Your door hardware plays a crucial role in both the security and appearance of your home. Choosing door hardware is a strategic decision that requires balancing style, security, and practicality. Whether you’re updating your front door or outfitting your interior spaces, the right door hardware can elevate your home’s aesthetic while ensuring safety. In 2026, choosing the best door hardware brands means balancing high-quality materials, security features, and design flexibility.
But with so many options available, where do you start? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 6 door hardware brands. This includes Madison Door, a trusted provider of premium door hardware solutions. These brands are the go-to choices for both residential and commercial projects, and for good reason. They stand out for their attention to detail and impressive design variety. From elegant handles to state-of-the-art smart locks, these brands offer a wide range of options to suit every need. We’ll help you navigate your choices, ensuring you find the best door hardware for your specific requirements.
Why Choosing the Right Door Hardware Matters
When selecting door hardware, you’re not just picking a piece of metal. You’re choosing a product that will affect your home’s security, appearance, and durability. Customers value brands that offer both security and style, and customer satisfaction is often closely tied to a brand’s reputation for quality and reliability. Quality door hardware ensures that your entry and interior doors are functioning at their best.
Here are the key reasons why choosing the right door hardware is essential:
- Security: Strong locks and durable hardware protect your house from intruders.
- Curb Appeal: The design of your door hardware sets the tone for your home’s exterior.
- Durability: Quality materials like stainless steel and brass ensure that your hardware stands up to daily wear and the elements.
- Ease of Use: Good door hardware enhances the ease of use, ensuring that doors open and close smoothly for years to come.
The right door hardware includes essential components such as handles, levers, and hinges. It’s important to match these elements to your home’s decor for a cohesive look.
Top 6 Best Door Hardware Brands in 2026
When it comes to choosing the best door hardware, quality and security are paramount. These brands are known for their high-quality products. This includes handle sets, door hinges, and readily available replacement parts. In 2026, these top 6 door hardware brands stand out for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative features, and stylish designs. Choosing the right door hardware brand ensures you get the best fit for your specific needs.
Baldwin
Baldwin, founded in 1946, is renowned for its luxurious door hardware. Offering a range of decorative handles, secure deadbolts, and privacy levers, Baldwin’s high-end materials elevate any home’s aesthetic. Designed for maximum security, Baldwin locks feature tamper-resistant mechanisms and advanced keying systems. This makes it the ideal choice for those seeking both luxury and durability in their door hardware.
Schlage
Schlage, with over 100 years of history, leads the door hardware industry. Known for reliability, it offers affordable security solutions. Locksmiths recommend Schlage for its consistent quality and performance. Additionally, Schlage is recognized for its innovative technologies and strong warranties. From keyed entry locks to smart locks, Schlage ensures easy installation and durability. Their smart locks feature keyless entry, remote access, and advanced encryption for enhanced security. Overall, Schlage is a cost-effective, secure, and easy-to-install option. These products are available at Madison Door.
Emtek
Emtek is renowned for offering customizable door hardware that allows homeowners to personalize their spaces. From modern knobs to classic handles, Emtek lets you choose the finish, style, and size that best suit your home. With a wide array of options, including brushed nickel, matte black, and satin brass finishes, Emtek provides door handles, locks, and accessories that complement any décor. Their high-quality deadbolts and locks, paired with custom keys, ensure added security. Emtek is recommended for those seeking customized door hardware with a unique design.
Kwikset
Kwikset is renowned for delivering high-quality products, making it a go-to brand for homeowners and professionals. Known for affordable pricing and reliable security features, Kwikset offers a wide range of products. With SmartKey technology, homeowners can rekey their locks without a locksmith. Additionally, their secure deadbolts and privacy levers are durable and functional. Kwikset’s smart locks and security systems feature advanced encryption and remote access, ensuring peace of mind. Overall, it is recommended for budget-conscious homeowners seeking top-notch security and easy installation.
August
August offers cutting-edge smart locks that integrate seamlessly with smart home devices, making them perfect for tech-savvy homeowners. These locks feature keyless entry, remote access, and auto-unlock, providing convenience and security. With high-level encryption and two-factor authentication, August locks ensure a safer experience. They are ideal for homeowners looking to enhance their security system while enjoying the benefits of home automation.
