Choosing the right lock for your home or business is a decision that combines safety, convenience, and aesthetics. Two of the most popular brands today are Schlage and Kwikset. Both have a long history of providing reliable security solutions, but between Schlage vs Kwikset, which is the best option to go for?
This blog post will compare Schlage and Kwikset, examining their origins, product offerings, and key features. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for a lock upgrade or a business owner seeking the best security for your premises, this guide aims to help you make an informed decision.
So, let’s dive into the world of locks and keys and explore the Schlage vs Kwikset debate in detail.
Schlage vs Kwikset: A Quick Comparison
Schlage, founded in 1920, is a trusted name in the lock industry, known for its advanced security products and innovative lock portfolios. On the other hand, Kwikset, a leading residential lock manufacturer since 1946, is recognized for its commitment to safety and diverse range of innovative security solutions.
Hence, choosing a lock system between the two can be challenging. But not to worry, as we have compared both of them on various factors below:
1. Material Quality & Finish
Schlage
Schlage is known for its high-quality materials and premium finishes. The company uses top-notch materials in the construction of its products, ensuring that they can withstand wear and tear over time. Schlage locks are also recognized for their security features, with many models offering pick-resistant and bump-proof technology.
The company offers a wide range of finishes, from Antique Brass that gives a cozy and rustic feel, to Satin Nickel that provides a sleek and modern look. Schlage’s premium quality hardware finishes are even designed to coordinate with your plumbing and lighting, allowing you to create a cohesive look throughout your home.
Kwikset
Kwikset, on the other hand, offers affordability with solid materials and a range of finish options. While it has good durability and design diversity, its smart lock integration might need to be improved. Kwikset is known for its range of finishes with good quality materials.
The company designs hardware solutions for effortless living and peace of mind, offering a complete line of products including deadbolts, remote door locks, electronic keyless locks, decorative door knobs, door levers, and handlesets. Kwikset’s finishes are designed to complement any decor style, making it a versatile choice for homeowners.
2. Key Control Options
Schlage
Schlage offers a variety of key control options. The company has developed innovative security solutions for over 90 years, providing key systems, cylinders, and keys for various applications. Schlage’s key systems offer control of key blank distribution through highly enforceable key control. They also provide a custom Programming Code that allows you to manage your User Codes.
If you can’t remember your custom Programming Code, you can perform a factory reset to restore the default code. This also restores the default User Codes. Schlage’s key control options are designed to provide maximum security and convenience.
Kwikset
Kwikset, on the other hand, offers SmartKey Security, which allows you to re-key your lock yourself in seconds. This feature is designed with the understanding that the person who has your key today may not be the same person you want to have your key tomorrow.
Kwikset’s SC1 Keyway works with all standard SmartKey door locks and allows up to 100,000 key combinations. In addition to delivering one-key convenience, the SC1 technology’s patented SmartKey Security Technology protects against common break-in methods including lock picking and lock bumping.
3. Average Price
Schlage
Schlage locks are known for their superior security features, durable materials, tight tolerances, great security pins, and robust deadbolt screws. These factors contribute to Schlage locks being more expensive than Kwikset. For instance, the Schlage L9050 Office/Entry Mortise Lock is priced around $761.
Kwikset
Kwikset locks, on the other hand, are generally more affordable while still offering good quality. Kwikset is also notably more affordable than smart locks from competitors like Schlage, August, and Yale. However, the exact price can vary based on the specific model and retailer.
4. Installation
Schlage
Schlage locks are known for their easy installation process. The company provides step-by-step instructions for the installation of their deadbolts, door locks, and other hardware. The general steps to install a Schlage lock include preparing the door, checking the measurements, removing the existing deadbolt, installing the latch, setting up the strike plate, installing the exterior assembly, and finally, installing the interior cover.
Kwikset
Kwikset locks also offer an easy installation process. The company provides comprehensive guides and videos to assist with the installation of their products. The general steps to install a Kwikset lock include preparing the door, checking the measurements, removing the existing deadbolt, installing the latch, setting up the strike plate, installing the exterior keypad and mounting plate, and finally, installing the interior cover.
