Callan and Kwikset are two reputable names in the expansive realm of door hardware, with their product lines ranging from door knobs and lever sets to deadbolts and electronic locksets.
Moving forward, you’ll find a comprehensive comparison between these brands in terms of their diverse product range, security features, design, pricing, and everything else there is.
So let’s begin!
Product Range
While Callan and Kwikset both deal in door hardware, Callan offers traditional options in contrast to Kwikset’s product range, which boasts innovative features and minimalist aesthetics.
At Callan, you can find a wide range of handlesets, handleset interior trim, deadbolts, grade 3 and grade 2 knobs, levers, strikes, and latches.
On the contrary, Kwikset offers a wide array of advanced door hardware, including smart locks, modern door levers, electronic deadbolts, handlesets, and keypad-based door locks.
Bottom: Passage Levers by Callan
So if you’re looking for innovative features, such as keyless entry, touch support, electronic locks, and smart technology integration, you know where to go. Callan, on the other hand, is a good option for robust door knobs, levers, and traditional door hardware.
Security Features
Since Callan and Kwisket have two completely different approaches toward door hardware and locks, their security features also reflect their respective design philosophies.
| Security Features | Callan | Kwikset |
| Bump and Pick Resistance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Rekeying | ❌ | ✅ |
| One-Touch Locking | ❌ | ✅ |
| Keyed Entry | ✅ | ✅ |
| Remote Access | ❌ | ✅ |
| Security Grading | ANSI/BHMA | ANSI/BHMA |
Callan’s keyed locks come with bump and pick resistance features, making them challenging to manipulate and resistant to potential intrusions.
While their deadbolts are similar to Kwikset in being constructed with reinforced strike plates, hardened steel bolts, and anti-pry collars, they are mechanical, unlike Kwikset, which offers both electronic and mechanical options.
Kwikset takes the lead with its innovative security features, too. In addition to traditional door knobs and levers, you can also find electronic locks at Kwikset.
The smart options allow you to monitor your door activity remotely, receive alerts, and even access your door lock while you’re away. Their locks are also known for easy rekeying and a one-touch locking system.
While Kwikset adds an extra sense of security with its mobile alerts and remote lock access, Callan should not be mistaken for a less capable option as it still provides reliable protection with its traditional but sturdy construction.
Build Quality & Durability
Both Callan and Kwikset offer reasonably durable door hardware. Their locks and door handles are primarily constructed with solid brass or steel, offering maximum resistance against corrosion and wear.
Kwikset locks possess a solid interior, engineered with bump and tamper resistance technologies to protect the lock’s electronics from potential attacks. The economical Kwikset Pismo deserves a mention here.
On the other hand, Callan’s locks are well-built too. They are designed to withstand long-term use and potential security threats too.
Pricing
The price ranges at Callan and Kwikset are remarkably versatile. SInce Kwikset also offers smart locks which are always going to be more expensive, a numerical comparison would not be fair. So let’s compare apples to apples!
The prices for traditional door hardware, such as mechanical deadbolts and door knobs, from both Callan and Kwikset, are quite comparable. However, some models from Kwikset are significantly cheaper.
For example, a single-cylinder grade 2 deadbolt by Callan will cost you around $30, whereas a similar grade 2 deadbolt by Kwikset is available for $16.
Similarly, a grade 2 passage lever by Callan costs around $46, while a grade 3 passage lever by Kwikset is available for $37. Given the difference in their ANSI/BHMA grading, the minor price difference is pretty justifiable.
If we talk about the smart locks and deadbolts at Kwikset, they can cost anywhere from $100-$250, which is reasonable for the amount of features and convenience they offer. My personal favorite among them, the Kwikset 916, also offers the highest value.
Design
Kwikset and Callan offer various design options to suit individual aesthetic preferences. However, one thing they do share in common is their commitment to clean and minimal designs.
Despite having a traditional framework, Callan retains a sense of contemporary minimalism in its door hardware by keeping the designs understated and elegant. Similarly, Kwikset also offers uncluttered and sleek designs that seamlessly blend into modern architecture.
So whether it is Kwikset’s touchscreen smart locks or Callan’s mechanical deadbolts, you can expect to maintain a clean appearance of your doors without overwhelming their overall visual appeal.
Compatibility with Smart Home Systems
Since Callan offers only traditional door hardware, you cannot expect its lock systems to be compatible with smart home systems.
Kwikset smart locks, on the contrary, support functions with various smart products, including Alexa, Zigbee, Z-Wave, HomeKit, etc. The compatibility, however, depends on the product line and model.
Installation
Whether it’s a simple door knob from Callan or an electronic deadbolt by Kwikset, the installation needs nothing more than a screwdriver and some basic DIY skills.
Some of the lock systems can fit right into your existing deadbolts, while others need a full replacement. But either way, you can install the locks, doorknobs, levers, and everything else by yourself.
Warranty Policies
Callan offers a lifetime mechanical warranty for all of its locksets, which is accompanied by a 5-year finish warranty or a lifetime finish warranty, depending on the product line.
Kwikset, on the other hand, provides a lifetime mechanical and finish warranty for all of its locksets and door hardware. The smart locks are covered by a 1-year electronic warranty and a lifetime mechanical and finish warranty as well.
Final Verdict
While Callan and Kwikset are excellent choices for door hardware individually, Kwikset gets a distinct edge as it caters to a wide array of preferences, ranging from traditional levers and door locks to cutting-edge electronic deadbolts and smart locks.
Kwikset also offers a promising blend of security, style, and convenience, making it a compelling choice for homeowners. Yet, Callan is still a decent contender if you’re looking for traditional door locksets.
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