There are many different types of locks out there, and they all have their own unique uses. Some of the most popular ones include padlocks, knobs, lever handles, furniture locks and cylinder locks. Each one of these locks comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into before buying a lock.

Padlocks

The most basic and most recognizable type of lock on the market is a padlock. These are usually made out of metal and have a series of pins that are designed to fall into place when the key is turned in order for them to secure the item they are locked onto. They are typically found in retail settings and are often used to secure doors that are not permanently affixed to them, such as gates or garages.

They come in a variety of finishes and can be rekeyed if necessary. They also have the added benefit of being relatively easy to pick and break open.

Knobs

As their name suggests, knob locks are the most common kind of lock that people use in residential and commercial settings. While they’re not always recommended, they can be a good option for small spaces where security is a priority.

Lever Handle

A lever handle lock is a very popular choice for commercial settings, especially those where handicap accessibility is required. These are easier to open than knob locks because they have a push style handle that you don’t need to grasp or turn around.

They are also resistant to attacks that involve torque, making them a great choice for those looking for the best protection possible. While they aren’t used as often as knob locks, they are still a valuable addition to any property.

Cylinders

The next most common lock cylinder that you’ll find on door knobs and lever locks is the cylindrical. These are also known as Euro cylinders and they’re most commonly found in Europe (although they’re not uncommon in the US either).

There are single cylinder, single cylinder with a thumbturn and double cylinder options available. You’ll see these most often on external door knobs or lever locks but they can also be found on some room dividing door locks and sliding door locks as well.

Interchangeable Core Cylinders

These are a type of lock that has a core that can be switched out without taking the entire cylinder apart. This allows for a lot more control and quickness when it comes to re-keying them. These are mostly found in universities, businesses or large institutions because of the ease with which they can be changed out and re-keyed.

You’ll also find these types of locks on a lot of doors that are locked from the inside, such as cabinets and filing cabinet doors. They can be rekeyed to make them work with different keys, so they’re a great option for those who need to change the way their home is secured but don’t want to lose all their other locks in the process.