2025’s Best Door Knobs: Styles, Types, and Features You Can’t Miss

If you’re an architect, contractor, or builder, you know that picking the right door knob matters a lot. Door knobs affect security, accessibility, and the overall look of a space. Whether you’re working on a home, an office, or a hotel, knowing the different types of door knobs can help you choose ones that are durable, up to code, and fit your design.

This guide breaks down the different kinds of door knobs, from basic ones for bedrooms and hallways to high-security options and ADA-compliant designs. It also covers the latest trends in materials and styles, including smart locks and specialty knobs for busy areas. No matter what kind of project you’re working on, this door knob guide will help you make the right choice.

Types of Door Knobs by Function

1. Passage Door Knobs

Passage door knobs are designed for doors that don’t need to be locked. They’re perfect for places like hallways or closets, where privacy isn’t a big deal. Since there’s no locking mechanism, they’re easy to use and provide quick access to those areas. These knobs are a simple, practical choice for rooms or spaces where locking isn’t necessary.

Best Passage Door Knob: Kwikset Pismo Passage Door Knob Set with Square Rose

2. Privacy Door Knobs

Privacy door knobs are meant for rooms where you need privacy, like bathrooms and bedrooms. These knobs usually have a lock, like a push-button or twist lock, to keep the door secure. But they also allow you to easily unlock from the inside in case of an emergency. They’re commonly used in private spaces because they offer a good mix of security and convenience for areas where personal space matters.

Best Privacy Door Knob: Schlage Georgian Knob Bed & Bath Lock

3. Dummy Door Knobs

Dummy door knobs are mainly used for decoration or on doors that don’t need a lock or latch. These knobs don’t turn or do anything to open the door—they’re just there to look good or serve a function on doors that don’t get used. You’ll often see them on things like shallow closets, double doors (on the side that doesn’t open), or as part of a decorative design. They add a nice touch without having any mechanical purpose.

Best Dummy Door Knob: Schlage Plymouth Dummy Door Knob

4. Keyed Entry Door Knobs

Keyed entry door knobs are made for security and are usually found on outside doors. You need a key to lock and unlock them from the outside, helping protect against unauthorized entry. On the inside, they often have a turn button or thumb turn for easy locking. These knobs are commonly used on front and back doors or any other entry points to keep your home or property safe.

Best Keyed Entry Door Knob: Baldwin Hardware Keyed Traditional Knob & Round Rose

5. Classroom Door Knobs

Classroom door knobs are made for places like schools, offices, or other public spaces where both security and easy access are important. These knobs can be locked or unlocked with a key from the outside, but they’re designed so that anyone inside can easily exit without needing a key—this helps ensure safety during emergencies. You’ll typically find these knobs in schools, offices, and public buildings because they offer a good mix of security and easy access.

6. Bed/bath Door Knobs 

Bed/bath door knobs are made for bedrooms and bathrooms to give you privacy in these personal spaces. They usually have a simple lock, like a push-button or twist lock that can be easily unlocked from the inside for convenience and safety. These knobs are commonly used in bedrooms and bathrooms because they provide a practical way to keep these spaces private.

Best Bed/bath Door Knob: Schlage Bowery Knob Bed & Bath Lock

7. Electronic/Smart Door Knobs 

Electronic or smart door knobs provide extra security and convenience with advanced features. They might include things like keypads, fingerprint scanners, or Bluetooth, so you can enter without a key. These types of knobs are often used in modern homes, offices, and places that need high security. They combine technology with safety, making it easier to access your space while keeping it secure.

Best Electronic/Smart Door Knob: Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch with Wi-Fi

8. Double Cylinder Door Knobs

Double cylinder door knobs provide extra security by needing a key to lock and unlock the door from both sides. This is especially useful on doors with glass panels, because it stops someone from breaking the glass and reaching in to unlock the door. You’ll often find these knobs on exterior doors with glass or in high-security areas, offering extra protection for doors that are easy to break into.

Best Double Cylinder Door Knob: Tylo Security Set

Types of Door Knobs by Design

1. Minimalist and Sleek Designs

Minimalist and sleek designs are still really popular right now, especially when it comes to door knobs. These designs focus on clean, simple lines, smooth surfaces, and a quiet elegance. They work well with modern and contemporary homes, where the goal is to keep things simple and practical. For example, door handles might be flush with the door or have low-profile knobs that don’t stick out much. Some designs even hide the hardware completely, making it blend right into the door. Popular finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, and satin chrome add a touch of class, keeping the overall look simple but still stylish and timeless.

2. Vintage and Antique Finishes

Vintage and antique finishes are coming back strong, bringing a cozy, nostalgic vibe to interiors. Finishes like aged bronze, antique copper, and brushed brass are popular right now because they add a lot of character to a space. These finishes look great in rustic, industrial, or eclectic styles, often seen in decorative knobs with detailed designs, hammered textures, and unique patinas that show age. They’re a perfect choice for homes that want to create a vintage or timeless feel, mixing history and craftsmanship with modern design.

3. Smart and Tech-Integrated Knobs

Smart technology is changing the way we use door hardware. New door knobs now come with features like keyless entry, fingerprint access, and can even connect to home automation systems. Things like fingerprint scanners, app-controlled locks, and voice-activated mechanisms are making doors more convenient and secure. To match these high-tech features finishes like polished chrome and brushed nickel are often used, giving the door hardware a sleek, modern look that fits well with today’s home styles.

