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As with all things, technology is developing fast and the world of locks is no exception with more and more smart locks coming on the market seemingly offering convenience with added connectivity and more security features.
This article looks at whether smart locks are better than traditional locks and what to be aware of and what to look out for.
Firstly, it is important to summarise what these types of locks are and the advantages of using them.
Traditional locks use a physical key to operate a locking mechanism in order for it to lock and unlock. The three main types of traditional door locks are Cylinder locks, Mortice locks and Nightlatches. For more information read my article on The Types of Household Locks.
Advantages:
– The simple tried and trusted nature of the design means that traditional locks are secure, reliable and predictable.
– They are simple to use and people are familiar with them and their operation.
– They are fully mechanical and not reliant on any power source
– Budget friendly as they are relatively low in cost and can last for decades if maintained well.
– There are clear regulations and standards in place to provide assurances to consumers that they can rely on these types of locks (e.g. British Standards).
– Relatively easy to replace and repair if needed
Disadvantages:
– Although reliable, as with all mechanical items, they can go wrong. Whether they have been fitted incorrectly, not maintained properly, become damaged somehow or generally with time/use they can develop issues.
– They must be operated with a key. If this is lost, stolen or damaged, then you cannot operate the lock.
– They do not allow the use and integration of modern technological features
Here’s a recent job I carried out replacing a Smart lock for a traditional lock.
These locks enable operation through a number of different methods that do not require a key, e.g. via phone apps, biometrics (fingerprint), bluetooth, key cards, fobs and keypads.
Advantages:
– They are convenient in that you do not need to carry and remember to have your physical key.
– Provides remote access (which is useful in certain situations, e.g. short-term holiday rentals). Easy to check from anywhere in the world if the door is locked or unlocked.
– Integrates with smart homes and can link to other security devices like alarms, cameras/doorbells.
– You can easily grant and withdraw access to others without physically needing to change the lock or give out keys.
– Many customisation options of how to use the smart lock.
Disadvantages:
– Compared to traditional locks, they are much more expensive.
– Smart locks are potentially susceptible to cybersecurity risks and hacking and do not have the track record of traditional locks.
– Sometimes can be tricky to set-up.
– Smart locks require a power source, potentially adding complexity to installation or being vulnerable to a power outage or depleted batteries.
– Failure to operate effectively in the absence/disruption of internet connectivity.
– The longevity and life of a smart lock is uncertain with anecdotal evidence available that they are not as reliable as traditional locks as they are more complex in their construction and workings with more chance of things failing.
– Potentially difficult to repair if it is an electrical/software problem.
– Difficult to retrofit back to traditional locks as some models are much bigger than traditional locks.
Lock Guy is a professional independent locksmith based in the UK in Essex with experience in both traditional and smart locks and this is his view:
“You have to remember the purpose of a lock: to keep your property secure and to protect your loved ones and possessions. There are too many unknowns regarding the security risks for smart locks. We have seen the development of keyless entry in the automotive market and all heard stories of top-end cars being stolen in seconds with just a laptop or other electrical gadget.
Staying with the car analogy, a seatbelt is a security and safety device and, regardless of the technological advances, these items are still mechanical with a reassuring physically operated ‘click’ to secure the occupants of a car. I see traditional locks being similar to a seatbelt as they are reliable and secure”.
In general, locks are too important to compromise on security for the sake of perceived convenience.
With all that being said, the smart lock products are improving with simpler retrofitting, installation and set-up. If you are going to go with a smart lock, then ensure you select one that has a mechanical key override consisting of a high security lock (e.g. the Ultion Nuki).
Taking into account the potential downsides, smart locks might be a sensible choice in certain situations:
Always ask your local reputable locksmith for advice regarding the choice of lock – whether smart lock or not.
Traditional locks provide the highest security and reliability and the best cost-effective solution.
Smart locks do offer convenience and high-tech features and are suitable for certain situations, but not as the primary security measure for a property.
Whether a smart lock or a traditional lock, if you want one fitted in Witham, Maldon or across Essex, then contact Lock Guy
Got a question about a lock issue you may have? Why not have a look at the FAQ page or one of the helpful advice videos on the Media page.