We’ve got a topic that might just change the way you think about home security: keypad door locks. Yep, we’re talking about trading in that trusty keyring for a digit-based life.
Now, before you start shaking your head, hear us out. Traditional key locks have been around for centuries, and they’ve done a pretty good job. But we’re living in a world of smartphones, smart homes, and even smart refrigerators, so why not smarten up your own smart lock, too? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
The Benefits of Keypad Door Locks
No More “Key Under the Mat”
Come on, admit it, you’ve hidden a key under the mat, above the front door and frame, or in that fake rock. With a keypad lock, you don’t have to worry about someone stumbling upon your “secret” spot. Simply give trusted individuals a unique access code, and voila, they’re in.
Customizable Codes
Most keypad or electronic door locks allow you to set multiple access codes. You can have a code for family members, another for the dog walker, and another for your trusted neighbor. And the best part? If someone no longer needs access to your home, changing or deleting their code is a cinch.
Remote Access and Monitoring
Many electronic door locks are smart locks, which means you can control them through your smartphone. Forget to lock the door in your morning rush? No problem, just use the app to lock it remotely. Some models even let you monitor who’s coming and going in real-time.
Keyless Convenience
Ever gone for a jog and wondered where to stash your key? Or maybe you’ve experienced the joy of fumbling for your house keys in the rain? With keypad electronic door locks, these hassles are a thing of the past.
Increased Durability
Keypad locks tend to have fewer moving parts than traditional locks, which means there’s less that can go wrong or wear out over time.
What to consider before buying the best keypad door locks
Battery Life
Most keypad electronic lock are battery-operated. While the batteries tend to last for a long time, it’s still something you need to keep an eye on.
Complexity
With added features comes added complexity. You’ll need to learn how to program codes, possibly install an app, and understand how to use it.
Cost
Keypad locks are generally more expensive upfront than traditional locks. However, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial costs.
Security Concerns
While it’s harder to pick a keypad electronic lock, it’s not impossible for someone to guess or hack your code, especially if it’s something simple like “1234” (please, don’t ever use “1234”).
Keypad vs. Touchscreen Door Lock
Keypad Door Locks: Oldie but Goodie
Pros
Simple and User-Friendly
Keypad locks are just easy to understand. You’ve got a set of buttons with numbers or sometimes letters, and you punch in a code. Simple as that.
Durable
Keypad locks are generally built to withstand the elements. Rain, snow, or shine, the physical buttons can take it all.
Low Maintenance
With fewer sensitive components, keypad locks don’t require much maintenance. No need to worry about smudges or scratches affecting functionality.
Cons
Limited Features
While they’re simple to use, keypads usually offer fewer features. They might not come with app compatibility or remote locking/unlocking features, which some folks might find limiting.
Aesthetic Appeal
Let’s face it, keypads are not the most stylish of options. The bulky buttons may not blend well with a sleek, modern home design.
Touchscreen Door Locks: The Future is Now
Pros
Sleek and Modern
There’s no denying it—a touchscreen door lock just looks cooler. The sleek, illuminated display adds a modern touch to your entrance.
More Features
Most touchscreen locks are also smart locks, meaning they’re compatible with home automation systems and smart devices. Remote control, activity logs, temporary codes—you name it.
Touch and Go
No fumbling to find the right button. A simple tap on the screen and you’re in (or out).
Cons
Sensitivity to Elements
Screen malfunctions are a rarity but can occur. Extreme temperatures and wet conditions might affect the responsiveness of the door lock.
Battery Life
Touchscreen locks often consume more power than keypads because of the lit display, meaning you’ll be changing batteries more often.
Cost
These high-tech gadgets usually come with a higher price tag. If budget is a concern, this could be a deciding factor.
Bottom Line: Which One’s for You?
Choosing between a keypad and a touchscreen lock often boils down to your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and feature needs.
- If you’re someone who prefers straightforward functionality and durability, the keypad might be your match.
- But if you’re all about the bells and whistles and want that modern flair, a touchscreen lock will make you as happy as a kid in a candy store.
Either way, you’re upgrading from a traditional, keyless entry lock, and that’s a win in our book!
How secure are electronic deadbolts?
First off, what is an electronic deadbolt? In essence, it’s a deadbolt that can be locked and unlocked without a physical key. Instead, you’d use a keypad, a touchscreen, or even your smartphone to gain access. Sounds convenient, right? But how secure is it?
Pros of Electronic Deadbolts
Enhanced Access Control
With electronic deadbolt, you can easily control who gets into your house and when. Most systems allow multiple user codes or you to set multiple codes, which is perfect for letting in family, friends, or service providers without handing over a physical key that can be lost or copied.
No Picking, No Bumping
Traditional locks can be picked or bumped open with the right tools and know-how. * Electronic locks and deadbolts, however, are immune to such methods, instantly raising the security bar.
Remote Monitoring
Many electronic doors and deadbolts come with smart features, allowing you to monitor the door’s status from anywhere. Some even alert you in real-time if someone attempts to tamper with the lock.
Auto-Lock Feature
Forget to lock the door? Many electronic deadbolts can be set to lock exterior doors automatically after a certain period, giving you peace of mind.
Cons of Electronic Deadbolts
Battery Dependency
Most electronic deadbolts rely on batteries. While they typically last a long time, you still have to keep an eye on the power level to avoid getting locked out.
Vulnerability to Hacking
Though rare, tech-savvy burglars could, in theory, attempt to hack into a smart electronic deadbolt. However, higher-end models employ robust encryption to minimize this risk.
Cost
Quality electronic deadbolts tend to cost more than their traditional counterparts, although many homeowners find the added benefits worth the investment.
So, How Secure Are They Really?
To sum it up, electronic deadbolts offer a level of security that’s comparable to, and in some respects even exceeds traditional deadbolts. They’re not invulnerable—no lock is—but the added features and controls make them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who are serious about security.
When choosing an electronic deadbolt, it’s crucial to go for a reputable brand and possibly opt for a model with built-in alarm systems and strong encryption. It’s also wise to keep the firmware updated to protect existing deadbolt against any potential vulnerabilities.
Keypad locks offer a combination of security and convenience that traditional key locks just can’t match. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual looking to modernize your home or simply someone who’s tired of carrying around a bulky keyring, a keypad lock could be just what you’re looking for.
Still have questions or concerns? That’s what we’re here for. Feel free to reach out to your favorite commercial locksmith at Okey Locksmith for personalized advice and recommendations.
Until next time, stay safe and key-free!