Mortise locks are generally considered the most secure type of lockset for standard doors. Unlike standard tubular locks, they are installed into a deep pocket (mortise) carved directly into the door, making them significantly more resistant to brute force, prying, and tampering.
Police typically recommend using high-quality deadbolt locks, specifically ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts, for exterior doors.
Schlage is generally considered more secure than Kwikset, offering superior protection against forced entry and picking. Schlage locks often feature ANSI Grade 1 ratings, thicker metal, and drill-resistant components, while Kwikset focuses on convenience and affordability (often Grade 2). For maximum home security, Schlage is the preferred choice, whereas Kwikset is often chosen for residential turnover and easy rekeying.
Top Lock Brands Recommended by Locksmiths
Deadbolt Locks
Deadbolt locks are a classic choice and one of the most secure locking mechanisms for main doors. There are three variations in deadbolt locks, i.e., single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and lockable thumbturns.
Spring Latch Locks
Also known as key-in-knob locks, spring latch locks are some of the most common—and weakest—locks found on residential doors.
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.
Deadbolts are one of the most popular and effective types of burglarproof locks. They provide an additional layer of security beyond a standard lockset by extending a solid metal bolt into the door frame.
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.
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.
When choosing the best lock brands, it depends entirely on whether you prioritize traditional heavy-duty security or smart home convenience. The top-rated lock brands are Schlage and Yale for overall quality, Kwikset for budget and rekeying convenience, and Medeco for extreme commercial-grade security.
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 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).
To secure your front door against break-ins, focus on reinforcing the three major points of failure: the strike plate, the hinges, and the door itself.
The Squire Stronghold SS100CS is universally recognized as the strongest production padlock in the world. It is the first padlock to achieve the highest possible CEN 6 security rating and an LPS 1654 SR4 rating, featuring dual-key access and a 20mm hardened boron steel shackle designed to resist heavy-duty power tools.
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.
With that in mind, let's take a look at the top ten burglar deterrents to use in 2021:
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.
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:
Kwikset locks are generally safe for standard residential use and are highly effective at keeping casual intruders out. While they are budget-friendly and offer great convenience, they are typically rated as ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 and are less physically secure against forced entry or lock-picking than heavier, premium brands like Schlage.
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.
You may be in the habit of leaving your key in the lock at night once you've secured your home, but this is not recommended. A burglar may be able to use it to gain entry, either via a nearby window or the letterbox. It's best to leave them in a designated safe spot which cannot be seen from the front door or windows.