Smart locks are harder to pick than traditional locks. A smart lock's keypad doubles as a built-in backup system, so if a burglar tries to guess your access code, they'll be locked out after too many tries. Another factor to consider: The more spare keys you have, the less secure your traditional lock will be.
Kwikset smartkey locks are certified Grade 1 security for residential use by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association and are advertised by Kwikset as being invulnerable to being hacked with wires, screwdrivers, or anything else inserted in the keyway.
The bottom line: Well-built smart locks are much more difficult to pick than standard locks and require complex techniques that your average criminal does not likely have in their toolbox. Additionally, they come with a built-in backup system with the keypad.
I'm so glad I bought a Kwikset Smart Key Lock. I've had to change my locks several times and being able to buy this kit and do it yourself makes it so easy. It saves me so much time and is much cheaper than hiring a locksmith. Highly recommend it.
Some disadvantages to smart locks include:
It might be frustrating for some workers to have an additional task added to their day. Your smartphone might run out of battery, break, or become damaged. If this happens, you will need to contact a smart lock company for a replacement smartphone and a new smart lock code.
If your lock is installed correctly and it has the newest firmware, hacking it will be extremely difficult. Unfortunately, criminals are constantly looking for new ways to break into someone's house. It means that house owners and tenants should always be prepared for any eventuality.
Despite significant advancements in smart technology, it is still possible to have your electronic devices hacked, including smart locks. Hackers may compromise the Bluetooth connection, breach the Wi-Fi network, or access phone data, leading to unauthorized control of the lock.
They can be, assuming you follow the right online security measures. Smart locks are harder to pick than traditional locks. A smart lock's keypad doubles as a built-in backup system, so if a burglar tries to guess your access code, they'll be locked out after too many tries.
Am I limited to how many times a SmartKey lock can be re-keyed? A: No, you can re-key a SmartKey lock as often as you'd like.
All SmartKey cylinders feature ANSI Grade 1 security, are bump-proof and highly pick resistant while also passing the most stringent security standards, UL 437, par 11.6 & 11.7.
The good news is that experienced burglars hate smart security and smart locks. As a result, they would much rather target the 75% of homeowners who have no home security system whatsoever.
With that in mind, most smart locks last for about 6 to 12 months on a single set of fresh batteries or a fresh charge. Wi-Fi locks can be an exception to this rule, though, often lasting a few months at a time before requiring a change of batteries.
Deadbolt door locks are the most secure type of key lock and are commonly used on exterior house doors. Single and double cylinder locks are classified by strength from Grade 1 to Grade 3. Grade 1 is the highest and provides the best security.
Kwikset SmartKey Review Final Thoughts
So you are protected and someone who has the rekeying tool can not break into your stuff. Bottom line, I like this system and how easy it is to set up and use. The future cost savings also make this a product line worth considering.
Lock and unlock your door from your phone
With a smart lock, you no longer have to worry about forgetting your keys or creating spare keys for other users. Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock the door through your smart lock's keypad or smartphone without a physical key.
Schlage and Kwikset are two of the most popular lock manufacturers on the market. Both brands make excellent locks that homeowners can easily install, but Schlage locks tend to offer higher security and reliability and are trusted by big businesses.
One of the major benefits of rekeying a lock is that it is much cheaper than replacing the entire lock. The cost of rekeying a basic lock ranges from $20-$60. More complex locks might cost a bit more to rekey, but it's still a reasonably small price to pay for home security and peace of mind.
You can keep your existing keys without having to re-key, or carry extra keys on your keychain. And the look of your existing lock hardware won't change. You won't be able to tell it is a smart lock by looking at it, which is an advantage for people who prefer the legacy look of door hardware.
Thanks to the two-cylinder Key Control Deadbolt with SmartKey Security, you can have one master key for all your units and unique keys for all of your tenants.
So your locksmith cannot open your smart lock unless they have advanced IT skills, special tools, and programming skills. You, however, have to be careful not to share passwords carelessly or use weak passwords.
Your Smart Lock will give you low-battery warnings for multiple weeks before it loses power. However, if your Smart Lock dies entirely before you can replace your batteries, your key will still work. This is the same deadbolt key that you've always used - the Smart Lock doesn't change the key needed.
There are many advantages to using a keypad lock. They are more convenient because you don't have to carry a key with you. They are also more secure because it is much harder for someone to guess your code than it is for them to pick a traditional lock.
Because they are electronic and often connected to a home network, they are open to hacking or infiltration. As your codes fly through the air, skilled hackers can pick up the code from a fob, or break into your Wi-Fi and access the keypad codes and gain access to your home.
You can install a smart lock yourself; most of them do not require professional installation. However, the process is relatively difficult and may require tools.