional? Usually, cabinet hardware matches the rest of the decor. For instance, if you have sleek, contemporary lighting, a modern handle might complement that look better than a traditional knob.
5. Material and Finish Choices: Knobs and handles come in a variety of materials, from brushed nickel and stainless steel to brass and ceramic. Each material has its own durability and style. For example, brass knobs or handles can add warmth, while stainless steel gives a more contemporary vibe.
6. Mixing Knobs and Handles: In many homes, designers mix knobs and handles for a more balanced look. You might consider using handles on drawers (for better grip) and knobs on smaller, upper cabinets. This approach gives you the best of both worlds and can create a visually appealing look. This mix-and-match style has become a popular trend in recent years, combining functionality with style.

Should You Choose Knobs or Handles For the Bathroom?

While kitchen cabinets are the primary focus, the choice of knobs vs. handles is also relevant in the bathroom. Bathrooms are often smaller spaces, and their cabinets generally don’t carry the same weight as kitchen cabinets. As a result, knobs can often work well in bathrooms. However, if you have larger storage drawers or prefer a specific look that matches other parts of the home, handles can be an excellent option.

Hardware for Your Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing between knobs and handles for your cabinets may seem like a minor detail, but it’s a decision that can impact the look and functionality of your space. From considering grip and ease of use to design preferences and budget, there’s a lot to weigh.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we’re committed to helping Omaha homeowners make the best choices for their homes. Whether you’re tackling a full kitchen remodel or just refreshing the look of your cabinets, we hope this article has given you the insights you need to make a choice you’ll love. 

If you’re ready to give your cabinets a fresh start, consider our expert painting and refinishing services to complete your project. Click the button below to get started and set up a time to talk with our team.

We know choosing any paint color or design for your home is overwhelming. Because of this, we created a paint color and design guide. This free, downloadable guide will help you be confident while choosing paint colors and designs for your next home transformation project.