This is the 2nd time I have used Compdoor, and the experience just gets better.
23 June 2026
Published by: Steve Smith
Often, homeowners get confused about the difference between locks and lock cylinders. Many people assume that these terms are interchangeable, but they are actually two separate components of a locking system. In this blog, we will explain the difference between locks and lock cylinders to help you further understand the components in a locking system.
Before we dive into the specifics of locks and lock cylinders, let’s define what each of these terms mean. A lock is a mechanical or electronic device that is used to secure an object, such as a door, cabinet, or safe. Locks can be operated by a key, combination, or electronic code. On the other hand, a lock cylinder is the part of a lock that houses the keyhole and the mechanism that locks and unlocks the device. At Comp Door, we work with security experts to provide the market with one of the safest and most secure entrance doors, with the best locking systems that the market has to offer. Find out more about the security of our composite doors here.
A lock cylinder is the heart of a lock, where the key is inserted and turned to lock and unlock the device. The cylinder is typically made of brass, steel or other durable materials and contains a series of pins, springs, and other components that work together to secure the lock. The pins are aligned at different heights, and the key has ridges that correspond to these heights, allowing the key to turn the cylinder and engage or disengage the lock.
Lock cylinders can be found in a variety of lock types, including deadbolts, padlocks, knob locks, and lever handle locks. They can also be interchangeable, meaning that they can be easily removed and replaced with a different cylinder to change the key system, or they can be fixed, meaning that they are permanent and not interchangeable.
There are several types of locks, each with its own unique mechanism for locking and unlocking. Here are some of the most common types of locks:
Deadbolts are one of the most common types of locks and are often used on exterior doors. They have a bolt that extends into the doorframe, making it more difficult to kick in the door. Deadbolts can be either single-cylinder, which can be locked and unlocked from the inside with a thumb turn and from the outside with a key, or double-cylinder, which require a key to lock and unlock from both sides. Here at Comp Door, we choose to use deadbolt locks on all of our composite doors as they are the most secure option on the market, providing homeowners with ultimate peace of mind.
Padlocks are a type of lock that can be used on a variety of objects, such as lockers, gates, and storage units. They are typically portable, allowing them to be used in a variety of locations. Padlocks can be either keyed, combination, or electronic.
Knob locks are commonly found on interior doors and are operated by a key on one side and a twist knob on the other. They are not the most secure option, as they can be easily bypassed by an intruder.
Lever handle locks are similar to knob locks but are easier to operate for people with disabilities. They are often used in commercial buildings or public areas.
As mentioned earlier, lock cylinders can be found in a variety of lock types. They can also be classified based on their shape, size, and complexity. Here are some of the most common types of lock cylinders:
Pin tumbler cylinders are the most common type of lock cylinder and can be found in many types of locks. They work by using a series of pins, which are held in place by springs, to align with the ridges on the key. When the correct key is inserted and turned, the pins are lifted to the correct height, allowing the cylinder to turn and engage or disengage the lock. All of our composite doors are crafted with Pintumbler cylinders as they are packed full of anti-drill pins which completely secure the cylinder against drilling.
Disc tumbler cylinders use a set of rotating discs that have slots cut into them. When the correct key is inserted and turned, the slots in the discs align to allow the lock to be opened.
Wafer tumbler cylinders use a set of flat wafers that are stacked on top of each other. When the correct key is inserted and turned, the wafers are lifted to the correct height, allowing the cylinder to turn and engage or disengage the lock.
Now that we have a basic understanding of what locks and lock cylinders are and the different types of each, let’s discuss the differences between them. While locks and lock cylinders are both essential parts of a locking system, they perform different functions.
Lock cylinders are responsible for securing the lock and preventing unauthorised entry, while locks are responsible for providing the means to operate the cylinder. In other words, the lock is the interface between the user and the lock cylinder.
Locks can be thought of as the cover that hides the cylinder, and it can be made of different materials such as brass, steel or even plastic. Locks also come in different shapes and sizes, matching the cylinder they are designed for.
Locks and lock cylinders have several advantages, depending on the type of lock and cylinder used. Here are some of the advantages of locks and lock cylinders:
Locks and lock cylinders provide security to protect against theft, burglary, and other types of unauthorised entry. The more complex the lock cylinder, the more secure the lock will be. At Comp Door, we use 3* rated ABS lock cylinders that feature advanced technology to combat lock snapping, picking, drilling and bumping.
Locks and lock cylinders provide convenience by allowing quick and easy access to secured areas.
Locks and lock cylinders come in a variety of types and sizes, making them suitable for use in a variety of applications. From deadbolts to padlocks to lever handle locks, there is a lock and cylinder combination to fit almost any need.
Locks and lock cylinders are two essential components of the overall locking system of a composite door. Lock cylinders are responsible for securing the lock and preventing unauthorised entry, while locks provide the means to operate the cylinder.
At Comp Door, all of our composite doors come with ABS 3* rated lock cylinders as standard. These lock cylinders are approved by the Police security initiative “Secured by Design” and are tested by the Master Locksmith Association, passing with the Sold Secure Diamond grade. In fact, they are recognized as the highest security standard UK locks can conform to! For more information, or to order your composite door, contact us today on 0178234 0444. Alternatively, design your dream door online using our design tool below.
