Smart Locks vs Traditional Locks

If you’re upgrading your home security, you’ll quickly run into a big question: should you stick with a traditional keyed deadbolt, or switch to a smart lock with a keypad, app access, or fingerprint reader? The truth is both can be excellent options. What matters most is choosing the right hardware for your door and using it the right way.

Traditional locks: simple, reliable, and familiar

A high-quality deadbolt is still one of the best security upgrades for most homes. Traditional locks are mechanical, which means they don’t depend on batteries, Wi-Fi, or mobile apps. When properly installed, they provide strong resistance against forced entry.

Traditional locks are a great fit if you want:

• Maximum reliability with minimal maintenance
• No app setup or device pairing
• Lower upfront cost

Smart locks: convenience and access control

Smart locks are popular because they make day-to-day access easier. Depending on the model, you can unlock using a code, phone app, fingerprint, or even voice assistant. For many homeowners, the biggest benefit is managing access without copying physical keys.

Smart locks are often ideal if you:

• Have kids, guests, or frequent service visits and want codes instead of keys
• Want temporary access (for example, dog walkers or cleaners)
• Prefer audit trails (some locks log entries and exits)

Security: what actually matters

Security depends more on the whole door system than the lock style alone. A strong deadbolt won’t help if the strike plate is weak, the door frame is soft, or the lock is installed incorrectly.

For either lock type, prioritize:

• Proper installation: alignment, correct backset, solid mounting, and a reinforced strike
• Quality hardware: reputable brands with durable components
• Door reinforcement: longer screws into studs and a sturdy strike plate

Reliability: batteries, backups, and power outages

Smart locks depend on power. Most run on batteries and provide low-battery warnings, but it’s still important to plan for the “what if.” We recommend choosing a smart lock that includes at least one reliable backup method, such as:

• A physical key override
• An external battery terminal (common on some keypad models)
• Offline keypad entry (so it works even if Wi-Fi is down)

Convenience: codes vs keys

Convenience is where smart locks shine. Codes can be changed instantly, guest access can be scheduled, and you don’t need to hand out spare keys. Traditional locks are still convenient for many homes, but managing keys across multiple family members or tenants can be frustrating.

Which one should you choose?

Here’s a simple way to decide:

• Choose a traditional deadbolt if you want maximum simplicity and minimal maintenance.
• Choose a smart lock if you value code access, temporary permissions, and app-based control.
• Consider a hybrid setup where a smart lock handles daily access and a reinforced door/strike provides strength.

If you’re unsure, a locksmith can look at your door, hardware, and usage needs and recommend the best fit. Installation quality and door reinforcement are often the biggest difference-makers.