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Smart door lock vs. traditional locks — which one is safer?
Updated
By Jordana Weiss
Smart home technology has progressed by leaps and bounds in the last few years. There's a reason why so many people are excited by the prospect of having smart devices in their homes.
Automating traditional home tools — such as lights, thermostats and security systems — can help you conserve energy. Smart home features can also make you feel safer in your home, and they make it easier to control your home's systems.
One of the most exciting advancements in smart home technology is the smart door lock. Homeowners can enjoy features like keyless entry, remote control access and even voice control options.
However, are smart door locks actually safer than traditional locks? In this guide, we’ll compare smart locks against traditional locks to help you decide which is the best option for your home security needs.
Smart lock vs. traditional lock comparison chart.
Smart lock | Traditional lock | |
Cost | More expensive | More affordable |
Safety and security | Secure with many anti-tamper and alert features | Also secure, as long as the physical key is kept safe |
Ease of installation | Can be a DIY project or easily installed by a professional | Can be a DIY project or easily installed by a professional |
Biggest pros | Peace of mind, convenience, integration with smart home systems and keyless | Easy and simple to use, straightforward installation, reliable |
Biggest cons | Can be vulnerable to hacks, requires updates and maintenance, can break down due to technological issues | Requires a physical key, doesn’t integrate with smart home systems |
What are smart locks?
Smart locks are a type of lock that uses technology to provide convenient and secure home access. Instead of a physical key for a pin tumbler lock, smart locks use different methods to lock and unlock a door (though some smart locks come with a mechanical back-up key). These methods include biometric fingerprint scans, smartphone apps and voice commands.
Depending on the brand and model you purchase, your smart lock can also be connected to your home's Wi-Fi network. This allows you to remotely control and monitor the lock status from your smart device or computer.
Smart locks are typically more expensive than most versions of traditional locks. However, you may be able to find an option that fits your budget. You also may be able to install smart locks yourself, which can help you save on installation costs.
Related: How much does a home security system cost?
How are smart locks better than traditional key locks?
Homeowners are drawn to smart locks for their security and convenience. Additionally, they can be integrated with smart home security systems. Here's a look at some of the benefits smart door locks offer:
Peace of mind.
When it comes to safety, smart locks provide several advantages over traditional locks. For example, they can be more difficult to pick. And some models even have anti-tamper features that can detect and alert you during an unauthorized entry.
Smart locks can also be set up to send notifications. These notifications can tell you when someone unlocks the door or enters your home. This can help you monitor who is coming and going.
Convenience.
When it comes to convenience, smart locks also have a leg up on traditional models.
Have you ever struggled for your keys while holding a load of heavy groceries? Smart locks can easily be unlocked remotely, either by toggling them from your phone or using automatic proximity detection.
Smart home integration.
Smart locks can be integrated into a complete smart home system. This enables a more comprehensive home security experience that, once you've set it up, doesn't require much maintenance or troubleshooting.
What are the drawbacks of installing smart locks?
While smart locks are an excellent resource for homeowners, they may not be the best choice for everyone. Here are some drawbacks of installing a smart lock in your home:
- Cyber attacks on smart locks pose a risk. Picking a smart lock is usually harder than picking a traditional lock. However, there is a risk that a hacker might gain access. This may happen if your Wi-Fi network is compromised or the lock's software is not regularly updated.
- Technology can fail. With a traditional lock, you rely on your key to unlock the door. Unless it gets lost or breaks, you can get in. A smart lock relies on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections. If either of these fails, you may experience issues.
- Costs may be too high. Smart locks can be more expensive than traditional locks since they come with so many integrations and additional features. This could be a barrier for some homeowners.
Smart lock vs. traditional lock — which one should you choose?
Overall, smart locks offer several advantages over traditional locks, including convenience, improved safety and peace of mind. However, they may not be the best option for everyone because they require some technical knowledge to operate correctly.
If you're unsure which lock to get, consider a smart lock that comes with a traditional backup key.
Hire a locksmith or home security pro near you.
Want to explore your options for smart locks or traditional locks that can keep your home secure? Download Thumbtack to hire a nearby locksmith or home security professional who can help. Get a couple of free cost estimates to find out which option fits your budget.
A note about project costs included or linked in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.