6 Best Replacement File Cabinet Locks (November 2026)

The best replacement file cabinet locks include the Pertinel Cabinet Cam Lock Keyed Alike Black for black keyed-alike replacements, the WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock for a four-lock set, and the Sissinda Cam Locks Cabinet Locks Keyed Alike for five matching cam locks.

On this page (7 sections)

1. Which file cabinet replacement lock fits your cabinet?
2. The best file cabinet replacement locks
3. How can you check whether a replacement file cabinet lock will fit?
4. Should you replace the lock or the missing key?
5. How do keyed-alike and keyed-different locks compare?
6. What should you do if a replacement lock still does not work?
7. Which file cabinet replacement lock should you choose?

The best file cabinet replacement lock is one that matches your cabinet’s lock style, measurements and keying needs. Measure the old lock and panel before choosing a cam lock, model-specific lock or replacement key.

A replacement cylinder can restore security without replacing the cabinet, but compatibility matters. If the cabinet still locks and you only need another key, compare best file cabinet key replacement options before buying a whole lock.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for black keyed-alike replacements

   Pertinel Cabinet Cam Lock Keyed Alike Black

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a four-lock set

   WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for five matching cam locks

   Sissinda Cam Locks Cabinet Locks Keyed Alike

   9.4/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Xinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh

   Best for compatible Hirsh cabinets
   Check it
5. 5

   KEYSALACARTE Replacement Key Cut to Code 178E

   Best for a compatible HON key code
   Check it
6. 6

   XIEHE 288 Zinc Alloy Desk Locks

   Best for linked drawer locks
   Check it

Which file cabinet replacement lock fits your cabinet?

The right file cabinet lock replacement depends on whether your cabinet takes a general cam lock or a brand-specific lock assembly. For other secure office storage, compare lockable office storage cabinets.

Measure the existing hardware and check the cabinet model before choosing from these picks.

The best file cabinet replacement locks

These picks cover keyed-alike cam locks, a compatible Hirsh replacement, a coded HON key and a linked drawer lock. The scores weigh specs and features against the needs of someone replacing a file cabinet lock.

1

Pertinel Cabinet Cam Lock Keyed Alike Black: Best for black keyed-alike replacements

9.7/10Our score

• Two 1-1/2 in cam locks
• Fits panels under 1-3/8 in thick
• 18 mm mounting hole
• Three plate shapes per lock

This pair is a fit to consider when your cabinet uses a cam lock and the measured panel and hole match. The locks are keyed alike, so one key can operate both.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two locks in the set
• Keyed alike
• Three plate shapes per lock

Cons

• Black finish may not match every cabinet
• Requires careful measurement before ordering

Pertinel’s set is the top choice here when you need two black cam locks that share a key. Each lock has a 1-1/2 in cylinder and fits panels under 1-3/8 in thick, with an 18 mm mounting hole.

The set includes three plate shapes per lock: long, short and hook. That gives you options to compare with the plate on the original lock, but the replacement still needs to reach and catch the cabinet frame correctly.

Check the cabinet’s backset, cross bore and panel thickness before ordering. A matching hole alone does not confirm that the cam will latch.

Pertinel’s locks open with a 90-degree turn, and the key can be removed in both locked and unprotected positions.

This is a practical fit when you’re replacing two compatible cam locks and want one key for both. If the cabinet has a named lock model or linked drawer mechanism, choose a replacement made for that configuration.

2

WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock: Best for a four-lock set

9.6/10Our score

• Four keyed-alike cam locks
• 5/8 in cylinder length
• 90-degree turn
• Reversible stop cams

A four-pack can suit several compatible drawers or cabinets. Check the cylinder length and panel limit against your existing lock opening before choosing it.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Four locks in the pack
• Keyed alike
• Reversible stop cams

Cons

• Chrome finish may not suit every cabinet
• The stated panel limits differ across the product details, so confirm fit before ordering

WOOCH is the pick for replacing several compatible locks at once: the pack includes four keyed-alike cam locks. Each has a 5/8 in cylinder length and opens with a 90-degree turn.

The lock can be installed in different positions, and the set includes reversible stop cams. These details make it useful for a range of drawers and storage doors, but they do not guarantee a fit for every file cabinet.

There are conflicting panel-thickness figures in the product information: one section says 3/8 in maximum, while the title says 1/2 in maximum. Measure your panel and confirm the acceptable limit before ordering.

Choose WOOCH when you need a multi-lock set and your old hardware matches the cylinder and cam arrangement. For one cabinet with a specific brand lock, look at the model-specific option below.

