In this article, you’ll find out everything you need to know before purchasing the best latches for the gate to your yard, garage, or other permanent structure.
Since I’ve spent years working in the home improvement industry, I know which latches hold up, and I know which to avoid. The latches on this list are ones I’d choose to keep my family safe.
If you don’t have a high-quality latch, someone will take advantage of your vulnerability. Take a look at this resource to find the best fence latch that money can buy. Let’s dive into the reviews.
3 Most Recommended Gate Latches
National Hardware MagnaLatch (Automatic)
- Our Rating
- Magnetic latch mechanism
Horizontally & vertically adjustable during & after installation
Can be used with pool gates, sheds, and gates
Self latching bolt no jamming
Self-Locking Gate Latch
- Our Rating
- For right or left hand installations
Features a self-latching fingertip release.
For inward and outward swinging gates and doors
Easy to install
Trident Child Safety Magnetic Gate Latch
- Our Rating
- Durable nylon polymer construction
For use with vinyl, wood, or metal gates
Safe-notch feature engages so that gate will not open
Easy to installbr>
8 Best Gate Latches on the Market:
1. National Hardware MagnaLatch (Automatic)
- Authorized Replacement for Stanley Hardware Stock #S836-205
- Patented magnetic latching mechanism ensures no jamming
- Meets international pool safety codes
- Won’t disengage from shaking & pulling, or rust, stain, sag or bind
- Horizontally & vertically adjustable during & after installation
- Key lockable for peace of mind; can be used with pool gates, sheds, and gates
- Self latching bolt no jamming
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
It’s no surprise that National Hardware makes one of the best fence latches on the market. In fact, this brand appears on our list more than once.
It has a top-pull release, and this latch has a keyed-entry mechanism to keep your protected areas safe. The magnets that are used inside of the MagnaLatch are designed to keep your gate secure for a long time, and they are kept inside of the mechanism to protect them from rain.
The MagnaLatch is designed with safety in mind, and it’s quite perfect for keeping your pool safe. In fact, it meets international safety codes.
This latch has a knob located on its top-side, so small children won’t be able to reach high enough to open the gate on their own. It also has a keyed-entry mechanism, so you will be able to keep the area secure.
What Consumers Are Saying
Many consumers prefer this latch for their pool areas, as a replacement for a Stanley latch.
Pros/Cons
- The MagnaLatch automatic gate latch is the best low fence latch because it works well on a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and vinyl gate types.
- The lock isn’t childproof.
2. Self-Locking Gate Latch
- Gate Latch offers simple security for inward and outward swinging gates and doors
- Features a self-latching fingertip release. Easy to install
- For right or left hand installations, Latches Automatically
- Can be padlocked for added security with ordinary padlock (Padlock not included)
- Strong steel metal construction, Furnished Screws Included, Easy to install
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
This self-locking gate latch works for inward and outward swinging doors, and it is super easy to install. This latch consists of strong metal. Some say it’s the best latch for a wood gate.
This latch is the heavy-duty type. It comes with hardware, and it even includes an optional mounting plate. The latch is made out of steel, so it will hold up against considerable pressure. The screws that come with the latch are furnished. All of the parts are painted black to look good while keeping your home safe.
What Consumers Are Saying
People can’t say enough good things about this latch and its self-locking mechanism. Some consumers even claim that this latch has changed their lives.
Pros/Cons
- Installation of this latch is easy if you have access to a cordless drill.
- This latch is versatile. It works on the left or right side of gate openings.
- This latch is very easy for children to understand.
3. Trident Child Safety Magnetic Gate Latch
- The most trusted pool safety gate latch. Gate gap: 3/8 inch to 1-1/2 inch
- For use with vinyl, wood, or metal gates
- Durable nylon polymer construction. The Trident latch will not rust or corrode. Superior magnetic technology for self-latching
- UV Resistant. Warranty up to 1 million cycles
- The Trident latch is keyed alike meaning if you purchase multiple they will use the same key. Comes with installation instructions for an easy install
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
This is another latch that’s perfect for pool areas; any low gate will be safely secured with the Trident gate latch. It’s UV resistant, and the product comes with all the fasteners required for installation.
In addition to adequate fasteners for installation of the Trident, you’ll also receive a set of keys for your magnetic child safety latch. The Trident is made of a nylon polymer material, so it’ll last a long time without rusting.
What Consumers Are Saying
Although most people are satisfied with this product, some consumers have complained about the instructions being confusing. Be prepared to figure out the installation on your own.
Pros/Cons
- This product has a magnetic, self-latching feature.
- If you purchase multiple latches, they will have the same key for the sake of convenience.
- The main downside of this latch is that it’s really only made for low gates.
4. JQK Door Hasp Latch Lock
- 5 Inch Door Hasp Latch. Solid Stainless Steel, rust-proof and strong toughness ensuring high quality and longevity
- Protection to Anything. Clasp lock designed for security applications on doors, chests, fridge, boxes, gates and cabinets.
- 2 Directions. Use on left or right hand applications, stainless steel screws included.
- Give U Safety & Privacy. Keep those pesty intruders away with this high quality door latch.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
When it comes to securing a door or gate, this simple latch from JQK will get the job done. Although it might not be the best latch to protect valuable items, it’s a cheap alternative for expensive latches. The JQK door latch is made of durable stainless steel, so it’s strong enough to use on drawers, desks, and cabinets.
The stainless steel metal used to construct this product will last a long time. Stainless steel is resilient against rust, so it will keep looking fresh. The JQK door hasp latch also comes with a one year warranty that protects this product against any defects.
What Consumers Are Saying
Although the reviews for this product are relatively positive, some consumers have complained about the flimsy nature of this door latch. It’s a good latch for drawers, closets, and small compartments, but you might want to invest in a better product to protect expensive equipment.
