Whether you’re looking for a great new look for the inside of your vehicle, the old shift knob is wearing out, or you just don’t like the way it feels, there are tons of replacement options for you to pick from.
We’ve tracked down and highlighted ten of the best shift knobs for you to consider here, and we’ve come up with a comprehensive buyer’s guide that will break down everything you need to know before you purchase one.
10 Best Shift Knobs
We know you’re busy and that there are a ton of great shift knobs out there. That’s why we started by diving right into the reviews of the best shift knobs out there.
If you need more information about what to look for or why you should upgrade your shift knob in the first place, our buyer’s guide will break everything down for you after the reviews.
1. iJDMTOY Titanium Finish JDM Shift Knob – Best Shift Knob Overall
- Construction Material: Titanium
- Thread Sizes: 49 mm, M8, M10, and M12
- Weight: 5.5 ounces
If you’re looking for the best shift knob for your vehicle, look no further than the iJDMTOY Burnt Titanium Finish JDM Sphere Shift Knob. While there’s only one style option to pick from, it’s a more universal look that fits into most cars.
It’s easy to install in almost any manual vehicle, and it comes with multiple thread inserts so you don’t have to worry about whether or not it’ll work in your car. Even better, you don’t have to spend a ton to get this shift knob, which is nice considering its durability.
With the iJDMTOY Burnt Titanium finish JDM Sphere Shift Knob you can get an excellent shift knob for your vehicle and never look back. They are looking at adding a glossy finish in the future, but right now the only option available with this durable, reliable, and stylish shift knob is the burnt titanium look.
Pros
- An outstanding mix of price and quality
- Very easy to install
- It comes with multiple thread sizes
- Universal style and fitment
- Very durable option
Cons
- There’s only one style option
2. RyanStar Carbon Fiber Shift Knob – Best Budget
- Construction Material: Aluminum
- Thread Sizes: M12, M8, M10
- Weight: 7 ounces
If your vehicle needs a new shift knob but you don’t want to spend a ton for one, then the RyanStar Carbon Fiber Shift Knob is an outstanding choice. It’s an extremely affordable option which is even more impressive considering just how durable it is.
This carbon fiber shift knob comes in four different color options so you can get one that matches your vehicle and style. They’re all easy to install and with multiple thread adapters, there’s a great chance it will fit your vehicle.
But while there’s a lot to love with this shift knob, it is a more affordable option for a reason. Chief among those reasons is that it’s just a standard shift knob. It doesn’t offer any additional performance benefits, and it doesn’t have the most ergonomic design.
Finally, it sits a bit too low in many vehicles, which can get a little frustrating if you’re driving for a longer period. It’s not perfect, but at this price you’re not going to find a better or more durable choice.
Pros
- Very affordably priced
- Four color options to pick from
- It comes with multiple thread adapters
- Very easy to install
- Durable option
Cons
- It sits very low in some cars
- No advanced features
3. Momo Combat Evo Shift Knob – Premium Choice
- Construction Material: Aluminum and leather
- Thread Sizes: Universal fitment
- Weight: 8 ounces
If you want the best shift knob on the market and don’t mind spending a bit more for one, then the Momo Combat Evo Shift Knob is the way to go. It costs far more than any other option on our list, but it’s also the highest-quality option.
There are multiple color options available, and they all feature a premium leather and aluminum design that combines durability with style. Even better, they all feature an ergonomic design that makes them easy and comfortable to use mile after mile.
Another unique feature of the Momo Combat Evo Shift Knob is that they don’t come with threads. Instead, they use a universal fitment style that ensures they’ll fit on any vehicle regardless of thread size.
It’s certainly a more expensive option, but you’ll never have to replace it. It’s a one-time cost that will give you an outstanding shift knob for years to come!
Pros
- Multiple color options are available
- Universal fitment style
- Ergonomic design for easy use
- Premium-looking design
- Very durable option
Cons
- Very expensive option
4. Mishimoto MMSK-BK Weighted Shift Knob
- Construction Material: Steel
- Thread Sizes: M8, M10, and M12
- Weight: 12.8 ounces
If you’re looking for a better feel when you’re shifting your vehicle, the Mishimoto MMSK-BK Weighted Shift Knob is a great choice. It’s a heavier and sturdier option that gives you a bit more control when you’re shifting gears.
Moreover, the ergonomic shape makes it easy to use and gives you a comfortable feeling no matter how many miles you’re driving when you get behind the wheel. Additionally, there are tons of color options for you to pick from, so you’ll have no problem finding a shift knob that matches your vehicle’s interior.
You’ll have to spend a bit more on one of these shift knobs, but since you don’t have to worry about it wearing out, it’s still a good long-term investment. The Mishimoto MMSK-BK Weighted Shift Knob is an outstanding choice if you want a reliable shifter knob with premium performance.
