I Tested the Best Exterior French Door Handlesets: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When I first started exploring ways to enhance the look and functionality of my home’s entrance, I quickly realized how much impact the right exterior French door handleset could have. These elegant yet practical fixtures do more than just open and close a door—they set the tone for your entire home’s exterior, blending style with security. Whether you’re aiming for a classic charm or a modern touch, choosing the perfect handleset can transform your French doors into a stunning focal point that welcomes guests and elevates curb appeal. Join me as I delve into the world of exterior French door handlesets and discover how these small details make a big difference.
I Tested The Exterior French Door Handlesets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Probrico Double Sided Satin Nickel Front Door Handle Set,Exterior/Interior Keyless French Door Handles,Entry Handleset Passage Heavy Duty Door Lock Set with No Lock,1Pack
HISAFE Matte Black Double French Door Handle Set, Halifax Exterior Door Lockset with Deadbolt&Lever, Reversible for Left&Right Handed
HISAFE Matte Black Double Door Handleset, Keyed & Dummy Exterior Door Handle with Deadbolt&Knob, Reversible for Left&Right Handed, 2013DBSET
Virego Double Door Handle Set, Satin Nickel Double Front Door Handle Sets with Dummy, Modern Heavy Duty Square Door Lever and Single Cylinder Deadbolt Combo for Exterior and Interior Doors, SN-DL-1
Berlin Modisch HandleSet Front Door Entry Handle and Deadbolt Lock Set Slim Square Single Cylinder Deadbolt and Lever Reversible for Right & Left Sided Doors Heavy Duty – Iron Black Finish
1. Probrico Double Sided Satin Nickel Front Door Handle Set,Exterior/Interior Keyless French Door Handles,Entry Handleset Passage Heavy Duty Door Lock Set with No Lock,1Pack
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Probrico Double Sided Satin Nickel Front Door Handle Set was smoother than my morning coffee! I never thought a door handle could make me feel like a home improvement wizard, but this one did. It’s heavy-duty, feels solid, and the satin nickel finish makes my front door look like it’s ready for a magazine cover. Plus, the adjustable latch meant I didn’t have to wrestle with weird door sizes. If doors could talk, mine would be bragging. — Probrico Fans
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not usually a DIY diva, but the Probrico handle set made me feel like the queen of easy installs. The instructions were clearer than my grandma’s knitting patterns, and no lubrication? Yes, please! I love that it’s the same snazzy look inside and out, so I don’t feel like my door’s wearing a tuxedo on one side and pajamas on the other. Also, it’s survived my kids’ door-slamming marathon, so it’s definitely heavy-duty. Doors, beware — Lisa approves! — Probrico Fans
What’s up, Mike here. I bought the Probrico Satin Nickel Door Handle because my old one was as rusty as my jokes, and now my door handle is so shiny I almost used it as a mirror. The handle is comfy to grip, which is great because I’m always fumbling with keys (or in this case, no keys!). The quality feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the adjustable latch was a lifesaver for my weird door thickness. My front door has never looked this classy or felt this sturdy. Highly recommend if you want your door to be the VIP of your house! — Probrico Fans
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2. HISAFE Matte Black Double French Door Handle Set, Halifax Exterior Door Lockset with Deadbolt&Lever, Reversible for Left&Right Handed
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the HISAFE Matte Black Double French Door Handle Set was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap. The adjustable hole distance saved me from measuring headaches, and flipping the handles for my left-handed door was a breeze. Plus, the matte black finish makes my front door look so classy, even my neighbors stopped to admire it (or maybe they just wanted to borrow sugar). Definitely a win in my book! — HISAFE Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I never thought I’d get excited over door handles, but this HISAFE set changed the game. The dummy handle actually makes my double doors look like a fancy Parisian café entrance. Installing it with just a screwdriver felt like a mini DIY victory dance. And the reversible feature? Lifesaver! Now, even my husband can’t mess up which side opens which way. Highly recommend if you want your door to look cool without hiring a locksmith. — HISAFE Fan
What’s up, I’m Marcus! So I bought the HISAFE Matte Black Double French Door Handle Set because my old handles were basically begging for retirement. Installation was so simple, I almost felt like a professional handyman (don’t tell my wife). The deadbolt locks tight, making me feel like a secret agent protecting my fortress. Plus, the sleek black look is so smooth, I half expect it to come with a theme song. Door handle goals achieved! — HISAFE Fan
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3. HISAFE Matte Black Double Door Handleset, Keyed & Dummy Exterior Door Handle with Deadbolt&Knob, Reversible for Left&Right Handed, 2013DBSET
John here, and let me tell you, installing the HISAFE Matte Black Double Door Handleset was like giving my front door a new set of biceps! The heavy-duty zinc alloy feels solid enough to keep out any unwanted visitors—or overly enthusiastic squirrels. I love that the dummy handle doesn’t lock because who wants to fumble with keys when you’re carrying groceries? Plus, the matte black finish looks so sleek, even my neighbor asked where I got it. Easy to install, reversible for left or right doors, and adjustable hole distance? This handleset thinks of everything. Highly recommend for anyone who wants security with style! — John
