The Best Aftermarket Shift Knobs

Shift your car into high gear with these top car gear knobs.

I used to think that the stock shift knob on my car was just fine – until I tried a new, more ergonomic shifter knob. It felt so much better in my hand and made shifting gears a breeze. Plus, it adds a nice dash of style to my cabin—my Mishimoto weighted shift knob looks really cool. Are you are looking to replace your stock stick shift knob? With so many options out there, it can be hard to decide which shifter knob is best for you.

In this article, we’ll review some of the best aftermarket shift knobs and discuss their features, pros and cons to help you choose the right one for your vehicle. . Here is a quick look at the best on the market:

• Best weighted shift knob: Skunk2 Racing 6-Speed Shift Knob
• Best dragon ball shift knobs- Kei Project Dragon Ball Z Star Gear Knob
• Budget manual 5 speed shift knob – DEWHEL 5-Speed Manual Gear Shift Knob
• Samurai sword weighted automatic gear shift knob – Kei Project
• Best carbon fiber shift knob: Ryanstar carbon fiber shift knob

Why replace the original stick shift knob? 

There are many reasons why you might replace your factory shift knob. Maybe it’s damaged or faulty, and you just need to find a replacement. Or maybe you’re ready for an upgrade. Even if you have a shifter knob that’s just fine, why not replace it with one that works and looks great? Every time you’re driving your car, you’re going to be holding the shift knob—so it needs to feel good in your hand and guide the shift lever smoothly. Plus, you can find shift knobs in all kinds of styles and material, so you can really make sure your car reflects your personality and style. No matter why you’re looking for a new shifter knob, we’ve got you covered with this list of the best aftermarket shifter knobs.

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How to choose the best shift knob for your car

If you’re shopping for a new shift knob for your car, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure your replacement shifter knob is the right size and shape.  While some shifter knobs are vehicle-specific, most aftermarket shift knobs have universal fit. They have thread adapters allowing for a perfect fitment across plenty of applications. Getting the right size adapter with the correct thread pattern is crucial for a proper fit.

The other thing you’ll want to look at when choosing a shift knob is the material. You want something durable enough to withstand constant use and exposure to the elements. Some of these materials are durable, such as aluminum and titanium. Others, like metal shift knobs, should be avoided if you live in extreme weather conditions (because they get too hot or cold). Scroll deeper for more info on the pros and cons of each material.

Consider the weight of the car shift knob as well. You want it to feel good in your hand and make it easy for you to transition from gear to gear. A weighted shift knob will help you get smoother transitions from one gear to another and make it easier for you to hold down the clutch pedal while shifting gears.

Finally, choosing the right shift knob for you is a matter of personal preference. Whether you like sleek, cool shifter knobs or flashy and colorful, unique shift knobs, you’re sure to find one that’s just right for you.

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Best shift knobs review

Mishimoto Weighted Shift Knob

Specs: Diameter – 1.23″ | Weight -12.8 oz | Height – 3.42″ | Material – Steel

What’s in the package: 1 Mishimoto Weighted Shift Knob /3 adapters (M8 x 1.25, M10 x 1.5, M12 x 1.25)

The Mishimoto weighted shift knob is a great upgrade for the car owner who wants to improve their driving experience. Weighted at 12.8oz, the steel shifter knob allows for smoother, faster shifting, and its ergonomic shape ensures that you have a good and comfortable grip. One of the trendier-looking shift knobs out there, the sleek Mishimoto shifter will add a touch of class to your cabin’s interior. At less than $40, it is also quite affordable for such a cool shift knob.

Mishimoto shift knob brand is available in a range of colors (12 options) so you can really find the one that works best with your interior. Plus, it has a universal fit and will work with most manual transmissions, thanks to the 3 included adapters for different fitments. But if you live in extreme weather conditions, consider investing in a shift knob cover as the knob can get pretty hot or cold in the summer and winter respectively. For a lightweight shift knob, check out the Mishimoto carbon fiber shift knob that features a beautiful carbon fiber pattern to complement your interior.

