Different Types of Door Knobs and Handles

Door knobs might seem minor, but they have a major impact on the functioning and appearance of a door.

Knobs simplify daily tasks and secure entrances. The right knob can make your doors easier to use and look better, too.

But with so many types of door knobs, picking one gets confusing fast.

This blog covers door knob types and features, helping you select the right one for your home so you can confidently choose a knob that looks good and works well.

Door Knob Styles

When choosing a doorknob, style matters just as much as function.

Round knobs are the classic choice. They work with both traditional and modern homes.

Lever handles offer a sleeker look and are easier to grip. They’re great for people with arthritis or mobility issues.

Dummy knobs don’t turn at all. You’ll find these on closet doors or as decorative pulls.

T-shaped knobs offer a vintage look, ideal for older homes.

Each style suits different door types and interior designs.

Your choice depends on usage; bedrooms and bathrooms need privacy locks, and front doors require keyed entry. Match the style to the door’s purpose and the home’s look.

Door Knobs vs. Door Handles

People often confuse these two. Here’s how they differ:

Components

Knowing each component helps with repairs and replacements.

Parts of a Door Knob :

• Knob: The round part you grip and turn.
• Rose or Rosette: Covers the hole where the knob meets the door.
• Latch: A Metal piece that keeps the door closed.
• Spindle: Rod connecting both knobs through the door.
• Strike Plate: A Metal plate on the frame that catches the latch.
• Screws: Hold everything together on the door side.
• Latch Bolt: Spring-loaded piece that extends into the frame.
• Shank: Threaded stem attached to knob base.

Door Handle Parts :

• Lever: The flat handle you push down.
• Escutcheon Plate: Decorative plate behind the lever.
• Cylinder: Houses the lock mechanism inside.
• Thumbturn: Inside lock you twist for privacy.
• Keyhole: Where you insert the key outside.
• Return Spring: Brings lever back to horizontal position.
• Mounting Screws: Attach the handle through the door thickness.
• Latch Assembly: Complete mechanism that locks and latches.

Types of Door Knobs and Handles (Interior)

Your interior doors need hardware that matches your daily needs and home style.

1. Passage Knobs

These simple knobs don’t lock at all. You’ll find them on hallway and closet doors. They just latch closed and open freely.

Perfect for areas where privacy isn’t needed. Most come in basic finishes, such as brass or nickel.

Design: Simple and modest appearance.

2. Privacy Lever Handles

These locks are from the inside with a push button. Bathrooms and bedrooms use these most often.

A small hole on the outside lets you unlock during emergencies. They’re easy to operate with one hand, even when wet.

Functionality: Emergency unlock feature included.

3. Dummy Knobs

These knobs are purely decorative. They don’t turn or latch anything.

Use them on closets or double doors where only one side needs to work. They’re cheaper than functional knobs and install quickly.

Compatibility: Works only with non-latching doors.

4. Crystal Knobs

Glass or crystal knobs add sparkle to any room. They catch light beautifully and feel smooth to the touch.

Great for cottage-style homes. Handle them carefully since they can crack if dropped.

Design: Reflects light, creating visual interest.

5. Keyed Entry Levers

These handles lock with an actual key. Office doors and storage rooms use these for security.

You get two or three keys with each set. The lever design makes entering while carrying items much easier.

Functionality: Provides keyed security for sensitive areas.

6. Lever Handles

These handles feature a decorative backplate that hides screw holes and improves appearance. Popular in vintage or farmhouse settings, blending function and style.

Design: Decorative backplate adds detail and covers mounting hardware.

7. Euro Style Handles

Long, straight handles with a modern look. They sit horizontally across your door. Popular in modern homes. The length makes them comfortable to grip from any angle.

Design: Clean lines suit modern interiors perfectly.

8. Privacy Knobs with Thumbturn

A small twist lock on the inside keeps doors secure. The outside has a tiny slot for emergency access. Bedrooms and bathrooms rely on these. They’re simple to install and very reliable.

