Keyed Alike Euro Cylinders: One Key for Multiple Doors

Keyed Alike Euro Cylinders: One Key for Multiple Doors is a practical solution for homeowners and trade professionals who want to reduce the number of keys kept on a ring while keeping security robust. A euro cylinder lock is the most common cylinder used in uPVC, aluminium and composite doors and many window systems; ordering several cylinders keyed alike gives the convenience of a single key for multiple locks without compromising on performance when specified correctly.

What does "keyed alike" mean?

Keyed alike means multiple euro cylinder locks are manufactured or re-keyed so the same physical key operates each cylinder. Instead of having a separate key for every door, you receive one key that opens front and back doors, internal store rooms and even certain windows if they use compatible euro cylinders. This is often used for flats, small businesses and properties where access needs to be simple and frequent.

Benefits for homeowners and tradespeople

• Convenience: one key for multiple doors reduces confusion and the chance of losing keys.
• Efficiency on site: installers and site managers can carry fewer keys when visiting properties or working across multiple doors.
• Standardisation: easier replacement and stock management when specifying common cylinder lengths and security ratings.
• Scalability: additional cylinders can be added to the keyed alike set later; keep the key code to order matching items.

Security considerations

Having keyed alike cylinders does not mean giving up security; you must choose cylinders with appropriate protection features. Look for specifications such as TS007 3-star or high EN performance ratings; common security features to request include:

• Anti-snap protection: sacrificial sections and reinforced cores to resist snapping attacks.
• Anti-drill pins and hardened inserts to resist drilling attempts.
• Anti-pick and anti-bump features to deter manipulation of the lock mechanism.
• Restricted or patented key profiles: these make unauthorised key copying harder; useful for landlords and commercial clients.

For properties where higher security is needed, specify cylinders with recognised approvals; TS007 3-star and British Standard equivalents are commonly requested for domestic doors.

Choosing the right euro cylinder lock

Measure accurately before ordering keyed alike cylinders. Follow these steps:

• Open the door and locate the fixing screw in the edge of the door that holds the cylinder in place.
• Measure from the centre of that screw to the inner edge of the cylinder; then measure to the outer edge. These two numbers give you the cylinder size as A/B in millimetres; for example 35/35, 45/35 or 30/30.
• If a cylinder sits flush either side, it is symmetrical; if not, it is asymmetric and you must order the correct sided length.

Also consider whether you need a thumbturn on the inside: some doors use a thumbturn on one side and key on the other. Thumbturn cylinders cannot always be keyed alike with keyed-keyed units, so specify a keyed alike set with the correct combination of keyed and thumbturn cylinders.

For more on cylinder types, sizes and standards see our pillar page: /guides/euro-cylinders.

Practical trade advice

For installers and locksmiths specifying keyed alike euro cylinders for clients, follow these recommendations:

• Order spare cylinders and extra keys at the time of installation; retrospective matching can be slower and more expensive.
• Keep a record of key codes and cylinder numbers in a secure log for property managers and landlords; do not store codes where unauthorised people can access them.
• Standardise on a small set of common sizes to simplify inventory; popular sizes include 35/35 and 45/35 for composite and uPVC doors.
• For multi-occupancy or commercial properties consider master keying: a master keyed system provides both individual keys and a master key for managers; consult a specialist for design and security implications.
• If you can, specify cylinders with anti-snap protection: this reduces call-outs for forced entry replacements and raises the level of security on site.

DIY guidance for homeowners

Replacing a euro cylinder lock with a keyed alike unit is straightforward for competent DIYers; follow these steps carefully:

• Purchase the correct cylinder length and security rating based on measurements and door type.
• Open the door and remove the cylinder retaining screw from the edge of the door. This is usually a 3mm or 4mm screw near the height of the cylinder.
• Insert the key and turn slightly to align the cam; pull the cylinder out by sliding the key and cylinder away from the door. If the cylinder will not move, try small rotations of the key while pulling gently.
• Fit the new keyed alike cylinder by inserting it with key turned to align the cam; push fully into the case and replace the retaining screw. Test operation from both sides before closing the door.
• Keep spare keys in a secure location; consider key blanks and ordering additional keys from the supplier using the supplied key code.

If the cylinder sticks or the multipoint lock does not engage smoothly, do not force it; check for correct length, cam alignment and that the multipoint lock follower is centred. If in doubt, contact a locksmith or your installer.

Compatibility with doors and windows

Euro cylinders are used across many door and window systems, but compatibility matters. Composite doors, uPVC doors and patio sliding doors often use euro cylinders within a multipoint lock; ensure the cylinder cam operates the lock mechanism correctly. Windows fitted with espagnolette locks may use euro cylinders; however some window locks use smaller or specialised cylinders, so confirm the type before ordering keyed alike units.

Recommended Products

Based on this article, you may find these products helpful:

• TL Thumb Turn Euro Cylinder
• Ultion Plus TS007 3* Kitemarked Euro Key & Turn Cylinder
• ERAB Espagnolette Window Lock Universal Lock Replacement
• Avocet Slimline Offset Window Espag
• Multipoint Gearbox GU Old Style

Conclusion and next steps

Keyed alike euro cylinders offer a practical balance between convenience and security for homeowners, landlords and tradespeople. Decide on the required security rating, measure cylinder lengths accurately and consider thumbturn and master keying needs before ordering. For tradespeople, keep records and spares to reduce call-outs; for homeowners, follow the removal and fitting steps carefully or consult a locksmith if unsure.

Next steps: measure your existing cylinders, choose the required security specification and contact us or your supplier with sizes and the number of cylinders required; request extra keys and a secure key code record when placing an order.