Protection and safety are often at the forefront of a homeowner’s concerns. A trusted deadbolt is one of the most reassuring levels of protection for a house. It is an ancient technology proven to be effective in reducing unwanted entries and break-ins. With a good deadbolt in place, the door cannot be pushed open even if someone turns the knob. Schlage deadbolts are one of the industry leaders; here we review a popular Schlage deadbolt and compare it to a few others available on the market.
What Is a Schlage Deadbolt?
Schlage has been in the business of producing high quality and reliable door hardware for nearly 100 years. Deadbolts are designed to drive a locking mechanism into the door frame manually to prevent unwanted entry without the use of pins or springs. Schlage deadbolts range from the traditional single cylinder style all the way to a smart home integrated locking systems. The Schlage deadbolt we are looking at here is a Camelot style touch deadbolt. A touch deadbolt is one that uses a touchscreen to enter a key code that can be used in place of a key to unlock a door.
Product Specs
Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt with Camelot Trim Satin Nickel (BE479 CAM 619)
The Schlage deadbolt we reviewed is the Schlage Touch which is a traditional Camelot style deadbolt with some new security twists. It is completely keyless and uses a numeric touchscreen to operate the standard keypad lock. Once the access code is entered the deadbolt has to be manually engaged. It lacks alarms, automatic features, or smart home integrations but is a strong and beautiful digital security lock.
Schlage is well known for security and this lock meets ANSI commercial standards and is certified commercial Grade 2 which is more than sufficient for home use. It is smudge and fingerprint-resistant, will work in the rain or with gloves, and has a built-in LED illumination light for the number pad. A 9V battery provides the power for this Schlage deadbolt to work for 24,000 hours or 2 years with normal use.
The touchscreen fits flush to the door and include a numeric pad, low battery icon, and programming mode icon. Programming mode is engaged when you are resetting codes, which can be done easily and as needed. The lock comes with two 4-digit codes that are unique to your lock, but it allows you to store up to 19 additional customized codes. Give a different code to your dog walker then you do your family.
How We Reviewed
This Schlage deadbolt installs indoors ranging in thickness from 1 ⅜ inch to 1 ¾ inch and extends to 2 ½ inches with a thick door extender kit. The exterior deadbolt dimensions are 3 inches x 5.4 inches x 5.2 inches. It is 100 percent pick proof, 100 percent bump proof, and integrates a (new) anti-drill plate that prevents burglars from drilling past the keypad. The Schlage deadbolt excels at being a high quality, secure, safe touchpad lock.
Overall Price Range of the Best Deadbolt
Pricing is variable for home deadbolts. They are available for as little as $5 and as much as many hundred. The products we reviewed ranged in price from $15 USD to $85 USD, and the specific Schlage Deadbolt reviewed here is available on Amazon for about $80 USD.
What We Reviewed
We picked a few similar products available on the market to see how they compare to the Schlage Deadbolt we reviewed. Specifically, for each deadbolt we wanted to look at the price, ease of installation, re-keying or re-coding options, how much protection each offers, and the warranty.
- Schlage Deadbolt
- Keyless Deadbolt
- Mortise Deadbolt
- Kwikset Single Cylinder
Schlage Deadbolt
Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt with Camelot Trim Satin Nickel (BE479 CAM 619)
- Hands-free voice control requires Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter and Alexa device (sold individually)
- Free iOS and Android smartphone app lets you manage codes, set schedules and view usage history
- Lock and unlock from anywhere by pairing with the Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter (sold separately)
- Pair with Apple HomeKit devices to use with iOS and Siri voice control only
- Secure encryption.Door thickness range: 1 3/8 inch to 1 3/4 inch; thick door kit extends 1 7/8inch to 2 1/4 inch
Ease of Installation
★★★★★ 5/5
Installation is easy and takes just minutes. If replacing an existing deadbolt, the space for the old deadbolt can be used for your new Schlage deadbolt.
Resetting Codes and Keys
★★★★★ 5/5
Resetting the codes on this Schlage deadbolt is easy to do on your own with no complicated disassembly or reassembly. It will allow up to nineteen different codes to be used. If you do not wish to use the custom code options, the deadbolt comes with two preset and unique codes.
Protection
★★★★★ 5/5
Security features include the lack of a traditional key which prevents bumping. Instead, use the present and unique digital codes or create and change your own security codes that can be retired when they are no longer needed. The surface is fingerprint and smudge proof so no one can see on which numbers your fingers landed. Schlage deadbolts now integrate an anti-drill plate that prevents burglars from drilling past the keypad to get to internal mechanisms. This lock meets ANSI standards to be certified as commercial Grade 2.
