Nowadays, digital door locks have become an increasingly popular choice for added security to homes. In many households, physical keys are things of the past—today, you’ve got various smart lock options that connect with your smartphone and even offer features like auto-locking, remote access, convenient keyless entry, voice controls, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
If you’re considering replacing your existing lock hardware to give your home security an upgrade, digital door locks like smart locks might just be the way to go. We understand that there are a lot of digital door lock types in the market and it can be quite overwhelming having to narrow down your choices. So, Okey Locksmith is here to guide you! We’ll go over the important things you should know about digital locks so you can find the best smart lock that suits your home the most!
How Do Digital Door Locks Work?
Digital door locks are one of the most popular types of electronic door locks. You can easily differentiate it from a standard lock because digital door locks often come with a touchscreen, buttons, or a keypad. To unlock digital door locks, you need to enter the latest user codes. Some models have fingerprint-scanning technology that allows people the convenience of simply pressing their fingers on a fingerprint scanner to be granted entry.
Other ways to unlock a digital door lock include using a mobile app, key fob, proximity card, remote control, or typing in a temporary code. Some digital door lock models (like a keyless deadbolt) still have a traditional keyway as a backup in case the original unlocking process doesn’t work.
Different Types of Digital Door Locks
Smart Locks
Smart locks don’t require physical keys. They typically have a built-in Wi-Fi bridge so you can connect it to your home network and smart home devices for convenience. You can also pair the smart lock to your internet-connected device, where you can use various smart features and control the lock remotely. Oftentimes, you can lock and unlock your door by using an application on your smart phone (requiring you to be within Bluetooth range for some), or even using voice control. The best smart locks are those that offer the most convenience and security; so, many brands have Google Assistant, Amazon, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit support.
Biometrics Locks
Another common type of digital door locks are biometric locks. It has a fingerprint scanner that only unlocks the door when it verifies a fingerprint that has been registered in the system. Compared to traditional keys, biometric locks are considered more secure and are often used in high-security places such as offices and government buildings, though many residential homes also use them.
Remote Control Locks
Remote control locks allow you to remotely manage your doors. For these locks to work, you do need some form of proximity, either through a dedicated remote control or with an app on your phone. When you click a button on the remote control or app, it sends a signal to the lock to open or close the door. This type of lock is especially beneficial for garage doors because it allows you to open or close the doors from a distance, such as when you’re driving home and getting ready to park.
Keypad or Touchscreen Locks
You don’t have to worry about carrying around keys and making sure you don’t misplace them if you have keypad or touchscreen locks. These are the most common types of digital door locks due to their simplicity. You can often find a keypad or touchscreen lock on a house’s front door or on other entry doors, such as back doors and garage doors.
These locks require the correct and most updated user codes or passwords before unlocking. As long as the codes are regularly updated and you have a strong password, keypad and touchscreen locks are some of the most secure and convenient ways to properly manage access to your home.
RFID Locks
RFID locks use radio frequency identification technology to lock and unlock doors. Homeowners have an RFID card or key fob that needs to be swiped or held against the RFID reader to unlock the door. These locks are quite similar to the traditional lock and key system, but instead of a physical metal key, you need an RFID card that contains a unique electronic code. You’ll need to replace the RFID card if you happen to lose it, but at least there’s no need to replace the whole lock mechanism. It’s also easier to make sure that no one else can use your lost card by deactivating it right after misplacing it.
Benefits of Digitial Door Locks
When it comes to protecting our own homes, choosing the best door lock and security system makes all the difference. Perhaps it’s time for you to say goodbye to traditional keys and say hello to convenient keyless entry through digital door locks! No matter the brand, these modern locks come with many advantages that can make your life easier and your home even more secure. Here are some of the benefits of digital door locks you probably didn’t know you needed:
Keyless Entry
The biggest benefit of installing digital door locks in your home is the fact that you don’t have to think about keeping and carrying physical keys anymore. With digital door locks, you and your family can easily access your home by clicking a button, typing in codes, or using your fingerprints. Aside from the keyless convenience, you can also make a good first impression on visitors with a digital door lock because it highlights how you’re embracing technology to improve your home’s security.
Customizable Door Access
Digital door locks are customizable, allowing you to share access to your home with people you trust and remove codes for different users to improve your property’s security. Customizable access is especially useful when you want to provide temporary access to visitors that can be set to expire after a few hours. It can also be beneficial for those with rental properties, making updating door lock codes when needed much easier and more convenient.
Auto-Locking Features
Most digital door locks automatically lock when the door is closed, or after a specific amount of time passes. This auto-lock feature is another layer of security that ensures your doors stay locked even if you forget to manually lock them at some point. This feature is especially helpful for people and families who are often busy and in a rush; it can give these people peace of mind knowing that their doors are always automatically locked and that their homes are always safe and secure from intruders.
Convenience
Many people agree that the most important benefit brought by digital door locks is convenience. This technology has opened up various ways for homeowners to safely and conveniently manage access to their doors without much hassle. Nowadays, time is increasingly becoming even more precious, so the small and simple conveniences brought by high-tech locks can make a world of difference for those with busy lifestyles.
Activity Monitoring
Another great thing about digital door locks that you can’t find in traditional locks is the ability to monitor who enters which door at specific times. Many digital locks send you real-time alerts when someone enters your home, keeping you well-informed and aware of what’s happening even if you’re away.
Easy Installation
Installing digital door locks is relatively easy and straightforward. The locks come with detailed instructions that walk you through the whole installation process, allowing you to do a DIY installation. You can even find a retrofit lock that fits perfectly with your existing deadbolt or current door hardware, making the installation process even more of a breeze. Of course, there’s always the option of calling locksmiths like Okey Locksmith for residential locksmith services if you feel more comfortable having trained technicians do the installation for you.
Need Help with Your Digital Door Locks? It’s Time to Call Okey Locksmith!
Okey Locksmith is ready to handle all your lock and key needs, be it traditional or digital door locks! After years of providing locksmith services to Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and expertise, all while offering fair pricing that ensures you receive quality service without breaking the bank.
Contact us today at (405) 703-8943 to get started!