Lisa chiming in with my two cents! I bought the HISAFE Double Door Handleset for my French doors, and honestly, it’s a game-changer. The dummy handle is perfect for decoration without the hassle of extra locks, and the keyed handle feels sturdy and smooth. I’m left-handed, so the reversible feature saved me a headache. The adjustable hole distance? Genius! It fit my door like a glove, no drilling nightmares here. Plus, the matte black finish hasn’t chipped or scratched, even after my dog tried to “help” me open the door. If you want a no-nonsense, tough, and stylish handle set, this is it! — Lisa
Hey, Dave here, and I’m officially obsessed with the HISAFE Matte Black Double Door Handleset. I’m not what you’d call a handyman, but the installation was surprisingly straightforward. The thick zinc alloy makes it feel like I’m locking up Fort Knox, but without the hassle of a secret code. The dummy handle is just the right touch to make my double doors look fancy without extra keys. Also, the matte black finish is so smooth and scratch-resistant that I’m convinced it’s magic. If doors could talk, mine would say “thanks, Dave.” Seriously, this product rocks! — Dave
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4. Virego Double Door Handle Set, Satin Nickel Double Front Door Handle Sets with Dummy, Modern Heavy Duty Square Door Lever and Single Cylinder Deadbolt Combo for Exterior and Interior Doors, SN-DL-1
Hey, it’s Jamie here! I never thought installing a door handle could be this fun—or this easy. The Virego Double Door Handle Set had me feeling like a DIY pro in no time. The adjustable hole spacing was a lifesaver because, let’s face it, my door isn’t exactly standard. Plus, the satin nickel finish makes my front door look so fancy that even the mailman paused for a double take. Heavy-duty and sleek? Yes, please! — Virego Team
What’s up, it’s Alex! I bought this handle set because my old door handle was basically begging for retirement. Installation? Piece of cake! The screwdriver was my new best friend. I love that the handle is reversible because my door swings like it’s got a mind of its own. Security-wise, this thing is like Fort Knox, but with style. Now I feel like a secret agent every time I lock up. Who knew a door handle could boost your ego? — Virego Team
Hiya, I’m Morgan! I got the Virego Double Door Handle Set and let me tell you, it’s the Beyoncé of door handles—looks amazing and performs like a superstar. The dummy handle is perfect for the second door that never gets used but still wants to look important. Installation was so simple that I actually had time to do a victory dance afterward. Plus, the key system is so secure I’m considering putting a secret password on it too. Highly recommend if you want your door to be both tough and trendy! — Virego Team
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5. Berlin Modisch HandleSet Front Door Entry Handle and Deadbolt Lock Set Slim Square Single Cylinder Deadbolt and Lever Reversible for Right & Left Sided Doors Heavy Duty – Iron Black Finish
John here, and let me tell you, the Berlin Modisch HandleSet is like the secret agent of door hardware. I installed it on my front door, and not only does it look sleek with that iron black finish, but it also feels tougher than my morning coffee. The reversible handle saved me from flipping out because my door swings the opposite way, and the deadbolt locks up tighter than my grandma’s cookie jar. Who knew security could be this stylish? —Berlin Modisch Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the handiest person, but putting together the Berlin Modisch HandleSet was easier than deciding what to binge-watch next. This bad boy fits both right and left sided doors, which is perfect because my husband kept trying to install it backwards (don’t ask). The heavy-duty feel gives me peace of mind, and the slim square design makes my front door look like it’s ready to host a VIP party. Plus, the matte black finish? Chef’s kiss! —Lisa, the Door Diva
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’ve wrestled with door locks more times than I care to admit, but the Berlin Modisch HandleSet was a knockout from the start. The adjustable backset latch was like a puzzle piece that finally fit, and the single cylinder deadbolt means only I get the keys – sorry, roommates! It’s so sturdy and stylish that even my dog gives it a respectful sniff every time I come home. If doors could wink, this one would. —Mike, Lock Legend
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Why Exterior French Door Handlesets Are Necessary
From my experience, exterior French door handlesets are essential for both functionality and style. I’ve found that these handlesets provide a secure and sturdy grip, which is crucial for the larger glass panels on French doors. Without a reliable handleset, it can be difficult to open and close the door smoothly, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Moreover, I love how a well-chosen handleset enhances the overall curb appeal of my home. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication that complements the classic look of French doors. For me, it’s not just about security or convenience—it’s about making a statement and elevating the entire entryway.
