Keypad and fingerprint, or a plain key that never runs out of battery?
Digital locks have gone from novelty to normal on Australian front doors. A deadbolt still does the basic job well, so the choice comes down to how many people need access and how much you value not carrying keys.
Upfront cost: Digital door lock Higher, hardware plus install. Traditional deadbolt Lower, cheap hardware.
Entry: Digital door lock Code, fingerprint, app or key. Traditional deadbolt Key only.
Guest and trade access: Digital door lock Temporary codes you can delete. Traditional deadbolt Hand over a physical key.
Lost key risk: Digital door lock None, codes are changed in seconds. Traditional deadbolt Rekey or replace the cylinder.
Power: Digital door lock Batteries, with warnings and key override. Traditional deadbolt None needed.
Security rating: Digital door lock Strong when a quality lock is fitted correctly. Traditional deadbolt Strong, simple mechanical security.
Best for: Digital door lock Families, rentals, share houses, holiday lets. Traditional deadbolt Low traffic doors and tight budgets.
If more than two people need access, or you regularly let cleaners, trades or guests in, a digital lock pays for itself in convenience. If it is a rarely used side door, a deadbolt is fine.
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