Knowledge Builders

are kwikset smartkey locks good

by Noemy Stehr Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Kwikset smartkey locks are certified Grade 1 security for residential use by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association and are advertised by Kwikset as being invulnerable to being hacked with wires, screwdrivers, or anything else inserted in the keyway.Aug 3, 2013

Are Kwikset locks any good?

The performance is fairly good, although it has the same issues any other smart lock has. It can be a bit sensitive, which is great for those looking for a responsive Kwikset halo. But those who are in a hurry and want to get inside may have a problem.

How do you open a Kwikset lock?

You can pick a Kwikset lock with a bobby pin by making use of the following steps:

  • Get a bobby pin and fold it into an L shape.
  • Put the bobby pin in the center of the lock.
  • Keep pushing it until you feel the lock open.

How to rekey Kwikset locks?

Kwikset Smart Key locks are wonders of innovation. It is no longer necessary to call a locksmith to rekey your door locks. Insert the old key, turn the old key to the proper position, and insert the new key to rekey the lock.

How to factory reset a Kwikset smart lock?

– Slide up the cover to open the back of your lock, exposing the buttons beneath. – Push and hold the reset button for 10 seconds, until the lock beeps. – The light ring will flash red, then spin amber. – The lock has now been restored and is ready to be set up again.

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Are Kwikset SmartKey locks easy to pick?

Even one of Kwikset's most vocal critics, Marc Weber Tobias (more on him in just a bit), told us that the SmartKey lock is virtually impossible to pick. Other videos criticizing Kwikset point out that the lock can be easily compromised using a specialized bypass tool used by locksmiths.

How safe are SmartKey locks?

SmartKey cylinders feature ANSI Grade 1 security, are bump-proof and highly pick resistant, while also passing the most stringent security standards, UL 437, par 11.6 & 11.7.

Are Kwikset SmartKey locks bump proof?

Bump Proof, Pick Resistant and Re-key Technology SmartKey Security provides superior protection against break-in techniques because of its patented technology that isn't found in traditional pin-and-tumbler locks.

Can a Kwikset Smart Lock be hacked?

Like most smart devices, people often forget that a smart lock is actually a small computer, and it can be hacked. It's possible for hackers to access your phone's data and break in, or they can access the lock itself if it's Bluetooth-enabled.

Which is better Kwikset or Schlage?

Also in the non-forced entry category, there is no doubt Schlage is better. With a better, more precise manufacturing process and 2 additional security pins than the Kwikset deadbolt, Schlage locks are significantly harder to pick, bump or compromise in non-destructive ways.

Can you bump a Kwikset SmartKey?

Kwikset SmartKey is a security feature only available in Kwikset deadbolts, keyed entry knobs and keyed entry levers. Products with Kwikset SmartKey feature BumpGuard™ which uses a patented slide-locking bar mechanism inside of the lock to prevent lock bumping and other advanced home break-in techniques.

Is Kwikset a good brand?

Kwikset's door products offer reasonable quality, superior lock bumping technology, and attractive style. It is one of the most common residential locks on the market. Kwikset is headquartered in Orange County, California. It is a part of the Hardware and Home Improvement division of Spectrum Brands.

How many times can you rekey Kwikset SmartKey?

How many times can I re-key my lock? Unlimited amount of times. All you need is the Smarkey Security tool.

Can you use any key with Kwikset SmartKey?

A Kwikset SmartKey tool (One should've came with your lock, but if not, you can buy one on Amazon). The new (or rather, old) key that you want to use instead. This must be a Kwikset key, as Kwikset and Schlage keys are totally different from one another (and won't work in each other's locks).

How do you break into Kwikset smartkey?

1:353:51How to Open a Kwikset Smart Key Lock in 10 seconds Video by Mr ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt. I'm right-handed but i'm doing this my left hand uh here's the force. Tool. Put it in i like toMoreIt. I'm right-handed but i'm doing this my left hand uh here's the force. Tool. Put it in i like to use just a pair of vice grips on the end. Just force it over take my tool.

How do I bypass Kwikset smart key?

1:453:11Open Kwikset Smartkey Easy (30 seconds) - Bypass Tool SECRETYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce you put your wrench on begin turning the cylinder with slight force keep it going. And boom andMoreOnce you put your wrench on begin turning the cylinder with slight force keep it going. And boom and just like that you have bypassed it Kwikset SmartCode lock. In under 30 seconds.

Are keypad locks safer than key locks?

Or are they more secure than traditional locks? The answer is that they can be. If a keyless lock means you're more likely to lock your doors every time you leave, less likely to hide a key underneath a doormat, or make tons of extra keys to share that you eventually lose track of, then yes, they can be more secure.

What happens if you lock yourself out?

If you find yourself locked out, and you have this type of lock, usually the entry will have to be destructive. The lock will not be reusable. If you happen to have a way to access the home by other means, we may be able to reset the lock. However, we will be unable to guarantee that the problem will not happen again.

