Locking Doorknob vs. Privacy Doorknob vs. Passage Doorknob – What’s the Difference?

🔑 Locking Doorknob vs. Privacy Doorknob vs. Passage Doorknob — What’s the Difference?

When it comes to choosing the right doorknob for your home or business, the options can be confusing. You may have heard terms like regular knob, privacy knob, and dummy knob — but what do they actually mean? Don’t worry — we’ll break it down in simple terms so you know exactly which type you need.

 

🚪 1. Regular Locking Door Knob (Keyed Entry Knob)

A regular door knob with a keyhole — often called a keyed entry knob — provides real security. It’s the kind you’ll find on front doors, garage doors, or any entrance that leads outside.

Features:

  • 🔒 Lock and key on the outside.

  • 🔘 Turn button or twist lock on the inside.

  • ✅ Strong latch and security pin to keep the door locked tight.

  • 🚨 Often used with a deadbolt for extra protection.

Best For:

  • Front doors

  • Back doors

  • Garage entry doors

  • Home offices needing extra security

Pros:

  • Provides true security with key access.

  • Compatible with most smart locks and deadbolts.

  • Durable and tamper-resistant.

Cons:

  • Requires a key — can be lost or copied.

  • Slightly more expensive than other knobs.

 

🛁 2. Privacy Door Knob (No Keyhole)

A privacy knob is perfect for when you want privacy — but not full security.
It locks from the inside only with a push button or twist, and can be unlocked from the outside using an emergency tool (a small pin or screwdriver).

Features:

  • 🔘 Simple interior lock — push or twist to lock.

  • 🕳️ Emergency unlock hole on the outside (for safety).

  • ❌ No key required.

  • ⚙️ Easy installation and ideal for indoor use.

Best For:

  • Bathrooms

  • Bedrooms

  • Guest rooms

Pros:

  • Offers privacy without needing a key.

  • Safer for children (easy to unlock from outside).

  • Affordable and easy to install.

Cons:

  • Not secure against forced entry.

  • Shouldn’t be used for exterior doors.

 

🏠 3. Passage Door Knob (No Lock)

A passage knob doesn’t lock at all — it’s purely for function and convenience.
It keeps a door closed with a latch but allows free access from both sides.

Features:

  • 🔓 No lock or keyhole on either side.

  • 🚪 Latch only — turns freely.

  • ⚙️ Commonly used indoors where locking isn’t necessary.

Best For:

  • Hallways

  • Closets

  • Laundry rooms

  • Pantry doors

Pros:

  • Simple and reliable.

  • No risk of getting locked out.

  • Usually the cheapest option.

Cons:

  • No privacy or security at all.

 

⚙️ Quick Comparison Table

Feature Keyed Entry Knob Privacy Knob Passage Knob
Lock Type Key on outside, button on inside Button only, no keyhole No lock
Security Level 🔒 High 🔒 Medium (privacy only) 🔓 None
Emergency Unlock With key Yes (small pin hole) Not needed
Best Use Exterior doors Bedrooms, bathrooms Hallways, closets
Price Range $$ $ $

 

💡 Which Door Knob Should You Choose?

  • If you need real security, go with a keyed entry knob (and ideally add a deadbolt).

  • If you just want privacy, like in a bedroom or bathroom, choose a privacy knob.

  • If the door doesn’t need to lock at all, a passage knob is the simplest and most affordable option.

 

🧰 Professional Door Knob Installation by LocksmithIC

At LocksmithIC, we install, repair, and replace all types of door knobs — from basic passage knobs to high-security keyed locks.
Our technicians ensure your doors work smoothly, look great, and protect what matters most.

📞 Need help choosing or installing the right knob?
Call LocksmithIC today — your local locksmith experts in Salt Lake City & Surrounding Areas for fast, reliable service at honest prices.

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