Keyed Alike: This means key coded to the same key number. This option provides "same key" convenience and eliminates the need for multiple keys where numerous locks and access is needed. Keyed Different: This means that the lock are keyed differently. Different set of keys are required to unlock each lock.
Keying locks alike is a great time saving solution as, with only one key, time does not need to be spent looking for the correct one. It also saves having to carry around a large bunch of keys. 'Keyed to Differ' is simply where each lock will come with its own key, one which cannot be used on any other locks.
Keyed alike means one key fits all locks, for example your front and back door locks can both use the same key or every lock in an office can use the same key. Having your locks keyed alike is very beneficial if you want to open & close all your door locks with one key.
Negatives: While convenient, keyed alike locks are less secure than their keyed different counterparts. Keyed alike locks are optimal when locking indoor applications but they are not secure enough for exterior applications.
Differs is an English locksmithing term that refers to the number of possible keys for a given lock. This number is a factor of the design of the key, the number of locking components, the number of available positions for each component, and the tolerances of the lock.
All packages with the same key number use the same key.
So if you have 3 knobs and 2 deadbolts you all want keyed alike, buy 3 knob+deadbolt sets of the same number. Generally there are 3-8 lock packages in a carton (all with the same style/color/SKU).
This is because Schlage and Kwikset locks are not compatible with the same type of key. Their keyways are made differently, therefore you will either want to have all Schlage locks or all Kwikset locks. When you're at home, you don't want to use different keys for each lock you own.
Also in the non-forced entry category, there is no doubt Schlage is better. With a better, more precise manufacturing process and 2 additional security pins than the Kwikset deadbolt, Schlage locks are significantly harder to pick, bump or compromise in non-destructive ways.
In order to eliminate the inconvenience of having one or two keys for each lock customers will instead request the purchased padlocks to all work with a smaller set of keys. This is what is known as 'keyed alike' or sometimes 'suited'. Simply put 'keying alike' allows the owner to open multiple padlocks with one key.
Re-keying kits are available for most lock brands but they're not interchangeable. You must buy a kit for each brand of lock in your home. (If you're lucky, they'll all be the same brand!) Each kit will re-key six locks, but you can order extra pins if you need to do more.
Rekeying your lock is almost always cheaper than replacing a lock. This is because of the cheaper price of the key pins inside the locks, whereas when you replace a lock, you are paying for all brand-new parts.
Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.
Basically, you cannot re-key the lock from Schlage to Kwikset, but you can change the lock cylinder from Schlage to Kwikset.
Baldwin locks use a Schlage key cylinder inside the lock to operate the tumblers and open and lock the mechanism. A Schlage re-keying kit will re-key a Baldwin lockset in minutes to secure a home or office after a change of residency or employees.
In short, a master key system allows one keys to open multiple different locks. At the same time, more than one key can open the same lock. In an office building, for example, each employee can have their own key which unlocks the door to their office.
Home Depot will rekey locks such as Schlage, Kwikset, doorknobs, deadbolts, single and double cylinders for $5 to $15 per lock. If your local store does not offer the service, you may purchase a rekey kit or visit Lowe's or Ace Hardware. Home Depot does not rekey car locks as they often require specialized technology.
While there is seemingly scope for every door lock in the world to require a unique key, reality is that a limited number of different key and door lock combinations exist. This is simply because key and door lock manufacturers don't need to go through the hassle of making each door lock unique.
Ultimately, whether you choose to have your deadbolt and door lock open with the same key is your choice. There isn't necessarily a one size fits all answer. If you want to have separate keys for a door that currently uses only one key, it is easy enough for a locksmith to set it up for you.