How to Choose the Right Door Lock for Your Home

09/23/26

When shopping for new door hardware, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the options. Deadbolts, entry knobs, levers, handlesets, keypad locks, privacy locks—what's the difference, and which one do you actually need?

The answer depends on where the door is located and how it's used.

Whether you're replacing worn hardware, upgrading your home's security, or finishing a renovation, understanding the purpose of each type of lock will help you choose the right solution for every door.

Start with the Door's Purpose

Not every door needs the same level of security.

Ask yourself:

• Is this an exterior or interior door?
• Does the door need to lock from the outside?
• Is privacy important?
• Will multiple people need access?
• Do you want the convenience of keyless entry?

The answers will point you toward the right type of door hardware.

Door Hardware Selection Guide

Front Doors

Your front door is your home's primary entrance and should provide both security and curb appeal.

Deadbolts

A deadbolt is one of the most important security features on an exterior door. Unlike the deadlatch found in a keyed entry knob or lever, a deadbolt extends a solid steel bolt deep into the door frame. This provides an additional layer of protection against forced entry. The bolt is also deadlocked when fully extended.

Keyed entry knobs and levers use a deadlatch, which includes a small secondary plunger that helps prevent the latch from being forced back with a credit card or similar tool when the door is properly installed and closed. While a deadlatch offers greater security than a standard interior or spring latch, it is designed for everyday operation—not as a substitute for a deadbolt.

For the best security, most exterior doors should have both a deadbolt and a keyed entry knob or lever.

Handlesets

Handlesets combine an elegant exterior handle with a keyed entry mechanism and are a popular choice for front entry doors.

Many homeowners choose handlesets because they:

• Create an upgraded appearance
• Pair with a separate deadbolt for enhanced security
• Complement traditional and modern home styles
• Are available in a variety of finishes

A handleset provides the welcoming look many homeowners want without compromising security.

Electronic Keypad Locks

Electronic locks replace or supplement traditional keyed entry with a keypad.

Instead of carrying a key, homeowners can unlock the door by entering a personal code. Many models still include a backup key for added peace of mind.

Electronic locks are ideal for:

• Busy families
• Homes with children
• Vacation properties
• Rental homes
• Homeowners who frequently forget their keys

Many electronic locks also allow you to create temporary access codes for guests, contractors, or service providers.

Side and Garage Entry Doors

Garage entry doors and side entrances deserve the same level of protection as your front door.

These doors should typically include:

• A deadbolt
• An entry knob or entry lever
• Or an electronic keypad lock for added convenience
• Weather-resistant hardware if exposed to the elements

Garage entry doors are often overlooked, making them an important part of your home's overall security.

Back Doors and Patio Doors

Back doors should generally be secured just like the front door.

For most homes, this means:

• A quality deadbolt
• An entry knob or lever
• Weather-resistant hardware if exposed to the elements

Sliding patio doors often rely on their own locking mechanisms, but additional security devices may also be used depending on the application.

Bedroom Doors

Bedroom doors usually do not require keyed locks.

Instead, they commonly use:

Privacy Knobs or Privacy Levers

Privacy locks include a simple push-button or turn-button lock on the inside and can usually be unlocked from the outside with an emergency release tool.

They're designed to provide privacy—not security—and are ideal for:

• Bedrooms
• Home offices
• Guest rooms

Bathroom Doors

Bathrooms typically use the same style of privacy hardware found on bedrooms.

Privacy knobs and levers allow occupants to lock the door while inside while still allowing emergency access if needed.

Hallways, Closets, and Other Interior Doors

Many interior doors don't require a lock at all.

Passage Knobs and Passage Levers

Passage hardware operates the latch but does not lock.

It's commonly used for:

• Hallways
• Closets
• Children's bedrooms
• Laundry rooms
• Pantries
• Utility rooms

Passage hardware allows doors to open and close freely while maintaining a consistent look throughout the home.

Rental Properties

Rental homes and apartments often benefit from hardware that's both secure and convenient to manage.

Many property owners choose electronic keypad locks because they can:

• Eliminate the need to distribute physical keys
• Allow access codes to be updated between tenants
• Provide convenient access for maintenance personnel
• Reduce the need for rekeying after every move-out

Traditional keyed hardware remains a great option as well, particularly when paired with high-quality deadbolts.

Entry Knobs vs. Deadbolts

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:

"Do I need both?"

In most cases, yes.

An entry knob or lever secures the door during everyday use, while a deadbolt provides an additional layer of security against forced entry.

Together, they create a stronger overall door security system than either lock alone.

The Convenience of Keyed-Alike Combo Packs

If you're replacing multiple locks, look for combo packs that include a deadbolt paired with a matching entry knob or lever.

Many Brinks combo packs come keyed alike, meaning one key operates both locks on the same door.

Benefits include:

• Fewer keys to carry
• Simplified household access
• Faster installation with matching finishes
• A coordinated appearance across your home's entryways

Keyed-alike hardware is especially convenient when updating multiple exterior doors, allowing you to use the same key across several compatible locks.

Entry Knobs or Entry Levers?

Both provide the same level of security when paired with a deadbolt.

The choice often comes down to personal preference.

Entry knobs offer a classic appearance that complements many home styles.

Entry levers are easier to operate with hands full and can be a practical choice for households with children, older adults, or anyone who prefers easier operation.

Matching Security with Style

Today's door hardware does more than protect your home—it also contributes to your home's appearance.

Brinks offers a variety of finishes and styles designed to complement traditional, transitional, and contemporary homes while delivering dependable security.

Whether you prefer a classic keyed entry lock, the convenience of an electronic keypad lock, or the refined appearance of a handleset, choosing coordinated hardware helps create a polished look throughout your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an entry knob and a privacy knob?

An entry knob locks with a key from the outside and also locks and unlocks from the inside and is designed for exterior doors. A privacy knob locks only from the inside and is intended for bedrooms and bathrooms and can be unlocked from the outside with an emergency release tool.

Do I need a deadbolt on my front door?

Yes. A deadbolt provides an important additional layer of security and is recommended for most exterior entry doors.

What is a passage knob?

A passage knob has no locking mechanism. It's commonly used on closets, hallways, pantries, children's bedrooms and other interior doors where privacy isn't needed.

Are keypad locks secure?

Quality electronic keypad locks provide the same basic security functions as traditional keyed locks while adding the convenience of keyless entry. Many models also include a backup key.

What is a handleset?

A handleset is decorative front-door hardware featuring an exterior handle and an entry mechanism. It is typically paired with a separate deadbolt for locking functionality and enhanced security.

What does "keyed alike" mean?

Keyed-alike locks are designed to operate with the same key. Many Brinks combo packs include a deadbolt and entry knob or lever that are already keyed alike, and additional compatible locks can often be purchased keyed alike as well, reducing the number of keys needed for your home.

Find the Right Lock for Every Door

Choosing the right door hardware doesn't have to be complicated. By matching the type of lock to the purpose of each door, you can improve both your home's security and its everyday convenience.

Whether you're upgrading your front entry with a stylish handleset, installing an electronic keypad lock for keyless access, or refreshing interior doors with privacy or passage hardware, Brinks offers solutions designed to help protect what matters most.