Should You Install a Smart Keypad Lock? An Honest Guide for Greater Boston Homeowners

Smart locks and electronic keypad locks have become increasingly popular in recent years — and for good reason. The convenience of keyless entry, temporary access codes, and never being locked out due to a lost key is genuinely appealing. But before you rush out and buy the first shiny keypad lock you find online, there are a few important things every homeowner should understand.

Convenience — Yes. Automatically More Secure — Not Necessarily.

One of the most common misconceptions about smart and electronic keypad locks is that they are automatically more secure than traditional mechanical locks. This simply isn't true.

Security depends on the quality of the lock — not whether it runs on batteries or a key. A high-quality traditional deadbolt from a reputable brand will be much more secure than a poorly made electronic lock. And a cheap electronic keypad lock — no matter how sleek it looks on the shelf — may offer little real protection against a determined intruder.

The lock market, especially online, is flooded with attractively priced electronic locks that look impressive but are made with low-grade materials, weak cylinders, and unreliable electronics. These locks may fail or simply wear out far sooner than a well-made mechanical lock would.

Choosing the Right Lock Matters

At MassBay Lock & Key, we primarily install Schlage and Kwikset smart and electronic keypad locks — two of the most trusted names in the lock industry with a long track record of quality and reliability. Keypad locks are available in both deadbolt and door lever form, so you can choose whichever option better suits your door and preferences.

Here's what installing a smart lock can offer — keep in mind that even budget models will advertise these same features, but whether they deliver on them reliably over time is a different story:

Keyless entry and one less thing to carry. Enter your home with a code instead of a physical key. No more fumbling for keys with groceries in hand, in the dark, or after a run. For many people — especially those who travel frequently, work from home, exercise outdoors, or often have their hands full — not needing to carry a key on a daily basis is a genuine quality of life improvement.

Temporary access codes — no need to share a physical key. Need to let someone in while you're away? Give a contractor, house sitter, tenant or guest a temporary code that you can delete when no longer needed. Families with school-age children will also appreciate that kids can enter the home independently without carrying a key that can be lost or forgotten. Most electronic locks still include a backup key for the owner — but when granting access to others, you share a code instead of a key. No risk of keys not being returned or unauthorized copies being made.

Remote access management. Some smart lock models also allow you to manage access remotely from your phone — lock or unlock your door, create or delete codes, and monitor entry activity from anywhere (provided your lock is connected to your home Wi-Fi and your phone has an internet connection). This feature is particularly useful when you need to let someone in unexpectedly or want to confirm your door is locked while traveling. Keep in mind that this functionality is available on select models only — not every electronic keypad lock includes it.

When a Smart Lock Might Not Be the Right Choice

Smart and electronic locks are not the right solution for every situation. Here are cases where a traditional lock may serve you better:

Simplicity and low maintenance. There are no batteries and no electronics inside a mechanical lock. There is nothing to update, or troubleshoot. A high-quality mechanical lock simply works, year after year, without any upkeep beyond occasional lubrication.

Budget. A high- quality smart lock costs more than a high- quality traditional lock. If budget is a concern, investing in a premium mechanical lock will serve you better than buying a cheap electronic alternative.

Our Honest Advice — Ask Before You Buy

If you're considering a smart or electronic keypad lock and aren't sure which model is right for your door, your lifestyle, and your security needs — ask a locksmith for advice. We see the results of both good and poor lock choices every day, and we're happy to guide you in the right direction.

Our goal is to recommend the lock that best meets your specific needs and expectations — whether that's a smart lock, a traditional deadbolt, or a combination of both.

MassBay Lock & Key — Serving Greater Boston

We install and service smart keypad locks across Newton, Brookline, Cambridge, Wellesley, Waltham, Watertown, Belmont, Lexington, Bedford, Needham, Dedham, Canton, Quincy, Milton, Natick, Framingham, and surrounding Greater Boston communities.

Have questions about smart locks or need help choosing the right option for your home? Call or text us directly — you'll speak with a locksmith, not a call center.

Call or text: 857.206.2645 Monday–Friday 7am–7pm | Saturday 8am–5pm