Digital door locks are different from traditional locks on many levels. They can be opened via remote control, they may require power, they might cost more or they might not.
Your personal preferences, your budget and security needs will determine whether you choose a smart lock or a traditional one.
This article will guide you in making the right decision for your home.
Quick Summary
- Smart door locks allow you to remotely monitor and control the door locks by connecting your device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- Smart locks provide benefits such as flexibility, convenience, remote access, and high security.
- Traditional door locks are a combination key and cylinder. They have been used as a solution to security for centuries.
- The traditional door lock has many advantages, such as the ability to operate even in a power outage, its high reliability, and their low cost.
- Digital door locks are more secure than traditional ones, but they may not be the best option for you. It also depends on your budget, location, and security needs.
Locksmiths are able to help you select the right security solution for your business or home. Locksmiths can also help you decide what type of lock you need.
Digital Doorlocks and traditional Doorlocks
What is an intelligent lock?
Smart locks connect wirelessly to your device, allowing remote monitoring and control of your door locks. Smart locks can also be called keyless door locks or digital locks. Smart locks eliminate the need for physical key.
Smart door locks offer a safe and convenient alternative to traditional door locks. Smart locks let home and business owners access their lock remotely using smart devices. Remote monitoring offers convenience and peace of mind.
Smart locks look like traditional locks but have electric components that allow them to be connected with smart devices and smart homes. Electrical connections are essential for a reliable power source.
Unlocking a smartlock will vary depending on the type. Some smart locks rely on scanning fingerprints, while others rely on numerical codes and even voice commands. Some digital locks can be integrated into your security system, allowing you to activate or deactivate the alarm remotely.
Smart door locks have many advantages. These include convenience and functionality. These benefits will be covered here.
Pros:
- Remote Control and Access – Smart locks allow for convenient remote access and control. Remote access is available to family, friends, and service providers via a smartphone or computer. With a mobile app, you can lock and unlock your door anywhere.
- It is convenient to not have to worry about tracking or losing physical keys. You can lock or unlock the door with a voice command or fingerprints. Smartphones and programmed numerical codes are also available.
- Upgraded Security Features – An upgrade of a smartlock will include enhanced security functions such as cameras built in and two-way communications. The lock can be equipped with facial recognition and fingerprint recognition. Some smart locks have automatic lights that turn on when the lock is opened.
- Activity Monitoring — A smart lock can send you an alert if someone unlocks your door and even tell you what code or access method they used. You can track activity to see who is entering your home, and how.
- Smart Home Integration – The smart lock is compatible with your home security system or other smart features. You will enjoy enhanced security and convenience.
- Professional Installation — Having a professional install your smartlock can give you peace of mind.
Cons:
- Power Dependency: A smart lock depends on power. This can be provided by batteries or wired connections. You’ll need to regularly check the batteries in order to ensure that your lock is functioning properly.
- Vulnerability: A smart lock is vulnerable to hacking. For the best system I recommend using a secure password.
- Before purchasing a digital lock, make sure it is compatible and connected.
Installing digital lock systems is more expensive than traditional locks.
What is a traditional locking system?
The traditional lock is a mechanical system which can be unlocked or locked with a physical keys.
The mechanical system is composed of pin tumblers. These are metal pins with different sizes and lengths that hold the locking cylinder. The metal pins will move a specific distance when the correct key is used.
Pros:
- Simple, familiar locks — Traditional locks have been used for centuries. They are easy to use and reliable. Some people find it hard to give up keys for a voice command or numerical code.
- No Power Required — Even in the event of a power failure, traditional locks will still function.
- Low initial cost — Installing traditional locks is cheaper than installing smart locks.
Cons:
- If you misplace or lose a physical key, it could lock you out. It is possible to duplicate and steal the key, which poses a serious security risk. A lost key will cost you money.
- The traditional locks are easy to pick, leaving your home vulnerable.
- Limitations in security and integration — A traditional lock system cannot be upgraded with enhanced security or integrated into intelligent home systems.
- Remote control and limited access — Traditional locks do not offer remote control. You might want to allow someone access while you are not home. Do you want to check if your home is locked? This is not possible with a standard lock.
Traditional Locks vs. Smart Locks Compare Traditional Locks
Here’s a quick comparison between a smartlock vs. a traditionallock.
- Smart locks can be opened and closed using a fingerprint, a numerical code or a voice command. Traditional locks require a physical key.
- Power — A smartlock can be powered by either batteries or electricity. The traditional lock does not require any power source.
- Cost — The cost of installing a smart lock will be higher than that of installing a traditional lock.
- Smart locks are convenient. They offer remote access, keyless entry, and active monitoring. The features of traditional locks are lacking.
- Smart locks are equipped with advanced security functions that can be integrated in your home security system.
- Vulnerability: A traditional lock can be picked. However, a Smart Lock may be hacked.
What is the Difference Between a Traditional Lock and a Smart Lock?
Here are some tips on how to choose between a smart or traditional lock.
- Do you need security? Are you in a high-crime area or do you own expensive artwork or jewelry in your office or home? Smart locks offer the highest level of security due to their advanced features.
- Smart Locks For Large Homes — If you have multiple entry points in your home, it may be worth considering a smart lock. You will not forget to lock the door.
- Budget — If you want to protect your house but are on a tight budget, a traditional lock will be the best choice.
- Smartlocks offer convenience. They allow remote access without the need to find a key.
- What is your source of power? Before investing in a smartlock, consider your power source and whether batteries are something you would like to use. I would recommend a conventional lock if you need a lock that can operate without electricity.
- Landlords: If you have to change locks often for Airbnb guests or tenants, I recommend a smartlock.
- Personal Preferences: If you do not like to have to memorize another code, or prefer manual operation, I recommend traditional door locks.
- Compatibility: Before purchasing a smartlock make sure all of your smart devices, smartphones and systems are compatible.
If you’re still not sure what the best solution is for your door, book an appointment to speak with a locksmith.
Unico Locksmiths locksmiths will assess your location, setup, home layout, power sources, and personal preferences to custom-design a solution for you.
Traditional door locks are not only reliable, but they also do not offer remote access or enhanced security. Traditional locks can also be picked. If you have questions about smart locks or traditional locks, or which lock is best for your needs, please contact us. We can customize a system based on your location, home layout and preferences.
This article was written by Unico Locksmith. https://unicolocksmith.com/ is your local locksmith in Maryland that specializes in commercial and residential lock changes, re key services, automotive locksmith services, and locksmith qualified emergencies. Unico Locksmith is the fastest and best locksmith in Maryland.