3

Sissinda Cam Locks Cabinet Locks Keyed Alike: Best for five matching cam locks

9.4/10Our score

• Five keyed-alike cam locks
• Fits panels under 0.4 in thick
• 18 mm mounting hole
• Two plate shapes per lock

This set is aimed at replacing multiple cam locks with one key system. Its thinner panel limit makes measurement especially important.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Five locks in the set
• Keyed alike
• Two locking plates per lock

Cons

• Panel must be under 0.4 in thick
• Not a model-specific replacement

Sissinda suits buyers replacing several compatible cam locks, with five keyed-alike locks in the set. Each uses a 5/8 in cylinder, an 18 mm mounting hole and panels under 0.4 in thick.

Two plate shapes are included per lock, an offset plate and a straight plate. Compare both with the old lock’s reach and direction so the replacement catches the frame when turned.

This set is best for cabinets or storage units where multiple locks share the same measurements. Its thinner panel limit rules it out for thicker doors, so check thickness before comparing it with the Pertinel or WOOCH options.

4

Xinafan HI17345 File Cabinet Lock for Hirsh: Best for compatible Hirsh cabinets

9.3/10Our score

• HI17345 replacement lock
• For Hirsh W601-W650 series
• Two keys included
• Keyed different

This model-specific lock may suit a compatible Hirsh cabinet. Confirm the cabinet series and replacement model before ordering.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Names a compatible Hirsh series
• Two keys included
• Keyed different

Cons

• Compatibility must be confirmed
• Not a keyed-alike multi-lock set

Xinafan is the model-specific choice for compatible Hirsh W601-W650 series cabinets. It includes a lock, a spring clip and two keys, with each lock keyed differently.

The model designation is the key detail here. Confirm that your cabinet belongs to the stated series and uses the HI17345 replacement before ordering; a similar looking lock may not fit or work with the cabinet’s locking parts.

This option also names compatibility with several other commercial cabinet brands and retail lines. Because fit can vary by cabinet series, verify the precise model with the manufacturer or seller if your cabinet label does not clearly identify the match.

Choose it when a compatible Hirsh lock assembly needs replacement. If your lock is sound and you’re missing only the key, a code-matched key can be a simpler route.

5

KEYSALACARTE Replacement Key Cut to Code 178E: Best for a compatible HON key code

8.9/10Our score

• Pre-cut to code 178E
• Compatible with HON office furniture locks
• Nickel-plated brass Y11 key blank

If your existing HON lock takes code 178E, a replacement key may restore access without replacing the lock. Match the code and lock compatibility first.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Pre-cut to a named code
• Designed for compatible HON locks
• Useful when the lock still works

Cons

• Does not replace a damaged lock
• Requires a matching key code and compatible lock

KEYSALACARTE is not a lock cylinder; it is a replacement key cut to code 178E for compatible HON office furniture locks. Choose it only if your key code and lock type match.

The key uses a nickel-plated brass Y11 blank and arrives pre-cut to the named code. That can help when the original key is missing but the cabinet’s lock remains in working order.

A replacement key won’t repair a damaged cylinder, cam or drawer linkage. If the mechanism itself has failed, compare compatible lock assemblies instead of relying on a new key.

6

XIEHE 288 Zinc Alloy Desk Locks: Best for linked drawer locks

8.7/10Our score

• Two black desk locks
• 16 mm cylinder diameter
• 21 mm cylinder length
• Described for linked file drawers

This two-pack is worth considering when the cabinet uses a compatible 288-style desk lock and linked drawer mechanism. Compare cylinder dimensions and lock layout first.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two locks in the pack
• 16 mm cylinder diameter
• Described for linked drawers

Cons

• Compatibility depends on the cabinet mechanism
• Keyed different

XIEHE’s two-pack is for buyers whose file cabinet uses a compatible 288-style desk lock and linked drawer mechanism. The cylinder is 16 mm across and 21 mm long, and the set is described for linked file cabinet drawers.

The lock’s fit depends on more than those cylinder measurements. Confirm the cabinet’s mechanism, hole size and lock arrangement, especially if one lock is meant to secure multiple drawers together.

This is a more specialized choice than a standard cam lock. Consider it when the existing hardware matches the 288 configuration, and skip it if you cannot confirm that mechanism.

How can you check whether a replacement file cabinet lock will fit?

A replacement file cabinet lock will fit only when its cylinder, panel opening and latch geometry work with your cabinet. Compare the old lock’s dimensions and movement before ordering.

