Key takeaways
- A keyless door knob is a smart door knob that accepts electronic credentials like PIN numbers, fobs, or biometrics.
- While the keyless aspect of a smart door knob increases their convenience, property managers might find them hard to manage and maintain.
- The best way to provide keyless entry is with a full suite of access control products.
In the quest for enhanced security and convenience, keyless door knobs have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and property managers alike. Unlike traditional locking mechanisms, which rely on physical keys, keyless door knobs offer a modern solution that combines ease of use with advanced security features.
This guide will explore what keyless door knobs are, how they work, their benefits and drawbacks, and the best keyless door knob options available.
This post covers:
- What are keyless door knobs?
- How do keyless smart knobs work?
- Choosing the right keyless door knob for your needs
- Keyless door knob pros and cons
- 3 best keyless door knobs
- The best keyless door knob alternative
What are keyless door knobs?
Keyless door knobs are locking mechanisms that eliminate the need for physical keys. Instead of using a traditional key to unlock the door, keyless door knobs use alternative methods such as electronic keypads, biometric scanners, or proximity sensors. You might even use an app on your smartphone.
These days, keyless door knobs are a popular choice for single-family homeowners. While a few multifamily and commercial property managers use them, too, the industry standard for these properties is an intercom-centric video access system.
Types of keyless door hardware include:
- Keypad door knobs. Residential keypad door locks use a numeric keypad where users enter a preset PIN code to unlock the door.
- Biometric door knobs. These locks use biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to grant access.
- Proximity sensor door knobs. These locks use a proximity sensor that detects an authorized fob or card to unlock the door.
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Are keyless door knobs safe?
Yes, keyless door knobs are safe.
Because they’re electronic, there’s no risk of a resident losing their key and an intruder using it to get in. However, you add another risk: hackers and scammers illegitimately gain access to the property.
To be safe, make sure you choose a keyless door handle installer or manufacturer with strong cybersecurity credentials.
How do keyless smart knobs work?
A keyless door knob works by reading a wireless credential and unlocking itself if it can verify the credential.
Smart front door handles unlock based on these steps:
- Resident enters credential. Depending on the type of credential you want to offer, a resident can enter a PIN number, hold up a fob, or even scan their fingerprint.
- Electronics inside of the door knob verify credentials. Internally, a knob compares the credential it’s just received.
- Lock mechanism disengages. If the credential matches, the smart lock will disengage physical components, like bolts or latches, to allow the resident to open the door.
Choosing the right keyless door knob for your needs
Assess your property’s digital door lock needs by keeping these factors in mind:
Security
Consider the level of security you need for the entryway you want to protect. For high-security areas, biometric or smart locks may be preferable. You can also invest in a keyless entry door lock with a camera to fully secure an area.
Where convenience is more important, you can use less intensive security measures like PIN-based door knobs.
Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Modern front door handles with keypads or fob readers vary widely in price based on features and technology.
Compatibility
Ensure the knob is compatible with your existing door hardware or if modifications are needed.
You can find keyless knobs that work with all kinds of existing setups and door jambs. For example, keyless deadbolt and knob sets are a popular choice.
Features
Different keyless door manufacturers are making names for themselves by specializing in factors like security, convenience, or ease of installation. Evaluate additional features such as guest management and access history.
Keyless door knob pros and cons
Keyless door knob pros:
- No keys required. Reduce the risk of lost or stolen keys.
- Easy access. No need to fumble with keys; just enter a code, scan a fingerprint, or use a mobile app.
- Advanced features. Many keyless knobs feature encryption and secure access methods, such as biometric verification.
- Guest management. Some models allow for temporary access codes, making it easier to manage guest entries.
What are the disadvantages of keyless door locks?
- Power issues. Battery-operated models require regular maintenance and replacement. A dead battery could leave you locked out if not addressed in time.
- Higher cost. Keyless knobs generally cost more than traditional locks.
- Technical issues. Electronic and smart models can experience malfunctions or require software updates.
- Lack of integrations. Unfortunately, many door knobs are single-entryway products, and their software doesn’t support integrations with more powerful property management platforms. If you depend on electronic doors to secure your property, chances are you’ll have to manually update every door knob when a resident moves in or out.
3 best keyless door knobs
The three best keyless knobs include:
1. Yale YRD256 Assure Lock SL
Founded over one hundred years ago, Yale has expanded its traditional brass lock-and-key business into smart lock territory with success.
The Yale Assure Lock SL’s features include:
- Smartphone-based access with the Yale Home app
- Zigbee and Z-Wave wireless network capabilities
- Unique PIN code tracking
2. Kwikset Smart Code Electronic Lever
The Kwikset keyless knob has many features that have been keeping homeowners satisfied.
Kwikset Smart Code Electronic Lever features include:
- Ease of installation
- Automatic door locking
- App-based access
3. August WiFi Smart Lock
Property owners across the country depend on August locks for convenience and security.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock’s features include:
- Automatic unlocking and locking capabilities
- Virtual key functionality
- Use phones or smartwatches to gain access
The best keyless door knob alternative
The best keyless door knob alternative is the ButterflyMX Access Control System.
While keyless knobs might be a good fit for single-family homes, property managers need a more robust access control solution with the ability to make sweeping changes across an entire property, not just one doorway. And thousands of property operators and owners across the country depend on ButterflyMX to provide those solutions.
ButterflyMX’s features include:
- Full suite of access control products. Every property is unique — and whether you’re looking to manage access for an indoor or outdoor space, we have a solution for you. In addition to our flagship Video Intercom, choose between Keypads, Card Readers, Elevator Controls, Vehicle Access Readers, and more.
- Powerful management dashboard. With our convenient ButterflyMX OS, you can edit permissions and make changes with just a few clicks. Plus, our system is cloud-based. Manage access at your property, even if you’re not onsite.
- Smart Lock Integrations and more. Use our products alongside existing property on your hardware, such as smart locks. We integrate with some of today’s most widespread property management and smart lock models — allowing you to use our dashboard to manage every smart lock on your property, no matter the manufacturer.
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