Pros and Cons of App-Controlled Smart Locks

Traditional locks aren’t necessarily inconvenient — everyone knows how they work, and the function is simple. The problem arises when you lose a key or forget it or you don’t have a spare. Any trusted friends or family can’t enter unless you give them a key. All of these can range from mildly annoying to very problematic depending on the situation.

A lock controlled from your phone means that the ability to unlock your door is in your pocket as often as your phone is. You don’t have to fumble for your keys anymore or figure out an alternative if you left them behind. Some lock systems even have physical keys as a backup, so even if your phone fails you, you’ll be able to unlock your door.

Some systems have additional amenities like motion-sensor LED lights that turn on when you unlock your door.

As convenient as some smart locks are, they can experience difficulties. Certain systems might have limitations like being able to affect only deadbolts. Also, the door can be a factor; if the door doesn’t close all the way, the lock might not close entirely either, leaving the home less secure than it would be otherwise.

Technology, too, can have its downsides. If your phone is out of battery, you won’t be able to unlock your home without a backup key or help from someone else who has access. However, lots of systems keep these difficulties in mind and offer built-in backup systems.

Physicals keys can be lost, stolen, and copied, while physical locks can be broken and picked. Smart locks rely on you and your phone, which means that’s one less element to entrust your security to. While app-controlled locks can be subject to problems just like any other technology, they certainly won’t be in danger of being picked.

If you share your home or apartment, you won’t need to change all of your locks after a roommate moves away; and when someone moves in, you can teach them how to operate the app without worrying about the security of a physical key.

However, not even smart locks can prevent someone from breaking your door or window. Luckily, some systems come with cameras that can record the area in front of the door. In the event that you do suffer a break-in, your smart system can help identify the culprit.

Smart-lock systems will also let you choose how many people can use the system, so you don’t have to worry about someone getting in who shouldn’t.

One of the many benefits of growing and changing technology is the appearance. Smart technology can look almost futuristic with streamlined shapes and high-quality materials. Traditional locks aren’t unappealing by any means, but smart locks can add a certain flair to your home. These lock systems sometimes have customizable options, which means you can choose the color, style, and even size. If you’d rather minimize the appearance, that option can be made available.

However, some people don’t like the appearance of smart locks. They might not match the look of more traditional homes, and they can stick out where traditional locks are easy to overlook. Locks aren’t meant to be a statement piece, but some smart locks can be difficult to ignore. Some involve bulky keypads and ostentatious cameras, which not only always look great, but can also draw unwanted attention from potential burglars.

Luckily, many systems are designed with appearances in mind, and there are many options available, which means you can choose one you’re happy with.

Sometimes, unexpected things happen, and you need someone to access your home for you. Smart-lock systems will let you choose who can unlock your home, and it will keep track of who came in when and for how long. Even on the busiest days, the app’s memory will record everyone’s comings and goings if they unlocked the door, which can be really helpful in certain situations.

This also means that if you want to restrict someone’s access, you can do that easily. You won’t have to worry about them having a key or changing the locks; instead, it will simply be a matter of managing privileges through your mobile smart system.

For more information on smart app-controlled locks, contact us at Dixie Safe & Lock Service. Our trained locksmiths can provide a full evaluation of your home, give you tips for ways to improve lock security on any door of the house, and offer support for smart lock systems.