When considering the safety of your home or business, one of the first lines of defense is your door lock. With advancements in technology, many people are now faced with a decision: stick with the time-tested deadbolt or upgrade to a modern smart lock. If you’ve ever locked yourself out or needed emergency lock services, you’ve likely searched for a 24/7 locksmith in NJ, or wherever you are, to regain access. But beyond convenience, the more important question remains: which option is safer?
In this blog, we’ll take a detailed look at deadbolts and smart locks, comparing their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different security needs.
Let’s Start With the Basics
What is a Deadbolt Lock?
A deadbolt is a traditional mechanical lock that uses a solid metal bolt that extends into the door frame. Unlike spring bolt locks (which can be easily forced open with a credit card or knife), deadbolts are manually locked and unlocked using a key or thumb turn. There are single-cylinder deadbolts (key on one side, thumb turn on the other) and double-cylinder models (key on both sides).
What is a Smart Lock?
A smart lock is an electromechanical lock that allows users to lock and unlock a door using digital keys, apps, keypads, or biometric authentication. Many smart locks can be integrated into smart home systems and controlled remotely via smartphone or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
Pros and Cons: Deadbolt vs. Smart Lock
Pros of Deadbolts
- Proven Reliability: Deadbolts have been around for decades and are known for their reliability.
- No Power Needed: Mechanical deadbolts do not rely on batteries or electrical power.
- Difficult to Hack: Since there’s no electronic component, they can’t be hacked or affected by software glitches.
- Durable and Tamper-Resistant: High-quality deadbolts (like those graded ANSI Grade 1) are extremely tough to drill or pick.
Cons of Deadbolts
- Key Dependency: You must have a physical key to lock/unlock the door.
- No Remote Access: You can’t control or monitor a deadbolt from a distance.
- Vulnerability to Bumping or Picking: Cheap or improperly installed deadbolts can be vulnerable to lock bumping or picking.
Pros of Smart Locks
- Remote Control & Monitoring: Lock or unlock your door from anywhere using a smartphone.
- Access Logs: Many smart locks keep records of who entered and when—great for monitoring.
- Temporary Access: Generate temporary codes for guests, cleaners, or dog walkers.
- Keyless Convenience: No need to carry physical keys.
- Smart Integration: Can work with home automation systems, security cameras, and alarms.
Cons of Smart Locks
- Power Dependency: Batteries must be charged or replaced regularly.
- Hackable: Like any smart device, they can be vulnerable to hacking.
- Software Bugs: Glitches can cause locks to malfunction or fail.
- Cost: Smart locks are more expensive upfront and may require professional installation.
Safety Considerations
Physical Security
In terms of brute force resistance, a high-quality deadbolt, especially one installed in a reinforced steel strike plate, still holds the edge. Deadbolts have a physical robustness that’s difficult to beat.
Smart locks vary significantly in physical strength. Some models have reinforced deadbolts, while others focus more on tech features and neglect physical durability. If you’re considering a smart lock, be sure to choose one that includes a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt mechanism.
Cybersecurity
This is where smart locks face challenges. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities are an evolving threat. In 2022, several popular smart lock brands were shown to have security flaws that could allow remote unlocking by hackers. However, many manufacturers quickly addressed these issues through software updates.
Deadbolts, in contrast, aren’t vulnerable to cyberattacks. But remember: no lock is 100% secure. Physical locks can be picked or bumped, especially lower-grade models.
Emergency Access
If you get locked out, the ability to call a 24/7 locksmith in NJ is a huge plus with both types of locks. However, locksmiths can typically handle deadbolt issues faster since they don’t need to troubleshoot electronic systems. Some smart locks still allow a traditional key override, which can be a lifesaver in a power failure or tech malfunction.
Expert Opinion by Pro 24/7 Locksmith in NJ
Security experts and professional locksmiths often recommend a hybrid approach: use a smart lock with a physical deadbolt component. Many smart locks, such as the August Smart Lock Pro or the Schlage Encode, are built onto existing deadbolts, giving you the best of both worlds: keyless convenience with solid mechanical backup.
In addition, for external doors, a double-locking system, using both a smart lock and a mechanical deadbolt, can deter both hackers and burglars.
Conclusion: So, Which is Safer?
The answer isn’t black and white. If you’re comparing a cheap smart lock to a high-quality deadbolt, the deadbolt wins in terms of safety. But if you’re looking at a premium smart lock with proper encryption and robust physical components, it can offer comparable (or even superior) protection, with added convenience.
Also read: How Much Does an Emergency Locksmith Cost?
Need Help Choosing or Installing a Lock?
Whether you’re considering a smart upgrade or reinforcing with a high-grade deadbolt, it is important to hire a trusted and reliable 24/7 locksmith in NJ. At Alpha Locksmith and Security, our locksmiths are fully licensed and insured. Whenever you hire us, ensure that your home security is in the safest hands.
