Top Picks for Door Knobs & Handles in the UK: A Practical Buying Guide

Why upgrading door knobs and handles makes a big difference

Think a tiny change can’t alter the feel of your home? Swap out a tired door knob and you’ll be surprised how a simple hardware update can freshen a room, boost curb appeal, and even improve functionality. Door knobs and handles are the jewelry of your doors — they get used every day, so choosing the right ones pays off in comfort and style.

Expert Electrical and other UK retailers to know

If you’re shopping for door hardware, Expert Electrical is one of the places you’ll encounter among specialist suppliers in the UK. They stock a range of home hardware and related accessories, along with items like cable clips and staples for installation tasks. Alongside them, major DIY and home stores such as B&Q, Screwfix, Wickes, Homebase, IronmongeryDirect, John Lewis, and Dunelm are reliable sources for knobs and handles at various price points.

What each retailer is known for

B&Q and Wickes are great for DIY-friendly ranges and value options; Screwfix and IronmongeryDirect focus on trade-grade hardware and specialist fittings; John Lewis and Dunelm offer stylish designs and finish options aimed at interior-conscious buyers; and Expert Electrical fills a niche with useful accessory items and practical hardware for installers. Pick the store that aligns with your budget, style, and installation comfort level.

Types of door knobs and handles explained

Before you buy, know the basics. Door knobs are traditional round or oval shapes that suit cottage and vintage looks. Lever handles give a more contemporary feel and are easier to operate if you have your hands full. Backplate handles combine lever action with a visible plate for a classic look, while rose-mounted knobs provide a neater, minimal profile. For external doors, you’ll find multipoint handles and lever/lever sets designed for security.

Knobs vs handles: which to choose?

Choose knobs if you’re aiming for a timeless aesthetic or restoring period properties; choose levers for accessibility and modern interiors. Levers are often recommended in homes with children or mobility issues because they’re easier to use than turning a knob. Think of knobs as cufflinks and levers as wristwatches — both are functional, but they send different style signals.

Materials and finishes: match style with durability

Materials affect both look and longevity. Solid brass and stainless steel are durable and age well; satin chrome and nickel offer a modern sheen; polished brass and polished chrome bring high shine but need more upkeep. Powder-coated and plated finishes can resist fingerprints and tarnish, while antique finishes hide wear and add character. Always check whether the finish is suitable for interior or exterior use — coastal properties often need corrosion-resistant metals.

Finish choices and practical tips

If you want low maintenance, go for satin or brushed finishes that hide marks. Polished finishes look glamorous but show fingerprints like a mirror shows smudges. For a consistent look through the house, match lever shape and finish across rooms, and reserve bold finishes for statement doors such as the front entrance.

Key measurements and specs to get right

Buying the wrong size is the quickest way to a wasted purchase. Measure the door thickness and the backset — the distance from the door edge to the center of the keyhole or handle spindle. Common backset sizes for UK doors are 2 3/8 inches and 2 3/4 inches, so ensure your new lock or latch supports these. If you’re replacing an existing knob, note the spindle size and whether the set is reversible for left- or right-handed doors.

Converting small parts into practical numbers

Some accessories use tiny measurements: for example, cable clips often come in sizes roughly 0.30 inches to 0.31 inches for cable diameters, and stapled clip depths around 0.56 inches. If you see product specs in metric, convert them before you order to avoid surprises — a ruler or tape that shows inches helps during planning and installation.

Security features to consider

For external doors, security is king. Look for handles that work with euro-cylinder locks, multipoint locking systems, or deadbolts depending on your door type. Anti-snap and anti-drill features on cylinders add protection. Internal doors may benefit from privacy locks or thumb-turns on bathroom doors. Think of door hardware as your first line of defense — choose robust mechanics over purely decorative pieces for outside entrances.

Standards and certification

Check for industry standards and security ratings. In the UK, PAS 24 and Sold Secure can indicate higher resistance to forced entry. Even for internal doors, choose components that feel solid and operate smoothly; flimsy latches are a security weak point and an annoyance in daily use.

Installation: DIY vs hiring a professional

Many knobs and handles are straightforward to fit if you have basic tools: a screwdriver, chisel, tape measure, and perhaps a drill. If your new hardware needs a different backset, you may have to enlarge the bore hole or mortice the faceplate, which can be trickier. For front doors or complex multipoint locks, hiring a locksmith or experienced fitter is often worth the cost for peace of mind.

