Smart Door Lock vs Traditional Lock: Which Is Better?
Making your home secure starts with a reliable lock – your first defense against intruders. Nowadays, there’s a new player in the market: the smart lock. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about door locks, including how smart locks work, their pros and cons, and the same for traditional locks. We’ll also help you consider key factors when choosing the right lock for your home. Smart door lock vs traditional: which should you choose?
Difference Between Smart Door Lock and Traditional Lock
Smart locks and traditional locks have some key differences.
- Smart locks are able to be unlocked and locked from any place. Traditional locks require a physical key.
- Smart locks for home doors require electric or battery-powered power. Traditional locks do not.
- Smart locks can be fitted with video cameras and sensors to provide enhanced security.
Let’s go deeper into the differences between smart locks and traditional locks. What are the pros and cons of each type?
Smart Locks
Smart locks, often known as keyless locks, stand out because they don’t need traditional keys. Instead, they rely on the familiar locking mechanisms found in regular deadbolts or locks. These electronic devices connect to your home’s Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave network, offering convenient control through your smartphone or other smart home devices.
Depending on the type you choose, smart locks may incorporate one or more locking methods, such as custom numerical codes, fingerprint scanning, digital key fobs, voice control, and smartphone app management.
A notable advantage is the integration of smart door locks with your home alarm system. This means that unlocking or locking the door can trigger your alarm to activate or deactivate, enhancing overall security.
Now, let’s delve into how smart door locks can boost your home security and also explore some disadvantages.
Pros
- Convenience. Are you tired of wrestling with your keys every time you get home? Smart locks let you unlock your house with your smartphone, fingerprint or voice, or even any programmed code.
- Remote Control and Access. You can lock or unlock the door using your mobile app from anywhere. You’ll never have to worry about locking your door again. Just check the app and lock it as necessary.
- Advanced Security Features. These could include extras such as anti-theft features to prevent tampering with the system, intrusion alarms and two-way communication, or built-in cameras. These are only a few of the improvements that can make your home safer.
- Get Notifications. Find out the code or access method used.
- Smart Home Automation. Connecting your lock with another smart home device such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or other voice-controlled devices will increase the functionality of your lock. You can automate your home to have your lights and other features come on whenever your smart lock is opened. This will provide you with convenience as well as an extra deterrent for intruders.
- Voice Control. Arriving with a bag of groceries home has never been simpler. You can open the door by simply speaking.
- Professional Installation. Have peace of mind knowing that your smart lock is installed correctly.
Cons
- Hacking Is Possible. This applies to most smart technologies. Smart lock developers constantly update technology to prevent it, but there is still a chance.
- Smart Locks are Dependent on Technology. This can cause issues. Batteries will eventually need to be replaced, and some smart locks’ hardware may become outdated.
- High Initial Cost. Smart lock technology is more expensive than traditional locks.
Traditional Locks
Let’s compare how traditional locks operate. These mechanical locks use pin tumblers with long and short metal pins in order to secure the lock cylinder. The metal pins are moved a certain distance when the key aligns with them.
Traditional locks have many advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Lower Cost at First. Traditional lock prices can be as low as 40 – a fraction of smart locks.
- Ease of Use. This lock has been used with physical keys by people for centuries. Old habits die hard. It may take a while to get used to opening the door without reaching for your keys.
Cons
- Limited Security Features. Manufacturers are doing a lot to improve physical keys and lock cylinders. When compared with current security technology, your home is vulnerable due to the lack of features such as alarm sensors, remote access, and video.
- Vulnerability to Bumping and Lock Picking. Did you know that it can take as little as a few seconds to pick a traditional lock? This frightening fact shows how vulnerable traditional locks and your home are.
- Inconvenience. Traditional locks only allow one entry method: a physical key. You’re out of luck if you lose your key. It will also cost you money and time to make individual keys for everyone who needs to enter your home.
- Inability to Remotely Access and Control. Wanting to check on the status of your locks when you are not at home? You can’t check the status of your lock when you are not home.
- Long-term Cost. Although the initial price of a lock may be low, it can add up when you have to replace it for new tenants and/or after a security breach.
Considerations When Choosing a Lock
After we have covered the pros and cons of the different types of locks, let’s examine a few other factors to help you determine which lock is the most suitable for your needs.
Risk Factors and Home Security Needs
Boost your peace of mind with the added security of a smart lock. Consider this option if:
- High Crime Area: If you reside in a neighborhood with a high crime rate, intelligent locks provide an extra layer of protection.
- Valuable Possessions: If your home holds valuable items like jewelry or art, smart locks offer enhanced security to safeguard your valuables.
- Larger Homes: Managing a larger home with multiple entrances can be a challenge. Smart locks simplify security by making it easier to lock all access points.
Choose intelligent locks to feel more secure, especially in high-crime areas or homes with valuable possessions. The convenience and advanced features of these locks add an extra layer of protection, ensuring your home is safer and easier to manage.
Budget and Cost-Effectiveness
If you often host AirBnB guests or have new tenants, or if family members tend to misplace their house keys, a smart lock might be the ideal solution. This technology enables you to reset your lock’s code within minutes, providing both convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Ease of Use and Convenience
Smart door locks bring simplicity to your life. For instance, you can schedule your door to lock automatically if left inactive for a certain time, guaranteeing your home is always secure. With remote access, you can check and lock your door from anywhere, adding an extra layer of convenience to your daily routine.
Personality and Lifestyle
If technology isn’t your forte and remembering codes feels like a hassle, a traditional lock is your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re a tech enthusiast and struggle with physical keys, a smart lock system is the perfect choice for you. Consider your preferences and lifestyle to make the right decision for your needs.
Upgrade Your Security with Keychain Locksmith
When deciding between Smart Door Locks and Traditional Locks, think about what suits your lifestyle. If you like things simple and aren’t into technology, go for a traditional lock. But if you love tech and want remote access and cool features, a Smart Door Lock might be better.
For those in the Kansas City area looking to upgrade their home security, consider Keychain Locksmith. With their expert services and a commitment to keeping your home safe, they offer a seamless transition to modern security solutions, ensuring you enjoy the best of both worlds. Elevate your home security with Keychain Locksmith of Kansas City today!