The 15 Best Types Of Door Locks To Keep You Safe

Deadbolt locks are one of residential and commercial properties most popular and basic locking mechanisms. They are simple yet effective types of door locks and provide a high level of security for a low price.

The history of the deadbolt lock is a bit murky, but it is believed to have originated in ancient Rome. However, it didn’t become popular in the United States until the early 1900s. The benefits of using a deadbolt lock are numerous.

They are incredibly secure and can be difficult to pick or break into. They are also relatively affordable, making them a popular choice for both homeowners and businesses.

How do deadbolt locks work?

Well, essentially, they work by inserting a key into the lock and turning it in a specific direction.

This causes a bolt to shoot out from the lock and into the door frame, securing it in place. To unlock the door, you would need to insert the key and turn it in the opposite direction.

2. Hand Levers

A hand lever lock is a type of door lock that uses a lever to unlock it. It is a mechanical device that requires a certain amount of strength to operate. The lever is inserted into the lock and turned, which unlocks it.

Hand lever locks have been used for centuries. They are very reliable and can be opened with a minimal amount of force. They are also relatively easy to operate, which makes them ideal for use in homes and businesses.

One of the benefits of using a hand lever lock is that it is very difficult to pick. It also cannot be opened with a key, so it is ideal for areas where security is a concern.

Hand lever locks are also relatively inexpensive, making them a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

3. Rim lock

Rim locks have been around for centuries and are still popular today. They have many benefits, such as being secure and easy to use. Rim locks work by having a bolt that goes through the door and the frame, and when the key is turned, it locks or unlocks the bolt.

Another advantage of rim locks is that they can be easily installed onto existing doors without the need for additional drilling or cutting. They also come in various styles and finishes, allowing them to blend in with any decor.

But one downside to rim locks is that they can only be locked from the inside, so if you forget to lock them before leaving your home, they cannot be locked from the outside. However, installing multiple rim locks on different doors can provide added security for your home.

Overall, rim locks are the types of door locks that are a great option for both residential and commercial properties looking for simple yet effective security measures. So consider adding a rim lock to your door for added peace of mind.

4. Yale lock

Yale locks are one of the most popular and well-known types of door locks. They have a long and rich history, dating all the way back to 1824. Yale locks are known for their high level of security and durability, and they continue to be a popular choice for homes and businesses today.

How does Yale Locks Work? Yale locks work by using a series of pins that are inserted into the lock. When the correct key is inserted, it pushes the pins in the right sequence, allowing the door to open.

Yale Locks Benefits? Yale locks are also known for their resistance to tampering, making them a very safe option for security-minded individuals.

5. Cam lock

A cam lock is a type of locking mechanism that uses a cam to secure a door or lid. The cam is a rotating bar that fits into a corresponding hole in the door or lid, and when the cam is rotated, it pulls the door or lid closed. Cam locks are used on various items, such as briefcases, suitcases, gun safes, and locker doors.

The history of the cam lock dates back to the early 1800s. In 1818, Joseph Bramah invented the first cam lock. Bramah’s cam lock was made out of cast iron and had a brass key. The key was inserted into the lock and turned to rotate the cam, which pulled the door or lid closed.

Cam Lock Benefits

They are very secure and difficult to pick.
They are easy to use; just insert the key and turn it.
They are very durable and can withstand heavy use.
They are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of locks.

How do cam locks work? The key is inserted into the lock and turned to rotate the cam. This rotates the locking bolt, which pulls the door or lid closed.

6. Toggle bolt

Toggle bolts types of door locks are a type of screw with a bar hanging below the head of the screw. This bar is used to hold the bolt in place while it is being turned.

The bar also has a hole in the end that can be used to put a wire through it to hold the bolt in place.

Toggle bolts are used to attach things to walls or ceilings. They can be used to hang shelves, pictures, or anything else that needs to be attached to a wall or ceiling.

Toggle bolts have been around for centuries. The ancient Romans first used them to attach things to the walls of their buildings. Toggle bolts are very strong and can hold a lot of weight. This makes them perfect for attaching things to walls or ceilings.

