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While door knobs often have a subtle visual statement, these fixtures can still accentuate home decor and add style to entryways.
Door handles and knobs are available in numerous designs, ranging from modern to vintage, in such finishes as brushed nickel, chrome, and brass. They also vary in function—a standard passage knob provides a means for opening a door, while privacy knobs feature simple locks suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms.
This guide will discuss the different types of interior door knobs and factors to consider while shopping. We will also showcase some of the best models available.
- BEST OVERALL: Probrico Nickel Privacy Door Knob With Round Rosette
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Knobonly 10-Pack Colonial Passage Door Knobs
- BEST FOR FRONT DOOR: Berlin Modisch Single Cylinder Handle Set
- BEST GLASS: Knobwell Providence Octagon Glass Door Knob Set
- BEST MODERN: Kwikset Pismo Modern Door Knob
- BEST TRADITIONAL: Copper Creek Satin Stainless Colonial Knob
- BEST VINTAGE: Schlage Georgian Knob With Brookshire Trim
- BEST WITH LOCK: Amazon Basics Bedroom and Bathroom Door Knob
- BEST FOR SECURITY: Zincker Vaulta Electronic Door Knob
- BEST FOR BATHROOM: Kwikset Tylo Privacy Bed and Bath Door Knob
How We Chose the Best Door Knobs
We researched the most sought-after knobs for interior doors in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their type, quantity, construction, finishes and styles, and other special features included by top brands.
While searching for the best door knobs on the market, we found that the most popular types among users were the passage, dummy, and privacy options that come in quantities of 1 to 10 for a single door or a whole house. For durability and aesthetics, we included top door knobs with durable stainless steel, glass, brass, iron, bronze, copper, and alloy steel constructions for longevity.
The matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, and satin nickel finishes also make these door knobs an attractive choice for most decor styles in the home.
Our Top Picks
The recommendations below are among the best door knobs available in their respective categories. These models feature durable, all-metal construction and simple installation, with many offered in an array of finishes and colors.
Best Overall
Probrico Nickel Privacy Door Knob With Round Rosette
This handsome set of privacy door knobs has a satin-nickel finish and streamlined look with a simple rounded knob that complements various interior designs. A thumb-turn switch allows locking for doors in bathrooms, bedrooms, and other rooms requiring a privacy lock. A hole on the opposite side allows the lock to be opened with a universal pin key, preventing lockouts.
The knobs feature all-metal construction with brass cylinders in the locking mechanism, ensuring they’ll endure many turns. These knobs fit door thicknesses between 1⅜ inches and 1¾ inches. The backplates are 2½ inches in diameter and fit standard 2⅛-inch cross boreholes. This neutral yet sleek six-piece set is an excellent option for upgrading bathroom and bedroom door knobs.
Product Specs
- Type: Privacy
- Quantity: Available in packs of 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 10
- Material: Stainless steel
- Finish(es): Brushed nickel
Pros
- Suitable for multiple interior spaces, providing a cohesive home design
- Thumb-turn switch is simple and easy to use for privacy
- This door knob’s lockout-prevention hole is great for making sure that small children don’t get stuck
- Sized specifically to be able to fit standard door holes
Cons
- Round corner latch plate is not removable; can’t replace for anything else
Get the Probrico door knobs at Amazon (6-pack) or Probrico.
Best Bang for the Buck
Knobonly 10-Pack Colonial Passage Door Knobs
Those looking to affordably replace the knobs throughout a home can make it happen with this set of 10 passage door knobs from Knobonly. This set is also available in packs of one, two, five, or 15. The door knobs feature a flattened ball shape and attractive nickel finish with decorative trim around the rosette plate and knob, making them a lovely addition to many door designs.
Brass and nickel-plated construction mean these knobs can last for a long time. Their lockless design makes them suitable for closets, hallways, and other rooms that don’t require privacy locks. These knobs also are reversible, allowing them to fit both left- and right-handed doors. An adjustable backset that ranges from 2⅜ inches to 2¾ inches enables them to fit 1⅜-inch and 1¾-inch door thicknesses. The rosette fits a standard 2⅛-inch hole.
Product Specs
- Type: Passage
- Quantity: Available in packs of 1, 2, 5, 10, and 15
- Material: Stainless steel
- Finish(es): Brushed nickel
Pros
- Suitable for a wide range of home areas, especially closets and hallways
- Decorative trim design helps adds a touch of interest without going overboard
- Comes in multiple quantities to suit a range of home sizes
- Has reversible construction and also fits multiple door-hole sizes
Cons
- Only comes in 1 finish; may not match existing decor choices
Get the Knobonly door knobs at Amazon (10-pack).
