Residential Safes: Mechanical or Electronic Locks

A high-quality safe is an important addition in a residential building. It is valuable in keeping items such as guns, monetary assets, jewellery and special documents secure. You can choose your ideal safe depending on the level of security required and potential hazards. One of the critical aspects to evaluate before buying a safe is the type of lock. The common products are electronic and mechanical locks, but the process of selecting the ideal one can still be daunting. Here is a short comparison of the two to help you choose the best lock for your safe.

Mechanical Lock

A standard mechanical lock consists of a dial which is rotated during operation. The internal system consists of three discs which must be aligned with pre-set numbers to form the combination lock code. This type of locking mechanism is old-fashioned but effective for a residential safe. The lack of electrical components reduces the risk of breakdown and consequently, you will enjoy a longer service life. Additionally, you can access the safe at all times, because the lock does not rely on main power or batteries.

On the other hand, mechanical locks require manual relocking after access, which is time-consuming. If you leave the combination dials in place, your safe will be open. The internal tumblers in a mechanical lock will be misaligned with time, so you will need to employ a locksmith for regular maintenance. Moreover, you will need an expert to help you modify the unlocking code.

Electronic Lock

An electronic lock consists of an internal circuit and a keypad. You will need to input a numeric code through the keypad, and the circuit will determine whether the sequence is correct. The right combination will open the lock while successive wrong codes will activate shutdown or an alarm, depending on the safe settings. This mechanism is efficient in terms of speed and modifying the combination sequence. Additionally, the keypad can be backlit to enable opening in the dark. Unfortunately, the lock is vulnerable to electrical malfunctions and the lifespan is relatively short.

The Verdict

Both electronic and mechanical locks have advantages and drawbacks, so you should also consider preference and personal convenience. In addition, you should check the warranty provided for the safes and the locks. Purchase a safe that provides a repair or replacement warranty cover for the locks in case of premature damage.

You should request a recommendation from your locksmith, since they are knowledgeable in the security industry. This will help you avoid low-quality safes that will compromise your assets.