Technology has done a lot of good for the world, making some of the most challenging tasks simpler to do than ever before. Technology, for instance, gave rise to the smart door lock system, which changed people’s thoughts about locks. Smart locking systems gave homeowners a new level of security and, consequently, freedom of movement. For example, homeowners could now leave their homes unattended more often and for extended periods, knowing that their home was secure and less likely to be broken into.
This article defines what standard locks are and what smart locks are, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each type of lock. This article will also discuss which type of lock is best and determine which is the most secure smart lock and which is the safest smart lock.
What Exactly are Traditional Locks?
Many individuals are not used to locks being referred to as “traditional or conventional locks.” This terminology primarily refers to locks that are not automatic and must be manually engaged for the locking mechanism to function. There are various types of traditional/conventional locks, which come in various styles and may be used for various purposes.
Most traditional locking systems are activated by turning a key, twisting a thumb, or pressing a button. Traditional locks must all be manually engaged and disengaged. These more classic locks include deadbolt locks, mortise locks, knob locks, and a variety of others.
How Do Conventional Locks Work?
Most standard conventional locks use a key to trigger the locking mechanism, which allows it to lock or unlock. An excellent example of such a lock is the pin-tumbler lock, the most commonly used manual lock in America. Pin-tumbler locks consist of a succession of spring-loaded pins inserted into cylinders.
The cylinders of a pin-tumbler lock are made up of pairs of pins known as the key pins and the driving pins. When a key with the correct “cut pattern” (one that matches the pattern inside the lock cylinder) is inserted into the lock, this causes the lock cylinder pins to rise and separate. This separation creates a gap between the cylinder and the plug, which is called the shear line, and once it occurs, the plug can be manipulated, and the lock opened.
What are Smart Locks?
Smart locks, in their most basic form, are automated counterparts of regular locks. A locking system, in most circumstances, will employ the classic lock mechanism, but the lock mechanism is actuated electronically and remotely.
The term “smart locks” refers to their capacity to be operated electronically utilizing the internet and interfacing with smartphones and otither smart devices. Smart locks vary from regular locks in that they necessitate a disnct interaction between the user and the lock. Smart locks do not require a key to be operated.
Smart locks have many advantages over traditional manually operated locks, and smart locks advocates, when involved in the smart lock vs regular locks debate, will often raise the following points:
- They can operate electronically.
- They can operate remotely.
- They are harder to pick or damage.
- They provide a greater level of security.
- Smart locks can interface with other smart devices and function as an integral part of an electronic security system.
- Smart locks are self-diagnostic, meaning they can monitor themselves and transmit the findings.
How Do Smart Locks Function?
Smart locks, like ordinary ones, require a lock and a key to function effectively. A Smart lock must receive operating instructions from either a pre-programmed device or a cryptographic key. Furthermore, intelligent locks can monitor the state of the lock and transmit relevant information to authorized devices like the homeowner’s cell phone. These locks are an essential component of the smart home and may be integrated with various other smart devices.
Smart Lock vs Regular Locks: What Differentiates Them?
Security: How safe are smart locks and traditional locks?
If you’ve ever wondered, “how to pick a smart lock?”, here is the answer. The one primary concern with smart locks is that anything linked to the internet may be hacked. So, even if you install the safest smart locks in your home, someone may still break in hacking the lock. This is a fundamental weakness shared by all smart locks.
When choosing the best security lock for your property, consider if an intruder is likelier to pick the lock or hack it. According to statistics, burglary is a crime of opportunity, and it is unlikely that a potential burglar will have planned to hack into your smart door lock. So when it comes to opportunistic burglary, smart locks have a distinct advantage over standard locks. Smart locks frequently use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi; therefore, there is always the possibility that this will fail, thus leaving your house susceptible.
There are contrary opinions in the smart locks vs regular locks debate, specifically when discussing which lock is the best to secure your property. Both types of locks have advantages and disadvantages, and often the best lock solution is a matter of personal choice.
Convenience: How can smart locks make your life easier?
The opportunity to allow someone access to your house even if you are not there is an example of the convenience offered by smart locks. Nowadays, people are seldom without their phones, so having a lock that interfaces with a handheld device makes perfect sense and offers a new-found level of convenience. For example, using your smartphone, you can operate the locks in your home remotely, and you don’t even have to be anywhere near your house. As long as you have internet access, you can operate a smart lock from anywhere in the world.
Cost: How much will smart locks set you back?
Smart locks are undeniably more costly than traditional locks. The Candy House Sesame Smart Lock is the cheapest smart lock available, costing roughly $110. August and Yale are the more well-known brands for smart locks, and the basic kit will cost you roughly $250-$300. This is significantly more than the cost of traditional manual locks, which range between $80 and $200. At the end of the day, which type of lock you choose is up to you, and your decision will no doubt depend on your perception of the cost versus security and convenience equation.
Conclusion
Most residences in America have a standard lock system, generally composed of a knob lock or a deadbolt lock. These types of locks offer adequate security when installed on all access points of your home, and they are approximately 35% less costly than the average smart locks.
On the other hand, most businesses in North America use smart locks that are integrated into a smart security system. That said, many people are now turning towards smart locks for use in their homes, which means that modern-day locksmiths are professionals in installing, servicing, and fixing both traditional and smart locks.
Even though smart locks are more expensive than conventional ones, they offer several advantages, especially in terms of convenience and greater security. The global smart lock market is valued at approximately USD 1.64 billion, with the North American market representing approximately 39.8% of the overall global market.
Upgrade your home security system by installing a smart lock with the help of Alexius Denver’s Locksmiths.
Nothing can keep your home completely secure, whether you install traditional or smart locks. However, it is possible to create significant obstacles for potential burglars by following a few easy precautions. One of the best ways to ensure that your home is protected and that your locks are insurance compliant is to hire a professional locksmith to install your door lock system.
Look no further than Alexius Denver’s Locksmiths if you want the services of a qualified Denver locksmith that can install conventional or smart locks in your home or business. We have the most outstanding, well-trained locksmiths and employees who are always ready to help you. Call now!
