Cabinet Knobs vs Cabinet Pulls (Pros, Cons, and the Most Popular Combination)
Choosing between cabinet knobs and cabinet pulls comes down to function, style, and budget. Both work great—especially when you use the most common combination: knobs on doors and pulls on drawers.
Cabinet Knobs (Pros and Best Uses)
Knobs are a classic choice and work beautifully on cabinet doors.
- Pros: often more affordable, one-hole install, timeless style
- Best for: cabinet doors, uppers, bathroom vanities, furniture
Cabinet Pulls (Pros and Best Uses)
Pulls are usually the better choice for drawers because they provide more grip and leverage.
- Pros: easier to open drawers, modern look, comfortable for heavy pull-outs
- Best for: kitchen drawers, pantry pull-outs, trash pull-outs, deep drawers
The Most Popular Combo (Knobs on Doors, Pulls on Drawers)
This approach looks cohesive and improves everyday function. It also lets you keep the same finish across the kitchen while using the best hardware type for each cabinet.
Style Tips That Always Look Good
- Modern: longer pulls, clean lines, minimal shapes
- Traditional: detailed knobs plus smaller matching pulls
- Transitional: simple pulls paired with classic knob shapes in the same finish
What Hardware Is Best for Heavy Drawers?
If you have wide or deep drawers, pulls are usually the best choice. The larger grip area makes opening easier and helps reduce wear over time.
Shop Pulls and Knobs
Knobs vs Pulls FAQs
Are cabinet pulls better than knobs?
Pulls are often better for drawers because they offer more grip and leverage. Knobs are popular for doors because they’re simple and easy to install.
Should I put knobs or pulls on kitchen cabinets?
A common approach is knobs on doors and pulls on drawers. It looks cohesive and improves function where you use it most.
Can I mix cabinet knobs and pulls?
Yes. Mixing knobs and pulls is very common. Use matching finishes and complementary shapes so the hardware looks intentional.
Do pulls look more modern than knobs?
Often, yes. Longer pulls and simple bar styles typically read as modern. Knobs can be modern too depending on shape and finish.
What hardware is best for heavy drawers?
Cabinet pulls are usually best for heavy drawers because the larger grip area makes opening easier and more comfortable.