Can you install a Kwikset lock on a door?

It is not a good idea to install Kwikset Smartkey locks on your doors. Category : Locksmith. Notice the small slot to the left of the keyway, this indicates that the lock is a Smartkey lock.

Is the Villages lock safe?

If you live in The Villages, please read this and click on the links and read/watch the articles and videos. These locks are not safe. Do yourself a favor and even do some independent research. You will find that, even in their popularity in the big box stores, they are not as secure as advertised. From my personal experience, the majority of homes in The Villages have these locks on their doors. The homes that I have visited that did not have them were changed because they were looking for a new style, or the Kwikset Smartkey failed at some point.

Does Kwikset have plastic locks?

They made the wafers thicker, the older version has thinner wafers that are easier to defeat. These locks have also had plastic in them, yes plastic. Locks and plastic really do not have any place together in my opinion.

Can you rekey locks between tenants?

The idea that they could save money having to re-key locks between tenants is great. However, if the lock fails on the tenant, or the tenant re- keys the lock, this would present even more issues. These locks do not have the ability to be master keyed, so this limits their application even further.

Do locks fail within the first year?

The Truth. All of this said, it is not guaranteed that every lock will fail within the first year or at all. What I am saying, is that these locks are very vulnerable to many forms of attacks. These types of attacks are the type that takes even the most unintelligent of criminals only moments to master.

Can you rekey a keypad?

They are easy to be re-keyed by the owner as long as they have a working key.

What is the Kwikset obsidian made of?

In this way, owners don’t usually have problems when typing their passwords. They are built with steel and aluminum to make sure they don’t get ruined if it rains or snows. In addition to having great materials like polished brass, the Kwikset obsidian also has a very nice design.

How old do you have to be to buy a Kwikset Halo?

The terms of use are very clear. They will only accept buyers that are at least 18 years of age. Plus, the company explains how the limited warranty works and in which cases people can ask for a refund. The Kwikset Halo is under the laws of the USA. As such, they promise not to disclose the clients’ private data such as codes, times of access, and other sensible information. They will not even share this with their partners unless asked by the police.

What is the ANSI grading for Kwikset?

Obsidian Keywayless Electronic Touchscreen. The Kwikset Obsidian has ANSI grading, which means it has certifications of its high-quality standards. For owners who manage many passwords at the same time, there is a master code they can use in case anything goes wrong.

What does it mean when a keypad has a small hole?

If it has a small oval hole next to the lever, then it’s SmartKey. What does this mean? In addition to using the keypad to enter the home, people can use a physical key or a mobile app. They only need to enter the access code to get in.

What are some devices that make your life easier?

Life is getting more hectic than ever, but luckily there are many devices that can make our lives a bit easier. Among them are the smart locks, which do away with the hassle of physical keys and being present to lock and unlock the door. Plus, the lock has an array of other benefits that make this type of product unique.

What is Emily's passion?

As a journalist, Emily draws on her rich experience in home safety and seeks to research more on the topic. She is truly passionate about her interests. Emily is knowledgeable about security systems due to the in-depth studies that she has conducted for Securing Home.

What to do if someone forgets their password?

In case the person forgets their own passwords, there is an option before trying to open it using a physical key. They can just rekey, that is, reset the code. This is a bit complicated so take the time to do it properly.

Why are smart locks so secure?

The smart key locks are a little more secure against picking. This is because instead of just using pins like most locks, they actually have a sidebar in the lock. When the correct key is inserted, the sidebar is moved into the inner cylinder, allowing it to turn.#N#With that in mind, with the smart key locks you must have an existing key to rekey the locks. If you don't have one, you have to buy a new lock. With normal locks, if you lose your keys you can have somebody make a key or rekey the locks instead of completely replacing it.

Is smart key safe for rental property?

If you have a need to rekey locks on a regular basis as in rental property then the Smart key is a viable option. It uses regular pin tumbler technology so it is no more or less secure than other locks.#N#The deadbolts are an ANSI grade one which is commercial duty so that is a plus.

Why do you get heavier grades in a sandbox?

Second, you can get them in heavier grades to provide more overall strenght and protection from kick attacks which is the most common.

What device to use to prevent kick ins?

You can purchase devices to help prevent kick ins, like the Door Devil, which will assist your heavier deadbolt in doing its job by re-enforcing the door frame.

What attack do you use to destroy plastic wafer pins?

The old version you could use a smasher attack where you destroy all the plastic wafer pins & the lock opens.

Can you pick a smart key lock?

Smartkey cylinders are almost impossible to pick or bump, but this is a byproduct of the way the lock is designed, and NOT an intentional security feature. Basically, if you have a smartkey lock and i have a "force tool" or even just a flathead screwdriver and a wrench, I can get past your lock. Tl;dr: dont buy smartkey, ever. Or schlage plus. Just spend the extra 10 or 20 bucks and get a real lock.

Can you use a smasher attack on a change wafer lock?