Pros
- Weighted design for more control
- Very sturdy option
- Tons of color options to pick from
- Extremely durable
- Ergonomic shape for easier use
Cons
- More expensive choice
5. DC Sports SKT1000 Shift Knob
- Construction Material: Stainless steel
- Thread Sizes: M8, M10, and M12
- Weight: 16 ounces
The DC Sports SKT1000 Shift Knob is another great gear shift knob if you’re looking for something with a little more weight. We’ve highlighted the shaft design for you here, but if you prefer a ball shifter they have an option for that too.
No matter what option you go with, it’s easy to install, and it’s one of the most durable options on our list. It’s also the heaviest gear shift knob on our list, which helps ensure it doesn’t slip out of gear during more aggressive driving situations.
Whether you’re looking for a gear shift knob for your daily driver or your track car, the DC Sports SKT1000 Shift Knob is a great choice. They come with plenty of thread adapters so you know it’ll fit just about any manual vehicle.
It is a bit more expensive than many other shift knobs, but it’s a great performance option and will last forever, so it’s a one-time purchase to get exactly what you want for your vehicle.
Pros
- It comes with plenty of thread adapters
- There’s both a shaft and ball design option
- Very easy to install
- Extremely durable option
- Weighted design for more control
Cons
- More expensive choice
6. Browning Pistol Grip Gear Shift Knob
- Construction Material: Metal
- Thread Sizes: 9/16”, 5/16”, 3/8”, and 7/16”
- Weight: 12 ounces
If you’re a car guy and a gun enthusiast, the Browning Pistol Grip Gear Shift Knob combines those two passions in one great gear shift knob. Just like a Browning pistol grip gives you a comfortable feeling, their gear shift knob features an ergonomic design that makes it easy and comfortable to use no matter how many miles you’re driving.
Not only is it stylish and comfortable, but it’s also extremely durable, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it after you get it. With tons of thread adapters, it’ll fit just about any manual vehicle out there, although there are complaints about how challenging it can be to install.
The instructions they come with aren’t the best, but luckily this guide does a great job breaking down everything you need to do to put it on your vehicle. This gear shift knob is available for a great price, and in the end, it all comes down to whether you like the look or not.
If you do it’s a great option, if not you can find another great option from our list and go with that!
Pros
- Very affordably priced
- Ergonomic design
- Durable option
- Very comfortable to use
Cons
- More challenging to securely attach
- Not everyone likes the look
7. Kei Project Katana Samurai Sword Shift Knob
- Construction Material: Brass and nickel
- Thread Sizes: M8, M10, and M12
- Weight: 18 ounces
There’s no denying that the Kei Project Katana Samurai Sword Shift Knob is one of the most unique gear shift knobs you can get for your vehicle. As the name implies, it looks like the hilt of a samurai sword, and you can pick from three different accent colors for the cloths on the sword hilt.
Overall, the shifter knob is extremely durable with a brass design, but the cloths can start to fall off over time. Additionally, the katana samurai sword hilt is a bit larger than many people are used to for a shifter knob, so it can feel like it’s getting in the way at times.
This shifter knob comes with multiple thread adapters so it can easily fit on tons of different vehicles, and some people absolutely love the look it gives their vehicle.
But while it’s unique, durable, and easy to use, not everyone loves the look and is one of the more expensive gear shift knobs. But if you like the look, it’s well worth every penny!
Pros
- Three color options to pick from
- Very unique appearance
- Multiple thread sizes are available
- Very durable shifter knob
- Some people like the larger shifter knob
Cons
- Not everyone likes the look
- More expensive option
- The cloths start to fall off over time
- Longer shifter knob can get in the way
8. Dewhel Dragonball Z/Pokemon Shift Knob
- Construction Material: Copper
- Thread Sizes: M12, M8, and M10
- Weight: 5.6 ounces
While these Dewhel gear shift knobs certainly aren’t the perfect choice for everyone, if you’re interested in either Dragonball Z or Pokémon, they can be a great way to insert your own sense of style into your vehicle.
We’re also aware that Pokémon and Dragonball Z are two different shows, but if you pull up this listing you’ll see that there are multiple gear shift knobs you can pick from. You won’t get one gear shift knob for both shows, but you can get one that matches either show.
No matter what choice you choose, it comes with multiple thread adapters so it’ll fit just about any manual vehicle, and they’re all more durable options. Perhaps the most surprising part of these gear shift knobs is their price. They’re all extremely affordable, allowing you to customize the look of your vehicle without spending a ton.
