Keys are still currently the most commonly manufactured metal object in the world, however, are they suitable for the world of the future and will we see the end of the key as we know it? They’ve been around for over two thousand years but is it time for you to consider what our technological era has to offer with a keyless smart door lock instead?
In this article I will attempt to answer these questions and talk about a few of the pros and cons of the most common smart door locks on the market. If you’re looking into keyless door entry for your home, but don’t know which product is best for you, you may find the answer in this article.
Having recently returned from a holiday to Center Parcs I loved the ease of access to their lodges and lockers via the keyless wrist bands and it got me thinking about my own home and what other technology was out there.
Could I use my mobile to unlock and lock my house doors, how easy was it to use and what challenges did it present if you lose your smartphone or the battery was flat?
Table of Contents
Things to consider before choosing keyless door entry for your home
- The first thing to note with all these systems is they all run off batteries. I’ve yet to find a system which can be hard wired into your house electrics. So it’s worth thinking about backup options should the battery run out and also keeping stock to prevent ever getting to that stage.
- Ensure the smart lock fits your type of front door. There are 3 main types: wooden, uPVC and composite.
- Check the manufacturer’s instructions before purchase. The lock may not fit certain types of locking mechanisms such as multi point locks. Or at least you might need a professional locksmith to have them fitted which can be costly.
What is the best keyless entry system for homes?
To kick things off I looked at the lowest price unit.
ZK Teco DL30B – RRP £110
Fits – Wooden and uPVC doors
Powered by 4 x AA batteries
Pros – No keyhole preventing pick lockers. Easy installation with no wires. Create one time passcodes for friends and visitors. View entry logs. Four ways to unlock including key, RFID tags, smart phone and passcode on keypad.
Cons – Very little information online about this product and company. Cannot be sure exactly which doors this can be fitted to. Does not fit multi point door systems. Must be used on door that can have a hole drilled.
Z-Wave Vision Deadbolt Door Lock with Handle – £210
Fits – Wooden and uPVC doors with single dead point only
Powered by 4 x AA batteries
Works with key, keypad code, smart phone, computer or linked to Z-Wave security system control panel. The ZM1702 can be installed as a stand-alone door lock however it is best used as part of a Z-Wave network installation. Take a look at the Z-Wave Vera controller.
Pros – Allows remote activation from a computer of smart phone. Fits all conventional doors without modification.
Cons – Ugly, not particularly aesthetically pleasing.
Yale Conexis L1] smart lock – £270
Fits – Wooden, uPVC and composite doors.
Powered by 4 x AA batteries with an indicator to let you know when replacements are required. These are covered by smaller backup battery should they run out. (9B)
Pros – The best looking of all the units. No keyhole which will prevent burglars being able to pick the lock. Installation is easy, only requiring a screwdriver.
Cons – Can be unlocked electronically only (make sure you change the batteries on time!)
Operation – The door can be unlocked from the outside using the RFID key fob, keycards, tags or the bluetooth linked to the app on your mobile phone. (Android or Apple only) To lock the door from the inside simply lift the door handle. To unlock the door from the inside you just need to push the button and twist 180 degrees.
Find it here
Codelocks CL5510SS Electronic Digital Lock – £359
Works with smartphone app, cards, key code entry or physical key.
Fits – timber door 35 – 60mm thickness
Pros – This unit can work on a proximity censor that opens the door automatically when you are within 10 meters. Provide 4 different methods of entry.
Cons – Most expensive on the market and not particularly good looking.
In summary, personally I prefer the Yale Conexis unit as its slim looking, fits my uPVC door and ticks all the boxes in terms of easy entry and security. It’ll also future proof home automation and linking to my security system. Just remember that if you’re looking for your own door entry upgrade ensure you check the installation requirements before committing to a purchase.
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