Top 6 Filing Cabinets in Singapore: Styles, Security & Storage Compared

Despite the rise of digital workspaces, the demand for storage, particularly filing cabinets, is still steadily increasing in Singapore. According to Statista, the market is expected to experience an annual growth rate of 0.47% from 2025 to 2030. This is because many offices, whether at home or corporate, continue to invest in proper storage solutions to streamline productivity, document management, and overall aesthetics.

Whether you are managing a home office, a startup, or an enterprise, this guide will walk you through the various types of filing cabinets, key features to consider, and expert tips to help you make an informed purchasing decision. Let’s explore how the right cabinet can transform your office into a smarter, tidier space.

Key Takeaways

• You must select the appropriate filing cabinet type to meet your specific needs. Lateral cabinets save space, while vertical models offer deep storage. Pick based on office layout and document volume.

• Look for essential features like locking systems and adjustable shelves; security and flexibility matter. Lockable drawers and customisable interiors enhance both safety and usability.

• Measure your space before buying. Use a filing cabinet size guide to avoid fitting issues. Ensure it suits your layout, capacity needs, and workflow accessibility.

Choosing the Right Filing Cabinet: Types That Fit Every Office Style

Image source: Jakub Zerdzicki on Pexels

Filing cabinets have evolved far beyond the standard metal drawers of the past. Today’s office environments, whether home office, hybrid, compact, or collaborative, demand filing systems that are tailored, flexible, and space-conscious. Understanding the types of filing cabinets available is the first step toward building a more efficient and responsive workspace.

Each office layout in Singapore presents its own set of constraints. Whether it's a startup operating out of an HDB unit or a regional HQ managing hundreds of client files, choosing the right office storage type matters more than ever.

Common Filing Cabinet Types and Their Benefits

• Vertical Filing Cabinets: These are ideal for offices with limited floor space. Their upright design means they take up less wall space while offering deep storage drawers perfect for A4 or letter-sized documents. They're a go-to choice for traditional storage needs.

• Lateral Filing Cabinets: Lateral models offer wider drawers and are designed for accessibility. They’re ideal for shared office spaces where multiple team members need access to documents, and they often double as credenzas or space dividers.

• Mobile Filing Cabinets: Equipped with wheels and often compact, mobile filing cabinets are ideal for agile workspaces. They can be tucked under desks or moved between departments, making them especially useful in dynamic or co-working environments.

• Custom Filing Cabinets: Tailored to your specific requirements, custom filing cabinets can accommodate everything from odd-sized documents to integrated locking systems and bespoke finishes. They’re especially suited for design-conscious offices or unique storage needs.

Vertical vs. Lateral Filing Cabinets

Image source: Designing Idea

Selecting the right filing cabinet is more than just counting drawers. It’s about aligning storage strategy with workflow. As office needs in Singapore become more complex, so must our approach to furniture. A well-chosen filing cabinet doesn’t just store paperwork. It supports productivity, collaboration, and long-term growth.

Top 6 Filing Cabinets in Singapore

Whether you're looking for high-capacity vertical drawers or compact storage for tight spaces, understanding the differences between each unit is key. Below is a quick comparison of MyDesk.sg’s top filing cabinet options, highlighting their size, material, best-use scenarios, and pricing to help you make an informed purchase.

High Steel Swing Door Filing Cabinet

• Best for: Secure, vertical storage in corporate environments
  
  

• Key Features: This tall, upright cabinet with dual swing doors is built for high-volume storage while minimising floor space usage. Its lockable swing doors offer added security, making it ideal for storing sensitive documents or inventory items. The generous height is suitable for offices with ample vertical space.
  
  

High Steel Filing Cabinet with Sliding Door

• Best for: Tight spaces or narrow corridors
  
  

• Key Features: Similar in height to the swing door model but with sliding doors, this cabinet is perfect for areas where swinging doors may obstruct movement. The sliding mechanism allows easy access to files even in compact workspaces, without compromising on storage volume or durability.
  
  

Low Steel Filing Cabinet with Swing Door

• Best for: Under-desk or side-table storage
  
  

• Key Features: This compact model features traditional swing-door access with a lower profile, making it ideal for personal or departmental use. It fits seamlessly under desks, making it a space-saving choice for small offices or home setups. Despite its smaller size, it maintains robust steel construction.
  
