Different Types of Filing Cabinets 2025 Guide

When it comes to organizing your workspace, types of filing cabinets play a crucial role in maintaining order and boosting productivity. Whether you’re working from home or managing a large office, having the right filing cabinet can make a world of difference. In this blog, we’ll take you through the different types of filing cabinets available and help you choose the best one for your needs.

What Are Filing Cabinets and Why Do You Need One?

wooden office cabinet

Before diving into the types of filing cabinets, let’s quickly touch on what they are and why you need one. A filing cabinet is a piece of furniture designed to store documents, files, and other important paperwork in an organized manner. Depending on the size of your office or the amount of paperwork you handle, choosing the right type of filing cabinet is essential for efficient organization and easy access.

Types of Filing Cabinets: A Closer Look

Filing cabinets come in various styles, materials, and configurations, each catering to specific needs. Here are some of the most common types of filing cabinets you’ll find on the market.

White Wooden Office Cabinet

1. Vertical Filing Cabinets

Vertical filing cabinets are one of the most common types of filing cabinets. As the name suggests, they are designed to store documents in a vertical manner, with files arranged from top to bottom. These cabinets are great for saving space in smaller offices, as they tend to have a smaller footprint but can still hold a significant amount of paperwork.

2. Lateral Filing Cabinets

If you need more storage space and have a larger office, lateral filing cabinets might be the perfect solution. Unlike vertical cabinets, lateral filing cabinets are wider and allow files to be stored side by side. This means you can access multiple files at once without having to pull out one file at a time, making lateral cabinets ideal for high-volume filing systems.

3. Mobile Filing Cabinets

For those who need flexibility, mobile filing cabinets are a great option. These cabinets are mounted on wheels, making them easy to move around the office. Whether you’re reorganizing or simply want to relocate your filing system, mobile cabinets allow you to do so without hassle. They also fit nicely under desks for easy access.

4. Fireproof Filing Cabinets

When storing sensitive documents like legal paperwork or financial records, it’s essential to protect them from fire damage. Fireproof filing cabinets are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and protect your files from fire. They are typically made with special materials like steel and fire-resistant insulation to ensure your important documents stay safe in case of an emergency.

5. Letter vs. Legal Filing Cabinets

When shopping for types of filing cabinets, it’s important to decide between letter-size and legal-size cabinets. Letter-size filing cabinets are designed for standard 8.5″ x 11″ documents, while legal-size filing cabinets accommodate 8.5″ x 14″ documents. Choosing the right size ensures that your files fit properly without unnecessary space or overcrowding.

6. Cabinet Drawers and Shelves

Some filing cabinets come with a mix of drawers and shelves. These are great for offices that need versatile storage options. Shelves can hold items like binders, while drawers can store files and documents. This combination can be perfect for keeping various types of office supplies organized in one convenient location.

Top 5 Picks for the Best Filing Cabinet in 2025

When it comes to choosing the best filing cabinet for your office, it’s important to find a balance between functionality, quality, and price. Below are five of the top-rated types of filing cabinets, each offering unique features to suit a variety of office needs.

1. Meet&Co Vertical Filing Cabinet

Wood Storage Cabinets

Meet&Co offers a vertical filing cabinet that stands out for its balance between affordability and quality. This budget-friendly option is perfect for small offices or home workspaces that need to save space without compromising on durability. With its sleek, modern design, the Meet&Co vertical cabinet can easily fit into tight corners or under desks, making it an excellent choice for limited space.

Despite its affordable price, this filing cabinet doesn’t skimp on quality. Made from high-grade wood, it offers sturdiness and can withstand daily wear and tear. The drawers slide smoothly, allowing you to organize your documents efficiently. It’s a reliable option for anyone looking to keep their office neat without breaking the bank.

2. Bush Furniture Lateral Filing Cabinet

The Bush Furniture lateral filing cabinet is a fantastic choice for those who need extra space for organizing large volumes of files. With its wide design, this filing cabinet offers a generous amount of storage with multiple drawers to keep your documents neatly arranged. Its stylish, wood veneer finish adds an elegant touch to your office while offering the necessary space to store files, binders, and more.

Not only does the Bush Furniture lateral cabinet provide ample storage, but it also features a high level of security with lockable drawers. The smooth, quiet gliding system ensures easy access to your files, and the sturdy construction guarantees that this piece will last for years. Ideal for both home offices and commercial spaces, this cabinet blends style with functionality.

