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Youll also want to consider the file cabinets orientation: For smaller spaces, I lean towards vertical cabinets.
The Spruce
Many file cabinets have locking drawers.
If security is especially important, be sure any model you consider can be locked.
you could load letter-sized files facing forward or legal-sized files facing to the side.
PHOTO: Amazon
Theres a single lock to secure both drawers if desired.
The top of the file cabinet is perfectly sized tohold my printer.
Assembly was a breeze, as it required only attaching the five casters.
PHOTO: Wayfair
Theres an extra caster at the front for stability, which I liked very much.
The wheels roll easily and allow the file cabinet to be maneuvered easily to wherever its needed.
The file cabinet is made of cold-rolled steel with a powder coating and is available in black or white.
PHOTO: Amazon
While I would have appreciated a broader selection of colors, the black is non-obtrusive next to my desk.
Dimensions:17.1 x 14.6 x 26.6 in.
(Note that this file cabinet is only designed for handling letter-sized files, not legal.)
PHOTO: Wayfair
We like that it requires no assembly: Just unbox it and start to get organized.
For stability, the drawers pull out only three-quarters of their length.
However, they glide smoothly and are easy to open and close.
PHOTO: Amazon
The top two drawers can be locked, but not the bottom two.
Plus, it’s available in black, charcoal, or pearl white.
Dimensions:46.4 x 14.3 x 18 in.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its small enough not to crowd your office but large enough to hold quite a bit of supplies.
The manufactured wood and steel design gives it strength while still looking good.
However, this attractive cabinet doesnt stop at storing files.
PHOTO: Amazon
Like our best overall, theDevaise 2-Drawer File Cabinet, its wheels make it easy to move around.
The hardest part might be deciding which of the six color options you like best.
Dimensions:26.7 x 15.7 x 29.6 in.
This is a lateral file cabinet, meaning that its fairly wide, although not exceptionally tall.
That allows you to store lots of files in each of the two drawers.
you’ve got the option to also set the interior bar to hold legal-sized files if desired.
Either way, each drawer’s maximum weight capacity is 50 pounds.
There is no lock, however.
Dimensions:30 x 19.9 x 30 in.
If thats your scenario, then youll love this compact option from Laura Davidson.
If you prefer it to be stationary, the wheels can be removed.
Even better, it is available in over a dozen colors, including pink, blue, and orange.
There is only one drawer designed to hold either letter or legal-sized files.
Letter files will face forward, while legal files need to be positioned sideways.
Two upper drawers are not as deep but serve as handy repositories for your office supplies.
Dimensions:15.8 x 20 x 24 in.
In that case, we highly recommend this small but lovely cabinet from Birdrock Home.
Made of handwoven seagrass, it adds a touch of texture and style to any room.
Its also sturdy, with an interior metal frame supporting legal- or letter-size hanging files.
The file cabinet has four casters, so you could move it wherever you like.
Dimensions:18 x 15 x 14 in.
However, where this file cabinet differs from others is its very impressive protective abilities.
The cabinet’s interior is lined with oven-dried gypsum insulation and steel lattice reinforcement.
Electronic devices and electronic files are protected for up to 30 minutes in a fire.
Dimensions:27.8 x 17.8 x 22.1 in.
For most people, two or three drawers are plenty, especially with todays move toward digital files.
Just remember: Dont let extra space tempt you into keeping clutter.
Harvey recommends vertical cabinets for small offices or when the cabinet needs to fit into a snug corner.
You’ll find that they hold a surprising amount.
Horizontal cabinets, though, are a designers dream in terms of versatility," he says.
Choose the Best Materials
Most file cabinets, regardless of size, are made of steel.
That provides the necessary strength to support the weight of the contents without bowing or collapsing.
While not as common as steel, youll also see file cabinets made of wood.
These are often designed to look more like regular furniture than an office fixture.
We especially like theBush Furniture Key West Modern Farmhouse Lateral File Cabinet.
TheDevaise 3-Drawer File Cabinetis a wheeled file cabinet with two open shelves for even more storage.
However, larger filing cabinets are generally designed without wheels for better stability.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written byMichelle Ullman, a writer specializing in home and garden topics.
