Product reviewDoors, Windows & Floors

Best Entrance Door Locks And Handles: Top Picks Compared

Updated 11 min read

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The best entrance door lock and handle for your home depends on more than finish: check your door thickness, backset, bore-hole layout, handing, and whether you want a deadbolt or a keyed lever. The five options below cover complete handlesets, a keyed knob-and-deadbolt combo, and a simpler entry lever, so you can match the hardware to your door and installation needs.

Quick Comparison

ProductTypeDoor fit and notable detailsBest for
Brightify Black Front Door Lock SetHandleset with single-cylinder deadboltFits 1⅜–1¾-inch doors; adjustable 2⅜–2¾-inch backset; reversibleA modern black entryway update
Azdele Front Door Handle and Deadbolt SetHandleset with single-cylinder deadboltFits 1⅜–1¾-inch doors; adjustable 2⅜–2¾-inch backset; reversibleTraditional or modern styling with an adjustable latch
BESTTEN Keyed-Alike Knob and Deadbolt ComboEntry knob and deadbolt comboFits 1⅜–1¾-inch doors; adjustable backset; three matching keysA straightforward keyed-alike setup
Probrico Wave-Style Entry Door LeverKeyed entry leverFits 1⅜–1¾-inch doors; 2⅜- or 2¾-inch backset; reversibleReplacing a lever without choosing a full handleset
Kwikset San Clemente HandlesetHandleset with deadbolt and interior leverDesigned for 1¾-inch doors; adjustable backset; SmartKey rekeyingA front-door upgrade with rekeying flexibility

Our Picks: Best Entrance Door Locks And Handles reviews

1. Brightify Black Handleset: A Modern, Reversible Entry Set

The Brightify combines an exterior handleset, an interior lever, and a single-cylinder deadbolt. Its matte black finish and modern shape make it a natural choice if you want the lock and handle to read as one coordinated front-door feature rather than separate pieces of hardware.

The set is reversible for left- or right-handed doors and fits door thicknesses from 1⅜ to 1¾ inches. Its latch adjusts between 2⅜- and 2¾-inch backsets, which can help when replacing hardware on a standard-preparation door. The package includes three keys and the adjustable latch. Brightify also states that the set was tested for more than 250,000 unlocking cycles; that is a manufacturer-provided durability claim, not a substitute for checking the product’s fit and installation requirements.

This is a complete option for someone who wants a deadbolt and a matching handle in a black finish. Before ordering, compare your existing hole layout and backset with the product details. The included set does not make every door preparation compatible, and the single-cylinder design uses a key outside and a turn piece inside.

Pros:

  • Includes a handleset, interior lever, deadbolt, adjustable latch, and three keys.
  • Reversible for left- or right-handed doors.
  • Fits a range of common door thicknesses and backsets.
  • Matte black finish suits a modern entryway.

Cons:

  • Check the hole layout and door measurements before buying; adjustability does not guarantee a fit for every door.
  • The product information does not specify a rekeying feature.

Verdict: Choose the Brightify if you want a coordinated black handleset with a deadbolt and your door matches its stated dimensions.

2. Azdele Handleset: Adjustable Fit with a Single-Cylinder Deadbolt

Azdele’s set pairs an exterior handle with a single-cylinder deadbolt and an interior lever. It is designed for residential or commercial doors and has a reversible lever, so it can work with either left- or right-handed installations when the rest of the door preparation matches.

The latch adjusts from 2⅜ to 2¾ inches, and the set is listed for doors from 1⅜ to 1¾ inches thick. The product description identifies zinc alloy construction and an oil-rubbed-bronze finish, while other wording in the listing refers to a black handle. Since those finish descriptions do not fully agree, confirm the finish option shown for the specific listing before purchasing.

This option is similar in function to the Brightify: both provide a handleset and deadbolt with an adjustable latch. The Azdele listing also states that installation hardware and instructions are included and describes a lifetime warranty. Review the warranty terms and confirm compatibility with your door’s holes before starting the installation.

Pros:

  • Complete handleset with a single-cylinder deadbolt.
  • Reversible lever and adjustable latch.
  • Fits the stated 1⅜–1¾-inch door-thickness range.
  • Listing describes included installation hardware and a lifetime warranty.

Cons:

  • The listing uses different finish descriptions, so verify the selected finish.
  • As with other handlesets, door thickness alone does not confirm hole-layout compatibility.

