Comfort: While looks are very important when choosing a handle, comfort shouldn’t be forgotten. A width and length that you can grasp comfortably is an important consideration. If you have joint issues or pain problems in your hands and arms, you will want a length that engages your entire hand and not just your fingers. Another consideration is the length between the actual cabinet and your handle. If it’s too close, the underlying area will wear out faster.
Existing holes: If a drawer or door already has existing holes, then choosing a width is much easier, as it simply becomes a matter of picking a corresponding length. However, if you want to go with something shorter or longer, you might need to create new holes and make sure you have a plan for sealing or concealing the original holes.
Width of door/drawer: An important consideration is the actual length of the door or drawer. A large or heavy drawer will require a more substantial, longer handle. A larger surface will require a larger pull, or might even require two smaller ones on opposite ends.
Resale value: if the value that a handle will add to your home is important, then keep your choices more conservative, and in proportion with about two thirds of the actual length of drawer. You will also need to think about the other appliances in your home, so that your choice matches the length, style, and materials of other finishes in the room.