Metal File Cabinets - Are They Still Your Best Choice?

Not everyone chooses to get metal file cabinets. With attractive alternative options in wood and plastic, you can afford not to go for metal. Then again, metal models still have some advantages over their counterparts. Nothing can beat metal when it comes to durability and absolute security. Of course, if you are the type who prefers a no nonsense theme to your office furniture, metal can help you best achieve that.

Metal cabinets are not all the same. Some are made purely of high grade metal while others can be a combination of metal, wood and plastic. Filing cabinets too can be lateral or vertical and can have 2, 3, 4 or 5 drawers. You need to find out what your options are to get the most suitable metal filing cabinet for your needs.

Storex Metal and Plastic Wheeled Filing Cabinet with Roll Away Cover

This is the top option for light filing needs. At $90 this combined plastic and metal two drawer unit is perfect for your home or small office. Each drawer has an individual lock for security and its casters, two of which can lock in place, offer convenient mobility. Its top roll away cover allows easy viewing of top drawer files. At 19 x 23 15 inches, this compact cabinet can fit right under or beside your table. Its light gray body and black trim add a hint of classic style.

Hon 400 Series 30” Wide Lateral File

Metal file cabinets can be small and compact. At the extreme end however are large industrial type metal cabinets that can look bulky and imposing. Hon however has designs that offer maximum filing capacity without seeming too large.

Units in its 400 series 30” wide lateral filing cabinets allow side to side filing of letter or legal documents. Its trim basic cut and monochromatic shade give it a no frills look. Like many of its other units, Hon has fitted this one with ball bearing slide suspension, leveling glides, interchangeable core removable lock and anti tipping system. At $397 it’s a definite giveaway.

800 Series 36” Wide Storage Cabinet with 2 Drawer Lateral File

This is another excellent choice from Hon that offers generous storage for both office supplies and document files. This imposing 19 ¼ x 67 inch 210 lb. giant has two bottom lateral drawers with a core removable lock for letter or legal size documents. The top portion is a double door cabinet with hinged doors and adjustable shelves. At $597, this may be the only storage unit you will ever need.

ALELA 54305PY 30” Wide Four Drawer Lateral File Cabinet

This unit from Alera combines beauty with maximum functionality. This trim putty colored lateral filing cabinet has full width recessed pulls on four drawers that can accommodate letter or legal document filing. For $422 you also get telescoping slide suspension, leveling guides, reinforced double wall drawer fronts, interlocking system and counterweight.

In some cases metal file cabinets are still a great choice. Although they may sometimes carry a formal look, they definitely top the list when it comes to durability.