6 Best Keypad Door Locks for Home or Commercial Business

All keypad locks support entry by putting in a code, but although convenient, that’s not the only option you should be considering. People lose or forget their passcodes, and writing them down is an invitation for trouble. That’s why many modern keypad locks still have traditional keyholes – the good old key remains useful and relevant, even more so if the lock is constructed in a way that prevents bumping.

Fingerprint identification is even faster than typing in the shortest code, and when it works properly it bumps the lock’s security up considerably. The technology isn’t all that expensive anymore either, so consider investing in a lock that features it, especially for business use.

As it’s your primary way of communicating with the lock, you’ll want to make sure that its keypad is up to the task. Whether physical or touch-operated, the keys need to be clearly visible and big enough to be pressed comfortably. Lighting is a must when you’re entering after dark, and the keys need to be robust enough to take many years’ worth of wear without becoming unrecognizable.

What good is an 8-digit PIN if someone who’s observing you can figure it out right away? Even inexpensive locks like the YL 99 have ways of fooling intruders, so go for a lock that either has the option of sneaking your real code into a larger stream of numbers or one that makes the combination you’re putting in harder to discern.

People sometimes forget to lock their door with a physical key, so it stands to reason that forgetting to turn a keyless lock on is even more likely. An autolock toggle allows you to switch between free passage when higher traffic is expected, and restricted access whenever needed. Find out how long it takes for the autolock to activate and pick a model that’s reasonably quick about it.

The more people have access to the lock, the more likely it is that its security can be compromised. That’s why it’s imperative for your lock to have multiple user levels and an audit trail if it is used in a business environment. Even for home use, it’s a good idea to have a lock which you can activate with temporary codes that can easily be disabled once they’re no longer needed.

Most keypad locks carry their own power source in the form of a battery, so they’ll remain active even during a power outage. On the other hand, batteries will stop working after a time, which can turn out to be a serious problem if the lock is keyless. Every battery-powered lock should have a clear visual or auditory indicator that the batteries are running low, and you should take care to listen to its warnings.

Weather resistance is a major plus in keypad door locks’ favor since it allows you to set them up in harsh environments subject to snow, rainfall, or dust. Do keep in mind that some models should not be set up in direct sunlight in spite of this, so consult the manual to see whether your chosen lock can withstand it.