Verdict: The Azdele is worth considering if you want a reversible handleset and deadbolt, but verify the finish and door preparation before ordering.

3. BESTTEN Keyed-Alike Combo: Matching Knob and Deadbolt Keys

The BESTTEN set takes a different approach from the handlesets above: it pairs an exterior entry knob with a single-cylinder deadbolt. Both locks use the same key, and three keyed-alike keys are included. That can make everyday access simpler than carrying separate keys for the knob and deadbolt.

The adjustable latch fits a 2⅜- or 2¾-inch backset, and the product is listed for doors 1⅜ to 1¾ inches thick. Its stated keyway is KW1, and the lock is not rekeyable. That last point matters if you expect to change keys after moving in, changing tenants, or updating your household’s access; consider whether you are comfortable replacing the lock rather than rekeying it.

Compared with the Brightify, Azdele, and Kwikset, this combo uses a knob instead of a long exterior handleset and interior lever. It may suit a more traditional setup or a door with separate knob-and-deadbolt hardware. The listing notes that the machine screws come preinstalled in the handle, so remove them before installation as directed.

Pros:

  • Knob and deadbolt are keyed alike.
  • Includes three matching keys.
  • Adjustable latch accommodates two common backsets.
  • Fits the stated range of standard door thicknesses.

Cons:

  • Not rekeyable, according to the product information.
  • Uses a knob rather than a handleset or lever.

Verdict: Pick the BESTTEN if you want a matching-key knob-and-deadbolt pair and do not need a rekeyable lock.

4. Probrico Wave-Style Lever: A Compact Keyed Entry Option

The Probrico is a keyed entry lever rather than a complete handleset with a separate deadbolt. Its wave-shaped lever and oil-rubbed-bronze finish offer a different look from the black handlesets in this roundup. The lever can be reversed for left- or right-handed doors, and the product includes three keys.

It fits doors from 1⅜ to 1¾ inches thick and has a latch adjustable to either a 2⅜- or 2¾-inch backset. The product description gives a 4.7-inch lever length and a 2.56-inch rosette diameter, which can help when comparing its appearance and coverage with existing hardware. The square latch plate is not removable, so check whether that plate matches your door’s edge preparation.

Because this is a lever lock, not a handleset-and-deadbolt package, it is best suited to a door where a keyed lever is the hardware you need or where a separate deadbolt is already installed. If you want a coordinated exterior grip and deadbolt, the Brightify, Azdele, or Kwikset is a closer match.

Pros:

  • Reversible for left- or right-handed doors.
  • Adjustable latch fits two common backsets.
  • Includes three keys and installation hardware.
  • Oil-rubbed-bronze finish and wave-style lever provide a distinct look.

Cons:

  • Does not include a separate deadbolt or long handleset.
  • The square latch plate is not removable, so check your door-edge preparation.

Verdict: Choose the Probrico if you need a keyed lever and its fixed square latch plate fits your door; look elsewhere for a complete deadbolt handleset.

5. Kwikset San Clemente: A Handleset with SmartKey Rekeying

The Kwikset San Clemente is a front-door handleset with an exterior keyed deadbolt, an interior turn piece, a grip, and an interior lever. Its SmartKey Security feature lets you rekey the lock yourself, according to the product information. This can be useful when you want to change access without replacing the entire lock, though you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the rekeying process.

Fit is the key limitation to check: this set is specified for a 1¾-inch-thick door, unlike the other options here that list a broader 1⅜–1¾-inch range. Its latch adjusts between 2⅜ and 2¾ inches. The listing also says the door needs two bore holes and a drilled hole for the lower connection point, so measure your existing door carefully before choosing it as a replacement.

Compared with the Brightify and Azdele, the Kwikset offers the stated rekeying feature but is less flexible about door thickness. It also carries a lifetime mechanical and finish warranty according to the listing. Confirm the warranty terms and the required door preparation for your installation.

Pros:

  • Includes an exterior keyed deadbolt, interior turn piece, grip, and interior lever.
  • SmartKey feature allows the lock to be rekeyed.
  • Adjustable latch fits 2⅜- or 2¾-inch backsets.
  • Listing states lifetime mechanical and finish warranty coverage.

Cons:

  • Specified for 1¾-inch doors, a narrower thickness range than several alternatives.
  • Requires two bore holes and a lower connection-point hole.

