In an era where digital technology is transforming every aspect of our lives, home security hasn’t been left behind. It is evolving rapidly, prompting many homeowners to consider upgrading from traditional keyed locks to smart door locks. However, with these advancements come a new question: Are smart door locks safer than traditional keyed entry?
When securing your home, the choice between smart door locks and traditional keyed locks is more relevant than ever. This guide explores the safety aspects of both smart and conventional door locks, helping you decide which is the best choice for securing your home.
Are smart door locks safer than keyed entry?
What is a Smart Door Lock?
A smart door lock is an advanced electronic locking system that allows you to control and monitor the security of your door without using a traditional key. Instead, it uses technologies like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave to connect to your smartphone, keypad, fingerprint reader, or even voice assistant.
With a smart lock, you can lock and unlock your door remotely, share digital keys with family or guests, receive real-time alerts, and track who enters and leaves your home. Furthermore, many models integrate with smart home systems, offering automation features like auto-locking when you leave or unlocking when you arrive. This blend of convenience, security, and connectivity makes smart door locks a popular upgrade for modern homes.
Key Features of Smart Door Locks
- Remote access: Lock or unlock your door from anywhere using a smartphone
- User management: Grant temporary or permanent access codes to guests, cleaners, or family members
- Activity logs: Track who enters and exits your home and when
- Integration: Are smart door locks safer than keyed entry for smart home integration? Yes. Smart door locks connect with alarms, security cameras, or smart home systems like Alexa and Google Assistant
- Auto-lock/unlock: Automatically locks after a set time or unlocks when your phone is nearby.
Common Use Cases:
- Enhancing home security
- Managing Airbnb or rental property access
- Eliminating the need for physical keys
- Providing peace of mind with real-time notifications
- Parental control and monitoring. Gives parents peace of mind without needing to call or text
In short, a smart door lock combines convenience, control, and security to give homeowners modern ways to manage entry to their property.
What is a Keyed Entry?
A keyed entry refers to a type of door lock that requires a physical key to be opened and closed. This type of lock is commonly used on exterior doors, such as front or back entrances, where security is a priority. It provides a reliable way to control access to a space, ensuring that only individuals with the correct key can enter.
Some keyed entry locks also feature additional security features, such as deadbolts or anti-pick mechanisms, to enhance protection against unauthorized access. While they offer a traditional method of securing doors, many modern keyed entry systems are now available in combination with electronic or smart lock features for added convenience and security.
Features of a Keyed Entry Lock
- Key access from the outside
- Manual turn or button inside for quick locking/unlocking
- Often includes a deadbolt or latch mechanism
- Can be part of a handle set, knob, or lever
Common Uses:
- Residential Access – Traditional keys or keyless entry systems are used to lock and unlock doors to homes and apartments
- Commercial Buildings – Offices, warehouses, and other business facilities often use key entry, either mechanical or electronic, to control employee and visitor access
- Hotel Rooms – Key cards or digital keypads are used for guest access to hotel rooms and amenities
- Safe and Locker Access – Safes, lockers, and filing cabinets often use key entry for secure storage of valuables or documents
- Industrial or Utility Facilities – Are smart door locks safer than keyed entry for industry or utility facilities? No. Restricted areas, control rooms, or machinery often require key entry for safety and regulatory compliance
In short, keyed entry means you can secure a door using a key, mainly from the outside, and it’s most suitable for entry points that need security.
Smart Door Locks vs. Keyed Entry
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Security & Reliability
- Smart Locks: Offer advanced features like auto-lock, remote access, tamper alerts, and integration with smart home systems. However, they rely on batteries and/or Wi-Fi, which means they can be affected by power outages or connectivity issues.
- Keyed Entry Locks: Proven and mechanically reliable, with no need for power or internet, they offer consistent performance but lack modern conveniences.
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Convenience & Accessibility
- Smart Locks: These locks unlock with a code, fingerprint, smartphone app, or voice command. With multiple access modes, they are great for families, rentals, and guests. Besides, you don’t need to worry about lost keys, and many smart door locks allow remote control from anywhere.
- Keyed Locks: Require a physical key. Losing it means being locked out or needing a locksmith.
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Power & Maintenance
- Smart Locks: These locks rely on battery power or a wired connection. Battery life typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and features like Wi-Fi connectivity or auto-locking. Furthermore, most smart locks send alerts via app when the battery is low, and some even offer emergency key override or backup USB ports for power in case of total battery failure. Despite their convenience, they do require regular monitoring to prevent lockouts.
- Keyed Locks: A major advantage of keyed locks is their low maintenance. Once installed, they can function reliably for years with little attention. The only regular upkeep needed is occasional lubrication of internal components to ensure smooth operation.
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Installation & Compatibility
- Smart Locks: Many smart locks are designed for DIY installation and can be retrofitted over existing deadbolts. These versions usually come with detailed instructions and require only basic tools. The door thickness and backset affect compatibility; not all smart locks fit non-standard or older doors, so double-checking specifications is crucial.
- Keyed Locks: These locks have a long-established standardization, making them nearly universal for residential doors. Installation typically involves inserting the lock into a pre-cut hole, securing it with screws, and adjusting the strike plate. It’s a straightforward process that most people can complete with a screwdriver, even without prior experience.
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Aesthetics & Modern Appeal
- Smart Locks: These locks are crafted with contemporary design in mind, often featuring sleek lines, smooth surfaces, and minimalist finishes that complement modern home aesthetics. Besides, the touchscreen keypads that replace traditional keyholes give the door a cleaner, high-tech appearance that elevates a home’s curb appeal.
- Keyed Locks: Keyed entry locks maintain a more classic and traditional look. They come in a wide range of styles, from vintage to rustic to modern, and offer more variety in decorative hardware for doors. While they can be elegant and charming, they lack the cutting-edge, tech-forward feel of smart locks.
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Cost Consideration
- Smart locks are typically more expensive upfront, but the added features may justify the cost.
- Traditional locks, on the other hand, are affordable and widely available, with minimal maintenance in the long run.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this buying guide has answered the question, are smart door locks safer than keyed entry? Whether you’re considering upgrading your home security or simply curious about the smart lock trend, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both options is essential to making an informed decision.
Choose a smart lock if you value modern features, remote access, and convenience. Stick with a keyed lock if you prefer low-maintenance, cost-effective, and time-tested security. For more advanced home security, a hybrid option of a smart lock with a physical key backup offers the best of both worlds.