You’re standing at your front door, key in hand, and thinking about an upgrade. That old lock has been there since you moved in. Maybe longer. It still works, but is it really keeping your family safe? And with all these smart locks on the market now, you’re wondering if it’s time to make a change.
It’s a fair question. Both options have their fans. Both have their flaws. And picking the wrong one could leave your home more vulnerable than you realize.
So, which is actually better for security? Let’s walk through both lock installation options and figure out what makes sense for your situation.
Why Deadbolts Have Stood the Test of Time
Deadbolts have been protecting homes for over a century. There’s a reason they’re still the standard. When installed correctly, a quality deadbolt is extremely difficult to force open. The bolt extends deep into the door frame, creating a physical barrier that resists kicking, prying, and brute force attacks.
According to FBI crime data, about 34% of home burglaries happen through the front door. A solid deadbolt makes that entry point much harder to breach. No batteries to die. No Wi-Fi to fail. No software bugs to exploit. It just works.
Professional deadbolt installation gives you a reliable first line of defense. The lock sits there, doing its job, day after day, without needing updates or charging.
Some key advantages of deadbolts include:
- No dependence on electricity or internet
- Works during power outages
- Lower cost than most smart locks
- Proven physical strength against forced entry
- Simple and easy to use for everyone
For people who want dependable, no-fuss security, a traditional deadbolt remains a strong choice.
What Smart Locks Bring to the Table
Smart locks have changed how people think about home access. Forgot your keys at work? Just use your phone. Need to let the dog walker in while you’re at the office? Send them a temporary code. Want to know if your teenager actually came home on time? Check the activity log.
These features are genuinely useful. For busy families, rental property owners, or anyone who’s ever been locked out, the convenience factor is hard to ignore.
But convenience and security aren’t always the same thing.
A study from cybersecurity researchers found that some smart locks have serious vulnerabilities. Weak encryption, Bluetooth exploits, and even physical bypass methods have been documented. Cheaper models tend to cut corners, and even premium ones aren’t immune to digital threats.
That said, high-quality smart locks from trusted brands offer solid protection. Many now include physical deadbolt mechanisms alongside digital access. Professional smart lock installation helps make sure everything is configured correctly and working as intended.
Also read: Changing Locks vs Lock Rekeying in Philadelphia
Comparing the Two Side by Side
When it comes to physical strength, deadbolts still have an edge. A Grade 1 deadbolt can withstand significant force. It’s purely mechanical, which means there’s nothing to hack remotely.
Smart locks add layers of convenience but also introduce new potential failure points. If your Wi-Fi goes down, some features stop working. If the battery dies and you don’t have a backup key, you could end up locked out of your own home.
Here’s what smart locks offer that deadbolts can’t:
- Remote locking and unlocking from anywhere
- Activity logs showing who entered and when
- Temporary access codes for guests or service providers
- Integration with home security systems
- Instant alerts sent to your phone
For households with multiple family members, frequent guests, or rental situations, these features can be incredibly practical.
Which Option Is Right for Your Home
The answer really depends on how you live and what matters most to you.
If you value simplicity, reliability, and proven physical security, deadbolt installation is a smart move. You’ll have a lock that works no matter what, without apps, batteries, or connectivity concerns.
If you want modern convenience, remote access, and detailed control over who enters your home, smart lock installation might be the better fit. Just make sure you invest in a reputable product and have it set up by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Many homeowners now combine both. A smart lock with a built-in deadbolt mechanism gives you digital features backed by mechanical strength. It’s becoming a popular option for people who don’t want to choose between security and convenience.
Get The Best Locks Installed By The Locksmith Man Philadelphia
At The Locksmith Man Philadelphia, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners make this decision. We understand that every home is different, and what works for one family might not work for another.
Whether you need professional deadbolt installation or expert smart lock installation, our team handles it all. We only recommend products we trust, and we install everything with care and attention. No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just quality work from people who take your security seriously.
Your front door is the main barrier between your family and the outside world. Your kids sleep behind that door. Your valuables are inside. Every night, you trust that lock to do its job. If it fails, the consequences can be devastating.
That old lock might still turn, but is it really giving you the protection you need? Stop wondering. Stop worrying. Take action now before something forces you to.
Call The Locksmith Man Philadelphia today. Let’s find the right lock for your home and give your family the security they deserve.