Start by removing or photographing the existing lock if you can do so safely. Record the cylinder length, hole diameter, panel thickness, plate shape and the direction the cam turns to engage the cabinet.

For cam locks, compare the replacement’s included plates with the old plate. A longer or differently shaped plate may miss the frame or interfere with another drawer, even when the cylinder fits.

If the cabinet has a brand label or model number, search for a lock that names that series. If replacement hardware is hard to match, compare metal file cabinets with compatible lock options.

Our Best Locking File Cabinet For Home Office guide can help if replacing the lock leads you to consider a different cabinet.

Should you replace the lock or the missing key?

Replace only the key when the lock works and you can identify a matching key code or compatible key type. If replacing the cabinet is more practical, compare locking file cabinets for under a desk.

Replace the lock assembly when its cylinder, cam or internal mechanism is damaged.

A coded key is a closer match to a lost-key problem than a universal cam lock. For example, the KEYSALACARTE option is cut to code 178E for compatible HON office furniture locks, so the code and lock compatibility must match.

If you’re unsure how your current cabinet locks, our guide on how to lock a file cabinet explains common locking arrangements. For another cabinet option, see Best File Cabinet For Home Office.

How do keyed-alike and keyed-different locks compare?

Keyed-alike locks let one key operate multiple locks in the set, while keyed-different locks use separate keys for each lock. For enclosed shelving, see bookcases with doors on the bottom.

Choose the arrangement based on how you want access shared.

Keyed alike can reduce the number of keys needed for a group of compatible cabinets. Pertinel, WOOCH and Sissinda offer keyed-alike sets in this roundup.

Keyed different may suit a cabinet that needs separate access. The Xinafan Hirsh replacement and XIEHE lock are described as keyed different, so check how many keys are included and whether that arrangement matches your needs.

A new lock can secure documents, but it does not protect papers from heat or water. If those risks matter, compare a best fireproof file cabinet before deciding which storage setup suits your files.

What should you do if a replacement lock still does not work?

If a new lock turns but does not secure the drawer, check the cam position, plate reach and drawer alignment. The key cylinder can operate correctly while the latch misses the cabinet frame.

Compare the old and new lock side by side, including the direction each cam faces when locked. Also check that the mounting nut or clip holds the cylinder firmly and that no drawer linkage is obstructing the mechanism.

If the lock does not match the cabinet’s design, stop forcing it and confirm the model or measurements. A fitting error can damage the cabinet opening or leave the drawer unsecured.

Which file cabinet replacement lock should you choose?

Choose Pertinel for two black keyed-alike cam locks, WOOCH or Sissinda when you need a larger keyed-alike set, and Xinafan for a confirmed compatible Hirsh model. Pick KEYSALACARTE only when code 178E matches your HON lock, and XIEHE when your cabinet uses its linked 288-style mechanism.

Before ordering, measure the old lock and verify the cabinet model or key code. For a smaller storage footprint, see Best File Cabinet For Small Spaces.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for black keyed-alike replacements

   Pertinel Cabinet Cam Lock Keyed Alike Black

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a four-lock set

   WOOCH Cabinet Cam Lock

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for five matching cam locks

   Sissinda Cam Locks Cabinet Locks Keyed Alike

   9.4/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose a file cabinet replacement lock?

Identify whether your cabinet uses a cam lock, a model-specific lock or a separate replacement key. Measure the mounting hole, panel thickness and cylinder length, then compare those measurements with the replacement.

For a model-specific part, check the cabinet brand and series; for a key, match the code.

Can I replace a file cabinet lock without replacing the cabinet?

Often, if you can find a compatible lock or key for the cabinet. A cam lock needs a matching opening and panel thickness, while a model-specific lock needs the right cabinet series.

If the lock still works and only the key is missing, check whether a coded replacement key is available.

Are keyed-alike file cabinet locks a good choice?

Keyed-alike locks can simplify access across multiple compatible drawers because one key operates each lock in the set. They are useful when shared access is the goal.

If you need separate access for different cabinets or users, consider locks that are keyed differently instead.

What should I measure before buying a replacement cam lock?

Measure the mounting hole diameter, the cabinet panel thickness and the existing cylinder length. Also compare the cam or plate shape and its reach with the old lock.

A cylinder that fits the hole can still fail to latch if its plate does not reach the cabinet frame.

Should I replace a file cabinet lock or get a new key?

Choose a replacement key when the lock works and you can match its key code and lock type. Replace the lock when its cylinder or latch is damaged, or when no compatible key is available.

For a broader cabinet choice, see our Best Locking File Cabinet For Home Office.