When it comes to choosing locksets, there are plenty of options available including, lever or knob styles, finish and color. However, lockset types can be categorized as deadbolts, rim, mortise, cylinder or electronic types. Some of these lockset types may be further categorized as either entry or privacy locksets.

Lockset Types 

The various lockset types and locking mechanisms include cylinder, mortise, rim, deadbolts, electronic and privacy or entry. 

Cylinder

These types of locksets are sometimes referred to as keyed entry lockets. They’re most commonly used for residential applications, but they’re also used in office spaces and institutions. A cylinder lockset typically made of two knobs and uses a tumbler and pin system, which has a locking mechanism with several spring-loaded pins. These can be found on patio doors as well. 

Mortise

Mortise locksets are often installed in older homes or commercial and institutional applications. They require a mortise (pocket) to be cut into the door. The lock case is fit into the mortise, and knobs are installed on the outside of the door. Once you lock the door, it will be prevented from opening by the deadbolt inside the lock case. 

Rim

Rim locksets are ideal when you’re unable to modify the door to fit the lock. Rather than drilling a hole into the door, a rim lock is mounted to the door’s surface, and a strike plate is mounted to the frame of the door. These locksets don’t have an exterior door handle. While there are rim locksets with a keyed handle or knob, they’re typically installed with a thumb-turn mechanism that makes it possible to lock the door from the inside without a key.

Deadbolts

Deadbolts are installed about 6 to 12 inches above a non-locking handle set or keyed entry lockset. They’re typically operated with a thumb-turn on the interior side and a key on the exterior side. They work as an added security measure on exterior doors as they’re intended for locking the door.

Electronic

Electronic lockets have a digital keypad that uses batteries so you can operate the lock by inputting a digital code. However, these locks can also be opened with a key. Most electronic locksets will usually have an alarm to warn you when the batteries are low. If the batteries die, you can use the key to unlock the door manually. Some of these locks may be operated via remote control and even allow you to program separate codes for each user. These sorts of lock have grown in popularity for those who are trying to sell their house during a divorce or want to sell quickly. 

Privacy or Entry

Lockets are often categorized as entry or privacy to help homeowners decide where the lock will be used. Privacy lockets are designed for use on exterior doors because they have a keyless locking mechanism. Entry locksets, on the other hand, have a push-button locking mechanism on the interior side and a keyed knob on the exterior side that can be picked.

Bottom Line

Understanding the different lockset types and door locks makes it easy to choose an option that works best for you. Compare the various options available and find out which is the most appropriate for your case. If you’re not sure, you can always talk to a locksmith as they are more knowledgeable and experienced on the topic.