Transforming Security: Smart Locks vs. Traditional Locks

Photo of someone using a Yale smart lock

From thermostats to cars, it seems more products are connected to the internet than ever before. While traditional locks that use mechanical mechanisms like pin tumblers and key cylinders have been the cornerstone of security for centuries, Bluetooth^®-enabled smart locks are steadily becoming more mainstream. In fact, research suggests that digital and electronic door lock sales are projected to steadily increase in the next decade.¹ Discover why smart locks are quickly becoming a key feature in more homes and businesses.

What are smart locks?

Smart locks are locks for your home, business, gate, shed or toolbox that use Bluetooth technology or Wi-Fi to enable wireless communication between the lock and other connected devices, like your smartphone. They are often keyless and offer convenient access through passcodes and smartphone apps for more personalized security.

Why smart locks?

Convenience

All smart devices are designed to make life’s little inconveniences well, less inconvenient, and smart locks are no exception. With some Bluetooth locks, you no longer have to worry about losing your keys, since you won’t need them to unlock your door, locker or fence. Instead, you can use an app on your smartphone, a keypad PIN, key tags or even your fingerprint to access your lock.

The Master Lock Vault home and enterprise systems are apps that manage and support all Master Lock connected products. With these apps, you can assign, manage and monitor multiple temporary and permanent access codes for all of your Master Lock smart locks in one easy-to-use dashboard, including a 24/7 activity feed. This can be helpful for homeowners, trade professionals or property managers. .

Remote access

If you’ve ever visited or managed a vacation rental property, you know that smart locks are one of the most common ways to access them. That’s because many smart locks give you the ability to create mobile keys for different users and even restrict the time of day the codes can be used. This feature is also helpful if you have dog walkers, house cleaners or maintenance staff who need to access your property.

Monitoring & security

Smart home growth statistics reveal that 52% of U.S. consumers are willing to invest in smart home tech because they want the ability to control their homes while they are away.² Because many smart locks connect to a smartphone app, you can monitor when someone unlocks your door, identify who they are based on their PIN or key code, and receive notifications if a door is left unlocked.

This level of real-time control makes smart locks advantageous for businesses as well. Administrators are able to manage access to different areas, track employee entries and exits and respond promptly to any security concerns. The peace of mind and security that some smart locks can provide is invaluable.

Bluetooth lock, used on a computer cabinet in a school

Where can you use smart locks?

Smart locks can be used to secure both personal and commercial properties due to their versatility. They can also be used in conjunction with other locks or by themselves since they come in many forms including door locks, padlocks, lock boxes, wall-mounted lock boxes and deadbolts.

Padlocks

Indoor and outdoor Master Lock Bluetooth padlocks can be used to secure a wide array of items from personal belongings to high-security areas. Indoor padlocks are great for homes, offices, schools and gyms, while our outdoor Bluetooth padlocks are crafted with weather covers to withstand the elements on security gates, fences, storage units and sheds. With both options, there are no keys to lose, no combinations to forget and no risk of unauthorized key duplication.

Lock boxes

Whether you’re storing keys for emergency access or managing access to rental or real estate properties, Master Lock Bluetooth lock boxes offer convenient and customizable access solutions in both professional and personal settings.

Doors

Smart locks on doors have heightened security features that make them an integral element for business and personal security. Business owners can easily grant and revoke access, monitor entry logs and receive real-time alerts. For personal use, smart locks can provide the same convenience and peace of mind with keyless entry and remote managed access for guests.

Are smart locks safe?

Some homeowners and business owners worry about the safety and security of smart locks versus deadbolts, but the truth is, that they are just as safe as traditional locks.³ While the risk of hacking exists just like with other electronics, experts believe the likelihood is very low. Master Lock Bluetooth locks are made to withstand physical attacks and technological hacks, protecting your property with military-grade encryption and other high-security features. Plus, since there’s no need for a physical key, you can rest assured knowing there’s no risk of losing your key or it accidentally ending up in the wrong hands. As with any other technology, it’s best practice to be careful with your PINs and passwords and to change them regularly.

What are the disadvantages of smart locks?

While smart locks offer convenience and security, they also come with potential challenges.

Installation

Setting up smart gadgets can be difficult — and smart locks are no exception — but our Master Lock customer service team is here to help with how-to videos and support for all of your Bluetooth product questions.

Battery issues

Since smart locks are not plugged in, the battery will need to be changed periodically. Apps like Master Lock Vault Home will send you a reminder and an alert on the Bluetooth lock itself when the battery is low. If the battery happens to die while it’s locked, our Bluetooth locks have battery jump so you can still gain temporary access.

What’s next for smart locks?

Advanced biometrics

As technology advances, smart locks will continue to become even more secure. In addition to fingerprinting, some smart locks will incorporate advanced biometric features like facial recognition and eye scanning.

Smart home integrations

About half of the homes in the U.S. have smart devices, which means we can expect to see a more seamless integration between smart locks and other devices like security cameras, lighting and voice-controlled assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.⁴ The Nest x Yale Lock is just one example of what is to come in the realm of evolving smart lock technology.

The transformative impact of smart locks on security is unmistakable. Beyond their primary purpose of enhancing safety, smart locks exemplify the evolution of modern living. With a mix of convenience, safety and the ability to integrate with other connected devices, Bluetooth locks are changing the way we protect our homes and businesses. Explore our Bluetooth and electronic locks to start your smart lock journey.