Warranty
★★★★★ 5/5
The Schlage deadbolt comes with a limited lifetime mechanical warranty, limited lifetime finish warranty, and a 3-year warranty on the electronics. Essentially, this means a 3-year warranty as the deadbolt will not work at all if the electronics are faulty.
Pros
- Easy installation
- LED illuminated keypad
- Long battery life (two-years)
- Multiple codes compatible
- Codes are easy to change
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- Secured against lock picking or bumping
- Up to 19 access codes
Cons
- Three-year electronics warranty
- No automatic locking action
- Buttons show wear over time
- No built-in alarm
- No smart lock features
Keyless Deadbolt
M210AB Mechanical, Keyless Deadbolt
- Mechanical, keyless push-button lock
- adjustable deadbolt
- Easy programmable code
- Lifetime Warranty
- FREE EZ mounting platine included
Features
A keyless deadbolt is designed to use a method other than a key to lock and unlock the door. Although some new technology is integrating smartphone or bio identity into locks, most keyless deadbolts are unlocked using a numerical keypad. The one we are considering here is the Lockeye M210AB Mechanical Keyless Deadbolt, a mechanical, push-button, keyless lock that has a bolt turn on the interior side and a keypad on the exterior side.
It will work in all standard doors, and with an available extension kit, it will accommodate doors up to 5 inches thick. This model comes in several colors including jet black, satin nickel, bright brass, white, satin chrome, antique bronze, and oil rubbed bronze. Lockeye also offers a marine grade finish for homes near the shore or other saltwater bodies that can cause extra corrosion.
This lock contains a mechanical tumbler and is not reliant on electricity or batteries. It can be coded with security codes ranging in length from two to 6 numbers. It is important to note that the numerical codes are not sequentially dependent and to change them the entire door lock must be disassembled.
Ease of Installation
★★★★★ 4/5
Traditional deadbolts are the simplest to install and the Lockeye adds a level of complexity in installation. However, with some basic mechanical skill, a careful review of the instructions and time, most people will install this deadbolt on their own. Please note you will want to set your desired numerical unlocking code before installation; changing the code requires disassembly.
Resetting Codes and Keys
★★★★★ 3/5
Resetting the code for the Lockeye deadbolt requires taking the deadbolt off the door and taking it apart. Then the code is set via small pins, slots, and wheels which require good eyesight or magnifying glasses. It is unfortunately difficult and cumbersome. However, the codes can be reset which is important if you loan your code out to someone you’d rather not have it anymore.
Protection
★★★★★ 2/5
The deadbolt itself in the Lockeye suffices for keeping a door solidly closed from intruders. Unfortunately, protection is diminished because of the code set up of the lock. The numerical code used to secure and unlock the deadbolt is a two to six number code which does not depend on the sequence of the numbers. If you choose your birthday of 0504 as your code, 0054 will also work and so will 5004. This reduces the security level of the keyless lock significantly.
Warranty
★★★★★ 4/5
The Lockey keyless deadbolt comes with a Lifetime Mechanical Warranty, which covers manufacturer defects.
Pros
- Keyless means no keys to keep track of
Cons
- Changing code is difficult
- Codes are not secure
- Included instructions insufficient
- High-end price for a moderate product
Mortise Deadbolt
Mortise Lock Entry Lockset Deadbolt for residential Commercial Backset
- Mortise Lockset – Solid Brass Bolt With Extra Security.
- 1-1/8″ 5 pin ease to rekey Schlage SC1 key way cylinder with 2 keys.
- Easy To Install – Screwless knobs and plate.
- Edge faceplate 1″ X 7-5/8″ and 2-1/2″ backset and 1″ deadbolt.
- Exterior plate 2-3/4″ X 10″ , Interier plate 2-1/4″ X 7″.
Features
Mortise locks are set within the door itself rather than on top. The Mortise Lock Entry Deadbolt is a solid brass lock that combines the deadbolt with the doorknob on one plate. It comes available in several opening configurations including right hand, left hand, right-hand reverse, and left-hand reverse. Installation is easy with screwless plate and knobs if the door is pre-cut and ready. Locksmiths can provide re-keying as needed with a 1-1/8 inch 5 pin ease to re-key the Schlage SC1 keyway cylinder.
