Best Entry Door Locks for Home Security

At Carter Bay, we know that peace of mind starts with a secure front door. As a trusted name in premium door hardware, we’re committed to helping homeowners across the country feel safe and confident in their spaces. When it comes to home security, your choice of entry door lock is more than just a hardware decision—it’s a vital line of defense against break-ins and unwanted access.

With so many options available—from traditional deadbolts to high-tech smart locks—selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand the pros, cons, and features of the best entry door locks on the market today. Whether you’re upgrading your current setup or choosing locks for a new home, Carter Bay has the insight (and the hardware) to help you protect what matters most.

Understanding Door Lock Grades

Before diving into the different types of locks, it’s important to understand the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) grading system. This system helps homeowners evaluate the strength, durability, and security of door locks. At Carter Bay, we recommend starting your search with locks that are ANSI Grade 1, the highest level of residential security available.

Grade 1 locks are built to withstand heavy use and are designed to resist common break-in techniques. Grade 2 locks offer solid security suitable for most homes, while Grade 3 locks meet basic residential requirements but may lack long-term durability. Choosing a Grade 1 lock from a trusted provider like Carter Bay ensures your entryway is fortified against both wear and intrusion.

Traditional Deadbolt Locks

One of the most reliable and widely used lock types is the deadbolt. At Carter Bay, we carry a curated selection of single- and double-cylinder deadbolts to suit a variety of home setups.

Single cylinder deadbolts operate with a key from the outside and a thumb turn from the inside. They’re cost-effective, easy to use, and perfect for standard residential doors. However, if your door features glass panels or windows nearby, a double cylinder deadbolt—requiring a key on both sides—may offer better protection, as it prevents intruders from simply reaching through to unlock the door.

Just be mindful: double cylinder locks can pose safety concerns during emergencies if a key isn’t readily available. Our team at Carter Bay can help you weigh the risks and benefits to find the right fit for your home.

Smart Locks: Security Meets Innovation

Smart locks are changing the game in home security, offering advanced features and remote-control capabilities that traditional locks simply can’t match. At Carter Bay, we’ve tested and selected smart lock systems that combine security with seamless integration into your daily life.

With smart locks, you can lock and unlock your doors remotely, grant digital access to family or service providers, and even receive alerts when someone enters your home. The convenience of features like voice control, geofencing, and scheduled access codes makes them especially popular among tech-savvy homeowners.

Carter Bay offers top-rated models like the Yale Assure Lock, which is compatible with most smart home ecosystems. We also carry the Schlage Encode Plus, perfect for Apple HomeKit users. Each smart lock in our collection has been vetted for both performance and cybersecurity.

Keyless Entry Systems

For homeowners looking to ditch the traditional key entirely, keyless entry systems offer an excellent alternative. These systems typically use PIN codes or biometric verification, removing the need for physical keys—and the risk of losing them.

At Carter Bay, our keyless entry locks are built for both security and convenience. Many of them let you create and manage multiple access codes, so you can grant entry to guests, cleaners, or dog walkers without compromising your main lock. Some systems even allow you to track who enters and when, giving you full control over your home’s security.

Of course, it’s important to choose models with robust encryption and a reliable power backup. We’re happy to walk you through those options in our electronic lock category.

High-Security Locks

For homeowners who want an extra layer of defense, Carter Bay offers a premium line of high-security locks. These aren’t your standard hardware store locks, these are precision-engineered to resist drilling, bumping, picking, and even unauthorized key duplication.

Our most trusted models include the the Master Lock Single Cylinder Deadbolt Grade 1, which is built to stand up to physical force and features patented key control technology, and the Schlage Residential B60 Deadbolt, which offers enhanced resistance to manipulation and forced entry. These locks are an excellent investment for anyone serious about fortifying their home’s main entry points.

Mortise Locks

Known for their durability and strength, mortise locks are often found in commercial properties, but they’re just as effective in high-end residential settings. At Carter Bay, we recommend mortise locks for homeowners looking for integrated security and a clean aesthetic.

Mortise locks combine a latch and deadbolt in one mechanism and are built to handle frequent use. Because installation requires precise door modifications, we advise having a professional handle the setup—but the security payoff is well worth it.

Cylinder and Lever Locks

We also offer a variety of cylinder locks and lever handle locks that can be used in tandem with deadbolts for added protection. Cylinder locks come in single and double versions, much like deadbolts, and are commonly used due to their flexibility and ease of rekeying.

Lever handle locks, on the other hand, offer great accessibility for individuals with limited mobility. While they’re typically less secure than deadbolts on their own, they’re ideal for interior doors or for use alongside more secure locking mechanisms.

Installation Tips

No matter which locks you choose, proper installation is key to maximizing its effectiveness. Carter Bay offers professional-grade installation guides and hardware kits that ensure a snug, secure fit for every lock we sell. We also recommend reinforcing your door frame and using longer screws in the strike plate to prevent forced entry. If you're unsure about the best installation method, our customer support team is ready to help.

Choosing the right entry door lock isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about securing your sanctuary. At Carter Bay, we take pride in providing top-tier, rigorously tested door hardware that gives homeowners peace of mind. Whether you're upgrading to a smart lock, reinforcing with a high-security deadbolt, or exploring keyless entry options, our team is here to help you find a solution that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Explore our full collection at cartbay.com and take the first step toward smarter, stronger home security today. Your door deserves more than just a lock, it deserves Carter Bay.