  

Low Steel Filing Cabinet with Sliding Door

• Best for: Compact offices with high foot traffic
  
  

• Key Features: This low cabinet features a sliding door system that avoids obstruction in busy walkways or confined areas. It’s a practical choice for startups or shared workspaces that require flexible yet accessible document storage, especially in areas with limited door clearance.
  
  

Four-Drawer Steel Filing Cabinet

• Best for: Heavy-duty, high-frequency file access
  
  

• Key Features: A classic choice for HR departments, legal firms, and educational institutions, this vertical cabinet has four deep drawers designed for high-capacity filing. The smooth drawer glides allow for frequent access, while each drawer can be individually locked for added control.

3-Drawer Steel Cabinet

• Best for: Moderate storage with top accessibility
  
  

• Key Features: This unit strikes a balance between space-saving design and functional storage. The three-drawer layout is great for organising by category, such as invoices, project files, and administrative documents. It’s a reliable solution for SMEs or personal office use.

Filing Cabinet Materials: What to Consider for Durability, Design & Maintenance

The material of a filing cabinet is a critical factor that influences not only its appearance but also its durability, ease of maintenance, and suitability for various office environments. In Singapore, where office spaces range from compact home offices to large corporate setups, choosing the right material helps extend the life of your office furniture and supports a productive workspace.

Why Material Matters

• Affects longevity and resistance to daily wear and tear
  
  

• Influences maintenance requirements, especially in humid climates
  
  

• Shapes the aesthetic appeal and how well it fits your office design
  
  

• Determines how well the cabinet protects sensitive documents

Metal Filing Cabinets: Built for Performance

• Made from powder-coated steel for enhanced strength and rust resistance
  
  

• Ideal for high-traffic environments and heavy-duty use
  
  

• Commonly equipped with locking systems for added document security
  
  

• Low maintenance – easy to clean and less prone to damage
  
  

• Sleek, professional look that suits most modern office settings

Wooden Filing Cabinets: Design Meets Function

• Adds warmth and sophistication to office interiors
  
  

• Often used in executive offices or client-facing workspaces.
  
  

• Available in various finishes to match existing décor
  
  

• Requires more maintenance (e.g. moisture protection, polishing)
  
  

• Aesthetic-first choice for businesses that prioritise design identity

Filing Cabinets and Document Security: What to Look For

In any office, whether it's a legal firm, HR department, or SME managing sensitive records, document security is non-negotiable. Filing cabinets are not just storage tools; they are frontline protectors of confidential information.

Modern filing cabinets now come equipped with advanced security features designed to meet the evolving needs of compliance and privacy. Understanding these features can help businesses make smarter, risk-aware furniture decisions.

Key Security Features in Filing Cabinets

1. Locking Mechanisms
   
   

1. Central lock systems to secure all drawers simultaneously
   
   

2. Individual drawer locks for selective access control
   
   

3. Options for key, combination, or digital locks based on security needs
   
   

4. Necessary for safeguarding HR records, financial files, or client contracts
   
   

2. Anti-Tilt Systems
   
   

1. Prevent the cabinet from tipping when multiple drawers are opened.
   
   

2. A safety essential in high-traffic or multi-user environments
   
   

3. Maintains structural stability and protects users from injury
   
   

3. Fire-Resistant Cabinets
   
   

1. Engineered with insulation materials to withstand high heat
   
   

2. Crucial for storing legal, financial, and compliance-related documents
   
   

3. Protects against unexpected events like electrical fires or nearby hazards
   
   

4. Reinforced Build Quality
   
   

1. Heavier-gauge metal or fireboard panels add strength and resistance.
   
   

2. Ensures long-term durability and reduces break-in risk

Security features are not just "nice-to-have." They’re foundational to maintaining trust, compliance, and operational integrity in any office setting.

Custom Filing Cabinets: Tailoring Storage to Your Office Needs

As workplaces evolve, so do expectations around furniture design and functionality. Filing cabinets are no longer just uniform metal boxes tucked into corners. They’re now configurable, multi-purpose storage units that adapt to the way your team works.

For Singapore-based businesses, where space optimisation, branding, and workflow efficiency matter, custom filing cabinets offer flexibility that traditional options simply can’t match.

