How to Measure Cabinet Handle Hole Spacing

Buying a handle that doesn't fit is the most common — and most avoidable — hardware mistake. The measurement that decides whether a two-hole handle fits is hole spacing, also called centre-to-centre distance. This guide shows you how to measure it in two minutes.

What hole spacing means

Hole spacing is the distance from the centre of one screw hole to the centre of the other. It is not the same as the handle's overall length. A handle with 128mm hole spacing is usually longer than 128mm in total, because the handle extends past the screws at each end.

How to measure it, step by step

1. If there is an old handle, unscrew it so you can see the two holes in the door or drawer.
2. Lay a ruler or tape across both holes. Line up the zero mark with the centre of the first hole.
3. Read the number at the centre of the second hole. That is your hole spacing.
4. Note it in millimetres — handles are usually specified in millimetres, so this saves converting later.
5. Measure the thickness of the door or drawer front as well. It tells you how long the screws need to be.

If your cabinets are new and have no holes yet, choose the handle first and then drill to match its hole spacing. A paper strip marked with the two hole centres makes it easy to drill every handle in exactly the same position.

Common hole spacings

These are standard sizes, so matching handles exist for almost any existing cabinet. The "typical use" column is a guide, not a rule — see our cabinet handle size guide for choosing the right length for your drawers and doors.

What if my holes don't match a standard size?

Some older or custom cabinets have non-standard spacing. You have two easy options: use a single-hole knob and fill the spare hole with wood filler, or send us your measurement on WhatsApp and we will suggest the closest match. Browse our cabinet handles and cabinet knobs — every listing shows the exact size.

Frequently asked questions

Is hole spacing the same as handle length?

No. Hole spacing is the distance between the two screw holes. The overall length of the handle is longer, because the ends extend beyond the screws. Always match hole spacing when you are replacing an existing handle.

Do knobs need hole spacing?

No. A knob is fixed with a single screw, so there is only one hole and nothing to match. You only need to check that the screw is long enough for the thickness of your door or drawer.

Can I fit a handle with a different hole spacing?

Only if you are willing to drill new holes and fill the old ones. A 128mm handle will not fit holes that are 160mm apart, so measure before you order.