Smart Door Lock vs. Traditional: Which Offers Better Security for Your Home?

Quick Answer: For most homeowners, smart locks offer better overall security and convenience than traditional locks. They provide advanced features like remote access, activity monitoring, and integration with home security systems—though they come at a higher cost ($150–$300 vs. $40–$100 for traditional locks) and require battery power.

Homeowners around the world are looking for ways to make their homes more secure, and it all starts with their locks. A secure lock is your first line of defense against burglary and break-ins, and today, there's a new variety on the scene: the smart door lock.

A smart door lock is an electronic lock that connects to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave and can be controlled remotely via smartphone, voice commands, or custom codes—eliminating the need for physical keys.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about your door lock options, including:

• How smart door locks work
• The pros and cons of smart door locks
• The pros and cons of traditional door locks
• What you need to consider as you decide what kind of lock to use

Key differences between smart locks and traditional locks

Smart lock pros and cons

Smart locks do not require physical keys for entry, which is why they're sometimes called keyless door locks.

The locking mechanisms behind these are similar to those of run-of-the-mill traditional or deadbolt locks. The key difference is that a smart lock contains electronic components that allow it to connect to your home's Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave. This allows you to operate it with your smartphone or other smart home devices.

Depending on the style of smart lock you choose, it may include one or more of the following locking methods:

• Custom numerical codes
• Fingerprint scanning
• Digital key fobs
• Voice control
• Smartphone app control

You can even integrate your smart door lock with your home security system so that when it locks and unlocks, it engages and disengages your alarm.

Smart lock pros

• Keyless convenience. Unlock your home with a smartphone, voice, fingerprint, or programmed codes—no keychain wrestling required.
• Remote access and control. Lock or unlock your door from anywhere via mobile app; verify your door is locked without returning home.
• Advanced security features. Options include anti-theft protection, intrusion alarms, two-way talk, and built-in cameras.
• Activity monitoring. Receive notifications showing who unlocked your door and which access method was used.
• Smart home automation. Connect to Google Assistant or automate lights to turn on when your lock opens.
• Voice control. Open your door hands-free when arriving home with groceries or packages.
• Professional installation. Enjoy the peace of mind that your smart lock has been installed correctly with Vivint's professional installation that comes with every purchase.

Smart lock cons

• Hacking vulnerability. Smart locks face potential cyber threats, though manufacturers continuously update security protocols.
• Technology dependence. Requires battery replacement and hardware may eventually become obsolete.
• Higher upfront cost. Smart locks typically cost $150–$300, compared to $40–$100 for traditional locks.

Traditional lock pros and cons

Mechanical locks often use a pin tumbler method with short and long metal pins to hold the lock cylinder in place. When the right key is inserted, it lines up with these metal pins and moves them a set distance, unlocking the mechanism.

Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of traditional locks.

Traditional lock pros

• Lower initial cost. Traditional locks cost $40–$100—a fraction of smart lock prices.
• Familiarity and ease of use. Simple key-based operation that everyone understands without learning new technology.

Traditional lock cons

• Limited security features. No alarm sensors, video monitoring, activity logs, or remote access capabilities.
• Picking and bumping vulnerability. Traditional locks can be picked in a few seconds by experienced intruders.
• Key-dependent access. Lose your key and you're locked out; making copies for family members costs time and money.
• No remote monitoring. Cannot check lock status or control access when away from home.
• Long-term costs. Expenses accumulate when replacing locks for new tenants or after security breaches.

Should I buy a smart lock?

A smart lock is ideal if you:

• Live in a high-crime area or have valuable items at home
• Manage rental properties or host Airbnb guests frequently
• Have family members who often lose keys
• Want remote monitoring and control of your home access
• Already use or plan to use other smart home devices
• Have multiple entry points that are difficult to monitor

A traditional lock may be better if you:

• Have a limited budget and prioritize low upfront costs
• Prefer simple, familiar technology without apps or codes
• Live in a low-crime area with minimal security concerns
• Don't want to manage battery replacements or software updates
• Rarely need to grant temporary access to others

Factors to consider when choosing a lock

Here are a few factors to determine the best lock for your home.

Home security needs and risk factors

The security features of a smart lock can set your mind at ease. This option might be for you if you:

• Live in an area or neighborhood with a high crime rate
• Have a lot of valuables inside your home, such as art or jewelry
• Have a larger home layout with multiple entryways (The more there are, the easier it is to leave one unlocked.)

Budget and cost-effectiveness

Do you regularly change your locks for new tenants, or host AirBnB guests? Do your family members frequently lose their house keys?

If so, a smart lock might be the right choice. With this technology, these situations only require a few taps to reset the code on your lock's keypad.

Convenience and ease of use

Smart door locks are designed to make your life easier. For example, you can set your door to auto-lock after a period of inactivity to always ensure your home is locked and secure. And remote access lets you check your locks from anywhere and lock or unlock your door as needed.

Personal preferences and lifestyle

As with most choices for your home, your preferences and lifestyle play a large role in this decision.

If you struggle with technology and dread having to remember a code, then a traditional lock may be your safest bet. If, on the other hand, you thrive on technology and struggle to remember physical keys, then a smart lock system might be just what you need.

A safer front door with Vivint

Smart locks are a great addition to any home security system. When used with security cameras, lights, and your other smart home system components, it provides an extra layer of protection and convenience.

Give us a call at 855.822.1220 today for a free consultation.

Frequently asked smart lock questions

Considering adding a smart lock to your home security system? Learn more here.

Can smart locks be hacked?

While smart locks can potentially be hacked, it's rare. Manufacturers use encryption and regularly update security protocols to prevent unauthorized access.

Do smart locks work without Wi-Fi?

Yes, most smart locks work without Wi-Fi using Bluetooth, keypads, or fingerprint scanners. However, remote access features require an internet connection.

How long do smart lock batteries last?

Most smart lock batteries last 6–12 months with normal use, and the lock will alert you when batteries are running low. Battery life depends on use.

Are smart locks worth it?

For most homeowners, yes. The convenience, enhanced security features, and remote access capabilities typically outweigh the higher upfront cost.