Skunk2 Racing shift knob

Material – Stainless Steel | Weight – 1.45lbs | Dimensions – 6.2 x 6.4 x 3.6 inches (LxWxH) | Color – Gun Metal Gray | Adapters for Skunk2 shifter knobs 5 speed – M10 x 1.50 | Adapters for Skunk2 shifter knobs 6 speed – M10 x 1.5 and M10 x 1.25

Skunk2 is one of the top brands when it comes to racing performance parts, and their racing shift knobs live up to the billing. The Skunk2 race shift knobs are available in two styles: 6-speed (for Honda) and 5-speed (for Nissan, Mazda, Mitsubishi or any M10 x 1.50 shifter). Both are made from high-quality billet stainless steel with a sleek PVD titanium finish that gives it a tough, scratch-proof exterior. Plus, the weighted shifter handle (1.45lb) provides a smoother, more positive shifting experience, while the microphone design makes it vastly comfortable to hold. All these qualities make it one of the more popular race car shift knobs. Even if you’re not into racing, this is still one of the best manual transmission weighted knobs on the market.

Dewhel Shifter Knob 5-Speed

Specs: Weight: 5.6oz | Material: Aluminum | Adapters: M10 x 1.5 (Honda and Acura models) or M12x1.25 (for Subaru Impreza, Suzuki Samurai, Toyotas and other car models)

The Dewhel shifter knob is designed to fit most Honda car models with a thread size of M10x1.5. Also available for thread size M12x1.25 that fits most manual Subaru Impreza, Suzuki Samurai, Toyotas and other car models. Easy install, just unscrew the original and screw this in. Some might require adaptors nuts for proper attachment; these are included in the package. The Type-R style design means a comfortable grip, allowing you to engage gears without exerting too much force. We like the sleek black aluminum finish with red lettering that gives off the racing vibe.

Kei Project dragon ball shift knobs

Specs: Diameter: 2’’ | Weight – 5oz | Material: Acrylic | Dimensions LxWxH: 2.1 x 2.1 x 2.1 inches | Adapters: M8x1.25M, M1 x1.25, M10x1.50, or M12x1.25 for manual transmission

These stunning shifters are as close to custom gear shift knobs as you can get – without the hefty price tag. The dragon ball shift knobs are made of see-through acrylic material with stars inside to some color to your cabin. With a diameter of just 2-inches, the non-weighted stick shift cover will fit in your hand comfortably so you don’t tire on long drives. Plus, the acrylic material used is durable and scratch-resistant. We like that this gear shift knob fits most cars as it comes with adapters for the M10 x 1.50, M12 x 1.25, M10 x 1.25, and M8 x 1.25M shaft sizes. Needs special adapters to work as an automatic gear shift knob.

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Ryanstar carbon fiber shift knobs

Diameter: 2’’ | Material: Plastic with carbon fiber pattern | Height: 1.9″(49.6 mm) | Shift thread: M12x1.25 | Adapters: M8x1.25, M10x1.25, M10x1.5

This gearshift knob is made from high-quality plastic with a scratch-resistant surface. It has an attractive carbon fiber pattern that adds elegance to your car’s interior. You can choose between two colors to match the rest of your vehicle: black or red. The Ryanstar carbon fiber shift knob has a round design that provides a comfy grip and will stay cool even in extreme weathers. Installation of the gear shift knob is simple. Simply remove the original shifting handle. Then, select the correct-sized adapter for your shifter knob and fasten. This gear shift knob will fit most manual vehicles including Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Toyota, and Scion.

Weighted Samurai Sword for manual and automatic transmission gear shifts

Weight: 18oz | Height:  6 inches | Material: Steel with Brass Plated Finish | Attachment Fit: M8x1.25M, M10x1.25, M10x1.50, or M12x1.25 | Package includes: 1 Samurai Sword Shift Knob, 3 Lock Nut & 3 metal adapters

For a unique look, go for this distinct samurai sword weighted shift knob from Kei Project. Its solid steel construction and nickel-brass finish is topped off with a black and red polyester fabric weave. You get to pick other color options to match your car interiors, such as blue/black, teal/black, and others. This weighted gear knob (1.2lb) allows you to change your gears smoothly and quickly. Plus, it has a universal fitting and comes with the necessary adapters to fit most shaft sizes, including automatic. We found this to be one of the best Katana shift knobs in the market.

