6 Best File Cabinet Key Replacement (November 2026)
The best file cabinet replacement keys include the WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock for keyed-alike lock replacements, the Vmaisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks Replacement Keys for Vmaisi magnetic locks, and the Xinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh for compatible Hirsh cabinets.
On this page (5 sections)
The best file cabinet key replacement is one that matches the lock code and manufacturer. If you don't have the original key, look for a code stamped near the keyhole or on a label inside the cabinet, then match it to a compatible replacement.
A file cabinet key and a replacement lock solve different problems. If the cabinet itself needs replacing, compare tall locking file cabinets.
Buy a code-matched key when the lock works, or replace the hardware when the lock is damaged or you want to change the setup.
For a full lock swap, compare our guide to the best file cabinet replacement lock. If the cabinet itself needs an upgrade, see our Best Locking File Cabinet For Home Office and Best File Cabinet For Home Office roundups.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for Vmaisi magnetic locksVmaisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks Replacement Keys
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for compatible Hirsh cabinetsXinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh
9.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itKEYSALACARTE Replacement Key Cut to Code 163E
Best for HON code 163E - 5
Check itEasyKeys HON 135E File Cabinet Replacement Keys
Best for HON 135E spares - 6
Check itXIEHE 288 Zinc Alloy Desk Locks
Best for linked drawer lock replacement
Which file cabinet key replacement fits your lock?
A code-matched key is the right choice when the existing lock works, while a replacement lock is better when the hardware is broken. These six picks cover coded HON keys, a compatible Hirsh lock, magnetic cabinet keys, and general lock replacements.
| Product | Best for | Quantity | Panel thickness | Cylinder | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock | keyed-alike lock replacements | 4 locks | Up to 1 in | 1-1/8 in long, 3/4 in diameter | 9.7 |
| Vmaisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks Replacement Keys | Vmaisi magnetic locks | 3 keys | 9.5 | ||
| Xinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh | compatible Hirsh cabinets | 9.3 | |||
| KEYSALACARTE Replacement Key Cut to Code 163E | HON code 163E | 9.1 | |||
| EasyKeys HON 135E File Cabinet Replacement Keys | HON 135E spares | 2 keys | 8.9 | ||
| XIEHE 288 Zinc Alloy Desk Locks | linked drawer lock replacement | 2 locks | 16 mm diameter, 21 mm long | 8.7 |
WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock: Best for keyed-alike lock replacements
- 4 locks
- Keyed alike
- Fits panels up to 1 in thick
- 90-degree turn
A 4-pack of keyed-alike cam locks can replace compatible cabinet hardware when you need several locks operated by one key. Check the panel and cylinder dimensions before choosing it.
Pros
- Four locks use the same key
- Fits panels up to 1 in thick
- Includes reversible stop cams
Cons
- Replaces lock hardware rather than supplying a key for an existing lock
- Panel and cylinder dimensions must match
The WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock is a hardware replacement, not a spare key for an existing lock. Its four locks are keyed alike, so one key can operate all four after installation.
Each lock has a 1-1/8 in cylinder, a 3/4 in diameter, and fits panels up to 1 in thick. The lock opens with a 90-degree turn and includes reversible stop cams.
Choose this set if you need to replace several compatible cabinet locks and want them to share a key. Check the panel thickness, cylinder fit, and lock position before ordering.
Vmaisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks Replacement Keys: Best for Vmaisi magnetic locks
- 3 magnetic keys
- For Vmaisi magnetic cabinet locks
- Includes key holder
These replacement keys are intended for Vmaisi magnetic cabinet locks. Confirm your cabinet uses that lock type before choosing magnetic keys.
Pros
- Three keys in the pack
- Made for Vmaisi magnetic locks
- Includes a key holder
Cons
- Not a standard key for a keyed file cabinet
- Compatibility with other brands is not assured
Vmaisi's replacement keys are for magnetic cabinet locks, not the standard keyed locks found on many filing cabinets. The pack contains three magnetic keys and a holder.
The brand says the keys work with most brands of magnetic cabinet locks, but the stated compatibility is clearest for Vmaisi locks. Confirm the cabinet uses a compatible magnetic system before choosing these.
This pick fits a household cabinet or drawer with a Vmaisi magnetic lock. It won't replace a cut key for a mechanical file cabinet lock.
Xinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh: Best for compatible Hirsh cabinets
- HI17345 replacement lock
- For Hirsh W601-W650 series
- Includes 2 keys
- Keyed different
This is a replacement lock with two keys for compatible Hirsh cabinets, including the W601-W650 series. Check your model and existing hardware before ordering.
Pros
- Includes two keys
- Names compatible Hirsh series
- Lock and spring clip included
Cons
- Replaces the lock instead of matching an existing key code
- Compatibility should be checked against the cabinet
Xinafan's HI17345 lock is a replacement for compatible Hirsh file cabinets, including the W601-W650 series. It comes with two keys and a spring clip.
The model information also names Wind Danbury, Windmill, and several other brands as compatible. Because the stated fit depends on the lock series, compare the cabinet model and existing lock before buying.
Choose this when the old lock needs replacement and the cabinet matches the named series. If your lock still works and you know its code, a replacement key may be a simpler fix.
KEYSALACARTE Replacement Key Cut to Code 163E: Best for HON code 163E
- Pre-cut to code 163E
- For compatible HON office furniture locks
- Y11 nickel-plated brass key
A pre-cut key for compatible HON locks with code 163E can suit a lost-key replacement when you know the code. Confirm the code and lock brand before ordering.
Pros
- Pre-cut to a named code
- Made for compatible HON locks
- No original key needed when you know the code
Cons
- Only suits locks matched to code 163E
- One key is included
KEYSALACARTE's key is pre-cut to code 163E for compatible HON office furniture locks. The key uses a nickel-plated brass Y11 blank, and the code must match your lock.