There are several benefits to using toggle bolts. One is that they are very strong and can hold much weight. Another is that they are very easy to use.

How do Toggle bolts work? All you have to do is put the toggle bolt through the hole in what you are attaching and use a screwdriver to turn the bolt until it is tight.

There is no need for any tools or hardware other than the toggle bolt itself. Toggle bolts are also very affordable, making them a cost-effective choice for attaching things to walls or ceilings.

7. Knob Door Locks

If you’re looking for secure types of door locks that will keep your home or office safe, a knob lock may be a perfect choice. Knob locks have a long history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. They are easy to use and provide a high level of security.

How do knob locks work? The lock is installed on the doorknob, and the locking mechanism is activated when it is rotated. The bolt slides into the door jamb, preventing the door from being opened. Knob locks are available in various styles, including keyed and keyless versions.

What are the benefits of using knob locks? Knob locks are very secure, making them ideal for homes and businesses. They are also easy to use, even for people unfamiliar with locks. And because they are available in keyed and keyless versions, they can be used by just about anyone.

8. Chain Locks

Chain locks are types of door locks that use a chain to secure the door.

The chain is looped around the door handle and the lock, preventing the door from being opened.

Chain locks are typically used on exterior doors, such as front and back doors.

Chain locks were first invented in the 18th century. They were popular because they were relatively cheap and easy to use.

Chain locks have several benefits. They are relatively inexpensive, durable, and easy to use. They are also relatively secure, making them difficult to break or cut through.

How do Chain locks work? Chain locks work by using a chain to secure the door. The chain is looped around the door handle and the lock, preventing the door from being opened.

9. Padlocks

Padlocks have been around for centuries, with the first recorded padlock dating back to the 4th century BC. They are one of the most commonly used types of locks and can be found on everything from briefcases and suitcases to bike locks and gates.

Padlocks Benefits: There are several benefits to using a padlock. Firstly, they are very secure; breaking into a locked padlock is very difficult.

They are also relatively affordable and easy to use. Another advantage of padlocks is that they come in various shapes and sizes, so there is sure to be one that will fit your needs.

How do padlocks work? Padlocks are essentially metal boxes with a shackle (the part that attaches the lock to whatever it is securing) at one end and a keyhole at the other.

When the key is inserted into the keyhole and turned, it rotates the pins inside the lock mechanism. This causes the shackle to move, locking or unlocking the padlock.

10. Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are the types of door locks known for their durability and security and are a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

How do Mortise locks work? Mortise locks work by having a bolt that extends into the door frame, preventing the door from being opened.

They are typically more secure than other types of locks and can be more difficult to pick. They also tend to last longer than other types of locks.

Mortise locks Benefits: There are several benefits to using mortise locks. They are extremely secure, and they can be difficult to pick.

They also last longer than other types of locks. They can also be used on indoor and outdoor doors, making them a versatile option.

If you are looking for a high-quality, durable lock that is difficult to pick, mortise locks may be the right choice for you.

11. Keypad Locks

A keypad lock is a locking device that uses numbers to unlock. It has a keypad with digits 0-9, and a keyhole. The user enters the correct code into the keypad to unlock the door.

Keypad locks have been used for centuries. The Chinese invented the first known keypad lock in the 10th century. It was made of wood and had movable numbers. In the 1800s, Joseph Bramah invented a metal keypad lock that was more secure than earlier versions.

Keypad locks are popular because they are very secure. They are harder to pick than traditional locks and cannot be bumped open. They are also very convenient; users can unlock doors without carrying a key.

Keypad locks come in a variety of styles and colors. They are the types of door locks that can be installed on almost any door and are easy to use.

12. Smart Locks

A Smart lock is a digital lock that uses an electronic keypad, a fingerprint, a face id, or a mobile app to unlock the door.

These types of door locks are becoming increasingly popular due to their many benefits, such as convenience, security, and energy efficiency.

