Kwikset SmartKeys Vs. Regular Locks

[Account Closed]

Kwikset SmartKeys Vs. Regular Locks

As a locksmith I have used and repaired  Kwikset SmartKey locks. Occasionally folks ask me which type of lock I recommend, SmartKey locks or "regular" locks. My honest answer is that it depends. However, before I tout my own personal opinion I believe it is prudent to list several of the PROs and CONs first;

The biggest PRO is that you can literally rekey the lock yourself in less than 30 seconds. Probably 10 seconds to be honest with you. It's that simple. If you have high turnover rates these locks can save you tremendous amounts of time and money. They are also simple to use and easily install like regular house locks.

The biggest CONs are their durability and dependability. Kwikset's states on their website that they are drill resistant and pick resistant, but I've drilled them and I've picked them. You will need to purchase their ANSI grade 1 version (not sold in stores) if you want these added protections. But be advised, commercial locks almost triple in price compared to residential locks. Also, you cannot add a master key to this system. You will need to buy the more expensive key control version if you want this option. Lastly, I must add that in order to replace a lost key you will need to purchase a "cradle" that is sold separately.

My own personal preference is that I do not recommend these locks for large complexes with multiple units. Inevitably it is cheaper in the long run to invest in a more universal and guaranteed lock design. Case in point...Schlage, another leading lock brand, used to boast a similar rekey system several years ago called SecureKey. It has since been discontinued and is impossible to find parts for. You probably haven't heard of it because it was a momentous flop. But if you have one of their locks good luck.

In closing I will add that if you manage only one home, or a few units, this lock may be the perfect solution for you. They do provide routine and ample protection, and they do meet or exceed ANSI grade 3 standards for residential use.

[Kyle J.]

Originally posted by @John Teachout:

Originally posted by @Kyle J.:

Originally posted by @John Teachout:

Originally posted by @Kyle J.:

Originally posted by @John Teachout:

Originally posted by @Kyle J.:

Originally posted by @John Teachout:

What keeps me from acquiring one of these cradles and making a key for your locks?

You have to take the lock out and remove the cylinder to put it in the cradle before you can reset it to a new key. 

 Then how is that a resolution for a lost key?

If you lost the key, or if you happen to mess up while re-keying one of the locks so that no key works in it (like I did one time), then the cradle can be used to reset the cylinder so that any Kwikset key you choose will work in it.  (I always have extra Kwikset keys laying around.) 

 I don't want to beat this to death but I'm trying to gain an understanding of this lock system. If you can use the cradle to make a key if you lost it or buggered  up the re-keying process, can't anyone with a cradle re-key the lock even if they shouldn't? ie, is there an inherent security weakness with this system?

There's no security weakness.  You can re-key pretty much any residential lock once you remove the cylinder.  The cradle just makes it easier and saves you from having to buy any other parts (i.e. cylinder pins) like you might have to if you were re-keying a non-SmartKey lock.

 So if you lost the key, how do you get the door open to be able to disassemble the lock? Or is there the assumption that the door is already unlocked?

If you lose your key and all of your doors are locked with you on the outside then the cradle won't help you get in.  You'll need to get in first to remove the lock.  It's not a lockpick tool.  It just a tool to make them easy to re-key.  :)