Ours are aligned.

I think not aligned looks better IMHO.

I would do what MO did.

Align

the 2nd way above ..non aligned I guess you are calling it. chunky handle...keep it lower down. lighter thinner handles can take the hgher up position better.

This looks better:

Top pic.

Top photo.

Here are pictures of my Shaker styed cabinetry with pulls.

Creative design cabinetery says top pic but on his Houzz site most are bottom pic...

Several guidelines here

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/ARR_tkP45l4IwTKMo8aChCUYLVzpAmrZczJ0tV7k7PPha9mI_FBvUN4/

There is no perfect exact spot! Depending on the kitchen design, door design/proportions and the style and size of the pulls, you would want to adjust the position so that it looks best in that particular space. Personal taste will also come into play!

As mentioned, either way is fine. On my white shaker cabinets, the pulls are aligned like your first photo.

I had to go look at mine because I really didn't know which way they were. Mine are aligned. I think either looks fine.

Any adivce on size of pulls for 42 inch cabinets?

lisedv, most of them are like the first pic. Sometimes I get overrulled.

It's a question of taste... They are both acceptable.