The three main deadbolt types are single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and keyless (smart). Each has different strengths: single-cylinder is common for homes, double-cylinder adds security for glass doors, and keyless offers convenience. The right choice depends on your door, safety needs, and local codes.
Your front door lock is your first line of defense. A quality deadbolt is essential for home security, but with so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down each type of deadbolt so you can make the best choice for your home.
- What Is a Deadbolt and Why Do You Need One?
- The Main Deadbolt Types: A Detailed Breakdown
- Single-Cylinder Deadbolt
- Double-Cylinder Deadbolt
- Keyless Deadbolt and Smart Deadbolts
- What Are Specialty Deadbolt Types?
- Mortise Deadbolts
- Rim & Vertical Deadbolts
- Your Security is More Than Just a Lock
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the 3 types of deadbolts?
- Which type of deadbolt is most secure?
- Is a double cylinder deadbolt a good idea?
- What is the difference between a deadbolt and a deadlock?
- What is an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt?
What Is a Deadbolt and Why Do You Need One?
A deadbolt is a lock without a spring mechanism, operated only by a key or thumbturn. Unlike a standard doorknob latch, it cannot be forced open with tools like a credit card, making it much more resistant to break-ins.
Because of this simple but effective design, deadbolts are considered essential for exterior doors and provide a strong first line of defense for your home.
The Main Deadbolt Types: A Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the primary types of deadbolts is the first step in improving your front door security. Each has specific uses, benefits, and drawbacks.
Single-Cylinder Deadbolt
A single-cylinder deadbolt is operated with a key on the outside and a thumbturn on the inside. This is the most common type of deadbolt found on residential homes.
| Pros | Cons | Best for |
| This design is very convenient for quick exits in an emergency, which is crucial for fire safety. | It can be a security risk if your door has glass panels nearby. An intruder could break the glass and simply reach in to unlock the door with the thumbturn. | Solid doors without glass panels or sidelight windows. |
Double-Cylinder Deadbolt
A double-cylinder deadbolt requires a key for operation on both the outside and the inside. This design eliminates the risk associated with the thumbturn on a single-cylinder model.
| Pros | Cons | Best for |
| It provides maximum security for doors with glass panels, as breaking the glass does not provide access to unlocking the door. | This type poses a significant fire safety hazard. If there is a fire, occupants could be trapped inside if they cannot find the key quickly. Because of this, many local building and fire safety codes restrict or ban their use in residential homes. | Doors with glass where security is the highest priority, provided there are other accessible fire escape routes. They are more often used in commercial settings. |
Keyless Deadbolt and Smart Deadbolts
A keyless deadbolt allows you to lock and unlock your door without a physical key. Entry is typically granted through a numeric keypad, fingerprint scan, or a smartphone app via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Many models still include a key override as a backup. There are two main subtypes:
| Keypad Deadbolts | Smart Deadbolts |
| These are simple and reliable, offering code-based entry. | As smart locks, they include features like remote access, activity logs, temporary guest codes, and smart home integration. |
| Pros | Cons | Best for |
| They offer the ultimate convenience, the ability to grant temporary access remotely, and enhanced monitoring of your home's security. | These locks have a higher cost, require batteries or power to operate, and have a small potential for electronic hacking. | Homeowners seeking convenience, owners of rental properties like Airbnbs, and anyone with an integrated smart home system. |
What Are Specialty Deadbolt Types?
Standard deadbolts are great for most homes, but they don't work for every type of door or security need. For these specific applications, you may need a specialty deadbolt such as a mortise lock or a rim lock. Each offers a unique design for situations requiring either a heavier-duty installation or a surface-mounted solution.
Mortise Deadbolts
A mortise lock is a heavy-duty lock where the deadbolt and the lockset are housed in a single mechanism. This entire mechanism is installed inside a deep pocket, or mortise, cut into the edge of the door.
| Pros | Cons | Best for |
| Mortise deadbolts are strong and durable, combining both the latch and deadbolt in one mechanism, which makes them ideal for heavy-duty or commercial use. | They are more expensive than standard deadbolts, require professional installation, and are not compatible with all types of doors. | These locks are best suited for commercial buildings or upscale residential doors where added strength and durability are a priority. |
Rim & Vertical Deadbolts
A rim deadbolt is mounted on the interior surface of the door rather than being installed inside it. The bolt interlocks with a cylinder on the outside. Vertical deadbolts work similarly but use drop-bolts, which are harder to pry open.
| Pros | Cons | Best for |
| They are easy to install as an additional lock and are great for reinforcing security. | They can be less visually appealing than locks that are integrated into the door. | Adding a second layer of security to apartment doors or for doors that are too thin to accommodate a standard deadbolt. |
Your Security is More Than Just a Lock
Choosing the right deadbolt is a critical step for your home's security. The best option always depends on your specific door, your safety needs, and proper lock installation. Remember that your front door lock is just one part of a complete security system that also includes a strong door, a reinforced frame, and a heavy-duty strike plate.
For a professional consultation and installation to ensure maximum security, it is best to contact an expert. Don't leave your home's security to chance; our certified professionals at Locksmith Express can help you select and install the perfect deadbolt system for your home. Call us today for a security consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 3 types of deadbolts?
The three main types of deadbolts for homes are single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and keyless (or smart) deadbolts.
Which type of deadbolt is most secure?
For glass doors, a double-cylinder is most secure. For solid doors, an ANSI Grade 1 single-cylinder lock is best.
Is a double cylinder deadbolt a good idea?
It offers strong security but poses a fire risk and may be restricted by building codes.
What is the difference between a deadbolt and a deadlock?
None—both terms describe a bolt that locks without a spring.
What is an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt?
An ANSI Grade 1 lock represents the highest security rating for deadbolts as determined by the American National Standards Institute. These locks are built to withstand the most force and have been tested for the highest durability, making them ideal for both commercial and high-security residential applications.