If you want a non-weighted samurai sword gear handle, the Ryanstar shifter knob is a great option. And quite budget-friendly too, considering it can work both as a manual gear shift knob and an automatic gear shift knob. Made from alloy, it is finished off with synthetic silk and imitative rayskin and is available in multiple colors.

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Neo chrome Stick Shift Head

Weight: 0.4lb | Material: Aluminum | Attachment Fit: : M8 x 1.25M, M10 x 1.25, M10 x 1.50, and M12 x 1.25 shaft sizes

If you’re a fan of the neo chrome finish, then you’re going to love the Zhol manual stick shift knob – the rainbow-like finish adds a dash of pop in your cabin. It’s made from solid, scratch-resistant aluminum and has a universal fitting, thanks to the included adapters for M8 x 1.25M, M10 x 1.25, M10 x 1.50, and M12 x 1.25 fitments. Plus, it’s super easy to install – simply unmount your current shift knob by loosening the screws that hold it in place. Then, choose the right adapter for your car shifter and screw on the Zhol auto shifter knob. The only downside is that there are plenty of counterfeits out there that use lower grade materials and won’t last as long as the real thing. So please be sure to buy from an authorized ZHOL dealer.

Thenice Knob Cover for Automatic Transmission Cars

Unlike stock shifter knobs, this Honda Civic gearbox shift knob is strictly for automatic transmission cars. It will look wonderful in your car, thanks to its sleek carbon fiber pattern finish. Super easy to install, all you need is adhesive tape and you are ready to go. Also check out these leather shift knobs for automatic cars here.

APDTY Shifter Button Knob Repair Kit

This APDTY auto transmission shifter knob repair kit has everything you need to fix the common broken shifter button problem; a new shift knob, one return spring, and a plastic guide to keep the metal rod shifter in place. To fix a stuck shift knob, simply follow the steps as per their instructional video. You only need 10-20 minutes, a screw, and lubricant to get the job done. Once done repairing a broken shift knob, you have the option of painting the knob exterior to suit your car’s interior. Though the shifter knob repair kit is compatible with Honda Accord models and other models, be sure to check if your car’s year, make, & model matches the item.

Bling Car Gear Shift Knob Cover

This fancy crystal-covered shift knob cover will add some glam and style to your car- without being gaudy. Easy to install and comfortable to hold, you can pair the shift knob cover with the matching bling steering wheel cover or seatbelt cover.

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How to Pick the Best Gear Shift Knob: A Buying Guide

There’s a lot to consider when you’re in the market for gear shift knobs. We’ll start off by getting into the nitty-gritty details about types of shift knobs, and then we’ll look at some of the materials used for making gear shift knobs. Finally, well identify important feature you should look out for when shopping for an aftermarket shifter knob. By the time you’re done reading this, you should know know exactly what kind of gear shift knobs is best for you.

Types of Shift Knob

Universal shift knobs

These are designed to be screwed on to shift stick rods of a wide range of vehicles.  They have adapter pieces that enable you to adjust the diameter and thread pattern on your shift stick to fit the shift knob. Most aftermarket shift knobs come with 3-4 adapter pieces for shaft sizes M8 x 1.25M, M10 x 1.25, M10 x 1.50 and M12 x 1.25.

Vehicle Specific Shift Knobs

These are similar to stock shift knobs – that is, they are specific to certain vehicles. However, these have been modified to fit the unique purpose of the car, whether it is for performance or aesthetic appeal.  Typically, the shift knobs’ diameters and thread patterns of the best gear knobs should be a perfect fit for the target car. The Dewhel shift knobs 5-speed for Honda Acura is a good example of this type of Shift Knobs

Custom Gear Shift Knobs Custom Shift Knobs

These reflect the car owners’ style. Many custom shift knobs have designs and specifications that are unique to a particular car. Some trendy shift knobs include different colors, logo-engraved, metallic-polished, sword, or skull designs.

Weighted shift knobs

Weighted knobs weigh more compared to non-weighted ones. A weighted shift knob makes shifting feel smoother and more precise, because of the extra momentum in each shift. Some drivers, such as racers, prefer weighted shift knobs, while other drivers prefer the non-weighted ones.