Verdict: The Kwikset is a strong match if your door is 1¾ inches thick, has the required hole layout, and you value rekeying flexibility.

How to Choose an Entrance Door Lock and Handle

Match the lock style to your door

First decide whether you need a complete handleset with a separate deadbolt, a knob-and-deadbolt combo, or just a keyed lever. A handleset gives the exterior side a longer grip and usually includes an interior lever. A knob combo uses separate knob and deadbolt hardware. A keyed lever can be a simpler replacement, but it does not provide the separate deadbolt included with the handlesets in this list.

Measure door thickness and backset

Door thickness and backset are two different measurements. Thickness is the distance from one face of the door to the other. Backset is the distance from the door edge to the center of the lock bore. Several picks here list a 1⅜–1¾-inch thickness range and an adjustable 2⅜–2¾-inch backset. The Kwikset is specified for a 1¾-inch door. Measure both instead of assuming that an adjustable latch will solve every fit issue.

Check the existing holes and latch plate

Look at the face and edge of your door before ordering. Some handlesets require two bore holes, and the Kwikset listing specifically calls for a lower connection-point hole. Also check the shape of the cutout at the door edge: the Probrico’s square latch plate is not removable. If you are replacing existing hardware, compare the new set’s requirements with the current holes and latch preparation.

Choose a handing and finish that work for your entry

A reversible handle or lever can be installed for either left- or right-handed doors, but confirm the product description before purchase. Then consider how the finish will look with your door, hinges, and other hardware. Finish descriptions can vary within a product listing, so verify the selected finish and option rather than relying only on a product title or photo.

Think about keys and rekeying

Keyed-alike hardware lets one key operate multiple included locks, as with the BESTTEN knob-and-deadbolt set. Rekeying is a separate feature: the Kwikset listing describes SmartKey rekeying, while the BESTTEN listing states that its lock is not rekeyable. If you are moving into a home or managing a rental, decide how important changing the key is and check the product details before buying.

Understand what the package includes

Compare the included components, not just the exterior appearance. A complete handleset may include an exterior grip, interior lever, deadbolt, latch, and keys. A keyed lever is a different configuration, and a knob combo has its own layout. Check the hardware list and installation instructions to confirm that you are buying the pieces needed for your door.

Review installation and warranty details

Many of these products are described as DIY installations, but the required door preparation still matters. Read the instructions and check whether your existing holes align before removing old hardware. Warranty statements also differ by product; consult the manufacturer’s terms for what is covered and how to request support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a handleset and a keyed lever?

A handleset generally includes an exterior grip, an interior lever, and a separate deadbolt. A keyed lever is a lever-style entry lock and may not include a separate deadbolt. Check the package contents to confirm which components are included.

Will an adjustable latch fit any front door?

No. An adjustable latch can fit more than one backset, but you still need to check door thickness, bore-hole placement, door-edge preparation, and any extra connection holes required by the hardware.

What does single-cylinder deadbolt mean?

For the sets described here, the single-cylinder deadbolt uses a key on the exterior side and a turn piece on the interior side. Check the product instructions and your local requirements when selecting a lock for a specific door.

Which option can be rekeyed?

The Kwikset listing describes SmartKey Security rekeying. The BESTTEN listing says its lock is not rekeyable. The supplied product details do not specify rekeying for the other choices, so check their product information if this feature is important.

Are the Brightify and Azdele sets reversible?

Both product descriptions state that their handles or levers are reversible for left- or right-handed doors. Still, check your door’s layout and the installation directions before ordering.

Does the Probrico lever include a deadbolt?

The supplied product details describe a keyed entry lever and do not list a separate deadbolt. Choose one of the handleset or knob-and-deadbolt options if you want both types of hardware in the package.

What should I measure before buying?

Measure the door thickness and backset, then inspect the number and position of the bore holes and the latch-plate cutout. Also check whether the chosen product requires a lower connection hole or other door preparation.

Conclusion

For a modern black handleset with an adjustable latch, the Brightify is a practical starting point, provided your door matches its measurements. The Kwikset is the more suitable choice if you want the listed SmartKey rekeying feature and have a 1¾-inch door with the required hole layout. For a keyed-alike knob and deadbolt, consider BESTTEN; for a keyed lever without a full handleset, consider Probrico. Measure your door and confirm the finish and package contents before making your final choice.

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