Smart locks are the types of door locks that have been around for centuries. Robert Barron invented the first known Smart lock in 1778.

His lock used a series of levers and pins that could be opened with a secret code.

However, it was not until the 1970s that Smart locks began to be widely used. In 1973, Yale released the first electronic Smart lock, which used a keypad to unlock the door.

Since then, Smart locks have become increasingly popular due to their many benefits. One of the biggest benefits is convenience.

Smart locks can be unlocked using a mobile app or a keypad, which makes them easy to use. They are also more secure than traditional locks, as they can be unlocked using a secret code or a mobile app.

Another benefit of Smart locks is their energy efficiency. Traditional locks use a lot of energy when they are being used, which can increase your electricity bill.

Smart locks use less energy, saving you money in the long run.

Smart locks are a great option for people who want convenience, security, and energy efficiency. They are becoming more popular daily, so be sure to check them out!

13. Barrel Bolt

Barrel bolt locks are the types of door locks with a mechanism that has been in use for centuries. They are found on various items, including doors, gates, and cabinets.

Barrel bolt locks Benefits: The main benefit of barrel bolt locks is that they are very secure and difficult to pick.

How do Barrel bolt locks work? They work by sliding a bolt into a barrel-shaped hole, which prevents the door from opening. Barrel bolt locks are also very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

14. Child-Proof Locks

Child-Proof Locks are the types of door locks that help keep children safe. They were created to help parents keep their children safe from getting out of the house and into danger.

The locks keep the door closed so the child can’t get out. They can also be used on cabinets and drawers to keep children from accessing dangerous items such as cleaning products or medications.

These locks come in various styles, including ones requiring a code to open or using a special tool to open.

It is important for parents to properly install and use these locks in their homes to ensure the safety of their children.

Overall, Child-Proof Locks are a necessary addition to any household with young children. They provide peace of mind for parents and help prevent accidents or injuries from occurring.

It is important to always supervise children even while using these locks, but they can greatly reduce the chances of danger happening in the home.

15. Multi-Point Locking Systems

Multi-point locking systems are the types of door locks that use multiple locking points to secure a door.

This type of lock is often found on exterior doors, providing enhanced security against forced entry.

The history of the multi-point locking system dates back to the 18th century when it was first used on carriage doors.

The original design consisted of a series of bolts that ran the length of the door, which were activated by a key or lever.

A keyed cylinder typically operates today’s multi-point locking systems or a thumb turn and uses pins or bolts to secure the door.

How does a multi-point locking system work? When the key is turned or the thumb turn is rotated, the locking points are released, and the door can be opened.

Once the door is closed, the locking points are automatically engaged, and the door is secured.

What are the advantages of a multi-point locking system? A multi-point locking system provides enhanced security against forced entry and can help deter burglars from attempting to break into your home.

Additionally, this type of lock is typically easier to operate than a standard doorknob lock.

What are the disadvantages of a multi-point locking system? One disadvantage of a multi-point locking system is that it can be more difficult to operate than a standard doorknob lock.

Additionally, this type of lock can be more expensive than other types of locks.

Multi-point locking systems are typically used on exterior doors, providing enhanced security against forced entry.

A patio door is one of the most common exterior doors fitted with a multi-point locking system. A patio door is a sliding glass door that opens onto a patio or deck.

Multi-point locking systems are also commonly used on front doors. A front door is the main entrance to your home and is typically made of solid wood or fiberglass.

A front door with a multi-point locking system can provide enhanced security against forced entry and can help deter burglars from attempting to break into your home.

Common Questions About Types Of Door Locks

What is a 2 point lock?

A 2 point lock is a locking mechanism that uses two bolts or hooks to secure a door. It’s more secure than a single-point lock, which uses one bolt or hook.

It’s often used on entry doors for added security. However, it can be more difficult to install and may require a larger hole in the door for the second bolt.

Some 2 point locks also have an anti-slam feature, which prevents the door from closing and locking if it’s not fully shut.

This can be a useful safety measure, especially in homes with small children or elderly residents who may not properly shut a door all the way.