Best for Front Door
Berlin Modisch Single Cylinder Handle Set
A relatively quick and inexpensive way to upgrade a home’s curb appeal is to swap out old handles for a new and improved option. This set of front door handles from Berlin Modisch comes in either satin nickel, iron black, oil-rubbed bronze, or polished chrome finishes, any of which can easily fit alongside existing home hardware.
We especially appreciated the lever handle, providing users with an easier way to open the front door when hands are full of groceries or other items. Installation is straightforward and fits most door sizes, between 1⅜ and 1¾ inches. The backset latch is also adjustable between 2⅜ and 2¾ inches, and the set includes all parts and screws required for installation.
Product Specs
- Type: Front door lock
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Not stated
- Finish(es): Satin nickel, iron black, oil-rubbed bronze, or polished chrome
Pros
- Has a solid, heavy-duty construction and is relatively easy to install
- Finishes are easy to clean and maintain without scratching or degradation
- Lock latch on the inside of the door is a great feature; no key needed
Cons
- Some users report bolts loosening over time after heavy use; need tightening
Get the Berlin Modisch door knob set at Amazon.
Best Glass
Knobwell Providence Octagon Glass Door Knob Set
Made from beautiful frosted glass and a bronze finish, this door knob adds a vintage look and period elegance to traditional decor. A Victorian-style rosette accentuates the diamond design in the glass with a rubbed-oil bronze finish. This knob from Knobwell is double-sided and compatible with both left- and right-handed doors. Like standard door knobs, it fits 1⅜-inch to 1¾-inch door widths. The rosette is 2½ inches wide, suitable for doors with standard 2⅛-inch cross boreholes.
This attractive glass knob is also available in dummy and privacy versions. The model can be purchased individually or in packs of two, three, four, five, six, and 10. These passage knobs do not contain locks, making them great for closets or hallway doors.
Product Specs
- Type: Passage knob
- Quantity: Available in packs of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10
- Material: Glass and zinc alloy
- Finish(es): Oil-rubbed bronze or matte black
Pros
- Diamond design is attractive and makes for a sophisticated statement piece in a home
- These door knobs are available in multiple types, from simple passage to privacy knobs
- Available in various pack sizes; great for both small and large projects
Cons
- Can start to become quite pricey if replacing multiple doors in the home
Get the Knobwell door knobs at Amazon (3-pack) or Knobwell.
Best Modern
Kwikset Pismo Modern Door Knob
With a cylindrically shaped knob and square backing, this option from Kwikset presents a modern take on the door knob. A thumb lock adds privacy to the knob, making it ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. It features an iron-black finish and comes with a round rosette. The knob is also available in dummy and passage models.
In addition to sturdy all-metal construction, this privacy/dummy knob also features Microban protection: This treatment on the knob’s surface helps prevent bacteria growth. An adjustable backset allows this knob to fit door widths between 1⅜ and 1¾ inches. This modern and simple knob will fit standard 2⅛-inch holes.
Product Specs
- Type: Privacy/dummy
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Brass, bronze, and iron
- Finish(es): Matte black, Venetian bronze, polished chrome, satin nickel, and satin chrome
Pros
- Includes a convenient thumb privacy lock; great for bedrooms or bathrooms
- Also suitable as a range of styles: dummy, entry, passage, or privacy
- Microban protection on the metal construction helps prevent bacteria growth
Cons
- Only fits standard-size door holes; may not fit some custom-size doors
Get the Kwikset door knobs at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Build With Ferguson.
Best Traditional
Copper Creek Satin Stainless Colonial Knob
The beveled edge around the knob’s rosette, coupled with a polished nickel finish, will suit a range of decor styles—from rustic to farmhouse to traditional. This knob comes in several finishes, including satin stainless, brass, black, antique nickel, and bronze, with options to suit a variety of tastes.
Steel internal components and nickel-plated bolts add exceptional durability. Its 2½-inch rosette plate is compatible with 2⅛-inch holes. It will fit standard door widths of 1⅜ inches to 1¾ inches. This colonial-style knob is available in passage, keyed entry, privacy, and dummy interior versions.
Product Specs
- Type: Passage, keyed entry, privacy, or dummy
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Alloy steel
- Finish(es): Satin stainless, nickel, black, polished brass, and more
Pros
- This door knob’s durable construction make it a great long-term replacement upgrade
- Fits standard door widths and hole sizes; ideal for most homes
- Suitable for a range of decor styles; available in multiple types and finishes
Cons
- Some finish options may be less durable than others; matte black tends to scratch
Get the Copper Creek door knobs at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Build With Ferguson.
Best Vintage
Schlage Georgian Knob With Brookshire Trim
This door knob suggests the Georgian era with a stylized rosette that features curving scrolls, decorative roses, and an aged bronze look, as well as a range of alternative finishes able to suit most interior design choices. With its vintage look, this knob from Schlage is a great option for restoring the period look of older homes or adding vintage flair to contemporary interiors.