3. Hon 2-Drawer Vertical Filing Cabinet

If you’re looking for a traditional yet reliable filing cabinet, the Hon 2-Drawer Vertical Filing Cabinet is an excellent choice. This well-known brand is renowned for its durability and classic design. The two drawers offer enough space to store letter-size files, and its compact size makes it perfect for small offices or home workspaces where space is a premium.

What sets the Hon vertical filing cabinet apart is its quality construction and lockable drawers for added security. Made from heavy-duty steel, it can withstand regular use and provide long-lasting storage. This is a solid option for anyone who wants a dependable filing cabinet with a sleek, professional look.

4. IKEA GALANT Filing Cabinet

IKEA is well known for offering stylish and practical office furniture, and the GALANT Filing Cabinet is no exception. This lateral filing cabinet features a minimalist design with a smooth, high-quality finish that fits effortlessly into modern office settings. The cabinet’s large drawers are designed to store both letter- and legal-sized files, making it versatile for different organizational needs.

Beyond its design, the GALANT filing cabinet also provides excellent functionality. The drawers are easy to open and close, and the entire unit is built to last. While it may be a bit larger than other options, the extra storage capacity makes it a good choice for offices with a substantial amount of paperwork to organize. Plus, the price point is attractive, considering the durability and design.

5. Sauder Edge Water Filing Cabinet

For those who prefer a blend of functionality and style, the Sauder Edge Water Filing Cabinet is a great pick. This lateral filing cabinet comes with a rustic, wood-inspired finish that can add a warm, inviting feel to your office space. Despite its stylish look, the cabinet offers ample storage space with multiple drawers designed to hold files, office supplies, and even personal items.

The Sauder Edge Water Filing Cabinet is also known for its durability. The high-quality construction ensures that it will stand the test of time. Its sleek design and sturdy build make it a perfect fit for anyone looking for a reliable yet stylish filing solution. The easy-to-operate drawers help maintain an organized workspace, while the lockable drawer provides added security for sensitive documents.

How to Choose the Right Filing Cabinet for Your Needs

With so many types of filing cabinets available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are a few things to consider before making your decision:

contemporary file cabinets

Space and Office Layout

Consider how much space you have in your office. Vertical cabinets are ideal for smaller spaces, while lateral cabinets are better for larger offices with more room for storage.

File Size and Volume

Think about the size of your files and the amount of paperwork you need to store. Legal files require a larger cabinet, while letter-sized documents may fit into more compact units.

Security Features

If you’re storing sensitive documents, you may want a filing cabinet with added security features, such as locks or fireproof properties.

Types of Filing Cabinets: FAQs

1. What are the different types of filing cabinets?

Filing cabinets come in several types, including vertical filing cabinets, which store documents top to bottom; lateral filing cabinets, which store files side by side; mobile filing cabinets, which are portable and ideal for small spaces; and fireproof filing cabinets, which offer extra protection for sensitive documents. Each type serves different organizational needs, depending on your office space and filing volume.

2. How do I choose the right filing cabinet for my office?

To choose the right filing cabinet, consider factors like the amount of space you have, the type of documents you need to store (letter-size or legal-size), and the cabinet’s functionality. Think about whether you need added security features like locks or fireproofing, and make sure the cabinet suits the style of your office space.

3. Are filing cabinets safe for storing sensitive documents?

Yes, many filing cabinets are designed with added security features, such as lockable drawers and fireproofing. If you’re storing sensitive documents, a fireproof filing cabinet with a lock is a good option to protect your files from both fire and unauthorized access.

4. What size filing cabinet do I need?

The size of the filing cabinet you need depends on the amount and type of paperwork you handle. Letter-size filing cabinets are ideal for standard 8.5″ x 11″ documents, while legal-size cabinets are better for larger files (8.5″ x 14″). You should also consider the overall space available in your office and how many drawers you need.

5. How can I maximize space in my filing cabinet?

Maximize space by using file folders, dividers, and organizing your files in a way that allows for easy access. Vertical filing cabinets are great for saving space, while lateral cabinets provide extra room for larger documents or high volumes of files. Organizing by categories and using labels can also help optimize your filing system.

Conclusion: Finding the Best Filing Cabinet for You

Choosing the right types of filing cabinets is essential for keeping your office organized and efficient. Whether you opt for a vertical, lateral, or mobile filing cabinet, ensure that it meets your storage needs and fits within your office space. Take your time to explore all options and pick the one that works best for you!

Remember, an organized office is a productive office, and a filing cabinet is one of the most useful tools to keep your work area tidy and efficient.