Confused About Lock Types?

by Shannon Brown April 01, 2016

Digital Locks

Easy to use, electronic digital locks allow you to choose your own combination and change it at any time. Batteries are usually accessed through the outside of your safe to eliminate worries about getting locked out if the batteries die. Easy to replace! The downside: with electronics, there’s always the possibility of malfunction.This can be offset by buying a safe that comes with a key or power override.

Combination Locks

Dial style locks remain ideal for owners who do not want to worry about electronics failing, or changing batteries. Perhaps you will feel more secure with this type. The downside is they are not as easy to use as digital keypads above, and you must call a locksmith if you wish change the pre-set combination.

Key locks 

Some safes come with key locks which offer ease of use and no electronics to fail.  Tubular style is most often used as they are not easily replicated.  For accountability and extra security look for dual key lock safes.   

Biometric/Fingerprint Locks

Biometric information cannot be lost or misplaced. It also cannot be passed along to an individual nefariously or accidentally. This makes this type of access control much more secure than one that relies upon physical keys or a code. Physical keys or code can be given or accidentally distributed to anyone. The same is not true of biometric data, which is unique to every single person from whom it is recorded. You should keep in mind that these locks do not require any code, as they only unlock on biometric recognition. The downside to this is that in case of power failure, the lock cannot be opened. To avoid this unpleasant situation, you should make sure you have a backup system such as a key or a an additional battery and a keypad to deal with any eventuality.