Best Hinges

In the world of home improvement and construction, hinges may seem like small, inconsequential items. However, they play a crucial role in our daily lives, ensuring that doors, windows, cabinets, and more operate smoothly and efficiently. The market for hinges is vast and varied, with many different types and materials available, each designed for specific uses. As of 2023, there are several standout hinge models that have earned recognition for their quality, durability, and innovative design. Here are our top picks for the best hinges of 2023.

Types of Hinges:

• Butt hinges - The most common type. They have two flat plates that meet at a 90 degree angle when closed. Butt hinges come in different sizes and finishes.
• Pin hinges - Similar to butt hinges but have a visible pin that joins the two plates. Often used for cabinet doors.
• Pivot hinges - Allow a door or gate to swing full 360 degrees. Commonly used for gates.
• Continuous/Piano hinges - Long strip hinges that run the entire length of an item like a cabinet door. No visible seams.
• Concealed hinges - Also called hidden hinges. Mounted so the hinge plates are not visible when closed. Commonly used for cabinetry.
• Ball bearing hinges - Contain ball bearings inside for smooth swinging motion. Often used for high traffic or heavy doors.
• Trunk lid/gas strut hinges - Help prop open heavy lids like car trunks or cabinet drawers. Contain gas springs or pistons.
• Flag hinges - Have "leaves" that fold or wrap neatly around each other when closed. Used for furnishing like flag boxes.
• Spring hinges - Contain a coil spring that helps close the door. Used in applications like screen doors.

Top 5 Best Hinges of 2023:

1. Amerock BP4611-A14 Hinge

The Amerock BP4611-A14 hinge is a top-tier model that combines quality materials with excellent design. This hinge is made from nickel, which offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for use in environments where moisture is a concern.

What sets this hinge apart from others is its adjustable overlay feature. This feature allows you to adjust the hinge to create the perfect alignment for your door or cabinet. This hinge also comes with a closing mechanism that eliminates the need for a separate door closer, making it a great two-in-one solution.

The Amerock BP4611-A14 is not just about functionality. It also has a sleek, satin nickel finish that offers a modern and stylish look, making it an excellent choice for contemporary homes.

2. Kreg Tool Company KHI-HINGE Concealed Hinge Jig

Next on the list is not just a hinge, but a tool that revolutionizes the way we install hinges - the Kreg Tool Company KHI-HINGE Concealed Hinge Jig. This tool takes the guesswork out of installing concealed hinges, a type of hinge that is hidden from view when the door or cabinet is closed.

The Kreg Concealed Hinge Jig is designed to be user-friendly, with clear instructions and settings that allow you to achieve perfect results every time. This jig works with all types of concealed hinges and comes with a high-quality drill bit for precise hole placement.

While this tool does not include the hinges themselves, it's an indispensable tool for anyone planning to install concealed hinges, making it a deserving inclusion on this list.

3. Stanley Hardware S827-626 Standard Weight Ball Bearing Hinge

The Stanley Hardware S827-626 is a standard weight ball bearing hinge that delivers reliable performance in a variety of applications. Made from stainless steel, this hinge offers excellent durability and corrosion resistance.

What makes this hinge stand out is its ball bearing design, which reduces friction during operation, allowing the door or cabinet to open and close more smoothly. This hinge also includes screws that match the finish of the hinge, ensuring a uniform look.

The Stanley S827-626 hinge is a testament to Stanley's reputation for producing high-quality hardware products that deliver reliable performance.

4. Blum Cabinet Hinge

The Blum 110 Degrees Compact 39C Series hinge is a popular choice for cabinets due to its compact design and high-quality construction. This hinge is designed to provide a 110-degree opening angle, which is perfect for most cabinets.

The standout feature of this hinge is its one-piece design, which simplifies installation and ensures a secure fit. This hinge also features a press-in design, which means you can install it without screws.

The Blum 110 Degrees Compact 39C Series hinge is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, easy-to-install hinge for their cabinets.

5. Sugatsune Concealed Hinge

Last but not least, the Sugatsune 304B-C46/19 hinge is a high-quality hinge made from stainless steel 304. This material offers excellent durability and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a variety of applications.

This hinge features a self-closing design, which means it will automatically close the door or cabinet once it's opened past a certain point. This feature is particularly useful for cabinets and doors that need to remain closed when not in use.

The Sugatsune 304B-C46/19 hinge combines quality materials with an innovative design, making it a top pick for 2023.

Buying Guide

Before making your decision, here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Material: The material of a hinge determines its durability and appearance. Stainless steel and nickel are popular choices due to their corrosion resistance and sleek appearance.
• Design: The design of a hinge can impact its functionality. Ball bearing hinges reduce friction, making doors easier to open and close. Self-closing hinges are convenient for cabinets that need to stay shut.
• Installation: Some hinges are easier to install than others. Press-in and concealed hinges offer a cleaner look, but may require more effort or special tools to install correctly.
• Aesthetic: While functionality is important, the look of a hinge can also impact the overall aesthetic of your door or cabinet. Ensure the hinge's finish matches your decor.
• Usage: Different hinges are suited to different uses. Heavy-duty hinges are ideal for large doors, while smaller, more discreet hinges are better suited for cabinets and small doors.

In conclusion, the best hinges of 2023 offer a mix of quality, durability, and thoughtful design. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, there's a hinge on this list to meet your needs. With the right hinge, you can ensure smooth operation and longevity for your doors and cabinets, enhancing the usability and aesthetic of your space.

Conclusion

2023 has seen the introduction and improvement of many high-quality hinges in the market. From the adjustable Amerock BP4611-A14 hinge to the Kreg Tool Company KHI-HINGE Concealed Hinge Jig that revolutionizes hinge installation, the options are vast and varied. The Stanley Hardware S827-626 hinge, the Blum 110 Degrees Compact 39C Series hinge, and the Sugatsune 304B-C46/19 hinge all offer unique features that make them stand out in their respective categories.

When choosing the best hinge for your needs, it's important to consider the material, design, and additional features that each hinge offers. Whether you'reinstalling a new door, updating your cabinets, or working on a special project, there's a hinge on this list that's perfect for you.