Ease of Installation
★★★★★ 4/5
Installation is fairly easy with this mortise lock. It comes with screwless knobs and plate ready for a pre-cut door. Measure the existing door hole for a match. The exterior plate is 2-3/4 inch X 10 inch and the interior plate is 2-1/4 inch X 7 inch. The edge faceplate is 1 inch X 7-5/8 inch witha 2-1/2 inch backset and it has a 1-inch deadbolt.
Resetting Codes and Keys
★★★★★ 4/5
Re-keying this Mortise Lock Entry Lockset Deadbolt requires a locksmith but can also be done using a Schlage SC1 keyway cylinder and a 1-1/8 inch 5 pin ease.
Protection
★★★★★ 5/5
Mortise locks are used by most commercial entities. This one-piece knob and deadbolt back has a plate design that is difficult to remove, pick, or damage—all of which increase security.
Warranty
★★★★★ 5/5
This Mortise Lock Entry Lockset Deadbolt has a lifetime warranty on mechanical parts but not cosmetics.
Pros
- Popular lock type
- Secure locking deadbolt
- Can be re-keyed by a locksmith
- Any door hand and direction compatible
Cons
- High priced
- Locksmith required for re-key
Kwikset Single Cylinder
Kwikset Single Cylinder Deadbolt with SmartKey, Satin Nickel Finish
- Keyed entry deadbolt with a traditional Colonial design for an exterior door; easy installation in just minutes with a screw driver
- For use on exterior doors where a deadbolt on one side and keyed entry and security is needed
- Features SmartKey Security- Re-key your lock in 3 easy steps; Compatible with Kwikset KW1 Keyway
- Features adjustable latch to fit all standard door preparations; exposed screws on the interior face
- Side locking bar technology offers improved security by protecting against lock bumping, an attack technique used to defeat conventional pin & tumbler locks
Features
The Kwikset Single Cylinder is a classic, traditional deadbolt colonial design with some added security and keying features. It has a keyed entry on the outside and bolt turn on the inside and has technology integrated that protects against lock bumping, a break in technique that uses a special key to open traditional pin and tumbler locks. It is also resistant to kick-in, picking, sawing, and drilling.
Their deadbolt can be re-keyed by the homeowner thanks to SmartKey technology, fully compatible with the Kwikset KW1 Keyway, which allows for re-keying in just a few steps. The Kwikset Single Cylinder lock comes in four color patterns; Satin Nickel, Polished Brass, Venetian Bronze, and Satin Chrome. It installs in just minutes with a screwdriver. It will fit any standard door with an adjustable latch and exposed screws on the interior face.
Ease of Installation
★★★★★ 5/5
Users can complete installation with a screwdriver and it is a fairly straightforward process with exposed screws on the interior face. The deadbolt will fit any standard door because of the adjustable latch.
Resetting Codes and Keys
★★★★★ 4/5
One of the primary selling points of this deadbolt is its integration of SmartKey technology which allows the user to re-key the lock themselves. Re-keying is a simple process that users can complete in just a few steps thanks to Kwikset polished self re-keying technology. Some actual users have expressed difficulty with the process which is the only reason we gave 4 instead of 5 stars.
Protection
★★★★★ 5/5
Kwikset Single Cylinder deadbolts do good work of protecting a home with bump-proof technology and a tough lock that is pick resistant, kick-in resistant, drill resistant, and saw-resistant.
Warranty
★★★★★ 5/5
The Kwikset Single Cylinder comes with a lifetime mechanical warranty and a lifetime finish warranty against material and workmanship. The Kwikset company will refund the purchase price or replace the deadbolt or if there is an issue.
Pros
- Reliable brand
- Secure protection
- SmartKey technology for self re-keying
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Not compatible with all SmartKey locks
Conclusion
There are many options for deadbolts, and for the keyless numeric style, the Schlage deadbolt will not disappoint. It is a very secure lock, easily customizable with security codes that can be programmed and changed as needed, and easy to self install. The only potential downsides we note is that the electronics of the lock only carry a 3-year warranty. Over time and a lot of use, the most often used numbers may show wear. Overall, we are happy with this Schlage deadbolt and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
William is a tech buff and former corporate security officer turned cybercrime analyst. Computers have few secrets left for him, but home security and alarm systems… Well, those have plenty of secrets for their users, which William is now uncovering and explaining. His articles on home security helped many people take the matter seriously, invest in highly performing systems, and avoid becoming victims of burglaries.
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