We were confronted with a lot of competing manufacturers when we went to find the best locks for apartment doors.
It was easy to do away with sub-par locks. The hard part was picking the best out of those that were left. But we did all the leg work for you. Check these out. One of them will work best for you and your apartment.
Contents
Top 9 Locks for Apartment Doors
1. Defender Security Satin Nickel U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock
- EASY INSTALLATION – The included 3” hardened screws make installation a breeze – extra security and peace of mind can be achieved in just minutes. Length is 2 to 0.19 inch. Width is 1 to 0.38 inch.
- ADDITIONAL HOME SECURITY - Use this high security door reinforcement lock for additional home security on any swing-in door of any door thickness. It helps to ensure any door cannot be opened from the outside.
- CHILD-SAFE AND TAMPER-RESISTANT – This Defender Security door blocker by Prime-Line has a spring-loaded design that is both child-safe and tamper-resistant.
- WATCH THE VIDEO ON THIS PAGE for installation tips and operating instructions.Pull Projection:1 inch
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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.
Review
The best deadbolt locks for apartment doors have one major flaw: They can be picked with varying degrees of difficulty.
This doorstop cannot be picked. It acts as a physical barrier to prevent the door being forced or kicked open.
It installs quickly with a drill, a ⅛” bit and a Philip’s screwdriver. You may need a chisel and hammer to eek out a slot for it if your door fits very tightly into its jam.
Once installed, it can be engaged or disengaged in a couple seconds. When engaged, the rubber shoe sits securely against the door. It can reportedly withstand up to 800 pounds of force.
There is no way to engage or disengage it from outside of the door, so it’s best for security when you’re home.
What Customers Are Saying
People talk about how easy this lock is to install. It seems to take most people less than 10 minutes, and there usually aren’t any problems. The extra layer of security impresses most people, as it has us.
Pros/Cons
- Cannot be picked
- Available in several finishes to blend with most decors
- Cannot be unlocked from the outside
2. Addalock – (1 Piece ) The Original Portable Door Lock, Travel Lock, AirBNB Lock
- The Addalock Original Portable Door Lock installs in seconds without any tools required.
- The Addalock Original Portable Door Lock gives you additional safety, security and privacy.
- Use it at home or take it with you when you travel, apartment living, hotel, students, and school lock down.
- Great if you are staying at an AirBNB or any other short term rental.
- The Addalock Original Portable Door Lock has a metal body that is engraved with the add-A-lock logo and comes with a red storage pouch labeled with the word addalock.
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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.
Review
Here’s a door lock that you can put in your pocket to take with you on trips.
When also considering its strength and effectiveness, it’s the best portable door lock.
You can even use it to secure a bathroom door at a friend’s house if you wanted to.
It’s the best door knob lock for an apartment door, mostly because of its ease of installation. You just hook it onto the striker plate with the door open, close the door and set the “key” into its slot. To open the door, you remove the key and pull the door open.
What Customers Are Saying
Travelers love this one because they can take it with them wherever they go to add more security to hotel and rental doors. People often remark about how easy it is to install and take out when they are ready to leave.
Pros/Cons
- Portable
- Simple to use
- Can’t be unlocked from the outside
- Door can be kicked open with less force than door stoppers that install permanently
3. Berlin Modisch Privacy Lever Door Handle [Thumb Turn Lock on The Inside] for Bedroom
- Designed to complement both conventional and modern style interior doors for commercial and residential applications
- Includes a reversible handle that makes it perfect for fitting left or right handed doors
- Uniquely crafted door lever privacy Set With 2 3/8 inch- 2 3/4 inch adjustable backset latch and square corner striker
- Comes with unique turn-button interior knob that may be opened by an exterior emergency key
- Durable & Portable Satin Nickel Finish handle which Fits 1-3/8-Inch-1-3/4-Inch doors.
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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.
![Berlin Modisch Privacy Lever Door Handle [Thumb Turn Lock on The Inside] for Bedroom or Bathroom with a Satin Nickel Finish, Reversible for Right & Left Side, with a Door Bumper Wall Protector](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51XQchiZ5lL.jpg)
Review
This handsome door lever isn’t meant to provide much resistance to picking.
It’s for privacy. When locked, it can’t be opened by pushing the lever.
You’d need the included pin-type emergency key to unlock it from the outside. Think of it as a bathroom door lock.
We recommend this as an external door lock for applications where security isn’t that big of an issue, but privacy is. The difficulty of installation is on par with that of a regular locking doorknob. If you lose the key, you can get it unlocked using any thin object that will fit into the keyhole.
What Customers Are Saying
Most who have bought this lock did so to use as a privacy lock. They like that they can open it easily, even if they lose the key. The style is a hit. It really is an attractive door lever.
