The absolute best overall residential deadbolt is the Schlage B60N for heavy-duty mechanical security, or the Schlage Encode Plus if you want top-rated smart home integration. Locksmiths consistently praise Schlage for residential use because of their drill-resistance and superior 6 6-pin cylinders.
The Core Recommendation: BS 3621 Standard Locks
To spot one, look for the iconic British Standard Kitemark on the faceplate along with 'BS 3621. ' Protect your home by choosing a lock that meets these thief-resistant standards—your peace of mind depends on it.
Schlage is generally considered the better, more secure brand for heavy-duty construction and pick resistance. Kwikset is the better choice if you prioritize budget and convenience, specifically for their easy DIY rekeying features.
Top Lock Brands Recommended by Locksmiths
The most secure deadbolt on the market is the Abloy Protec 2. For high-traffic residential or heavy-duty needs, the Schlage Primus or commercial-grade Schlage B660 are top choices. These are Grade 1 ANSI/BHMA certified, offering heavy-duty steel construction, pick resistance, and restricted keys that prevent unauthorized duplication.
Yale and Schlage are the two biggest heavyweights in residential door locks. Both offer exceptional hardware, but they cater to slightly different priorities: Schlage is the go-to for heavy-duty mechanical security and Apple ecosystem integration, while Yale excels in sleek, keyless aesthetics and flexible smart home customization.
The best home deadbolt depends on whether you want a traditional heavy-duty lock or a modern smart lock. Industry experts and professional locksmiths consistently recommend top-tier physical security paired with smart conveniences.
When comparing Yale and Kwikset, Yale is generally considered better for premium features, smart home integration, and sleek design, while Kwikset is better for affordability and DIY-friendly rekeying.
The best door lock brand depends on whether you need a traditional mechanical deadbolt or a smart lock. Schlage is the top overall choice for everyday security and smart integration, while Kwikset dominates for budget-friendly features. Yale leads in touchscreen aesthetics, and Medeco is the best for high-security, pick-resistant needs.
Yes, like any connected device, Schlage smart locks can technically be hacked, but the "Hollywood" style of a remote cyber break-in is highly improbable. The brand uses robust, bank-level 128-bit AES encryption and security protocols, making direct digital interception extremely difficult.
The best keypad deadbolt for security is the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt, offering BHMA Grade 1 durability (highest residential security) and built-in Wi-Fi for remote monitoring. It is top-rated for its robust build, built-in alarm technology, and reliable performance in 2026 tests.
Bump Proof, Pick Resistant and Re-key Technology
SmartKey Security provides superior protection against break-in techniques because of its patented technology that isn't found in traditional pin-and-tumbler locks.
Burglars hate anything that makes a break-in noisy, time-consuming, or highly visible. Criminals look for the path of least resistance; if a target requires too much effort or poses a high risk of getting caught, they will simply move on to an easier home.
The easiest way to protect yourself is to use a lock that does not use a pin tumbler. Most mortice locks use levers and do not use pins on springs so are bump proof by design. We recommend British Standard Mortice Deadlocks.
The most secure door locks combine high-grade hardware with pick and drill resistance. Top industry choices include mechanical models from Medeco and Mul-T-Lock (UL 437 rated), and the top-rated smart deadbolt, the Schlage Encode Plus (ANSI/BHMA Grade 1).
A sock on a doorknob is a traditional signal—mostly used by college students or roommates—that the person inside the room is having sex and needs privacy. It acts as a makeshift "do not disturb" sign to prevent roommates from walking in.
People wrap foil around doorknobs as a viral DIY alarm and visual deterrent. The theory is that if an intruder tries to turn the handle from the outside, the crinkling noise will wake you, or the ripped foil will let you know someone attempted to enter while you were asleep.
Schlage is generally more secure than Kwikset because it offers more Grade 1 hardware, heavier internal components, stronger deadbolts, and deeper strike engagement. Kwikset delivers fast rekeying and operational convenience but is typically Grade 2, making it better for interior, low-abuse, or turnover-heavy units.
For overall residential security and reliability, Schlage is widely considered the best lock company. They offer an exceptional balance of Grade 1 hardware, bump resistance, and cutting-edge smart lock technology. For specific needs, here are the top-rated lock companies categorized by security level and use case:
Yale and Schlage are the two biggest heavyweights in residential door locks. Both offer exceptional hardware, but they cater to slightly different priorities: Schlage is the go-to for heavy-duty mechanical security and Apple ecosystem integration, while Yale excels in sleek, keyless aesthetics and flexible smart home customization.
ANSI GRADE
This grading system ranges from 1 (the highest grade) to 3 (the lowest grade). It factors in longevity of the lock, toughness, and latch length. Grade 1 Usually used on commercial applications or where the toughest, most secure locks are needed. Tested to withstand 1 million opening and closing cycles.
The 7 Best Lock Brands
How to Select a Deadbolt for Your Business: Single or Double Cylinder