Types of Door Locks: A Complete Homeowner’s Guide

Choosing a door lock involves more than deciding between a key and a keypad. The right hardware depends on the door, frame, location, traffic, security needs, accessibility, fire and egress requirements, weather exposure, and how people should enter and leave.

Some lock names describe the installation method, such as cylindrical or mortise. Others describe the locking function, such as deadbolt, passage, privacy, or storeroom. Terms such as smart, keypad, high-security, and master-keyed describe credentials or system features rather than one universal physical design.

Quick Comparison of Common Door Lock Types

No single lock type is right for every opening. A front entrance, bedroom, apartment corridor door, storefront, fire-rated door, patio slider and office stockroom all have different requirements.

Understand the Parts Before Comparing Locks

Door-lock terminology becomes easier when you separate four elements:

Locking hardware

This is the complete mechanism that secures or latches the door. It may be a tubular deadbolt, cylindrical lockset, mortise lock, multipoint mechanism, exit device or another assembly.

Cylinder or reader

The cylinder recognizes a mechanical key. An electronic reader recognizes a code, card, fob, phone or biometric credential. Some locks combine both.

Latch or bolt

A spring latch holds a door closed and retracts when the handle operates. A deadbolt is extended and retracted deliberately and does not normally spring back when pushed.

Strike and frame

The latch or bolt enters a strike mounted in or on the frame. Even strong hardware performs poorly when the door, frame, fasteners and strike are damaged or misaligned.

When comparing products, evaluate the complete opening rather than the visible lock alone.

1. Deadbolt Locks

Deadbolts are common on residential exterior doors. They use a solid bolt that extends into the strike when locked. A deadbolt is normally paired with a knob, lever or handleset that operates the spring latch.

Single-cylinder deadbolt

A single-cylinder deadbolt uses a key on the exterior and a thumb-turn on the interior. It allows occupants to unlock the door from inside without locating a key, which is important for convenient exit.

Common uses include:

• Front and rear residential entry doors
• Apartment entry doors when permitted and compatible
• Doors paired with non-locking passage hardware
• Existing openings prepared for a standard deadbolt

The door thickness, backset, bore size, edge preparation, handing and strike alignment must match the product.

Double-cylinder deadbolt

A double-cylinder deadbolt requires a key on both sides. It is sometimes considered for a door near breakable glass, but the interior key requirement can obstruct emergency exit. Applicable building, fire, rental and occupancy rules may restrict its use.

Never select one solely because it sounds more secure. A professional should review the opening, egress path and local requirements first.

One-sided or captive-turn deadbolt

Some applications use a deadbolt with no exterior key cylinder, while others use specialized interior controls. These are purpose-specific choices rather than universal front-door solutions.

2. Knob Locks

A knob lock combines the operating grip and latch mechanism in a compact set. Depending on its function, it may be keyed, privacy, passage or dummy hardware.

Common residential functions include:

• Keyed entry: key outside and turn or button inside
• Privacy: interior push or turn control for bedrooms and bathrooms
• Passage: no locking function for halls and closets
• Dummy: fixed trim used as a pull without an operating latch

Knobs can be less convenient for users who have limited grip or hand movement. For many exterior residential doors, a knob lock is paired with a separate deadbolt rather than relied upon as the only locking point.

Do not use a privacy lock where keyed security is required or a keyed entry function where free egress is necessary without verifying the application.

3. Lever-Handle Locks

Lever hardware operates with a downward action and can be easier to use than a round knob. It is common in homes, offices, schools, healthcare settings and other buildings where usability matters.

Lever locks come in many functions:

• Passage
• Privacy
• Keyed entry
• Classroom
• Storeroom
• Office
• Apartment or interconnected functions

Two levers that look alike may operate very differently. Specify who should enter, who should lock the door, whether the inside must always allow exit, and what should happen when the outside is locked.

Accessible design involves more than installing any lever. Mounting height, opening force, clearances and operable-part requirements may also apply to the door and surrounding route.

4. Handlesets

An entrance handleset typically includes a large exterior pull handle, thumb-operated latch and separate or integrated deadbolt. It is commonly chosen for residential front doors because it combines appearance, grip area and locking hardware.

