What Is The Difference Between A Door Knob And A Door Handle?

Renovating a house is a big deal. You have to take care of everything: the interior of the house, the material of the doors, and many more things related to the door hardware. We have different choices available in the market, whether to use door handles or door knobs. It depends on your taste and style.

To get the best fit for your door, you must have knowledge about the difference between door handles and door knobs. I am providing you with a complete guide.

Door Handles

Door handles are simple press-down levers. You press down the lever, and the door opens. The door handles have three basic types:

  • Latch: These door handles have a latch system; you press down the lever, and the latch is removed from the door frame, and the door opens.
  • Lock: In this type of door handle, you have a keyhole in it, and it is locked and opened with a key.
  • Bathroom: These door handles have a system of deadlocks; you turn and release them, and the door will be locked. This provides extra security in areas such as bathrooms.

IMG_1983-Ruby

@rubesathome

Advantages Of Door Handles

The Door handles have the following advantages:

  • Door handles have an easy grip.
  • You can open doors with door handles or even apply pressure with your elbow on the handle.
  • The door handles are positioned away from the edge of the door, saving you from hurting your knuckles.
  • Door handles have a variety of designs that make them a suitable choice for every kind of style, whether traditional or contemporary. 
  • Door handles have various back plate options, such as round roses to long backplates, each of which has different functions. A door handle with a longer backplate has the key locks on it, so you do not need to buy the locks separately.

Disadvantages Of Door Handles

The following are the disadvantages of the door handles:

  • For period properties, some handles may not be suitable if the internal doors have surface-mounted rim locks. 
  • It is important to ensure that the door handle matches the orientation of the door: a right-hand door needs a right-hand lever, while a left-hand door requires a left-hand lever. 
  • The shape of a handle can catch loose clothing, bag handles, scarves, or rings and can cause accidents. 
  • Door handles have springs that keep the lever in place, which will need maintenance or replacement over time. 
  • Door handles will need more maintenance as they contain springs that hold the levers horizontally. If the springs are not maintained, they can fail prematurely, causing the levers to droop, which is aesthetically unappealing.
  • Latches must be strong enough to return the unsprung door knob to which they are fitted.

Door Knobs

Door knobs are circular or oval-shaped door handles which operate by rotating in a circular motion. Door knobs have historical importance as they have been used in commercial areas in the past. Most of the reputed companies and rich families prefer door knobs.

 

JV803MB-CREAM-DOOR-1

Advantages Of Door Knobs

Door knobs have the following positive aspects:

  • Door knobs have a great elegance effect on the doors.
  • There are several finishes of door knobs are available such as glass, ceramic, and crystal finishes. These knobs also come with a brass and silver coating that also enhances their beauty.
  • The door knobs can be easily used in both modern and traditional interior styles.
  • There is no problem of left-handed and right-handed one door knob is enough. It will save you money and time.
  • The door knobs are more secure in that they cannot easily be opened.
  • The oval shape of door knobs helps in easy grip.
  • Your clothes will not get stuck in knobs.
  • Door knobs can be used with rim locks.

Disadvantages Of Door Knobs

Door knobs have the following negative aspects:

  • The grip could be better with the door handles because they have a larger surface area for gripping.
  • Your knuckles might hurt when you rotate the door knob because it is near the edge of the door.
  • Door knobs can not be easily operated if your hands are wet, greasy, or sweating.

Features Of Door Handles And Door Knobs

Functionality

Most door knobs and handles work the same way: when you twist the handle or knob, it turns a part inside the door latch assembly that releases the latch, allowing you to open the door. 

The main difference between lever door handles and knobs is how you turn them. The door handle’s design is simple. You do not have to grip it fully; you can simply push it.

Aesthetics

The primary difference between door handles and knobs is their appearance. Knobs are commonly found in older homes and are associated with vintage and traditional decor styles due to their historical usage. 

On the other hand, door handles have a more modern design and are easier to use, which makes them more common in new homes and a better fit for contemporary decor. 

While there are modern door knobs and traditional-looking door handles available, it is important to consider these design associations when choosing between door handles and knobs for your house.

Security

Both the doorknob and door handles provide security. Still, door handles are preferable for exterior doors as the door handles come with a variety of modern lock systems and provide you with the best security.

Conclusion

From the above discussion, you have learned the clear differences between the door handles and door knobs. Keeping all the points in your mind makes your journey easy to choose between door handles and door knobs.

Back to Blog