Pros/Cons
- The price of this product is relatively low, so you could purchase this latch to secure desk drawers and other small areas.
- It would be easy for a thief to break through this latch.
5. Keystone Black Zinc Key Lockable Gate Latch
- Keystone heavy duty diecast metal two sided gravity latch. Gate gap: 1/2 inch to 1-3/4 inch; 1 inch is ideal
- For use with vinyl, wood, or metal gates. Includes plastic marking template for installation.
- Durable zinc diecast metal construction. The Keystone 2-sided latch will not rust or corrode. Superior self-latching technology
- The Keystone Latch features a simple, traditional design. UV Resistant. Will last over 1 million cycles
- The Keystone Latch is keyed alike meaning if you purchase multiple they will use the same key
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
This type of latch is perfect for anyone planning to install multiple gate latches around their property. If you need one for more than one area, you can purchase multiple latches that use the same key for the sake of convenience.
Keystone’s gate latches are lockable, and they are made of die-cast metal. These latches use a gravity system that works to lock the mechanism upon closure. The metal is made of zinc, so it won’t rust as easily, and it shouldn’t corrode as quickly as other latches.
What Consumers Are Saying
Although the majority of consumers are satisfied, some people have complained about the plastic components used in these latches.
Pros/Cons
- This latch uses keys on both sides of the lock, and you can get multiple locks that use the same key.
- Although this latch will work for most gate types, the manufacturers do state that it only works with square posts.
6. National Hardware Self-Closing Gate Kit (Black)
- Kit includes:1 - Gate latch, 2 - Gate hinges, Mounting fasteners, Adjusting tool for spring hinges
- Self-closing latch is easily released from either side
- For patio and garden gates and shed doors
- Manufactured from steel
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
This latch closes with ease, and it comes in black. In addition to providing superior latches, National Hardware provides some of the best gate latch hardware on the market. This latch opens from either side of the door, and it closes on its own. Although, you’ll need to install the springs to cause the door to close all the way.
What Consumers Are Saying
Most consumers claim that this latch is sturdy, and most people like the hinges. However, some users claim that the hinges require adjustments to keep them working properly.
Pros/Cons
- The automatic feature means you won’t have to worry as much about locking up.
- It closes on its own, but it doesn’t lock on its own. You need to place the lock on by hand.
7. HLOMVE Sliding Barrel Bolt Gate Latch Lock
- Sliding Bolt Latch Lock with Padlock Hole - Its heavy duty slide barrel bolt latch with padlock hole
- Sturdy and Durable - Barrel bolt latch made with heavy duty (10mm thickness bolt) stainless steel ensuring high quality, rustproof.
- Dual Direction Installation - Dual install direction design barrel bolt which great for either side installation.
- Widely Used & Installation Easily - Bolt latch lock for multiple purpose: Outdoor Gate, Barn Gate, Warehouse Gate, Shed Gate and etc.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Product Review
The HLOMVE sliding bolt gate latch is made tough, and it’s easy to figure out how to install. The metal used to design this latch is 2 mm thick. It’s stainless steel, making this latch rust-proof. Included in the package for this product are the five screws you’ll need to install the latch.
The locking mechanism for the HLOMVE gate latch is a barrel design. The barrel slides across the opening, like a bar.
What Consumers Are Saying
Most consumers claim that this latch is well-made, but there are some claims that the mechanism could be taken apart with a screwdriver.
Pros/Cons
- The best part about this latch is that its metal is thick, so it should keep out most intruders.
- The cost of this product is cheaper than most others on this list.
- The simple design of this latch leaves us wanting more. In terms of its appearance, this latch isn’t anything special.
8. Hearth Creek Farm Gate Latch
Product Review
The Hearth Creek gate top latch is a wonderful design that is guaranteed to impress your guests. Although this simple latch is made for farms, its rustic appearance will match the design of many exquisite homes.
The design of this latch is incredibly simple, so the folks behind this product have offered a lifetime warranty. Hearth Creek seeks customer satisfaction, so they will replace the product for any reason.
This latch consists of a simple sliding mechanism. Before locking the door, the top part of the latch swivels behind the other piece of the latch.
What Consumers Are Saying
Most people are extremely happy and satisfied with their purchase of this product. Many consumers have reported that Hearth Creek’s latch is easy to install.
Some people have said that the top part of the latch is difficult to operate. However, this might have been an issue with a defective product. Luckily, the manufacturer offers a warranty.
Pros/Cons
- Hearth Creek’s latch is incredibly easy to use, so you won’t have to explain it to each new guest that enters your home.
- It could work as a latch for interior doors and windows because it looks that great.
- The shape of this latch is aesthetically pleasing. Plus, it has a black powder coated paint that gives it a rustic look.
- You might need a different fastener than the ones provided if you plan to install this latch onto an iron gate.
Recommended reads for you: Best weatherproof gate locks.
Making the Decision
It’s time to make your home a safer place, and gather your family around to show them the new latch that you bought for your home. Make sure to pick the latch that fits the needs of your home. If you need help deciding between the suggestions on this list, take a peek at my recommendations.
Without a doubt, the best gate latch is National Hardware’s MagnaLatch. Go buy this latch for your pool gate. If you have any type of low gate, this will work like a charm to keep intruders out. It has a keyed-entry, and it’s difficult for small children to operate.
For those of you who don’t need a latch for a low gate, I would recommend buying the latch made by Hearth Creek. Hearth Creek’s latch is number three on this list, but it’s number one in terms of warranty, versatility, and appearance. Buy this gate latch if you want a simple way to protect your home while keeping up appearances.