Check:

• Door thickness and handing
• Existing upper and lower mounting holes
• Center-to-center dimensions
• Deadbolt and latch backset
• Trim clearance
• Swing direction
• Compatibility with storm doors
• Finish exposure and warranty

Replacing a handleset can leave unused holes or finish shadows when the new model uses different dimensions. Measure before purchase rather than assuming all handlesets are interchangeable.

5. Cylindrical Locks

Cylindrical locks are installed through round holes bored through the door, with a latch extending through the door edge. The category includes many residential knob and lever sets as well as heavier commercial hardware.

Advantages can include:

• Familiar door preparation
• Wide range of functions
• Straightforward service for common models
• Residential and commercial-grade options
• Availability with standard or restricted cylinders

“Cylindrical” describes construction, not a single security level. A light residential privacy set and a heavy-duty commercial storeroom lever can both be cylindrical while serving very different purposes.

Article 10 in this series will examine mortise locks versus cylindrical locks in detail. This guide keeps the distinction at a category level to avoid duplicate targeting.

6. Mortise Locks

A mortise lock uses a lock body installed in a pocket cut into the door edge. The body can integrate the latch, deadbolt and other functions. Mortise hardware is common on commercial, institutional, apartment and older architectural doors.

Potential advantages include:

• Durable construction for frequent use
• Multiple functional configurations
• Replaceable or serviceable cylinders and trim
• Integrated latch and deadbolt options
• Compatibility with selected commercial key systems

Important considerations include the existing pocket dimensions, door thickness, handing, trim, spindle, cylinder length, function and fire label. A mortise lock is not a drop-in replacement for a standard bored cylindrical lock without substantial door preparation.

7. Rim Locks and Night Latches

A rim lock is mounted mainly on the door surface rather than inside a deep edge pocket. A night latch is a familiar rim-mounted residential style with an interior lock case and exterior cylinder.

These locks are found on:

• Older residential doors
• Apartment and multifamily doors
• Gates and secondary doors
• Narrow or specialty applications
• Doors where surface mounting is appropriate

Security varies considerably by design. The cylinder, latch, strike, door and frame must be evaluated together. Adding a surface lock does not compensate for a weak frame or damaged door.

8. Interconnected Locks

An interconnected lock combines a latch and deadbolt so one interior action can retract both and allow exit. It is used in selected residential, multifamily and hospitality applications.

Benefits may include:

• Simplified interior operation
• Combined latch and deadbolt functionality
• Consistent exit action for suitable applications

Interconnected hardware requires the correct door preparation, function, handing and trim. It should not be substituted casually for two independent locks, especially on a regulated or fire-rated opening.

9. Multipoint Locks

A multipoint lock secures a door at several locations along its edge, often using hooks, rollers, bolts or shoot bolts operated by a handle and cylinder. It is common on certain patio, composite, aluminum, European-style and high-end entry doors.

Advantages can include:

• Multiple locking points
• Improved compression against weather seals
• Support for tall doors
• Integrated operation from one control

Limitations include specialized parts, sensitivity to alignment and model-specific replacement requirements. When a multipoint lock becomes difficult to operate, do not force the handle or key. Door sag or frame pressure can damage the gearbox.

10. Keypad and Electronic Locks

Keypad locks use a PIN rather than—or in addition to—a mechanical key. Electronic locks may also accept cards, fobs or wired access-control signals.

Useful features can include:

• Unique user codes
• Temporary credentials
• Scheduled access
• Audit history on supported systems
• Faster credential changes than mechanical rekeying
• Reduced dependence on shared physical keys

Plan for batteries or wired power, administrative access, credential removal, emergency entry, mechanical override, recordkeeping and user training. A keypad is not automatically a smart lock; some operate locally without an app or network.

11. Smart Locks

Smart locks add connected features through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a hub or another communication method. Depending on the model, users may manage the lock through an app, code, phone, key, voice assistant or home-automation platform.

