Which cylinder do I need?
Choosing a new door cylinder may seem straightforward, but there are different sizes, types and security levels to consider. Additional functions and the option to operate multiple doors with one key can also play a role.
So which cylinder do you actually need?
This page guides you step by step through the most important choices. We explain what to look for and link you directly to the right cylinders, buying guides and more detailed information.
What should you consider when choosing a cylinder?
When choosing a door cylinder, the following points are particularly important:
The correct size – the cylinder must fit the door and the existing security hardware.
The right type – for example, a double cylinder, thumbturn cylinder or half cylinder.
The desired security level – for example, a cylinder with an SKG classification.
Additional functions – such as an emergency function or freewheel function.
The key arrangement – for example, using one key for multiple doors.
An existing cylinder system – when you want to keep or expand your existing keys or cylinders.
Not every situation requires the same cylinder. It is therefore best to determine what you need before choosing a specific type.
What cylinder size do you need?
The correct size is one of the most important requirements for a properly fitting cylinder.
The size is measured from the centre of the fixing screw hole to both sides of the cylinder. For example, a 30/40 mm cylinder has one side measuring 30 mm and the other 40 mm.
Not sure which size you need? Which Cylinder Size? explains how the different cylinder dimensions work.
Would you first like to know how to measure your existing cylinder? You can find out how in Measuring a Door Cylinder.
Which type do you need?
The most suitable type depends on how you use the door.
Double cylinder
A double cylinder has key operation on both sides. This is a common choice for doors that are operated with a key from both the inside and outside.
Thumbturn cylinder
A thumbturn cylinder has key operation on one side and a thumbturn on the other. This allows you to operate the door from the inside without a key.
This can be convenient when you want to open the door quickly and easily from inside the property.
For doors with glazing, however, pay close attention to the situation. If the thumbturn could potentially be reached from outside after the glass is broken, a thumbturn cylinder may be less suitable.
Would you like to understand the differences between the two types in more detail? Thumbturn Cylinder vs Double Cylinder explains the main features and considerations.
Half cylinder
A half cylinder has key operation on one side only. This type can be suitable for applications where the cylinder only needs to be operated from one side, for example on certain garage doors or other specific applications.
What security level do you need?
Not every cylinder provides the same level of security. For exterior doors, a certified security cylinder can be an important consideration.
When assessing a cylinder, you can look at an SKG classification and any additional security features.
The overall level of security does not depend on the cylinder alone. The security hardware, door and installation also play an important role.
Would you like to know what SKG classifications mean and what to look for when it comes to certification? Read Choosing a Security Level (SKG / Certifications).
Do you need an additional function?
Some cylinders offer additional functions that can be useful in specific situations.
Emergency function
A cylinder with an emergency function allows the cylinder to be operated from the other side when a key is already inserted on one side.
Our page Emergency Function on Door Cylinders explains when this function can be useful.
Freewheel function
A freewheel function is a specific function in which the cylinder can rotate freely under certain conditions when a key is present on the other side.
Would you like to know how this function works? Read more about the Freewheel Function on Door Cylinders.
Do you want to open multiple doors with one key?
Do you have several doors and want to avoid using a separate key for each one? Then keyed-alike cylinders may be the right choice.
Multiple cylinders are configured so that they can be operated with the same key. The cylinders do not necessarily have to be the same size or type, as long as they can be combined within a suitable cylinder system.
For example:
front door: double cylinder 30/30
back door: thumbturn cylinder 30/40
shed: half cylinder
Would you like to know more about keyed-alike and differently keyed cylinders? See Keyed Alike or Differently Keyed?
If you have multiple doors, different users or more complex requirements, Creating a Key Plan can help you define in advance which keys provide access to which doors.
Do you want to keep using existing keys or an existing system?
If you already have cylinders from a particular brand or system and want to expand it, the cylinder size alone is not enough.
The brand, cylinder system, key type and any code or certificate details may also be important.
For some systems, new cylinders or keys can be ordered based on existing information. It is therefore important to first determine which system you currently use.
Not sure? Get in touch with us. A photo of the existing cylinder, key or security hardware can help us determine the available options.
Which cylinder is right for your situation?
Already know what you are looking for? Choose the situation that best matches your question below.
I am replacing an existing cylinder
You want to replace an existing cylinder and are looking for a suitable new one.
Find the different cylinder dimensions and key considerations in Which Cylinder Size?
I want a thumbturn on the inside
You want to operate the door from the inside without a key.
View our thumbturn cylinders if this is the type you are looking for.
I want to open multiple doors with one key
You want to operate, for example, your front door, back door, garage or shed with the same key.
Find out how this works in Keyed Alike or Differently Keyed?
I want to improve the security of my door
You want to know which security level and certification are suitable for your situation.
Choosing a Security Level (SKG / Certifications) explains what to look for.
I want to open the door while a key is inserted on the inside
A cylinder with a specific additional function may be suitable for this situation.
Read more about this application in Emergency Function on Door Cylinders.
I am looking for a cylinder for a specific application
For example, a half cylinder or a particular size or type.
View our Euro profile cylinders to explore the different options.
Which cylinder brands are available at Javena?
Javena offers different types, sizes and brands of door cylinders.
S2 Safe & Secure
S2 Safe & Secure offers various security cylinders and types for different applications.
View: S2 Safe & Secure Euro Profile Cylinders
ISEO
ISEO offers a range of Euro profile cylinders in different types and sizes. The range includes both non-classified versions and cylinders with an SKG 3 classification.
View: ISEO Euro Profile Cylinders
Would you like to see the complete range first? Go to Euro Profile Cylinders.
Need help choosing?
Not sure which cylinder, size or type you need? Feel free to contact us.
For example, you can send us a photo of the existing cylinder, key or security hardware. If you know the current size, include that as well.
We will be happy to help you determine which cylinder suits your situation and what information you need to make the right choice.
Frequently asked questions about door cylinders
Which cylinder do I need for my door?
This depends on factors such as the size, cylinder type, desired security level and any additional functions. The way you use the door can also influence your choice.
How do I know which cylinder size I need?
You determine the size by measuring from the centre of the fixing screw hole to both sides. More information can be found in Which Cylinder Size? and Measuring a Door Cylinder.
Which cylinder is the safest?
There is no single cylinder that is the best choice for every situation. The required security level depends on the door, security hardware and overall situation. SKG classifications can help assess cylinders based on their certified security characteristics.
What is the difference between a double cylinder and a thumbturn cylinder?
A double cylinder has key operation on both sides. With a thumbturn cylinder, one side is operated with a key and the other with a thumbturn.
When do I need a half cylinder?
A half cylinder can be suitable when the cylinder only needs to be operated from one side. Certain garage doors and other specific applications are examples.
Can I use one key for multiple cylinders?
Yes. Keyed-alike cylinders can be operated with the same key. Depending on the system, the cylinders can have different sizes or types.
Can I have a thumbturn cylinder made keyed alike?
With suitable cylinder systems, a thumbturn cylinder can be part of a keyed-alike system. The exact options depend on the brand and cylinder type.
Do I need an emergency function?
That depends on how you use the door. An emergency function can be useful when you need to operate the door from the other side while a key is already inserted in the cylinder on one side.
Can I expand my existing cylinders?
This is sometimes possible. It depends on factors such as the brand, cylinder system, key type and any code or certificate details.
Can I get help choosing a cylinder?
Yes. Contact us and, if possible, send a photo of the existing cylinder, key or security hardware. We can then give you more specific advice.
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