With several knob types to choose from, including keyed entry, passage, and privacy, this knob is suited for almost any door in the home, such as interior closets, hallway doors, or bathroom or bedroom doors. It’s also available in matte black, satin nickel, brass, and more. The large 2¾-inch rosette will fit door holes larger than the standard 2⅛ inches. This knob fits backset depths ranging from 2⅜ to 2¾ inches and door thicknesses of 1⅜ to 1¾ inches.
Product Specs
- Type: Passage, keyed entry, or privacy
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Unidentified
- Finish(es): Bright brass, antique brass, satin nickel, matte black, and aged bronze
Pros
- Fits multiple door-hole sizes and backset depths; suitable for most doors
- Available in various styles as well as types for both passage and locked versions
- Decorative construction available in a wide range of finishes to suit any decor style
Cons
- Quite pricey for just a single door knob compared to similar options
Get the Schlage door knobs at Amazon, Wayfair, or Build With Ferguson.
Best with Lock
Amazon Basics Bedroom and Bathroom Door Knob
With its matte black finish, this door knob from Amazon Basics is suitable for the popular rustic and farmhouse looks. A thumb lock adds privacy, while a brass body with alloy-steel construction ensures this door knob will hold up to the high traffic that bathroom and bedroom doors face.
This knob also comes in other finishes, including polished brass, satin nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze, to suit a range of style preferences. At 2 7/10 inches in diameter, this knob’s rosette is large enough to fit standard 2⅛-inch door holes and larger. For homes going for a uniform look to interior doors, this knob is also available as a passage model.
Product Specs
- Type: Privacy
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Brass body and steel structure
- Finish(es): Oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, satin nickel, and matte black
Pros
- Comes with a thumb lock; very easy to use; great for privacy
- Durable construction and long-lasting finishes; this door knob is a great choice for busy homes
- Suitable for multiple door-hole sizes; fits most standard doors
Cons
- Good value for high-volume knob replacements, but may not last as long as other options
Get the Amazon Basics door knobs at Amazon.
Best for Security
Zincker Vaulta Electronic Door Knob
When a simple privacy lock door knob doesn’t cut it, a slight upgrade to a more robust option like the Zincker Vaulta keypad lock door knob may just do the trick. Secure items or sensitive equipment in the home behind this security lock for added peace of mind. It also automatically locks after 5 seconds just in case.
Installation is surprisingly straightforward without much additional workload compared to any standard door knob. Users will simply need to decide on a keypad combination to set as the code to unlock the door or otherwise use the provided key. In addition to the master administrator code, it can also store up to 50 additional passcodes that can be given out to friends and family, as desired. It comes in matte black, champagne gold, coal black, or glossy silver finishes, suitable to match most existing home decor choices.
Product Specs
- Type: Keypad lock
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Zinc
- Finish(es): Matte black, champagne gold, coal black, or glossy silver
Pros
- Stores up to 50 additional passcodes to give out to several users if needed
- As simple to install as most other door knobs, with added security
- Relatively affordable given the added layer of security it provides
Cons
- Requires 4 AA batteries, which may require replacement after heavy use
Get the Zincker door knobs at Amazon or Zincker.
Best for Bathroom
Kwikset Tylo Privacy Bed and Bath Door Knob
Shoppers looking for a relatively affordable replacement for older bathroom door knobs may want to pick up this option from Kwikset. Available in polished brass, antique brass, satin chrome, or satin nickel, there’s a finish suitable for the majority of existing home decor styles. This could also be an ideal choice for full-home replacement because these are available as privacy-, passage-, entry-, and dummy-style options.
Installation is simple, requiring only a screwdriver and taking just minutes for most door setups, with an adjustable backset from 2⅜ to 2¾ inches.
Product Specs
- Type: Privacy
- Quantity: 1
- Material: Unidentified metal
- Finish(es): Polished brass, antique brass, satin chrome, or satin nickel
Pros
- Versatile door knob option suitable for most home uses; multiple styles available
- With 4 different finish options, this door knob easily fits into most home decor preferences
- Installation is very simple, only requiring a standard screwdriver and fitting most door sizes
Cons
- This door knob’s internal mechanisms can occasionally get stuck after unlocking
Get the Kwikset door knob at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Build With Ferguson.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Door Knob
When shopping for door knobs, it’s essential to know the measurements that determine which interior knobs are compatible with existing doors in the home. Choosing a suitable knob type and an appropriate style and finish also are crucial parts of the decision-making process.
Types of Door Knobs
There are three main types of interior door knobs: privacy, dummy, and passage. Each type serves a different purpose and is more suitable for particular rooms.