Simple installation tips

Always read the fitting instructions and dry-fit components first. Keep screws snug but avoid over-tightening, which can strip threads or warp rose plates. Use a pilot hole for long screws and check alignment before final tightening. If in doubt, consult a fitter — a neat installation lasts longer and looks better.

Budgeting: what you can expect to spend

Prices for knobs and handles vary widely. Basic interior knobs can be found for under £10, but higher-quality levers, solid brass sets, or designer finishes can run from £30 to over £100 per set. External multipoint handle sets and full lock mechanisms are more expensive, sometimes several hundred pounds for premium security systems. Think in terms of tiers: entry-level for temporary fixes, mid-range for good balance of style and durability, and premium for long-term investments.

Getting the best value

Don’t chase the cheapest option for heavily used doors. Spend slightly more on a durable mechanism and finish for front doors and frequently used internal doors — the savings come from fewer replacements and better performance. Look for seasonal sales at major retailers like B&Q, Screwfix, or John Lewis, and compare specifications instead of just price tags.

Matching door hardware to your décor

Your door hardware should complement your home’s overall style. Choose polished or chrome finishes for sleek, modern interiors; brushed nickel and satin chrome for contemporary minimalism; and aged brass or ornate handles for period homes. Consider the lock escutcheon and hinges too — matching metals create a coordinated look that ties the room together like matching accessories on an outfit.

Mixing styles without clashing

If you want contrast, do it intentionally: pair a rustic handle with a simple rose for a modern-meets-vintage vibe, or use matching metals for continuity. A small detail like consistent screw heads or matching backplates across rooms makes a subtle but professional difference.

Maintenance and longevity

Taking care of your door hardware extends its life. Clean metal finishes with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid abrasive cleaners that strip coatings. Lubricate moving parts with a graphite or silicone-based lubricant once a year — this keeps latches smooth and reduces wear. Regularly check screws and fixings to ensure roses and backplates remain flush with the door surface.

When to replace rather than repair

If a lock or spindle shows significant wear, or if a mechanism feels loose even after tightening, replacement is usually the better option. Modern replacements are affordable and often simpler to fit than attempting complex repairs on a failing mechanism.

Sustainable and smart options

Eco-friendly buyers can look for hardware made from recycled materials or suppliers with sustainable practices. Smart handles and electronic locks offer convenience and can be retrofitted in many cases to existing doors, giving you keyless entry, timed access, and activity logs via an app. Weigh battery dependency and connectivity needs before choosing smart options for critical entry points.

Is smart hardware right for your home?

Smart locks suit modern lifestyles and rental management, but they introduce complexity — think battery life, app compatibility, and backup keys. For peace of mind, choose reputable brands and ensure a mechanical backup exists for the front door.

Where to buy: quick roundup of UK stores

Here’s a quick list of stores to explore: Expert Electrical for practical hardware and accessories, B&Q and Wickes for wide DIY ranges, Screwfix and IronmongeryDirect for trade-quality fittings, John Lewis and Dunelm for style-driven options, and Homebase or The Range for budget and mid-range choices. Visit store websites to compare specs and finishes, and use customer reviews to gauge real-world durability.

Tips for comparison shopping

Compare not just price but warranty, return policies, and customer reviews. Photos can be deceptive — check dimensions and materials, and if possible, view samples in-store to judge finish and operation with your own hands.

Final checklist before you buy

Before hitting buy, measure door thickness and backset, note spindle and cylinder types, decide on finish and material, check the handedness or reversibility of the handle, and choose the right security rating for external doors. If installing yourself, confirm whether the set comes with a latch and strike plate; if not, budget for these extras.

Armed with the right knowledge, shopping for door knobs and handles becomes less of a chore and more of an enjoyable styling task. From practical swaps to statement upgrades, the right hardware ties a room together and adds everyday comfort.

Conclusion: Upgrading door knobs and handles is an affordable way to refresh your home. Whether you shop at Expert Electrical for practical supplies or explore B&Q, Screwfix, John Lewis, and others for design and security options, measuring correctly and choosing durable finishes will pay dividends. Take your time, match style to function, and enjoy the small details that make your house feel more like home.