Pros/Cons
- Looks great
- Available in several finishes
- Provides privacy to prevent embarrassing mishaps
- Can be easily opened from the outside with a thin nail or similar household object
4. Kwikset 991 Juno Entry Knob and Single Cylinder Deadbolt Combo Pack featuring SmartKey
- Designer style and superior security with this Kwikset Signature Series product
- For use on exterior doors where keyed entry and security is needed
- Featuring SmartKey re key technology; re key the lock yourself in seconds in 3 easy steps
- Universal handing; fits both right handed and left handed doors
- Features an adjustable latch to fit all standard door preparations
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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.
Review
Both the knob and deadbolt install the same way any other knob and deadbolt installs.
To program each lock, you simply insert the key its set for and turn it.
Then you slide the included rekeying tool into its slot. Then you insert the new key and turn it. Remove the new key and rekeying tool, and you’re done.
This makes it easy to “change your lock” whenever you need to do so and as often as you want.
What Customers Are Saying
The smartkey technology is, without a doubt, the biggest selling point of any Kwikset smartkey deadbolt. It’s not just the novelty that people like. Everyone recognizes the practicality, and they are almost always still happy with their decision years later.
Pros/Cons
- Using the rekeying feature, you can use almost any door or deadbolt key to unlock the knob or deadbolt
- Can be rekeyed in less than one minute
- You have to be careful: A crooked person who finds the rekeying tool and set the lock to open with one of his or her keys. You would then be at risk until you discovered the situation and reset the lock
5. Home Security Door Lock, Childproof Door Reinforcement Lock
- 8 Screws and 3 Stop metal construction Home security Door Lock designed to Withstand 800Ibs of force, 12times stronger than a normal deadbolt to against being kicked in.
- Use power screwdriver and drill to mount EVERPLUS security door lock on your door frame ,finish DIY EVERPLUS door lock installation less than 5 minutes.
- Place index finger on top of EVERPLUS door lock and thumb on bottom and slide lock away from the base plate along the door in the direction of the hinges then pull outward.
- EVERPLUS secure lock guard your home safe.
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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.
Review
Think of this one as an upgraded, and more expensive, version of the Defender Security door stop lock.
It’s a bit more solid and comes with longer, hardened screws. Installation is just as easy. You’ll just need a drill, ⅛” bit and screwdriver.
It can withstand a more intense assault than a deadbolt or locking knob. It’s best as a supplement to one of those.
What Customers Are Saying
Customers bought this lock for the same reason Defender Security’s customers bought that one. They wanted the resistance to kicking. The fact that the lock can’t be picked also helped make up many people’s minds.
Almost everyone who bought this lock are happy with their purchase and would make the same choice again if given the chance.
Pros/Cons
- Cannot be picked
- Stands up well to attempted kick-ins
- Recommended by some law enforcement agencies
- Available in several finishes
- Can’t be unlocked from outside
6. Kwikset 99800-090 980 Single Cylinder Round Traditional Deadbolt Door Lock featuring SmartKey
- Kwikset satin nickel deadbolt for use on exterior doors where keyed entry and security is needed
- Traditional style and superior security with this round deadbolt door lock
- Featuring SmartKey re key technology; re key the lock yourself in seconds in 3 easy steps
- Kwikset deadbolt features an adjustable latch to fit all standard door preparations
- Kwikset smartkey lock includes lifetime mechanical and finish warranty
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.
Review
For all practical purposes, this is the same deadbolt that’s included with the Kwikset Smartkey combo that we reviewed above.
Everything about the other one holds true for this one. It’s still one of the best smart locks on the market.
You may want to choose this option if you already have a good locking knob. You’ll save about $10 by just getting the deadbolt. You can also add this to an interior door for security, even if there is no locking knob on the door.
What Customers Are Saying
Many people went with this Kwikset smartkey option because they just needed the deadbolt, not the deadbolt and knob combo. They got the same quality deadbolt and saved some money by not getting the component they didn’t need.
Pros/Cons
- Can be rekeyed in three easy steps
- Installation is pretty quick and straightforward when you follow the clear instructions that are included
- Someone can rekey your lock if they find the rekeying tool
7. Everplus Home Security Childproof Door Lock
- 8 Screws and 3 Stop metal construction Home security Door Lock designed to Withstand 800Ibs of force, 12times stronger than a normal deadbolt to against being kicked in.
- Use power screwdriver and drill to mount EVERPLUS security door lock on your door frame ,finish DIY EVERPLUS door lock installation less than 5 minutes.
- Place index finger on top of EVERPLUS door lock and thumb on bottom and slide lock away from the base plate along the door in the direction of the hinges then pull outward.