This option suits a lost key when the cabinet's lock code is 163E. Check the number stamped on the original key, near the keyhole, or inside the cabinet before ordering.
The pack includes one key. If your code differs, choose a replacement cut to that exact code instead of trying a near match.
EasyKeys HON 135E File Cabinet Replacement Keys: Best for HON 135E spares
- HON 135E replacement key set
- 2 keys
This two-key set is made for HON 135E locks. Match the lock code exactly, since a similar blank or another code may not work.
Pros
- Two keys in the set
- Made for HON 135E locks
- Code is stated in the product name
Cons
- Only suits the matching code
- Does not replace a damaged lock
EasyKeys sells a two-key replacement set for HON 135E locks. The key code matters: a HON 135E key is not the same as a 163E key.
Check whether the lock or original key shows 135E before choosing this set. A key that looks similar can still fail if its code doesn't match the cabinet lock.
This is a straightforward spare-key choice when the lock works and the code is confirmed. It doesn't replace worn or broken lock hardware.
XIEHE 288 Zinc Alloy Desk Locks: Best for linked drawer lock replacement
- 2 locks
- For linked file cabinet drawers
- 16 mm cylinder diameter
- Includes 4 folding keys
These locks are designed for linked file cabinet drawers, with two locks and four keys in the set. Check the cylinder size and drawer setup before replacing existing hardware.
Pros
- Two locks and four keys
- Designed for linked drawers
- Cylinder dimensions are specified
Cons
- Replaces lock hardware instead of matching a key code
- Requires a 16 mm opening
XIEHE's 288 locks replace compatible drawer lock hardware and are designed for linked file cabinet drawers. The two-pack includes four folding keys, and each lock has a 16 mm diameter, 21 mm long cylinder.
Measure the existing opening and compare the drawer setup before choosing this set. Its dimensions and linked-drawer design make fit a key part of the decision.
Choose it when you need new hardware and the cabinet matches those dimensions. If the lock works, identify its key code before replacing the whole lock.
How do you identify a file cabinet key code?
Look for the key code on the original key, around the keyhole, or on a sticker inside the cabinet. The code is more useful than a key's shape because several brands may use similar looking blanks.
The HON examples here show why exact matching matters: code 163E and code 135E are separate options. Read every letter and number, then check that the replacement is intended for the brand or model of your lock.
If there is no visible code, find the cabinet's brand and model number. A locksmith or the manufacturer may be able to identify the right key from those details.
When should you replace the whole file cabinet lock?
Replace the lock when it is broken, turns without securing the drawer, or has no usable key code and cannot be identified. For a compact secure replacement, see locking file cabinets for under a desk.
A replacement lock also gives you a chance to change the key setup.
Before buying, measure the cylinder, panel thickness, opening, and clearance behind the drawer front. Replacement parts such as the WOOCH cam locks and XIEHE 288 locks depend on fitting the cabinet's hardware dimensions.
If the cabinet already locks but you need help using it, read How to Lock a File Cabinet. For added protection of stored documents, compare a best fireproof file cabinet option.
What should you check before ordering file cabinet replacement keys?
Match the key code, brand, and lock type before ordering. A magnetic key, a mechanical cut key, and a replacement lock are not interchangeable.
Check the following details:
- Lock code: Match every letter and number.
- Brand or model: Confirm the cabinet or lock series.
- Lock type: Confirm whether it uses a mechanical key or magnetic key.
- Hardware fit: For a replacement lock, compare cylinder diameter, length, panel thickness, and drawer linkage.
- Key quantity: Check how many keys are included if you need a spare.
If the cabinet's code is unclear, take a clear photo of the keyhole and any labels, then ask the manufacturer or a locksmith to identify the lock. That can prevent buying a key that fits the wrong code.
Which replacement should you choose?
Choose KEYSALACARTE for a compatible HON 163E lock or EasyKeys for a HON 135E lock, but only after confirming the code. For a compatible Hirsh HI17345 or W601-W650 cabinet, the Xinafan lock replaces the hardware and includes keys.
If you decide to replace the cabinet, compare decorative lateral file cabinets.
Pick Vmaisi only for a compatible magnetic cabinet lock. Choose WOOCH or XIEHE when you need replacement hardware and their measurements fit your cabinet.
If you don't know the code, identify the cabinet model or ask a locksmith before ordering. Matching the lock code and manufacturer is the simplest way to get the right file cabinet key replacement.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for Vmaisi magnetic locks
Vmaisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks Replacement Keys
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for compatible Hirsh cabinets
Xinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh
9.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the right replacement key for a file cabinet?
Find the lock code stamped on the original key, near the keyhole, or on a label inside the cabinet. Match both the code and the lock or cabinet brand before ordering.
If you can't find a code, identify the cabinet model and contact the manufacturer or a locksmith for help.
Can I order a file cabinet key by code?
Yes, when the replacement key is cut for your exact code and lock type. For example, KEYSALACARTE makes a key to code 163E for compatible HON office furniture locks.
Check the code on the lock or original key carefully.
Similar looking codes can refer to different keys.
Should I replace the key or the file cabinet lock?
Replace the key when the lock works and you can confirm its code or model. Replace the lock when the hardware is damaged, the key code is unknown, or you want a different lock setup.
Measure the existing lock and panel before choosing replacement hardware.
Can a magnetic cabinet key open a keyed file cabinet?
No. A magnetic key works with a compatible magnetic cabinet lock, while a keyed file cabinet uses a mechanical lock and matching key code.
Check the lock type first.
Vmaisi's magnetic replacement keys are intended for Vmaisi magnetic cabinet locks.