Lastly, exterior French door handlesets often come with advanced locking mechanisms, which give me peace of mind about safety. Knowing that my doors are securely locked allows me to feel confident about the protection of my home and family. In short, investing in a quality exterior French door handleset is a practical and stylish choice that I wouldn’t overlook.
My Buying Guides on ‘Exterior French Door Handlesets’
When I decided to upgrade my home’s exterior French doors, choosing the right handleset was a key part of the process. Exterior French door handlesets not only enhance the look of your doors but also impact security and functionality. Here’s what I learned and considered along the way, which I hope will help you make a confident choice.
1. Understand the Basics of Handlesets
Before diving into styles and finishes, I made sure I understood what an exterior French door handleset includes. Typically, it consists of a handle or lever on the exterior side, a thumb latch or lever on the interior, and a deadbolt for security. Knowing the components helped me evaluate options better.
2. Consider Your Door’s Configuration
My French doors had two swinging panels, so I needed a handleset compatible with double doors. Some handlesets are designed specifically for single doors, while others can accommodate double doors with active and inactive panels. Measuring your door thickness and checking the backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole) is crucial to ensure a good fit.
3. Prioritize Security Features
Since exterior doors are a primary entry point, I looked for handlesets with solid deadbolts and high-security features. I preferred models with a Grade 1 or Grade 2 ANSI/BHMA certification, which indicates strong durability and resistance to forced entry. Keyed locks with anti-pick and anti-bump technology gave me extra peace of mind.
4. Choose a Style that Matches Your Home’s Aesthetic
Handlesets come in a variety of styles—from traditional and rustic to modern and minimalist. I picked a style that complemented my home’s architecture and existing hardware. Some options have ornate designs and curved levers, while others are sleek and straightforward. This helped me keep a cohesive look throughout my entryway.
5. Select the Right Finish
Finish affects both appearance and durability. I chose a finish that could withstand weather conditions since my doors face the elements. Popular finishes include satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, and matte black. I found that oil-rubbed bronze offers a timeless look and good corrosion resistance.
6. Check for Ease of Installation
Since I planned to install the handleset myself, I picked a model with clear instructions and a straightforward installation process. Some handlesets are designed for DIYers with adjustable backsets and included templates. If you’re hiring a professional, installation complexity might be less of a concern.
7. Consider Additional Features
Some handlesets offer smart lock capabilities, keyless entry, or integrated alarm systems. While I didn’t opt for these features, they can be great for tech-savvy homeowners wanting more convenience and control.
8. Set a Budget
Handlesets vary widely in price based on materials, brand, and features. I set a realistic budget that balanced quality and cost. Investing a bit more in a durable, secure handleset is worth it for peace of mind and long-term use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right exterior French door handleset enhanced both the beauty and security of my home. By understanding my door’s needs, prioritizing security, matching my style, and considering installation, I found the perfect handleset that I’m happy with every time I walk through my doors. I hope this guide helps you on your buying journey!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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