While not everyone will like the look, the bigger problem for many drivers is where these shift knobs sit in your vehicle. They sit a bit lower, which can be a little uncomfortable if you’re driving for a longer period.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Unique designs
- It comes with multiple thread adapters
- Very durable option
- It fits on most cars
Cons
- Not everyone likes the look
- It can sit lower in many cars
9. EZAutoWrap Shift Knob Stick Crystal
- Construction Material: Acrylic plastic
- Thread Sizes: M8, M10, and M12
- Weight: 9.1 ounces
The EZAutoWrap Shift Knob Stick Crystal is a unique shift knob on our list for quite a few reasons. First, it’s the only shift knob on our list with an acrylic plastic construction instead of metal or leather.
It’s durable, but some people think the plastic appearance cheapens the look of your vehicle. But with that in mind, there are a ton of color options you can pick from, and there are even designs that use LED lights to illuminate the shift knob!
Another unique thing about the EZAutoWrap Shift Knob Stick Crystal is that it comes in multiple sizes. You can pick the length of the shift knob you want, giving you the ultimate control over just how large you want the shifter.
Like all the gear shift knobs on our list, it fits just about any manual vehicle due to the multiple thread adapters it comes with. It’s one of the more affordable options too, so you don’t have to worry about spending a ton of money getting the shift knob you want for your vehicle.
But while there’s a lot to love with this choice, not everyone loves the “crystal” look, and the plastic construction doesn’t do a great job of selling it. It’s a unique and interesting shift knob option, but the main selling point for this option is the price.
Pros
- Tons of color options are available
- Plenty of sizes available
- It comes with multiple thread adapters
- A great mix of price and quality
Cons
- Not everyone likes the look
- Plastic construction
10. ICBeamer Neo Chrome Aluminum Shift Knob
- Construction Material: Aluminum
- Thread Sizes: Not listed
- Weight: 4 ounces
The ICBeamer Neo Chrome Aluminum Shift Knob might be the last option on our list, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering. It’s another extremely affordable shift knob you should consider if you’re on a tighter budget.
There are multiple color options for you to pick from so you can match the look of your vehicle with your style, and they come with multiple thread inserts so they fit just about any vehicle. They’re also easy to install so you won’t have to spend more than a few minutes putting it on your vehicle.
But even with all these perks, it fell to the last option on our list, and there are three reasons for that. First, while it comes with multiple thread sizes they don’t list the sizes and we couldn’t track them down anywhere. So, while this gear knob should fit your vehicle, you won’t know for sure until you get it.
Second, the aluminum design almost always matches the ambient air temperature. When it’s freezing outside the shift knob feels like ice, and on hot summer days the shift knob can feel like it’s on fire.
Finally, while this is an affordable option, it uses nylon thread inserts that wear out over time. If you’re looking for a shift knob that will last forever, this isn’t it.
Pros
- It comes with multiple thread inserts
- Very affordable option
- Multiple color options are available
- Very easy to install
Cons
- Not the most durable option
- No listed thread sizes
- It matches ambient temperatures too much
Shift Knobs Buyer’s Guide
If you’re still trying to figure out which gear shift knob to purchase after reading through all the reviews, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know in our buyer’s guide here. Before long you’ll know exactly what you want and need and order it!
Reasons People Replace Their Shift Knob
While you’re not going to get any performance benefits out of replacing your vehicle’s shift knob, there are plenty of other reasons you might decide to purchase one. We’ve highlighted three of the most common reasons people choose to replace their shift knob for you here.
Aesthetic
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to change the look of your vehicle a bit. And if you’re looking for a simple and subtle way to change the way the inside of your vehicle looks, changing the shift knob is a great idea.
They don’t cost a ton, and there are tons of options out there. You can go with a more unique choice to add your own personal flair to the vehicle, or you can go with another traditional look that you like a bit more.
The Old One Wears Out
Yes, shift knobs can wear out! While a shift knob can easily last close to a decade, if you’re rough when you shift or if you drive a ton, the threads inside the shift knob can start to wear down.
When this happens you’ll have trouble shifting gears or you’ll start to notice a lot of “play” with the shift knob. If this is the case with your vehicle, you should replace the shift knob right away.
Personal Preference
While there are performance benefits that come with changing out your shift knob, that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to feel a difference when you do. Different shift knobs create a different feeling when you shift gears, and some people prefer the way one shift knob feels compared to another one.
Not only that, but some people prefer the shape and feel of a specific type of shift knob. There’s nothing wrong with this, and if you prefer one type of shift knob you should switch!
What To Look For in a Shift Knob
There are quite a few things you should look into when you’re purchasing a shift knob for your vehicle. We recommend starting with the hardware the shift knob comes with. This might not make much sense at first, but if you need to use any of the tread adapters the shift knob comes with you want to ensure they use a metal construction.
Many companies look to save a few bucks by switching to plastic thread adapters. The problem with plastic thread adapters is that while they work great at first, it’s only a matter of time before they wear out.