Functionality: Thumbturn mechanism prevents accidental lockouts.

9. Mortise Knobs

These require a pocket cut into your door edge. They’re sturdier than standard knobs and last longer.

Older homes often have these already installed. Replacing them costs more due to the complex installation.

Compatibility: Requires a mortise pocket in the door edge.

10. Antique Brass Knobs

Calm, golden finish that develops character over time. They look original in historic or traditional homes.

The patina adds charm rather than making it look worn. Clean them gently to maintain the finish.

Design: Develops natural patina, adding character.

11. Curved Lever Handles

These handles arc downward in a gentle curve. They’re comfortable to push and look softer than straight levers.

Works well in transitional-style homes. Available in many metal finishes to match.

Functionality: Curved shape fits the hand naturally.

12. Electronic Keypad Knobs

You punch in a code instead of using keys. Great for kids who often lose keys. Some models let you program multiple codes. Batteries power them and typically last about a year.

Functionality: Keyless entry with programmable codes.

13. Ceramic Knobs

Hand-painted designs make each one unique. They bring color and personality to plain doors. Popular in farmhouse and cottage styles. The ceramic can chip if hit hard.

Design: Hand-painted patterns offer a unique character.

14. Square Rosette Knobs

The mounting plate is square instead of round. This gives a more architectural appearance. Modern homes favor this look. The square base makes a bold statement.

Design: A square mounting plate adds architectural detail.

15. Tubular Lever Sets

These use a simple tube mechanism inside. They’re easy to install and repair yourself. Cost less than mortise types but work just fine. Most homes use these standard sets.

Compatibility: Standard installation fits most modern doors.

16. Oil-Rubbed Bronze Knobs

Dark brown finish with lighter highlights showing through. Hides fingerprints better than shiny finishes.

Matches well with dark wood and iron fixtures. Very popular in rustic home designs.

Functionality: Darker finish conceals fingerprints and smudges.

17. ADA Compliant Levers

Designed to meet accessibility standards for everyone. Require less than five pounds of force to operate.

The handle returns to horizontal position automatically. Essential for universal design homes.

Functionality: Meets accessibility requirements for all users.

18. Satin Nickel Knobs

Brushed metal finish that’s neither shiny nor dull. Goes with almost any color scheme you have. Doesn’t show water spots or fingerprints much. Easy to clean with just a damp cloth.

Design: Finish matches various color schemes.

19. Colonial Style Knobs

Traditional design with a slightly flattened round shape. Often features decorative lines or ridges.

Perfect for colonial and early American home styles. Usually made from solid brass construction.

Compatibility: Complements traditional and colonial architecture.

Types of Door Knobs and Handles (Exterior)

Outdoor hardware needs to handle the weather while keeping your home secure.

20. Deadbolt Handles

These combine a motorized deadbolt with a handle, allowing lock/unlock via keypad, app, or voice. Many auto-lock after a set time, preventing the worry of forgetting.

Functionality: Offers automatic locking and remote control options.

21. Smart Lock Handles

Connect to your phone via Bluetooth or WiFi. You can lock and unlock from anywhere.

Some track who enters and when. Battery backup prevents lockouts during power outages.

Functionality: Remote access and entry monitoring capabilities.

22. Weatherproof Lever Sets

Built to resist rain, snow, and humidity. Sealed mechanisms prevent rust and freezing.

Finishes won’t fade in direct sunlight. Coastal homes need these salt-resistant options.

Compatibility: Designed for harsh weather exposure.

23. Double Cylinder Deadbolt Knobs

Both sides require a key to open. Very secure, but check local fire codes first.

Glass-panel doors benefit from this security. Keep a key nearby for emergency exits.

Functionality: Keys required on both sides for maximum security.

24. Handleset Entry Systems

A large decorative handle paired with a working knob or lever. Makes a strong first impression on guests. Available in matching finish sets. More expensive than basic entry knobs.

Design: Decorative handle adds curb appeal.

