Like any security system, deadbolts vary in terms of size, complexity, and additional features (such as the ability to ’re-key’ if you lose your main key or ‘smart’ capabilities like unlocking from your phone). Here is a list of our top picks, organized by overall best features and the best bang for your buck. Most people prefer the simplicity of a single-cylinder deadbolt. Therefore, the best lock you should look at is Prime-Line’s single-cylinder SE 15361 Segal Deadbolt. This deadbolt sticks to a traditional, no-frills design, so you don’t have to worry about a complicated installation. The high-strength bronze alloy will also keep the deadbolt protected from outside abuse. Mount this lock in any 1-⅜ to 2-⅜-inch wood or metal door. If you are looking for extra security, the lock’s jimmy-proof design will prevent forced entry using a traditional lock pick. The lock comes with two keys to share with family members if you use it on an exterior door. Price at time of publish: $57 If you happen to lose your keys a lot, the lock’s re-key feature will get you going again by following a simple set of instructions to prepare a new key. This will prevent replacing the entire lock if you lose the key. Since it is easy to install on various doors, this lock also makes for a great extra layer of security on doors with existing locks. Add this as a second lock for added peace of mind when necessary. Price at time of publish: $17 The deadbolt includes a 1-inch long bolt that will fit doors between 1-⅜ to 1-¾ inches thick. A four-way latch fits on the other side of the door for additional protection. Its anti-pry shield can help you protect the door from the rear side, ensuring no one can jimmy the bolt open from the space between the door and frame. Price at time of publish: $38 The deadlock’s design includes a couple of additional features to prevent tampering. A tamper-resistant shutter guard will keep people from messing with the bolt or separating the lock from the door. The cross-bolt design will also offer extra resistance from traditional deadbolts since it connects to a more solid metal on the latch side. Price at time of publish: $22 The lock can resist lock picking, drilling, and forceful shoves using a combination of its 1-inch deadbolt, anti-pry shield, and all-around solid construction. The internal locking pins are made of steel which is perfect for standing up to saws and other small, slender tools that can fit through the cracks. Be sure to keep your keys for this one around. Price at time of publish: $24 When you lose or don’t want to use the key, a keypad is located front and center on the outside. The keys are made of silicone, so they will resist wearing out over time. There is also a low power indicator for when the battery needs to be replaced. Rest assured that even when there is no power, the deadbolt will remain locked. Installing and using the lock takes just a few minutes to set up a custom key code. If you want to use it right away, the keypad comes with two pre-programmed codes as well. Price at time of publish: $132 The smart features begin with a touchscreen located right on the lock, allowing you to input key codes from this screen. For homes with automation systems, you can hook it up to lock or unlock the door from your phone. This is a good feature if you want to control access to your home while your children or pets are by themselves. Finally, the lock includes a built-in alarm, so you or your neighbors will know when someone is trying to break in through tampering. Price at time of publish: $485 The lock skips any need for keys and is for rooms where people want to lock themselves in. Since you can only lock it from the knob side, it is difficult to lock and forget. The 1-inch bolt and tamper resistance features will still provide the same ANSI Grade 3 security that has become the standard level of protection in the industry. Price at time of publish: $10
Complexity
Some deadbolts are simple, effective locks. Others are a bit more complex. For example, the Brinks 2717-109 Single Cylinder lock offers a four-way inner latch and an anti-pry shield, and the Prime-Line U 9970 features a tamper-resistant shutter guard. Complexity is a matter of preference and convenience. If you prefer simple but effective, going with something uncomplicated makes the most sense. However, if you’re prone to losing keys or looking for higher security, something more complex may be a more advantageous buy.
Additional Features
If you’re prone to losing your keys, the Kwikset 660 Deadbolt comes with a ’re-keying’ feature that lets you create a new key if your original gets lost. Other models, like the Schlage Camelot Trim Keypad Deadbolt, feature a built-in keypad, or the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Camelot Trim that’s fully “Smart” can be synced with a phone to lock even when you’re not at home.
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Austin Fracchia is a freelance writer specializing in home design, DIY projects, and technology. His work has appeared in The Drive, Best Reviews, WikiHow, and others. Additional reporting was done by Marisa Donnelly, a writer and editor with over 12 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Huffington Post, Bustle, BossBabe, Thought Catalog, and more.
From there, if your deadbolt requires anything additional like a touchscreen system, for example, you’ll set up those codes or sync passwords and connections with your phone.
