Knobs vs Pulls: Where to Use Each on Kitchen Cabinets

Discover whether knobs or pulls are right for your cabinets. Learn the best places to use each, from kitchen drawers to bathroom vanities, for style and function.

When updating your cabinets, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to use knobs or pulls. While both are functional, the right choice can dramatically impact the look, feel, and usability of your kitchen, bathroom, or built-ins. Understanding where to use knobs versus pulls will help you create a space that feels both stylish and practical.

The Case for Knobs

Knobs are the classic choice for cabinets and remain one of the most popular hardware styles. They are smaller, more affordable per piece, and often easier to install.

Best Places to Use Knobs:

• Upper Cabinet Doors – Knobs are subtle and keep upper cabinets from feeling crowded.
• Bathroom Vanities – Small spaces benefit from the clean look of knobs.
• Accent Cabinets – Decorative knobs can act as jewelry for your cabinets, adding personality without overwhelming the design.

Design Tip: Knobs tend to look best when paired with lighter cabinet doors or as accents in smaller spaces.

The Case for Pulls

Pulls provide more surface area to grip, making them highly functional and comfortable—especially in high-use areas.

Best Places to Use Pulls:

• Kitchen Drawers – Pulls make it easier to open heavy drawers full of pots, pans, or pantry items.
• Large Cabinet Doors – Oversized cabinets benefit from the leverage of longer pulls.
• Pantries and Laundry Rooms – Pulls are practical where you’re opening and closing doors frequently.

Design Tip: Pulls also contribute to a modern, streamlined look, especially when installed horizontally on drawers and vertically on doors.

Mixing Knobs and Pulls Together

You don’t have to choose one or the other—many designers recommend combining both for a balanced, custom look.

• Use knobs on doors and pulls on drawers for consistency.
• Keep finishes the same to ensure cohesion, even if the styles differ.
• Try mixing shapes, such as round knobs with straight bar pulls, as long as the finish ties them together.

Popular Finishes for Both Knobs and Pulls

At Inside Out Hardware, we offer knobs and pulls in the most in-demand finishes for 2025, including:

• Oil Rubbed Bronze
• Gold Champagne
• Brushed Brass
• Brushed Gold
• Satin Nickel
• Flat Black

These finishes pair beautifully whether you stick to one hardware style or mix both.

Conclusion

When it comes to knobs vs. pulls, the best choice depends on function, cabinet size, and style preference. Knobs are timeless and subtle, while pulls offer comfort and modern appeal. The good news? You don’t have to choose just one. Combining knobs and pulls in the right way creates a polished, high-end look that works in any home.

Explore our collection of cabinet knobs and cabinet pulls at Inside Out Hardware to find the perfect mix for your space.