- Privacy door knobs feature a twist or button lock on one side of the knob. The locking feature makes this type of knob suitable for bedrooms and bathroom doors. These locks offer minimal security and typically feature a small hole on the opposite end, allowing the user to unlock the door with a universal key.
- Dummy door knobs are one-sided knobs that don’t include any internal working parts. They essentially serve as a means for pushing or pulling open doors. Some dummy knobs come in pairs for use on double doors. They work well for small pantries, bedroom closets, or one side of a french door.
- Passage door knobs operate a latch assembly, but typically include no locking mechanism. They are good options for interior closets, hallways, and other rooms that don’t require privacy locks.
Measurements
There are three important measurements to establish before selecting a new door knob: cross bore, backset, and door thickness.
- Cross bore refers to the large round hole where the door knob is mounted. A standard cross borehole is 2⅛ inches in diameter. The cross borehole must be smaller than the diameter of the door knob’s backplate to fit.
- The backset is the distance between the center of the cross bore to the edge of the door. There are two standard backset measurements: 2⅜ inches and 2¾ inches. The backset of the door knob must match the backset of the door, or it won’t fit.
- The thickness of interior residential doors can vary, which also impacts whether a door knob will fit. Older homes tend to have thinner doors of 1⅜ inches, while newer homes have thicker 1¾-inch-thick doors. Most knobs can work with a range of door thicknesses.
Material
Like door handles, interior door knobs come in a variety of materials. Door knobs comprise a knob and a backplate, also called a rosette, which may be constructed of the same or different materials. Modern door knobs most commonly feature metal, though glass and ceramic options are also available.
Cut glass and crystal door knobs provide unique decorative accents to entryways. These knobs were popular in the mid-19th to early 20th century, and many available today have a similar antique look. Faceted, octagonal, diamond, fluted, and bubbled are among various designs that can add a charming old-world aesthetic to the space.
Ceramic door knobs are often painted for decorative purposes. Most feature patterns and colors that add eye-catching visuals to doorways. Knobs containing ceramic are most often made of porcelain, which is denser and more durable than other types of ceramic.
Most door knobs with metal exteriors are made of brass, with more high-end options featuring chrome or stainless steel. Metal knobs are the most durable options and can vary in aesthetic from modern to vintage. The internal parts of high-quality door knobs consist of steel, which can withstand heavy use if treated with nickel plating to resist corrosion.
Style
In choosing door knobs, it’s important to remember that the style selected accentuates different home decor styles. Door knobs featuring clean lines and sleek finishes work well with minimalist and modern decor. These knobs can also work well for industrial-style homes, whereas metal knobs with an aged or distressed look complement vintage industrial decor.
Antique-looking metal accents and finishes can also pair well with rustic, farmhouse, and traditional decor. Historical homes and traditional interiors with Victorian-era decor can benefit from glass door knobs for a period aesthetic. For interiors such as bohemian, transitional, and eclectic, glass or colored knobs can add brightness and originality to the home.
Door knobs come in numerous colors and finishes to suit these different decor styles. Metal finishes include brass, pewter, chrome, black, bronze, copper, and polished nickel. Glass door knobs feature clear or colored designs, while ceramic options tend to feature one or more colors.
Installation
Installing a door knob is an easy DIY project that can usually be completed with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Most knobs include detailed installation instructions to walk users through the process. Only some door knobs come with the required hardware, so check product details to determine whether or not these parts are included.
Since they don’t have latch assemblies that hold the door to the door frame, dummy door knobs are naturally the easiest to install. Passageway and privacy door knobs are a little more complicated but are still very manageable, even for those who lack DIY experience.
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from shoppers looking to buy new door knobs for their homes.
Q. What is the most popular color for door knobs?
Although color preferences vary, brushed nickel (also known as satin nickel) is the most popular finish for door knobs. Other modern options can also include matte black or antique bronze for more of an added design interest.
Q. Should all my door knobs match?
While all the hardware in a home does not need to match, matching all of the interior door knobs will help achieve a cohesive look. On the other hand, if the home features a style such as bohemian or eclectic, mismatched door knobs could accentuate the decor.
Q. Do knobs get broken often?
Door knobs can last a surprisingly long time when made from quality components. As with many mechanical items in the home, door knobs that feature locking mechanisms tend to wear out more quickly. Passage knobs, which have fewer moving parts, or dummy knobs, which have no internal moving parts, will last longer by comparison.
Q. Is there any maintenance needed for door knobs?
Wipe down a door knob with a mild soap-and-water solution or metal polish to prevent corrosion. For privacy knobs, spray lubricant such as WD-40 into the hole to lubricate the knob’s internal parts.
Any standard passage door knobs that start to feel loose may also need a simple tightening with a screwdriver to secure them back into place.
