When choosing a smart door lock, the type of door you’re working with plays a major role in how well the hardware will fit and function. One detail that often gets overlooked is the stile—the vertical frame section on either side of a door panel. Whether you’re installing a new entry system or upgrading existing doors, understanding the difference between narrow stile and French stile doors can save you time, money, and frustration.

This guide will walk you through the key characteristics that set these two door styles apart. From the width of the stiles to how much glass is visible, to the types of locks and handles that fit best—we’ll break it all down in a simple way. This article is especially helpful if you’re looking for size recommendations for smart lock compatibility or just want to understand which style makes more sense for your space.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes each type of stile unique, so you can make a confident choice for your next door and lock setup.

Door Stiles 101: What You Need to Know

Before we get into comparing door types, it’s important to understand what a stile actually is. In simple terms, a stile is the vertical frame piece on either side of a door. It’s the part that typically holds the hinges and lock hardware. The width of these stiles can vary quite a bit depending on the door’s design, and that’s where things start to matter—especially when you’re installing smart door locks.

Why does stile width matter? Because the available space on the edge of the door affects what kind of lock you can install. If the stile is too narrow, not all smart door locks will fit, or you may need special installation adjustments. That’s why knowing whether you’re working with a narrow stile or a French stile door can make all the difference in planning.

Narrow Stile Doors: Features and Applications

Narrow stile doors are designed with slim vertical frames, typically measuring around 1¾" to 3" wide. You’ll often see them in modern commercial buildings—think glass office doors, retail storefronts, or interior partition doors. These doors are built to maximize the visible glass area, giving a clean and minimalist look with plenty of natural light.

Because of their slim frame, narrow stile doors don’t leave much room for standard hardware. This is where choosing the right smart door lock becomes essential. You’ll need a compact model, preferably something with a slim profile or surface-mount option. Best recommendation and top choice for many customers with narrow stile doors is the Smart Door Lock Slim. 

From an aesthetic standpoint, narrow stile doors pair well with sleek smart technology. Their clean lines and modern vibe make them a popular choice for architects and designers working in commercial spaces or high-end residential interiors. However, installation usually calls for professional help, especially when integrating advanced locking systems.

📌 Best article to read: Smart Door Lock Slim: The Perfect Balance of Security and Minimalist Design

French Stile Doors Explained: Classic Design with More Flexibility

Unlike narrow stile doors, French stile doors have a much wider vertical frame—usually 3 inches or more. These doors are typically used in residential settings and are known for their elegant, classic look. You’ll often see them on patios, entryways, or as decorative double doors leading into living or dining spaces.

Model lock: Universal Smart Door Lock 

French stile doors are designed to hold more traditional hardware, which gives you more options when it comes to choosing smart door locks. Their wider stiles can support a full range of smart locking systems, including models with touchscreens, built-in cameras, or multi-function handles. This makes installation easier and often allows for a clean, straightforward fit without heavy door modifications.

A major design feature of French stile doors is the framed glass panels. These doors allow for natural light while maintaining a strong, decorative appearance. While they don’t expose as much glass as narrow stile doors, they offer better insulation and often fit a wider variety of home styles, from modern to traditional.

If you're looking to combine smart home functionality with a timeless design, French stile doors offer the flexibility to do both—especially when paired with full-featured smart door locks that require a bit more installation space. Best smart door lock recommendations is the Smart Door Lock Face Recognition Plus or the Face Recognition Smart Door Lock which both offer top of the line facial recognition systems perfect for residential settings. 

Side-by-Side Comparison: Narrow Stile vs. French Stile

Here’s a quick reference to help you see the differences clearly:

This comparison helps you match your door style to the right smart door lock solution, whether you're updating a sleek office door or adding secure access to a patio entry.

Smart Door Lock Tips for Each Door Type

To get the best results with smart door locks, you’ll want to match the lock type with the door’s stile width and structure:

• For narrow stile doors, go with compact models like the sleek and slim smart door lock styles or sliding door-compatible model. These are designed for smaller surface areas and often support adhesive or low-profile installation methods.

• For French stile doors, you can confidently choose smart locks with larger keypads, fingerprint readers, or built-in facial recognition features. These doors can handle more hardware, and you’ll have an easier time aligning everything during installation.
  
  

Whether you’re securing an office or updating a home entry, the key is to measure your stile first. Knowing that measurement helps you choose a smart lock that fits your door correctly without forcing any adjustments that could affect door function or lock performance.

Choosing the Right Style for Your Space

Here’s how to think about which door style—and smart lock setup—is right for you:

• If you're looking for a clean, modern look with maximum glass (especially in commercial or high-traffic settings), narrow stile doors are a smart pick. Just make sure to choose a lock that’s designed to fit those slimmer frames.
  
  

• If you prefer a decorative, home-friendly style with more flexibility for hardware choices, French stile doors are the better fit. They’re ideal for residential properties and give you the freedom to pick from a wider range of smart door locks.

📌 Best article to read: Smart and Sleek: The Ideal Smart Door Lock for Modern Minimalist Homes

Your choice should always come down to the purpose of the space, the door size, and the kind of smart access control you want to use.

Questions to Ask Before Making A Purchase

To avoid guesswork and get the best fit for your door, it helps to ask the right questions up front. This short checklist will guide you through the most important factors to consider before buying any smart door locks—especially when stile size is involved.

• What is the width of my door’s stile?
  Measure the vertical frame on the side of the door where you plan to install the lock. This will help determine if you need a slim-style lock or if you have room for more advanced hardware.
  
  

• What material is my door made of—metal, wood, or aluminum?
  The door’s material can affect how the lock is installed and whether any reinforcement is needed.
  
  

• Do I need specific features like a camera, fingerprint reader, or app-based remote control?
  Some smart door locks are compact and minimal, while others come with built-in tech. Make sure your stile has enough space to support the features you want.
  
  

• Where will this lock be used—at home, on a rental property, in an office, or for a commercial entry?
  The setting often determines the level of security and access control you’ll need.
  
  

• Will I install the lock myself or hire a professional?
  Some locks are easy DIY installs, while others (especially on narrow stile doors) may require a locksmith for a clean and secure fit.

Need extra help? Fill out our Size Inquiry Form before you buy. It’s a simple way to get tailored recommendations based on your door type, stile size, and lock preferences. This form takes out the guesswork and gives you peace of mind before installation.

Conclusion: Match Your Door with the Right Smart Lock

Choosing between narrow stile and French stile doors isn’t just about looks—it directly impacts which smart door locks will work for your space. Narrow stile doors offer a sleek, modern appearance but require slim, compact locks due to limited frame width. French stile doors, on the other hand, give you more hardware flexibility and support a wider range of smart lock features.

By understanding the difference in stile widths and how they affect lock compatibility, you can avoid installation issues and make a smart investment in your door security. Whether you're outfitting a glass office entry or upgrading your patio doors at home, the right combination of door style and smart lock will give you both function and peace of mind.

Still have questions? Use your stile measurements as a starting point, and explore our full collection of smart door locks. Or get in touch with our team—we’re here to help you find the best fit for your door, your space, and your lifestyle.