Before choosing one, check:

• Door and deadbolt compatibility
• Required hub or subscription
• Local versus cloud operation
• Battery type and warning method
• Mechanical backup option
• Guest-code controls
• Account recovery
• Update policy and supported lifetime
• Privacy and activity-history settings
• Integration with the existing smart-home platform

Connected features improve convenience but add account, battery and software responsibilities. Lockman provides smart-lock setup in Philadelphia for compatible residential and business applications.

12. High-Security Cylinders and Lock Systems

“High-security” should refer to documented features and an appropriate complete system, not simply a marketing label. Depending on the product, relevant features may include controlled key duplication, patented keyways, drill resistance, reinforced components, pick resistance and detailed key-control procedures.

The cylinder is only one part of the opening. A strong cylinder fitted to a weak lock body, damaged door, light strike or deteriorated frame cannot deliver balanced protection.

Businesses and properties with key-control concerns can request an assessment for high-security lock systems. Confirm how keys are authorized, ordered, recorded, returned and replaced.

13. Master-Keyed Locks

Master keying is a way to organize access across compatible mechanical cylinders. Individual change keys may open assigned doors, while a master key opens a broader group.

Common applications include:

• Apartment and multifamily properties
• Offices with departments
• Schools and institutions
• Maintenance and management access
• Retail and storage areas

A master-key system is not a distinct visible lock style. It is a keying structure built into compatible cylinders. Poor planning can create unnecessary access or make future expansion difficult, so door groups and authorization should be documented before implementation.

Lockman offers master-key system planning and service for commercial properties.

14. Sliding-Door and Patio Locks

Sliding doors often use hook bolts, mortise-style latches, surface-mounted locks or integrated handle assemblies. Their operation differs from a swinging entry door.

Check:

• Door alignment and roller condition
• Hook engagement
• Strike position
• Handle and latch compatibility
• Frame condition
• Whether a secondary device interferes with emergency exit

A replacement handle that looks similar may have different screw spacing, hook direction or backset. Identify the complete mechanism before ordering parts.

15. Screen, Storm and Security-Door Locks

Storm and security doors may use narrow-stile mortise locks, surface hardware, multipoint systems or proprietary handle sets. The space between the primary and secondary door can limit knob, lever and thumb-turn clearance.

Do not add a double-cylinder lock or interior device without considering how occupants will exit. The door type, swing, frame and applicable requirements determine suitable hardware.

16. Cam Locks

Cam locks use a rotating metal arm and are common on cabinets, mailboxes, drawers, enclosures and equipment. They are not substitutes for a properly selected entry-door lock.

Important measurements include cylinder length, cam length, rotation direction, mounting style, key-removal position and panel thickness. Mailboxes and managed buildings may have special ownership or service rules.

17. Panic Bars and Exit Devices

An exit device allows a door to unlatch when occupants push a horizontal bar or touchpad. It is used on many commercial, public and assembly-occupancy egress doors.

Types include:

• Rim exit devices
• Surface vertical-rod devices
• Concealed vertical-rod devices
• Mortise exit devices
• Alarmed or electrified devices
• Fire exit hardware for applicable fire-door assemblies

This hardware must match the door, frame, occupancy, fire rating, traffic and outside trim. Never chain, block or improvise a secondary lock on an exit door. Lockman installs and services panic bars and exit devices for Philadelphia businesses.

18. Electrified Locks and Access-Control Hardware

Commercial access-control systems may use electric strikes, electrified locksets, electromagnetic locks, exit devices, door-position switches and request-to-exit components. The credential reader is only one part of the system.

Selection requires coordination among:

• Door and frame condition
• Locking hardware
• Power supply and wiring
• Fire alarm interface where required
• Egress and emergency release
• Credential management
• Door closer and latch operation
• Building and life-safety requirements

Electrified hardware should be designed as a complete opening. A convenient app or card reader does not replace correct mechanical latching and safe exit.

Lock Functions Matter as Much as Lock Types

When ordering commercial or institutional hardware, the function can be more important than its appearance.