You might want to check out the feel of a weighted and non-weighted shift knob before making your choice. Whichever style of shift knob cover you choose, the important thing is that it fits perfectly. Whether it is the universal type or the vehicle-specific shift knob, ensure that you research the product specifications so that it’s a perfect match with your vehicle. 

Type of Material

You should also consider the type of material your stick shift cover is made of. These materials include carbon fiber, wood, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, plastic, and titanium. Some of these materials are durable, such as aluminum and titanium. Others, like metal shift knobs, should be avoided if you live in extreme weather conditions.

Aluminum shift knobs

Aluminium is durable, lightweight, and affordable. Therefore, aluminum shift knobs are quite popular with consumers. But the metal gear knobs  gets very hot in the summer and extremely cold in winter and is not a good fit for those living in extreme weather conditions.

Stainless Steel Shift Knobs

This metal’s dense feature makes it perfect for weighted gear shift knobs. But just like other metals, the stainless-steel shift knobs aren’t great if you experience extreme weather conditions.

Real Carbon fiber Shift Knobs

Light-weight yet durable, these carbon fiber shift knobs have become quite popular with aftermarket shifter knob buyers. The distinct carbon fibre pattern is also quite popular among users.

Delrin Plastic Shit Knobs

This is a type of plastic that is known for its stability and low friction. Many car racing shift knobs are made using the Delrin DuPont plastic. However, if you have sweaty palms, you may find this material a tad slippery and you risk losing control of your shift knob.

Titanium Shift Knobs

Titanium is quite pricey, so it is mostly used to coat shift levers. It is lightweight yet strong and durable. But because of their price range, titanium gear shifters are not very common among motorists.

Manual or Automatic Transmission Car Shift Knobs

Whether you drive a manual or automatic transmission car will determine the kind of shift stick knob to buy. There are both manual transmission shifter knob, automatic shift knobs as well as dual shift knobs that work with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Manual transmission knobs have speed markings at the top to correspond to speed number transmissions in your car. So, a 6-speed transmission car requires a shifter knob with 6-speed transmission markings.

On the other hand, automatic transmission cars have unmarked shift knob automatic shifters as the gears are changed automatically.

Comfortable hold and grip

The best aftermarket shift knobs should fit comfortably in your hands so that you can easily shift your gears.  A shifter knob with an ergonomic design will reduce discomfort during gearshift. For the average driver, a 1-2-inch diameter shift knob is a good fit.

It is a good idea to check if your car model and make is compatible with the different designs, materials, and finishes available before shift knob replacement. Selecting the perfect fit for you will improve your general driving experience.

COMPARISON TABLE OF THE BEST SHIFT KNOBS

Best shift knob brands	Weight	Material	Attachment Fit
Mishimoto weighted shift knob	12.8 oz	Alloy Steel	M8 x 1.25, M10 x 1.5, M12 x 1.25
DC Sports weighted spherical-style shift knob	14oz	Stainless steel, powder coated	M8 x 1.25, M10 x 1.25, M10 x 1.5, and M12 x 1.5
Kei Project Dragon Ball Z Star Gear Knob	5oz	See-through acrylic	M10 x 1.50, M12 x 1.25, M10 x 1.25, and M8 x 1.25M
Ryanstar carbon fiber shift knob	oz	Plastic with Carbon fiber pattern	Shift thread: M12x1.25, adapters: M8x1.25, M10x1.25, M10x1.5
DEWHEL 5-Speed Manual Gear Shift Knob	5.6oz	Aluminum	M10 x 1.5, with adapter nuts for Honda and Acura cars
Kei Project Weighted Samurai Sword	18oz	Steel with Brass Plated Finish	M8x1.25M, M10x1.25, M10x1.50, or M12x1.25
Zhol Neochrome Shift Head	6.4oz	Aluminum with neochrome finsh	M8 x 1.25M, M10 x 1.25, M10 x 1.50, and M12 x 1.25 shaft sizes
Kei Project dragon ball shift knobs	1.2lb	Steel with Brass Plated Finish	M8x1.25M, M10x1.25, M10x1.50, or M12x1.25
Thenice Knob Cover for Automatic Transmission Cars	n/a	Leather or carbon fibre	2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 10th Gen Honda Civic

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Recent Updates

April 20, 2022: Updated the recommendations.