If you're considering upgrading your local to smart locks, you might be wondering how secure they are compared to standard locks. This is an important question to consider when you start looking at new locks. So, are smart locks as secure as standard locks?
How Secure are Traditional Locks?
Anybody with the ability to search online and a little know-how can pick most traditional locks. Some deadbolt locks are harder to pick and with the right installation, you can make it harder to pick a traditional lock.
Along with picking the locks, those trying to break in often use brute force to get past a lock. This is doable with the right tools or even just kicking in the door. Installing a strike plate can make it much harder for brute force to be used to break into your front door.
Some deadbolts are more secure than others. They may be given an ANSI rating of Grade 1. This rating means they offer maximum security. Even with the most secure traditional locks, adding a strike plate or a longer deadbolt throw is often necessary to make them more secure.
It's also possible to look for locks that are resistant to lock bumping, lock picking, and other ways to bypass the locks. While traditional locks can be made to be very secure, they might not be as secure as smart locks. It might not even matter, depending on the smart lock you choose or the traditional lock you choose.
How Secure are Smart Locks?
When you look at the simplest smart locks, they are just an automated version of a traditional lock. The locking mechanism might even be the same, but it's capable of being engaged remotely and electronically. What makes smart locks different is the type of interaction necessary compared to traditional locks.
While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.
The one downfall you will find when comparing smart locks to traditional locks is the accessories you can use to make them more secure. Some smart locks cannot be used with certain additional features due to the way they are designed. Traditional locks are a bit easier to make modifications to when you want to upgrade the security.
Which is Better for Security?
While the locking mechanism is likely going to be the same with smart locks and traditional locks, the best option for security is up to what you like better. Some people are worried about cyber-attacks on smart locks, which are possible. However, with the right smart lock and the right features, you might be able to gain a very secure lock.
For most homeowners, traditional locks with a strike plate and other features are the best options for security. However, if you're looking for a lock replacement offering ease of access and the smart features of a smart lock, you can still gain excellent security, with the right installation and accessories.