Keyless entry has evolved from luxury hotels to everyday homes. What was once a high-end security feature is now increasingly common in residential properties. But with keyless systems costing significantly more than traditional locks, the question remains: are they worth the investment?
The short answer is yes, for many homeowners. But it depends on your priorities. Keyless entry eliminates lost keys, provides better access control for guests, and offers security advantages over traditional locks. However, the higher upfront cost, battery maintenance, and potential technical issues mean it’s not the right choice for everyone.
Here’s what you need to know to make the right decision for your home.
Keyless Entry Systems: Are They Worth the Cost?
Here’s what to know about keyless entry system options, and why they could be a worthwhile option to protect your home.
The Real Cost of a Lock
If you ask yourself how much is too much to spend on a lock, imagine that the cost of your lock is equivalent to the cost of your entire home and its contents. All it takes for someone to gain access to everything you’ve built up in your home or apartment is to make their way through your front (or back) door lock system.
When weighing the pros and cons, nobody can afford to buy cheap locks or security systems. Cheaper security systems could mean that you’re leaving the door open for anyone. Having to cash in your savings money to replace stolen things is always more expensive than buying a proper lock to ensure your security.
The real cost of a lock means that you can never afford to buy just any lock.
Analog Locks Have Their Flaws
Take a second’s worth of a break from reading this article and open YouTube in another tab. Now type in the words, ‘lock picking tutorial’ and be amazed at how many results you’ll see on your screen. If you have a regular lock, you could have it unlocked in less than ten minutes by almost any person with access to the internet and a little bit of practice.
The majority of analog locks are easy to pick, and even easier to break into.
Unless you’re paying for a high-security door lock, we recommend exploring your options for a better lock.
Pros and Cons of Keyless Entry Systems
Pros:
- No more lost, stolen, or copied keys
- Assign unique codes to each family member, guest, or service provider and disable them when no longer needed
- No need to hide a spare key under the doormat where anyone can find it
- Monitor who enters and when through access logs on most systems
- Temporary codes for contractors, housekeepers, or guests without handing over a physical key
- Integrates with smart home devices, cameras, and security panels
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than a standard deadbolt, typically $150 to $300 for the lock itself plus installation
- Relies on battery power, which requires occasional replacement
- A forgotten PIN or dead battery without a backup plan can cause a lockout
- Some systems require WiFi or a smartphone, which adds a layer of dependency
- According to the Associated Locksmiths of America, smart locks are more convenient but not necessarily stronger than traditional locks in terms of physical resistance
What Does Keyless Entry Actually Cost?
The upfront cost of a keyless entry system is higher than a traditional deadbolt. A standard deadbolt runs under $50, while keyless lock systems typically range from $150 to $300 per unit before installation. Programming and professional installation add to that depending on the system.
However, traditional keys carry hidden long-term costs. Rekeying a lock runs $50 to $150 each time a key is lost or you need to change access. Over several years, those costs add up. Keyless systems eliminate rekeying entirely since you simply update or delete a code rather than replacing hardware.
For most homeowners, the investment pays for itself after two or three rekeying events that never have to happen.
What Happens If the Battery Dies?
Most residential keyless locks run on standard AA or 9-volt batteries and will alert you when power is getting low through a series of warning beeps or indicator lights. A good practice is to replace batteries once a year regardless of warnings.
Most keyless locks also include a physical key override as a backup. If the battery dies completely before you can replace it, the mechanical key gets you in. Some models also have an external battery contact on the outside of the lock that lets you temporarily power the device using a 9-volt battery pressed against the terminals.
The Danger of Keys
It’s not simply the old analog locks that are dangerous. Keys can also be just as unsafe.
Keys have individual codes printed on them, and it’s easy for someone to just pick up a duplicate of this number-coded key if they’ve ever seen what your house key looks like. Unlike keyless entry systems, physical keys can be lost, stolen, or left in places where people can find them. Modern keyless systems eliminate these risks by using encrypted digital codes, biometric access, or smartphone authentication. You can even set temporary access codes for guests or service providers without handing over a physical key.
Keyless Entry Isn’t Just for Cars—Your Home Deserves It Too
Keyless technology has become standard in modern vehicles, but it’s also transforming home security. Carl Jarl offers a range of smart lock and keyless entry solutions for residences, letting you enjoy:
- Remote access control via smartphone apps
- Custom PIN codes for family and guests
- Auto-locking and alerts for peace of mind
- Integration with video doorbells and cameras
With our professional installation and support, you can upgrade your home’s security without the hassle.
Carl Jarl Locksmiths in Omaha | Residential and Commercial Security Systems Omaha
Carl Jarl Locksmiths can help protect your commercial business assets by providing panic bars and exit locks, card access systems, and much more. We stand behind every lock we install and provide around-the-clock service, making sure your business is always protected.
Always use the services of a trusted local Locksmith/Home Security Company. Carl Jarl Locksmiths offers products and services to make your home safe and secure. Your Security is our top priority.
- We are licensed, bonded, and insured
- Provide immediate response
- We have a 24-hour locksmith dispatch center
- All our employees are background checked, wear uniforms, and arrive in our own identifiable service vehicles
Choose experience and peace of mind. Carl Jarl Locksmith’s prompt and dependable Locksmith Service is just a phone call away.
