Are Digital Locks Replacing Traditional Lock Systems?

• Traditional locks are found in the vast majority of homes and apartments. These locks require a physical key to open. Yale, Mortice, and Euro Lock are some examples of common traditional lock system brands.

• Smart, or digital locks, are controlled using a smartphone or other device. Basically, you need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to unlock a door, not a key.

• Which System is More Secure?

While it’s not impossible to break a traditional lock, it is also not impossible to hack a digital lock, so which option is more secure?

The reality is any type of lock can be damaged or hacked with the right tools and knowledge.

If you do decide to stick to a more traditional lock system, there is always the option of installing high-security locks. These locks are made with quality materials and are drill-resistant, making it very difficult to damage.

Without a high-security lock, any door is more vulnerable. Physical force or the right tools are all that is needed to access a room or home.

It is definitely much more difficult to hack a digital lock. The intruder would require very specific knowledge and time to get inside.

When we consider that most burglaries are opportunistic, traditional lock systems are the most risky.

• What about Convenience?

If convenience is important to you, digital locks are the way to go. Not only do you not need to worry about misplacing a key, but you can let people in even if you are miles away from home – excellent for emergencies.

With traditional lock systems, you need to trust someone with a key or leave it in a safe place where they can find it. If you happen to lock yourself out, you need someone to meet you at your home to let you back in.

This doesn’t mean that digital locks don’t have their inconveniences. If you don’t have internet access or your phone’s battery runs flat, you won’t be able to access your home. Fortunately, most smart locks have a key override. However, this feels like it defeats the purpose of having a digital lock at all.

In case you are ever locked out of your home, here is a guide on what to do.

• As you might imagine, traditional lock systems are the most affordable. However, if you decide on high-security locks, this will push the price up slightly.

• Digital locks are the most expensive option, but most of the cost is determined based on the specific features you want. For example, if you want to be able to let other people in from anywhere in the world, the smart lock package will cost more.