Common functions include:

• Passage: always free; no locking function
• Privacy: limited privacy locking with emergency release where designed
• Entry or office: outside may be locked; inside generally allows exit
• Storeroom: outside remains locked and requires a key; inside allows exit
• Classroom: key controls the outside; inside allows exit
• Institutional: specialized controlled operation, not a general-use choice

Names and operations can vary by manufacturer and standard. Describe the required behavior from both sides rather than ordering by a label alone.

Understanding ANSI/BHMA Lock Grades

ANSI/BHMA standards evaluate door hardware through defined performance tests. Depending on the product category, grades address factors such as cycle performance, strength, security and finish.

In general industry use:

• Grade 1 represents the highest performance level within a covered category.
• Grade 2 is a mid-level classification used for many residential and commercial applications.
• Grade 3 is a basic level used for suitable lighter-duty applications.

Grade alone does not determine whether a product fits a particular door. Confirm the exact certified category, function, installation and application. The ANSI/BHMA standards program provides the relevant standards framework.

Be cautious with vague phrases such as “commercial quality,” “maximum security” or “Grade 1 style” when no applicable certification is identified.

How to Choose a Lock for Each Door

Use this process:

1. Identify the door and frame

Record the material, thickness, swing, handing, condition, fire label and existing preparation. Measure instead of assuming standard dimensions.

2. Define the required function

Decide who should enter, how they authenticate, who can lock the door, how occupants exit and what should happen during a power or battery failure.

3. Evaluate the risk

Consider exterior exposure, traffic, occupancy, key control, glass location, visibility, valuables, previous incidents and consequences of failure.

4. Check compatibility

Confirm bore size, backset, edge preparation, strike, cylinder, door thickness, trim clearance, handing and existing holes.

5. Review accessibility and egress

Verify operating method, clearances, opening force, emergency exit and any fire-door or occupancy requirements. Do not let a security upgrade create an unsafe exit condition.

6. Plan credentials and backups

For mechanical systems, plan key quantities, authorization and duplication. For electronic systems, plan codes, accounts, batteries, outages, revocation and emergency access.

7. Compare complete installed cost

Include hardware, preparation, installation, setup, keys, credentials, compatible accessories and future maintenance—not only the lock’s retail price.

Which Lock Types Fit Common Applications?

These are starting points, not installation specifications. The exact product must fit the opening and applicable requirements.

Rekey, Repair or Replace?

Choose the service based on the problem:

• Rekey when serviceable compatible hardware should work with a new key and old keys should stop working.
• Repair when a component, connection, alignment or mechanism can be restored safely.
• Replace when hardware is damaged, worn, incompatible, unsuitable or being upgraded.
• Install when adding hardware to a new or differently prepared opening.

A rekeying service changes key access but does not automatically improve hardware grade or repair a failed latch. Lock replacement changes the hardware and may require new preparation or alignment.

How Much Does Door-Lock Installation Cost?

Lockman’s current Philadelphia pricing guide lists standard residential lock installation at approximately $80–$200. The final flat-rate quote depends on the hardware, door material, existing preparation, required drilling, alignment, parts and scope.

Commercial hardware, mortise locks, exit devices and electronic access systems can cost more because the product and installation are more complex. Review the current Lockman locksmith prices and confirm the complete price before work begins.

Do not compare quotes using only the hardware box price. Ask whether the total includes removal, preparation, installation, strike work, keys, electronic setup, testing, taxes and disposal.

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Door Lock

1. Is this lock designed for the door’s material, thickness and preparation?
2. What function does it provide from the inside and outside?
3. Can occupants exit without a key or special knowledge where required?
4. Is the product certified to an applicable ANSI/BHMA standard and grade?
5. Is it appropriate for the property’s traffic and security needs?
6. Does it work with the existing keyway or master-key plan?
7. Are keys controlled or freely duplicable?
8. What happens if batteries, power, internet or the app fail?
9. Are replacement parts and technical support available?
10. Does installation require new holes, reinforcement or door repair?
11. Will it interfere with a storm door, screen or existing trim?
12. What maintenance and warranty apply?

For multiple openings, create a door-by-door schedule before purchasing hardware. This prevents mismatched functions, finishes, keyways and dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions