Choosing the right door handles for your home isn’t just about style—it’s about function, durability, and security. One of the most common questions Door Handle Company gets from customers is, what’s the actual difference between internal and external door handles? Understanding this can help you make the right decision for every room, keeping your property both stylish and secure.
What Are Internal Door Handles?
Internal door handles are designed for doors inside your property—like bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, hallways, and cupboards. The main priorities are ease of use, comfort, and finish. Internal handles don’t need to provide the same level of security as external handles, so they’re often lighter, available in more styles, and easier to fit.
Door Handle Company stocks a huge range of internal door handles in finishes such as chrome, brass, matt black, and satin nickel.
What Are External Door Handles?
External door handles are built to withstand weather, heavy use, and—most importantly—protect against unwanted entry. These handles are used for front doors, back doors, side doors, garages, and any other access point leading outside. Security is critical, which is why external handles are typically heavier, made from robust materials, and paired with high-security locks.
DHC’s external door handles come in corrosion-resistant finishes like stainless steel, as well as polished chrome and black, all designed for outdoor use.
Key Differences: Internal vs External Handles
1. Security Features
External handles are designed for maximum security. They’re usually paired with mortice locks, Euro cylinder locks, or multi-point locking systems.
Internal handles, by contrast, are mostly used with tubular latches or bathroom locks for privacy rather than true security.
2. Durability
External handles need to cope with rain, frost, sun, and pollution. DHC’s external range is tested for corrosion resistance and strength. Internal handles, while still high quality, don’t need to withstand the same level of environmental stress.
3. Style and Finish Options
Internal handles offer the widest choice of styles—round rose, lever on backplate, door knobs, and more. For external doors, choices are focused on security and robustness, though DHC offers designer options that don’t compromise on looks.
How to Identify Each Type
If you’re unsure, check the following:
- Internal handles will almost always be lighter and may not have a keyhole.
- External handles will usually be part of a set with a lock or keyhole and feel weightier in hand.
Check the DHC internal handle collection and external handle collection for easy comparison.
Can You Use Internal Handles Outside (or Vice Versa)?
It’s not recommended.
Internal handles don’t offer enough weather resistance or security for exterior doors.
External handles can technically be used inside, but they may look bulky or be over-specified for internal use.
For side doors, garages, or outbuildings, always choose from the external handle range for maximum protection.
Matching Accessories
No matter which handle you choose, Door Handle Company supplies matching hinges, escutcheons, and door stops to create a seamless look throughout your home.
Common Scenarios
- Bathroom privacy: Use an internal privacy handle set or thumbturn.
- Front or back door security: Combine external handles with a mortice lock or Euro cylinder.
- Consistent finish: Choose the same finish for internal and external handles for a unified look.
Installation and Maintenance
Internal handles are easier to fit—usually a simple swap with standard tubular latches.
External handles may require precise alignment with locks and extra security fixings.
For installation tips, see Ideal Home’s fitting guide.
Regularly check all handles for tightness and function. Lubricate locks and latches to keep everything working smoothly.
Why Shop at Door Handle Company?
- Huge selection of internal and external door handles
- All major finishes and security ratings
- Matching accessories and fast UK delivery
- Expert advice—contact us for help with any project
Browse internal door handles and external door handles to find your perfect match.