Overall, a 2 point lock adds an extra layer of security to your home or business and can give you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your property and loved ones.

What is a 3 point door lock?

A three point door lock is a locking mechanism that uses three bolts, one at the top, middle and bottom of the door.

It is more secure than a standard deadbolt because it is harder to force open from the outside.

These locks are often used on exterior doors for added security. Installing a three point lock may require professional help and additional materials, such as reinforcing the door frame.

However, the added peace of mind and protection can be worth the investment. It is important to regularly maintain and lubricate these types of locks to ensure they continue functioning properly.

How do you use a 3 point lock?

You use a three point door lock by locking the top, middle, and bottom bolts. This makes it more difficult for someone to force open the door from the outside.

To unlock the door, you must turn the key in the lock and then push or pull on the door. It is important to keep all bolts well-lubricated so they work properly.

What is a 5 point door lock?

A five point door lock is a locking mechanism that uses five bolts, one at the top, bottom, and each side of the door.

It is more secure than a standard deadbolt because it is harder to force open from the outside.

These locks are often used on exterior doors for added security. Installing a five point lock may require professional help and additional materials, such as reinforcing the door frame.

However, the added peace of mind and protection can be worth the investment. It is important to regularly maintain and lubricate these types of locks to ensure they continue functioning properly.

Are multipoint locks worth it?

Multipoint locks offer increased security for your home and can be worth the investment.

They are more difficult to force open from the outside than a standard deadbolt, and they come in a variety of styles to fit your needs.

It is important to regularly maintain and lubricate these locks to ensure they continue functioning properly.

In addition, installing a multipoint lock may require professional help and additional materials, such as reinforcing the door frame.

However, the added peace of mind and protection can make it worth it. Additionally, some insurance companies offer discounts for homes with multipoint locks.

Which type of door lock is most secure?

The most secure type of door lock is a deadbolt lock. It has a bolt that extends into the doorframe, preventing the door from being opened from the outside.

Additionally, deadbolts can be reinforced with high-security features such as drill resistance and pick resistance.

It is important to note that the overall security of a door also depends on the strength and stability of the door and the doorframe itself.

Additionally, using multiple types of locks (such as a deadbolt and a doorknob lock) can enhance security even further.

What to Look for in a Door Lock

When it comes time to replace your door lock, there are many factors you need to take into consideration.

Here is a brief overview of what to look for when shopping for a new door lock.

Do you want a keyless entry system or one with a key?

Keyless entry systems, such as those with a code or fingerprint scanner, offer added convenience and security. However, it is important to consider backup options if the system fails or the power goes out.

What type of security measures do you want?

Look for additional security measures, such as deadbolts or reinforced strike plates, to further protect your home from forced entry.

What ANSI grade should your door lock have?

Look for a door lock with high ANSI grades, usually ranging from one to three. Grade three is the highest level of security and is recommended for exterior doors.

What materials should your door lock be made of?

Consider the materials and construction of the lock. Solid metal locks are typically more durable and tamper-proof than plastic ones.

Door Lock Compatibility

Make sure the door lock is compatible with your door and fits properly to ensure proper functionality.

Consider any additional features that may be useful, such as an automatic locking function or alarm.

Overall, it is important to thoroughly research and choose a door lock that meets your security needs and fits well with your lifestyle.

A little extra time and investment in a high-quality door lock can go a long way in protecting your home and loved ones.

Final Thoughts On The Different Types Of Door Locks

It can be difficult to decide which door lock is best for your home or business.

However, after reviewing the different types of locks available, we believe that the best option is the Camelot Keypad by Schlage, a keyless entry door lock that’s perfect for your home.

The push button pad allows you to program unique codes and gain access without finding keys while also including a secondary deadbolt locking capability in case someone decides they want more than just pushing on their own!

If we were looking at this as an investment, though…we would go with something less expensive like Kwikset – their Juno Series Locks Have All Of The Features People Love About Our More Expensive Models With A Low Price Point