Popular Customisation Options

1. Adjustable Shelves
   
   

1. Adapt compartments for varying file sizes or mixed-use storage.
   
   

2. Ideal for offices that store both paperwork and office supplies
   
   

2. Mobile Pedestals
   
   

1. Compact and wheeled for under-desk mobility
   
   

2. Great for hot-desking setups and shared workspaces
   
   

3. Locking Systems
   
   

1. Choose from keyed, combination, or digital locking options.
   
   

2. Assign drawer access based on staff roles or departments.
   
   

4. Colour and Finish Options
   
   

1. Match brand colours or office interiors.
   
   

2. Available in laminates, woodgrain, matte, and gloss finishes
   
   

5. Size and Format
   
   

1. Custom widths, heights, or multi-drawer configurations
   
   

2. Perfect for fitting into unique nooks or under counters

Standard vs Custom Filing Cabinets

When your storage works the way your team does, productivity and design both win.

Smart Purchasing: What to Consider Before Buying Filing Cabinets

Choosing the right filing cabinets for your office is a strategic decision that impacts productivity, safety, and the overall design of your workspace. With numerous options available, it’s essential to evaluate what truly meets your team's needs, rather than defaulting to one-size-fits-all storage solutions.

From compact HDB offices to large corporate setups in the CBD, the right filing cabinet should align with your space, workflow, and budget, while ensuring long-term durability and document security.

Filing Cabinet Purchase Checklist

Use this list to guide your decision-making before investing:

1. Size & Capacity
   
   

1. How much floor space do you have?
   
   

2. Do you need deep drawers for bulk files or compact units for daily use?
   
   

2. Material Choice
   
   

1. Metal for durability and security
   
   

2. Wood for aesthetics and executive settings
   
   

3. Security Features
   
   

1. Do you handle sensitive or confidential documents?
   
   

2. Look for cabinets with advanced locking systems or those that offer fire resistance.
   
   

4. Functionality
   
   

1. Need mobility? Choose units with caster wheels.
   
   

2. Require flexible storage? Opt for adjustable shelving or multi-purpose drawers.
   
   

5. Budget & Lead Time
   
   

1. Set a clear budget based on your storage volume and material preference.s
   
   

2. Consider lead times, especially for custom units or bulk orde.rs
   
   

6. Office Layout & Workflow
   
   

1. Match cabinet style to office setup (e.g. vertical for narrow spaces, lateral for shared access)
   
   

2. Ensure it integrates seamlessly into your workflow.
   
   

Buying filing cabinets is not just about storage; it's also about organisation. It's about investing in scalable, secure, and well-designed office infrastructure that supports your team’s daily operations. By making informed decisions upfront, you can avoid costly replacements later and ensure that your filing system evolves in tandem with your business.

Ready to Optimise Your Office Storage?

Choosing the right filing cabinets isn't just about storage; it's also about organisation. It's about investing in efficiency, security, and workplace clarity. Whether you're looking for space-saving vertical units, lockable drawers for sensitive documents, or a full-scale office furniture solution, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Need help deciding?

Our customer support specialists offer personalised recommendations based on your space, needs, and budget. Whether you're a business owner outfitting a new space or simply upgrading your office furniture, we’re just a message away.

Let’s Get Started

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Or reach out via email: sales@mydesk.sg

Your ideal office storage solution is just a click away. Let’s build a smarter workspace together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of filing cabinets?

Filing cabinets come in vertical, lateral, mobile, and custom designs. Vertical cabinets save floor space, while lateral cabinets offer wider storage and easier access.

How do I choose the right size filing cabinet?

Measure your available space and assess your document volume to determine the optimal storage solution. Compact cabinets are suitable for small offices, while high-capacity vertical cabinets are best suited for ample file storage.

What materials are filing cabinets made of?

Most filing cabinets are made from steel or wood. Steel offers durability and security, while wooden cabinets provide aesthetic appeal for executive offices.

Are filing cabinets with locking mechanisms important?

Yes. Locking filing cabinets protect sensitive documents, prevent unauthorised access, and enhance office security, especially for confidential or legal files.

How much do filing cabinets typically cost in Singapore?

Prices vary by size, material, and features, ranging from about SGD 180 for basic low-profile steel models to over SGD 300 for large, secure cabinets.