When that happens the shift knob gets loose, and the only way to fix it is to replace the thread adapter. And since it’s not always easy to find a thread adapter that works with both your vehicle and the shift knob, this often means you need to replace the whole knob.
From there, look at the construction material of the shift knob and consider how it will conduct heat and cold. When extreme weather hits your area the last thing you want is to have to figure out how to handle the shift knob to drive your vehicle.
Finally, look at the appearance and the overall size. Consider how it’ll fit into the rest of your vehicle and if you’ll be able to easily reach everything to shift gears.
Tips for Replacing Your Shift Knob
Once you decide which shift knob you want for your vehicle you order it. But once you get the shift knob you need to know how to swap it out for the one that’s currently on your vehicle! The good news is that this is one of the simplest automotive jobs you can do, and it should only take a minute or two.
Below we’ve highlighted three simple instructions you should follow to successfully replace your shift knob.
Put On the Emergency Brake
When taking the shift knob off your vehicle, it’s easy to shift accidentally shift your vehicle out of gear. Because of this you should always put on the emergency brake before starting the replacement process.
It’s an extremely quick and easy step that will dramatically reduce the chances of getting into an accident while replacing the shift knob. Just don’t forget to take the emergency brake off the next time you go to drive!
Look for a Screw
This is the most challenging part of replacing the shift knob in your vehicle, and we promise you it’s not that hard. Manufacturers install shift knobs in your vehicle in one of two ways. First, they might just “screw” the shift knob on. If this is the case all you need to do is twist the shift knob counterclockwise to get it off.
The second way a manufacturer might attach the gear shift knob to your vehicle is to use a retaining screw. Simply look for a small screw along your shift knob, if you find one, unscrew it and you should be able to pull the shift knob straight up.
While the most common way a manufacturer installs a shift knob is by simply screwing it into place, we highly recommend looking for the screw first. If you try to unscrew a shift knob with a tool while a screw is holding it in place, there’s a good chance you can end up damaging your vehicle in the process.
Read the Instructions for the New Shift Knob
The exact way to install your new shift knob will vary depending on which option you go with. The good news is that the new shift knob will come with installation instructions.
Simply read the instructions that come with your new shift knob before installing it and they’ll walk you through everything you need to know. Even if you think you know what to do already, we highly recommend reading the instructions.
This will ensure you don’t make a mistake and accidentally damage your new shift knob before you even get a chance to use it!
When you’re looking to replace the shift knob in your vehicle, it’s only natural to have a few questions. We understand, and that’s why we decided to address some of the most frequently asked questions for you here.
Do Weighted Shift Knobs Hurt the Transmission?
No. Despite the unfounded rumor that a weighted shift knob can hurt the transmission, having a weighted shift knob will not negatively affect your transmission in any way. In fact, if you’re more comfortable with a weighted shift knob, you’re less likely to grind and miss gears, which will help your transmission last longer.
Are Heavy or Light Shift Knobs Better?
There’s no right or wrong answer here, it’s all about what you’re more comfortable with. Lighter shift knobs make it easier to feel your vehicle going into each gear, and some people prefer the “notchier” feel these shift knobs provide.
However, heavier shift knobs can make everything feel smoother, which many drivers prefer. It’s all about what you’re looking for!
What Material Is Best for A Gear Knob?
The best material or a gear knob depends on what you’re looking for. Some people prefer the sturdier feel of steel or copper, but these materials also hold a lot of the ambient temperature.
While you might not like the look of plastic, leather, or aluminum, they are durable options that don’t hold onto the ambient air temperature.
Do Shift Knobs Affect Performance?
No. While shift knobs might change the way your vehicle feels when you shift gears, it doesn’t affect performance in any way. If you’re looking for a way to get your vehicle to move faster, changing out the shift knob isn’t the way to go.
Do Shifters Wear Out?
Yes, gear shifters can wear out depending on how much you drive and your driving habits. Typically a gear shifter should last about 8 to 10 years, but it all depends on how you’re shifting and how much you’re driving. If you feel like there’s excessive play in the shifter or it’s not shifting gears correctly, it might be time for a new gear shifter.
Can a Shift Knob Be Too Heavy?
No. While a heavier shift knob can hide poor driving habits when it comes to shifting, this is a problem with the driver, not the shift knob. It all comes down to personal preference when you’re trying to get the right shift knob for your vehicle.
If you’re looking for a cool way to upgrade the look of your vehicle or if it’s time to replace the gear shift knob in your vehicle, any of the gear shift knobs we’ve highlighted here will do an excellent job for you. Pick your favorite and then all you need to do is wait to replace it when it comes in!It’s a quick and easy job, and doing it yourself can save you a ton of money compared to having a dealership or private repair shop do it for you. And when you finish the job you have a shiny new shift knob that looks and feels just like you want!