- EVERPLUS Security Door Lock add extra security measures for your family members while you aways on business.
- Secure home by EVERPLUS, Home security door lock defend your home safe, not only prevent break-in but also easy open when meet urgent.
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.
Review
This one looks identical and operates the same way as the other Everplus door stop lock that made our list.
This one’s mechanism is a little bit stiffer and harder for small hands to open. That explains the childproof claim, and it really works.
Of course, it is just as resistant to adults who want to break into your apartment. This is actually one of the best swing door locks, due to the fact that it can’t be picked and is so strong that it outperforms deadbolts in tests.
What Customers Are Saying
We’ve heard from a lot of parents who’ve bought this lock specifically for peace of mind regarding their small children. Some of them have tried other types of door security, including chains, to keep their kids form opening the door and getting outside unattended.
They like this one because it’s hard for kids to figure out, but they still recommend installing the lock about ¾ the way up the door. That way it’s harder for the kids to even get to it.
Pros/Cons
- Kids can’t figure out how to disengage this lock easily
- Pretty easy installation
- Can’t be picked
- Very resistant to brute-force entry
- Can’t be unlocked from the outside
8. Prime-Line Products Swing Bar Lock
- SECURITY LOCKING DEVICE – This U 10308 Swing Bar Lock is a security locking device for hinged swing-in doors, allowing a door to be slightly opened to allow safe viewing and ventilation.
- CHILD-SAFE SECURITY DEVICE – This swing bar lock can also be installed out of reach of children so they cannot open the door by themselves, providing additional child-safe door security.
- EASY INSTALLATION - Installation is quick and easy – additional security for your doors are within reach!
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION – This swing bar lock is constructed of zinc diecast with a satin nickel finish.
- PRODUCT INFO – This U 10308 swing bar lock has a long, hinged bar, which folds over the closed door to engage the catch. 3-7/8” bar length x 2-1/2” height.
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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.
Review
This type of lock is popular for motel rooms because they are easy to install, easy to use and require no maintenance.
You can use it to secure your apartment’s entrance doors, or even as a privacy lock for interior doors.
A great feature of this one is that you can open the door slightly to see and speak to whoever is calling, all without unlocking the door.
What Customers Are Saying
Those who’ve went with this lock comment about how it seems to be much more secure than the typical chain door guard.
They also like how you can see who’s at the door before opening it. Parents of teens who stay at home alone like that extra layer of security.
Pros/Cons
- Easy to use
- Stronger than chain locks
- Installation is straightforward
- Cannot be locked or unlocked from the outside
9. Cranach Swing Bar Lock
- Door latches are constructed from premium solid aluminium alloy with beautiful polishing and finish to complement your lovely home decor.
- CRANACH Home security door lock features steel ball positioning which is a unique locking design that holds locking arm in place so they will not swing around for extra security. The countersunk hole design makes the security guard lock noble and elegant.
- CRANACH door reinforcement lock has a long, swing bar, which folds over the closed door.
- Secure home by CRANACH, swing bar door locks defend your home safe, not only limit door opening for identification and prevent break-in, but also easy open from inside when meet urgent.
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.
Review
We’ve included this one because, even though it is basically identical to Prime-Line’s swing bar lock, it is somewhat stronger.
It’s made of solid aluminum, as opposed to Prime-Line’s die cast zinc model.
All of the same features and benefits apply here. You may want to go with this one if that little bit of extra strength due to the more elaborate manufacturing process is important to you.
What Customers Are Saying
Everyone likes these. There have been some concerns about the strength of the lock because it feels so light. But people who have tested the lock after installing it confirm that it is, indeed, as strong as steel. If it’s installed correctly, it is better than a chain lock by far.
People really like that they can add a lock above their knob and deadbolt for that extra bit of protection. It really can make a difference in an emergency when you are home alone, as many people attest to.
Pros/Cons
- Available in several finishes
- Better and stronger than a chain lock, although just as convenient when you have a caller at your door
- Can’t be locked or unlocked from outside the door
Conclusion
You have several categories to choose from when picking the best lock for apartment doors. The best smart lock is the Kwikset Juno Knob And Deadbolt Combo. It offers the best value of rekeyable locks.
As far as portable locks go, the Addalock is the best. It fits in your pocket and installs on almost any door latch within seconds, so you can be safe when travelling as well. Berlin Modisch makes the best privacy lock. It’s functional and attractive.
The best door stop lock is made by Everplus. Their lock is sturdy and can keep kids from wandering outside without you knowing.
Regardless of where you live, there is always a danger from those who would break into your home while you’re away. Even worse, there are some who would break in while you or your family is there.
You need a good lock for your door for protection. There is no sense in delaying if your current door security is no up to snuff. Pick your lock and order today.