5. Smart Home Compatibility
Schlage
Schlage locks offer broad compatibility with a range of smart home ecosystems. The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt is a WiFi door lock combining all the best features of their original WiFi smart lock and Schlage Home app with even more ways to connect to your smart home.
Now compatible with Apple Watch, HomeKit, and other favorite devices, the Schlage Encode Plus lock is changing the way you protect what matters most. The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt connects you to your home from anywhere. With built-in WiFi, the Schlage Encode lock connects directly to your home’s WiFi network – no adapters or accessories are required.
Kwikset
Kwikset locks are designed to work seamlessly with various smart home ecosystems. Kwikset offers Smart Locks with Home Connect technology that allows you to access your lock from anywhere. Kwikset’s Smart Locks are compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings, among others.
Kwikset also offers the Premis HomeKit-enabled Smart Lock, which puts Apple’s connected home controls to good use, including Siri voice controls. It also does an outstanding job with user management, letting you create user-specific, time-sensitive entry codes without ever charging you a fee.
6. Durability & Design Options
Schlage
Schlage locks are known for their exceptional durability and premium finishes. The company uses high-quality materials in the construction of its products, ensuring they can withstand wear and tear over time. Schlage locks are also recognized for their security features, with many models offering pick-resistant and bump-proof technology.
The company offers a wide range of finishes, from Antique Brass that gives a cozy and rustic feel, to Satin Nickel that provides a sleek and modern look. Schlage’s premium quality hardware finishes are even designed to coordinate with your plumbing and lighting, allowing you to create a cohesive look throughout your home.
Kwikset
Kwikset locks, on the other hand, offer durability with solid materials and a range of finish options. Kwikset is known for its range of finishes with good quality materials. The company designs hardware solutions for effortless living and peace of mind, offering a complete line of products including deadbolts, remote door locks, electronic keyless locks, decorative door knobs, door levers, and handlesets.
Kwikset’s finishes are designed to complement any decor style, making it a versatile choice for homeowners. Kwikset locks and deadbolts are evaluated for their ability to withstand impact. The company’s products are tested to determine if they are capable of enduring excessive force – from a possible intruder, for example. Kwikset hardware endures extreme physical force prior to reaching approval.
7. Smart Lock Integration
Schlage
Schlage smart locks offer broad compatibility with various smart home ecosystems. The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt are examples of their smart locks that integrate with home automation systems and voice assistants.
Kwikset
Kwikset smart locks are designed to work seamlessly with various smart home ecosystems. They offer locks that integrate with technologies like Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee, and Z-Wave, and are compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Accessibility Features
Schlage
Schlage locks are designed with accessibility in mind. Some models feature user-friendly accessibility options. For instance, Schlage features Schlage Connect, which works with Siri, can operate the door remotely, and enhances your security as it is compatible with other smart home devices.
Kwikset
Kwikset is committed to ensuring that their products are accessible to everyone. They continuously seek to enhance their products and increase the accessibility of their digital content for all customers. Kwikset locks feature convenient keyless entry and customizable user codes, providing an accessible and user-friendly experience.
8. Ease of Re-keying
Schlage
Re-keying a Schlage lock involves a few key steps. By using a rekeying kit specifically designed for Schlage locks, you can easily change the combination of the lock to a new key. The process requires expertise, particularly when it involves rekeying multiple products. Detailed, easy-to-follow instructions for rekeying any Schlage lock cylinder are provided by the company.
Kwikset
Kwikset’s SmartKey Security allows you to re-key your lock yourself in seconds. The process involves preparing your door, inserting the current key, rotating it, inserting and removing the SmartKey tool, and finally inserting the new key. This simple process makes re-keying Kwikset locks straightforward and user-friendly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Schlage and Kwikset offer a variety of locks with unique features. Your choice between Schlage vs Kwikset will ultimately depend on your specific needs, budget, and preference for certain features. Whether you prioritize smart home compatibility, ease of re-keying, or material quality, both brands have options that could be a perfect fit for your home or business. Remember, the right lock is the one that best secures your property and fits your lifestyle.