Cabinet handles come in two broad textures: knurled (a fine, ridged texture cut into the metal) and smooth (a plain, polished or brushed surface). Both look great, but they suit different kitchens and different people. Here's how to decide.
What is a knurled handle?
Knurling is a manufacturing process that cuts a fine diamond or straight-line pattern into metal, originally used on tools to improve grip. On cabinet hardware, it adds a tactile, textured surface that catches the light and gives handles a more architectural, industrial-luxe feel.
Knurled handles tend to suit:
- Kitchens with warm metal finishes (brass, bronze, gold)
- Industrial, contemporary or 'quiet luxury' interior styles
- Households that want a secure, non-slip grip even with wet or oily hands
What is a smooth handle?
Smooth handles have a plain, unbroken surface — either polished to a shine or brushed for a soft matte look. They read as cleaner and more minimal, and tend to suit:
- Streamlined, Scandinavian or minimalist kitchens
- Spaces where you want hardware to recede rather than stand out
- Classic or transitional interiors alongside timber and stone
Our recommendation
If you're after a statement detail that customers and guests notice and comment on, a knurled cabinet handle is the stronger choice — it photographs well and holds up to daily use. If you want hardware that blends into a broader design scheme, go smooth.
Browse our full range of cabinetry handles, including knurled, marble and leather-wrapped styles, to compare finishes side by side.