4. Nature-Inspired and Organic Styles

Biophilic design is all about bringing nature into our spaces, and it’s starting to show up in door knobs. These knobs are inspired by natural elements like wood, stone, and smooth, organic curves. Handles with rounded edges and finishes like raw brass or reclaimed wood add a natural, earthy touch to any room. This kind of design is perfect for eco-friendly or nature-inspired interiors, where the goal is to blend style with sustainability.

5. Sculptural and Artistic Designs

Door knobs are starting to be seen as more than just functional – they’re becoming art pieces. Many designs now have unique, sculptural shapes with detailed patterns or custom engravings, turning the knob itself into something special. Finishes like polished nickel, brushed gold, and textured bronze give them a luxurious feel, making them stand out and adding to the overall look of the room. These knobs aren’t just for opening doors – they’re a stylish feature that enhances the whole space.

6. Hybrid Material Combinations

Mixing materials like wood and metal is giving door hardware a modern, yet warm feel. For example, knobs with wooden parts and metal bases, like brass or stainless steel, combine the natural warmth of wood with the sleek look of metal. This mix works great in spaces that have a mix of styles, like transitional or eclectic interiors. The combination of materials adds depth and personality, creating a unique and balanced look that ties everything together.

Types of Door Knobs Based on Materials

1. Brass Door Knobs

Brass door knobs, made from solid brass or brass-coated metal, add a classic touch to any room. Brass is naturally resistant to bacteria and rust, so these knobs last a long time and stay strong. As they get older, they develop a unique, stylish look that adds character. They’re perfect for homes with traditional styles or places where lots of people pass through, combining both beauty and practicality.

2. Glass Door Knobs

Glass door knobs are usually made from clear, frosted, or colored glass and often have metal bases. While they’re delicate and can break easily, they are incredibly decorative. They’re a perfect fit for vintage-style interiors, and you’ll often find them in luxury homes, historic restorations, and boutique hotels, adding a touch of elegance and charm.

3. Wooden Door Knobs

Wooden door knobs are made from solid wood or wood veneer, giving them a warm, natural look. Their rustic charm makes them perfect for farmhouse-style homes, handcrafted interiors, and traditional buildings, adding a touch of timeless appeal and coziness.

4. Stainless Steel Door Knobs

Stainless steel door knobs are built to last. They resist rust and corrosion, making them perfect for long-term use. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain, keeping their sleek, polished look over time. Their modern, shiny finish adds a stylish touch to any space. You’ll often see stainless steel door knobs in offices, contemporary homes, and high-traffic areas. They’re especially popular in kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture resistance is essential.

5. Bronze Door Knobs

Bronze door knobs bring a touch of classic charm and sophistication to any space. Their detailed designs and rich finishes—like oil-rubbed or antique bronze—make them perfect for traditional and rustic interiors. While they’re durable, they require a bit more care than stainless steel to prevent oxidation. These knobs are a favorite for homes, especially in entryways and living rooms, where they create a warm, inviting feel.

6. Ceramic Door Knobs

Ceramic door knobs are all about style and creativity. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, they’re a great way to add personality to a space. While they’re not as tough as metal knobs and can chip if handled roughly, they make up for it with their decorative appeal. With a little care, they can be a beautiful addition to any room. These knobs work best on indoor doors, like bedrooms and bathrooms, where aesthetics matter more than durability.

Specialty Door Knobs

1. Antimicrobial Door Knobs

Antimicrobial door knobs are specially designed to fight bacteria and germs. They come with coatings that help stop bacteria from growing on the surface, keeping the knobs cleaner for longer. Some door knobs are made from copper alloys, which naturally have the ability to kill harmful microbes.

These door knobs are perfect for places where lots of people touch them, like hospitals, clinics, kitchens, and schools. They help reduce the spread of germs in places that need to stay as clean as possible, making them a smart choice for public buildings and high-traffic areas.

2. ADA-Compliant Door Knobs

ADA-compliant door knobs are designed to be easy for everyone to use, especially for people with disabilities. They feature an ergonomic, lever-style design that makes it easier to open doors without needing to grip or twist. These knobs meet the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring they’re accessible to all.

Made from durable materials, they’re built to last and are perfect for places like public buildings, hospitals, and senior living facilities—anywhere that needs to be both functional and accessible for a wide range of people.

3. Glow-in-the-Dark & LED-Illuminated Knobs

Glow-in-the-dark and LED-illuminated door knobs are designed to be easy to see, even in low-light or dark conditions. The glow-in-the-dark feature makes it easier to find the knob, while LED lights with motion sensors turn on automatically when you get close, adding convenience and extra safety.

These types of knobs are especially useful for emergency exits, theaters, hospitals, and residential hallways—places where you might need quick and clear access during the night or in case of an emergency.

4. High-Security & Tamper-Resistant Knobs

High-security and tamper-resistant door knobs are built to protect sensitive areas from unauthorized access. They feature drill-resistant, pick-proof locks, making it almost impossible for anyone to break in. These knobs also include reinforced steel cores for added strength and security, along with smart lock options that offer encrypted access for extra protection.

These types of door knobs are essential for places that require top-level security, like banks, high-security offices, and server rooms—where safeguarding information and assets is a top priority.