For our own education and to help our customers better understand how knobs are built we cut doorknobs from the major brands in half. This allows us to take a look at what makes some knobs cost drastically more than others, and why some knobs feel much more substantial than some. If you are shopping for door hardware, you might find these photos interesting and it may help you make a purchase decision.
First, we take a look at Kwikset. Kwikset doorknobs are made of zinc die cast construction. This means they are formed or cast into their shape. These types of knobs are hollow and quite thin metal. As a result they are more affordable. These thinner knobs can dent easily if hit with something hard or swing into a wall or something of the sort. Despite their lower cost and hollow construction, Kwikset still offers a lifetime warranty on their products and these are a great option for many people.

Next up is Sure-Loc brand. Another affordable option made of zinc much like the Kwikset knobs.
Emtek is one of our most popular brands of hardware with their many possible styles, many rosette types and sizes in all the popular finishes you can customize the look in your home. Another reason Emtek is popular is that they feel much heavier than the zinc die cast types. Emtek is made of solid brass, but as you can see in the photo the hardware is still hollow. This keeps the cost lower than the high end brands, but provides a similar solid feel.

Baldwin has long had a stellar reputation for high quality door hardware and it is clear from this picture what you are paying for. Baldwin hardware is solid brass all the way through. This provides a very solid, weighty feel for a lifetime of dependable use. Similar to Emtek, Baldwin has many possible configurations so you can create your own custom look in your home.

Grandeur is another high end product we carry. Similar to Baldwin they are made of solid brass for the same heavy feel. Grandeur sets themselves apart with some unique custom designs not available from other brands.

Brand | Material | Thickness | Price |
Sure-Loc | Zinc Die Cast | 1/16" | $ |
Kwikset | Zinc Die Cast | 1/16" | $ |
Schlage | Zinc Die Cast | 1/16" | $$ |
Emtek | Solid Brass | 3/16" | $$$ |
Baldwin | Solid Brass | Solid | $$$$ |
Grandeur | Solid Brass | Solid | $$$$ |