Let's begin with 'Keying Alike'. Essentially this is where all locks within a set have the same key code, or in other words, one key can used to open multiple locks within the set. '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.
When sold in packs of two, keyed alike locks are often called "twins". Keyed Alike locks are often referred to as "KA" locks. Master Keyed ("MK") refers to a set of locks that can all be opened by a master key AND by their own key (differ key). A set of Master Keyed locks is called a system.
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.
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.
Keyed to differ means each lock has its own key. Basically speaking, you can't use the same key to open a different lock so it is 'keyed different'. Think of it as your screen door can be unlocked by one key, but the same key can't unlock the deadlock.
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).
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.
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.
However, it's important to remember that under OSHA regulations no employee should be able to open a lock applied by someone else. Therefore, keyed alike locks from the same set should never be distributed to multiple employees.
While “changing a lock” is quite self explanatory, simply referring to changing an old lock with a new one, rekeying requires a bit of explanation to be understood. Rekeying a lock means to change the working key of the lock to a different key, without replacing the lock itself.
When purchasing more than one lock, look for packages that have the same “key alike” number on the package. Alternatively, our store associates can key all of your locks to work with the same key. You can also purchase a rekeying kit to swap out pins and springs yourself.
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.
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.
Keyed Different – When your locks are keyed different, it means that you have multiple locks that all open with different keys. There are situations in which the locks look exactly the same (same brand, same shape, same color), but they each require a separate, unique key.
Each pin therefore has a number of different settings or sizes to make up a variety of differs or key combinations that will open the lock. To do this they split the pins at various places.
Since there are 12 major scales, there are 12 major keys. Likewise, there are 12 minor scales and, therefore, 12 minor keys. So there are 24 keys all together. Three of the major keys can be named 2 different ways – one way with sharp note names, and the other way with flat note names.
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.
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.
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.
Please note, products are not keyed alike across functions. Schlage Rekeying Kits provide everything you need to get the job done—including all the tools and parts you need for repinning the cylinders of most Schlage locksets so that they work with a single key. Navigating your way through the Kit tray.
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.
Most brands of locks can be re-keyed, but it usually requires specialized techniques and sometimes tools. Many retailers will do it in-house free or for a small fee. Otherwise, any locksmith* should be able to help you out.
With a keyed alike cylinder, one key unlocks multiple cylinders. For example, you could use the same key for your front and back door, or your home and office. So you only need one key.
If the locks are the same keyway, you can rekey them using any of the following: Have them rekeyed where you bought them. Locksmiths often rekey locks to match at no cost when you buy the hardware through them. Some big box stores do it but may charge for the service.