25. Keyless Entry Knobs

Use a numbered keypad instead of keys. Change codes whenever you want for security.

Great for rental properties or frequent guests. No more hiding keys under mats.

Functionality: Code-based entry eliminates the need for key management.

26. Commercial Grade Levers

Built heavier and stronger than residential models. It can handle constant daily use without breaking.

Restaurants and offices install these. Costs more but lasts much longer.

Compatibility: Rated for high-traffic commercial applications.

27. Biometric Fingerprint Handles

Scan your fingerprint to unlock the door. Store up to fifty different fingerprints.

Works fast even with wet or dirty fingers. High-tech security for modern homes.

Functionality: Fingerprint recognition for secure access.

28. Grip Handle Entry Sets

The thumb latch releases the door when squeezed. Common on front doors of traditional homes.

The large handle is easy to grab. Often paired with matching deadbolts above.

Design: Thumb-latch mechanism in the decorative handle.

29. Stainless Steel Knobs

Won’t rust even in coastal salt air. Maintains shine with low maintenance needed.

Strong enough for commercial applications. Modern appearance suits home exteriors.

Compatibility: Corrosion-resistant for coastal environments.

30. WiFi-Enabled Smart Knobs

Control locks through your home automation system. Receive alerts when someone enters. Grant temporary access to delivery drivers. Voice control works with Alexa or Google.

Functionality: Integrates with home automation systems.

31. Mortise Entry Handlesets

European-style lock mechanism set into the door thickness. Extremely secure and virtually pick-proof.

Common in luxury homes and high-rises. Professional installation is usually required.

Functionality: Improved security with a mortise mechanism.

32. Wrought Iron Handle Sets

Heavy, hand-forged appearance for homes. Black finish complements stone and brick.

Very durable and damage-resistant. Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes prefer these.

Design: Hand-forged appearance for rustic styles.

33. Interconnected Entry Knobs

The deadbolt and knob work together. One turn locks or unlocks both.

Faster than operating two separate locks. Building codes require these in some areas.

Functionality: Single action operates both locks simultaneously.

34. Keypad Deadbolt Combinations

Combines a traditional knob with an electronic deadbolt. Use keys or codes for entry.

Backup keys work if batteries die. Popular choice for family homes.

Compatibility: Offers both traditional and electronic options.

35. Sliding Door Handles

Designed specifically for patio and sliding doors. Flush-mount or surface-mount options available.

Lock from inside with a flip lever. Some include key locks for added security.

Compatibility: Specifically engineered for sliding door systems.

36. Storm Door Levers

Lightweight but strong enough for screen doors. A self-closing mechanism is included with many models.

Available in colors that match door frames. Easy replacement takes under thirty minutes.

Functionality: Self-closing feature for storm doors

37. Aged Bronze Entry Sets

Finish mimics decades of natural weathering. Adds instant character to new construction.

Won’t show wear since it already looks old. Perfect for craftsman and historic home styles.

Design: Pre-aged finish provides instant character.

How to Choose the Right Types of Door Knobs

• Measure door thickness: Standard sizes are 1-3/8 or 1-3/4 inches before buying.
• Consider grip strength: The Elderly or children need easier handles to operate daily.
• Match existing metal finishes: Chrome fixtures need chrome knobs for consistency.
• Test weight in store: Heavier knobs indicate better quality and longer durability.
• Check humidity resistance: Bathrooms and coastal homes need corrosion-resistant finishes.
• Verify backset measurement: Distance from edge to center is 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches.
• Calculate the whole-house budget: Multiple door costs add up fast, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Picking the right types of door knobs affects your home every single day.

You’ve learned about different styles, understood the key differences, and seen options for both interior and exterior doors.

Consider your home’s overall style and your budget limits. Replace your most-used doors first. You’ll notice the difference immediately in how smooth they operate.

Ready to upgrade your doors? Head to your local hardware store with your measurements. Time to make your home more comfortable and smart.