Yale
Yale is a global leader in commercial door hardware and access control systems, known for high-security solutions. It is a go-to brand for commercial security, offering products like keyless entry systems and smart locks. Additionally, Yale provides a variety of styles, finishes, and custom options to suit different design preferences. Their commercial-grade locks and smart systems are built to withstand heavy use, offering reliable protection. Overall, Yale is recommended for business owners and homeowners seeking heavy-duty, commercial-level security.
Door Hardware Standards and Certification
Door hardware standards, such as those from the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA), are essential for ensuring safety, functionality, and performance in various buildings. This includes schools, hospitals, and government offices. These standards help identify best practices for security, life safety, and accessibility by providing guidelines for manufacturers and building professionals. BHMA certification ensures that hardware products meet strict security, durability, and finish tests, guaranteeing their reliability over time. Additionally, new standards like ANSI/BHMA A156.33-2019 address the growing presence of electrical features in hardware, including standardized battery life predictions for smart devices. As building codes evolve, these standards are continuously updated to maintain high-quality performance and public safety in both residential and commercial buildings.
How to Choose the Best Door Hardware for Your Home
Selecting the best door hardware for your home involves more than just picking a style. You need to consider functionality, security, and how the hardware will fit into your overall home design. Here’s how to choose the right hardware for your needs:
- Security Needs: If you’re concerned about safety, prioritize brands that offer smart locks, high-security deadbolts, or tamper-resistant mechanisms.
- Aesthetic Preference: Consider how the hardware complements your existing décor. Brands like Baldwin and Emtek offer luxurious finishes for those wanting a high-end look.
- Material & Finish: Choose between brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, or matte black to suit your home’s style. Each finish offers different benefits in terms of durability and maintenance.
- Budget: Determine your budget, as prices can vary widely. Kwikset and Schlage offer affordable yet high-quality options, while Baldwin and Emtek cater to those willing to invest in luxury.
Common Door Hardware Materials and Finishes
The material and finish of your door hardware can make a significant difference in both aesthetic appeal and longevity. Here are some of the most common materials and finishes:
- Brass: Known for its classic elegance, brass offers a timeless look but may require more maintenance to keep its shine.
- Stainless Steel: Highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making it a great choice for outdoor and high-traffic areas.
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze: Offers a rich, antique appearance that complements rustic or traditional home styles.
- Matte Black: Perfect for modern and minimalist designs, providing a sleek and understated look.
Some door hardware solutions, such as gasketing and thresholds, can also improve energy efficiency by reducing energy loss and enhancing insulation. Traditional options like rim locks are valued for their robustness and historical significance, and specialized shops often carry a wide range of hardware, including rim locks. This makes them a trusted source for premium products and expert advice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right door hardware is crucial for both your home’s security and its curb appeal. Whether you prioritize style, function, or security, there is a brand out there that meets your needs. Brands like Schlage and Emtek lead the market. They offer a range of styles, finishes, and features to elevate your home. When selecting the best door hardware brands, pay attention to the details that matter most to professionals. Take your time to consider these factors and choose a brand that aligns with your home’s unique requirements.
At Madison Door, we provide a wide selection of premium door hardware from trusted brands like Schlage and Emtek. As a trusted partner for your door hardware needs, we are committed to offering quality products, reliable customer support, and access to essential replacement parts. Remember, quality door hardware is an investment that will protect your home for years to come. Request a quote today or start shopping today to choose the best hardware for your space!
FAQs
Which is better, Emtek or Baldwin?
Emtek excels in customization and design flexibility, making it ideal for homeowners focused on personalized aesthetics. Baldwin is better suited for those who want a blend of luxury, timeless elegance, and robust security. Ultimately, the “better” choice depends on whether you prioritize style options (Emtek) or high‑end finishes with strong security (Baldwin).
Does Baldwin make good door hardware?
Yes, Baldwin makes high‑quality door hardware known for its timeless elegance and durable materials. Their products combine strong security features with premium finishes that enhance home aesthetics. Baldwin is widely regarded as a top choice for luxury and long‑lasting hardware.
Which door lock brand is best?
There isn’t a single “best” brand for everyone, but top door lock brands like Schlage, Baldwin, and Yale consistently rank high for security, reliability, and performance. Schlage is often considered the best overall for everyday residential security, while Yale and Baldwin offer strong commercial and premium options, respectively. The best brand for you depends on your specific needs for style, security level, and budget.
Is Schlage a good brand?
Yes, Schlage is a reputable and trusted brand with a long history in the door hardware industry. It offers reliable, secure locks with durable construction and user‑friendly installation. Schlage products are widely recommended for both residential and commercial use.