The old version you could use a smasher attack where you destroy all the plastic wafer pins & the lock opens. The new version of the locks have reinforced pins that aren't really vulnerable to the smash attack, however there are expensive tools that will help in decoding where the position of the change wafer set is.

What is smart key security?

SmartKey Security™ allows you to re-key your lock yourself in seconds.

What to do if playback doesn't begin?

If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.

Can you rekey your locks yourself?

SmartKey Security™ features re-key technology, which allows you to re-key your locks yourself in seconds, because we realize the person who has your key today may not be the same person you want to have your key tomorrow.

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Videos you watch may be added to the TV's watch history and influence TV recommendations. To avoid this, cancel and sign in to YouTube on your computer.

What to do if you lose a Kwikset 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.)

What is a smart key cradle?

The SmartKey Reset Cradle is a tool used to rekey a SmartKey cylinder in the event of a lost key or a malfunction. A must have for landlords or where there is a high possibility of lost keys. The backdraw is you cannot simply walk into a store and buy one. You'll need to special order it or pick one up from an authorized distributor.

What are the pros and cons of Kwikset 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.

Do you need a reset key for a Kwikset lock?

They're easy to use and handy to have if you use the Kwikset SmartKey locks. If you ever miskey your lock or lose the key (like in your situation), you'll need this to reset the lock. Saves you from having to buy a whole new lock.

Is SecureKey discontinued?

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.

Do rekeyable locks save time?

I love the rekeyable locks. They save a bunch of time and money. No more of storing old locks in the garage and swapping them with different properties

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1.Kwikset Smart Locks Reviewed | SafeWise

Url:https://www.safewise.com/kwikset-smart-locks-review/

9 hours ago 5 rows ·  · Durable construction: Kwikset smart locks offer great protection against lockpicking and physical ...

2.It is not a good idea to install Kwikset Smartkey locks on …

Url:https://www.dnalocksmith.com/locksmith/not-good-idea-install-kwikset-smartkey/

12 hours ago  · Now let’s talk about why it is not a good idea to install Kwikset Smartkey locks on your doors. First of all, these locks tend to fail under normal usage , even within the first year many times. People have reported that they left their home and locked it up as normal, only to come back and find that their key no longer operates the door that it locked just hours earlier.

3.Videos of Are Kwikset SmartKey Locks Good

Url:/videos/search?q=are+kwikset+smartkey+locks+good&qpvt=are+kwikset+smartkey+locks+good&FORM=VDRE

1 hours ago They’re not only a more cost-effective and convenient alternative but also a more secure one when compared to the old locks. Kwikset SmartKey has a small rectangular-shaped hole near the bottom left of the keyhole, which is also its most distinguishing feature.

4.Kwikset Smart Locks Review: True High-Quality in 2021?

Url:https://securinghome.com/reviews/kwikset-smart-locks-review/

8 hours ago  · To address the original poster, (and not to mention the technique to open this lock), the kwikset smartkey has and will always be in my opinion worse then a padlock on a gate: much less secure. But, unlike the padlock on a gate, something that we all know is not secure at all, kwikset attempts to convince its consumers that this lock will keep you safe and that it is …

5.Kwikset 'smart key' door locks good? - DIY Home …

Url:https://www.diychatroom.com/threads/kwikset-smart-key-door-locks-good.34110/

6 hours ago Smartkey cylinders are almost impossible to pick or bump, but this is a byproduct of the way the lock is designed, and NOT an intentional security feature. Basically, if you have a smartkey lock and i have a "force tool" or even just a flathead screwdriver and a wrench, I can get past your lock. Tl;dr: dont buy smartkey, ever. Or schlage plus.

6.Are Kwikset Smartkey locks safe? : Locksmith - Reddit

Url:https://www.reddit.com/r/Locksmith/comments/3rzb78/are_kwikset_smartkey_locks_safe/

27 hours ago Yes, kwikset is shit. I'm not a fan of any of thier stuff. They hold the crown for cheap and easy. But not quality. Medeco is amazing but expensive as hell. Best makes good gear but they are spendy too if im not mistaken. Schlage is pretty good but the …

7.Re-key Locks Easily with Kwikset SmartKey | How to Re …

Url:https://www.kwikset.com/smartkey-security

14 hours ago Are Kwikset locks good? Schlage and Kwikset are two of the most popular lock manufacturers on the market. Both brands make excellent locks that homeowners can easily install, but Schlage locks tend to offer higher security and reliability and are trusted by big businesses. Can Kwikset SmartKey locks be bumped?

8.Are the Kwikset SmartKey locks as crap as everyone says …

Url:https://www.reddit.com/r/lockpicking/comments/j0ysgt/are_the_kwikset_smartkey_locks_as_crap_as/

21 hours ago 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.

9.Kwikset SmartKeys Vs. Regular Locks - biggerpockets.com

Url:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/84/topics/231087-kwikset-smartkeys-vs-regular-locks

23 hours ago

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