How Secure Are Kwikset SmartKey Locks?

Locks with SmartKey Security are notable for resisting advanced break-in techniques, including lock picking, bumping, and drilling. But could this be the case with Kwikset SmartKey locks?

In this article, we review some top Kwikset SmartKey locks to see if they can secure your home or business.

First off, a quick answer to whether Kwikset SmartKey locks are secure is yes. This is because they feature the SmartKey Security that protects against break-in methods that can overcome traditional pin and tumbler locks.

More so, most Kwikset SmartKey locks are ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certified, making them the ideal candidates for both commercial and residential properties.

But don’t take my word for it. Let’s take a closer look at some top Kwikset SmartKey locks and their security features.

Top Best Kwikset SmartKey (Cylinder) Locks: Reviews

1. Kwikset 98180-001 Single Cylinder Door Lock

How Secure Are Kwikset SmartKey Locks

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As you’d expect, this Kwikset cylinder lock features the SmartKey Security, and it is BHMA Grade 1 certified.

Being a Grade 1 lock means it’s been tested and confirmed to withstand forced entry attempts. Of course, Grade 1 locks as considered the toughest and recommended for commercial properties.

On the other hand, it features the SmartKey Security, meaning it’s somewhat immune to lock picking, drilling, and bumping.

Another feature of the SmartKey Security is easy rekeying. So you can easily rekey this door lock in less time, and this adds to its security status.

What’s more, the lock is secure—a good fit for commercial and residential doors.

It’s suitable for both right and left-handed doors

2. Kwikset 98180-003 Camino Single Cylinder Lock

How to Reset Kwikset SmartKey Lock

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This is another sturdy Kwikset lock with advanced security features. Yes, it features the SmartKey Security and is rated Grade 1 by ANSI/BHMA.

You already know Grade 1 locks offer the best for front doors in residential and commercial properties, and that’s what you’d get from this Kwikset lock.

The lock comes with a matching handle set and reversible interior lever that fits both right and left-handed doors (if that makes sense to you).

More so, it features a latch with an adjustable backset of 2-3/8 inches to 2-3/4 inches—fits all standard doors.

3. Kwikset 98001-098 Ashfield Single Cylinder Handleset

Are Kwikset SmartKey Locks Safe

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Unlike the other two locks above, Kwikset 98001-098 is a Grade 2 lock—as per ANSI/BHMA ratings.

As a Grade 2 lock, it’s considered a low-grade commercial lock and high-security residential lock. However, it may well not be the best for front doors.

Even so, it features the SmartKey Security, meaning it could protect against forced entry. Of course, the SmartKey Security has BumpGuard and anti-pick features, and that makes this lock a good candidate for your home security.

This lock also has a reversible lever that fits left and right-handed doors.

Fits mostly on standard doors as the latch is adjustable.

4. Kwikset Juno Keyed Entry Door Knob

Can Kwikset SmartKey Locks be Picked

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Looking to have a beautifully designed lock on your door, yet highly secure? I think this lock comes in a nice satin nickel (as you can see) and it’s a Grade 1 lock.

Yes, the lock is ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certified and as well features SmartKey Security. That means this lock might well withstand advanced forced entry attacks.

Needless to mention that you can easily rekey it yourself, which is another way of beefing up security.

Other features of this lock include compatibility with right and left-handed doors, Microban product protection—to prevent microbes at the door, easy installation, etc.

5. Kwikset 99910-061 Keyed Entry Lever and Deadbolt

Kwikset SmartKey Rekey

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And the last (not the least) on our list is Kwikset 99910-061 entry lever lock with a deadbolt. It’s designed for entry locks and quite sturdy to prevent forced entry.

Like other locks above, it features the SmartKey Security—an advanced security feature that makes lock rekeying a breeze and as well protects against lock picking, drilling, and bumping.

What’s more, it’s one of Kwikset’s high-security door locks and therefore recommended for doors that require secure locks.

Besides, it’s a Grade 1 lock and you know what that means (high-security locks). Needless to mention that it features the SmartKey Security.

The lock is easy to install and works fine on right and left-handed doors.

How to Rekey Kwikset SmartKey Locks?

Here’s how:

  • Step 1: Get the required items ready. These include the functioning key, the SmartKey learn tool, and a new Kwikset key.
  • Step 2: Insert the functioning key into your SmartKey lock (via the keyhole) and turn it cloçkwise. Next, (with the functioning key inside) insert the SmartKey learn tool and remove it (still leaving the functioning key inside).
  • Step 3: Now remove the functioning key and insert a new key—and then turn the key counter-clockwise.

And that’s all about rekeying your Kwikset SmartKey lock. Sounds so easy, right? Yes, that’s one strength of SmartKey Technology—easy rekeying in less time.

Related Questions

How do I know if my Kwikset lock is SmartKey?

Check to see if there is a little hole close to the keyhole. If you can see a tiny keyhole anywhere close to the keyhole, then it’s a SmartKey lock.

This is where users can insert the SmartKey learn tool during rekeying.

Why is my Kwikset SmartKey lock rekeying not working?

If the rekeying process fails, chances are you didn’t insert the functioning key and SmartKey learn tool fully inside the lock. So try again and insert the tools fully and make sure to only turn the functioning key clockwise.

If it doesn’t work still, you may have to contact a locksmith.

How many times can you rekey the Kwikset SmartKey lock?

You can rekey your Kwikset SmartKey lock as much as you want. There is no limit so long as you have your SmartKey tool and the lock is functional.

Can I rekey a Kwikset SmartKey lock without the existing key?

For the most part, you need a functioning key to rekey the lock easily. However, it may well work without an existing key and you need to get an experienced locksmith to handle the situation.

Can you drill a Kwikset Smartkey lock?

It’s almost impossible to drill a SmartKey lock as the SmartKey Security prevents such forced entry techniques, including lock bumping and picking.

Read More: Best Remote Control Floodlights. Increase the security of your home with these top floodlights!

Final Thoughts

As per their security features and ANSI/BHMA certification, it’s safe to say Kwikset SmartKey locks are secure.

However, we do not guarantee that all Kwikset locks out there are secure, and our list of secure locks above may well change based on future updates.