What is the Difference Between Door Knobs and Door Handles?

Are you in a dilemma to choose between door knobs and door handles? 

In this article, you’ll find a detailed comparison of door knobs vs door handles. This will surely help you make an informed decision. So, let’s get started!

Door Knobs vs. Door Handles

What is a Door Knob?

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A doorknob is a round knob. It is attached to a door to open and close it. It may feature a latch or lock mechanism. So, you can turn the knob to operate it. 

What is a Door Handle? 

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Just like the door knobs, door handles are lever handles to open and close the door. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

6 Differences Between Door Knobs and Door Handles

1. Appearance

Door knobs are available in spherical or oval shape. Antique door knobs, like the brass door knobs, often add a touch of vintage elegance to interiors. They blend well in traditional home settings. But there are also modern door knobs in stylish designs. You can use them to complement modern decor. 

Lever-style door handles are more versatile in design. Their sleek look often suits a range of interiors. So, you can use them for minimalist, modern, or industrial interiors.

2. Ease of Use

Door knobs may not be easy to grip for children and aged people. Therefore, you may not want to use them in high-traffic areas.

Lever handles offer better grip than door knobs. This makes them an excellent choice for interior door handles in high-traffic areas. 

3. Installation and Fitting

Installing door knobs can be more complex than that of lever handles. You need to fit the door knobs a bit further from the edge of the door. Door knobs will not fit for the door with glazed panels.

Modern door handles are easier to install. Moreover, orienting their levers for left- or right-handed use is easy. This flexibility makes them a popular choice for modern homes.

4. Durability

You can find durable door knobs and door handles online and offline. The common materials used are brass, stainless steel, and zinc alloys. 

You don’t need to twist the door handle. So it leaves less stress on the hardware. That is why many people prefer front door handles to entry door knobs.  

5. Suitability for Different Areas
   

Modern door handles are the best door hardware for high-traffic areas. These include entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens. 

6. Door Security Locks 

For exterior door knobs, you might have to get a separate BS3621-rated deadlock. However, you can use integrated sash locks for exterior door handles. 

Door Knobs vs. Door Handles - Final Thought

Door knobs are perfect for classic or traditional interiors. Door handles are better suited for modern home decor. By evaluating your needs, home decor, and budget, you can choose the one that suits you the best.

Residence Supply offers a wide range of door knobs and door handles at the best prices. You can visit our door hardware collection to find the perfect match for your home. You can also book a free consultation with our experts for personalized recommendations. Let’s make your doors a statement of style with Residence Supply!

Door Knobs and Door Handles - FAQ 

1. Can I replace door knobs with handles?

Yes. You can easily replace door knobs with door handles. But, the door handle you choose must cover the screw holes and door marks made by your door knob.

2. Can you put new handles on old doors?

Yes. You can easily put a new handle on an old door.  It is one of the best ways to update your home. However, you need to make sure that the new door handles fit easily. Besides, they must cover any old holes or marks left by your old door handles. 

3. Do door handles fit any door?

No. Not all door handles fit any door.  You don’t need to worry about it if you’re installing a handle on a new internal door. For a thin or thick door, you might have to check your door handle’s measurement. But, while replacing an old handle, you need to check the backstop size (the length of the latch) and position. Also, you can’t ignore the size of your existing borehole.