Kwikset 914 vs 916- The Subtle Differences

Is it time to say goodbye to traditional lock systems? With the availability of smart locks like the Kwikset 914 and 916 alongside many others, the answer seems to be a resounding yes.

Both of them are Grade 2 deadbolts offering an excellent performance with only a few subtle differences. If you’re considering these two smart lock systems for your home, you may find yourself torn between the two choices.

So let’s dig a little deeper and find out which one is right for you! Here’s a brief tabulated overview:

Specifications	Kwikset 914	Kwikset 916
Certification	ANSI/BHMA Grade 2	ANSI/BHMA Grade 2
Type	Electronic Deadbolt	Electronic Deadbolt
Power	4 AA Batteries	4 AA Batteries
Re-key technology	✓	✓
Connectivity	Z-Wave Technology	Z-Wave Technology
Alexa	Supported	Supported

Table of Contents

Kwikset 914 vs 916: Understanding The Differences

While the Kwikset 914 and 916 showcase a great deal of similarity, here are a few features that set them apart from each other.

Touch Screen

Unlike the Kwikset 914, which features a keypad for entering door unlocking codes, the 916 offers a touchscreen display. The interactive touchscreen display provides a modern and intuitive interface for the users, allowing effortless navigation through the menu.

While the touchscreen interface may appeal to many, it can be more susceptible to malfunctions and impact the functionality of the lock in the long run. The traditional keypad, in contrast, enjoys a relatively low risk of sensitivity issues and offers a more reliable interface.

Automation Handing Function

The Kwikset 916 features an automatic handling function, which allows the lock to detect whether it is being installed on a right or left handed door. This makes the installation convenient by eliminating the need of manually configuring the lock.

On the other hand, the 914 does not have the ability to do so, and instead, requires you to adjust the settings manually during installation of the lock.

Screen Secure Technology

Due to its touchscreen interface, the Kwikset 916 has an additional Screen Secure feature that prevents potential intruders from tracking the code by looking at the residues left on the screen surface.

This smart feature simply requires you to enter two random digits before typing the actual door code to make it impossible for an intruder to guess the correct code.

Kwikset 914 vs 916 Smart Locks: Shared Features

Now let’s take a quick look at the features that are shared by both Kwikset 914 and 916.

Automatic Door Lock

Both Kwikset 914 and 916 offer an automatic door locking function that locks the door after a set amount of time on its own. The auto lock feature is especially great for homes with high traffic and/or frequent visitors so you don’t have to worry about locking manually each time someone leaves.

Keyless Entry

With these smart locks, you can bid farewell to fumbling for keys as both of them offer a keyless entry system. You can enter your home by simply typing in a personalized code on the keypad or touchscreen of Kwikset 914 and 916.

Multiple User Codes

These smart locks allow the creation of multiple user codes, which come in handy when you have to give someone a one-time access to your home.

However, the access does not have to be limited to one time necessarily since multiple codes can be set for different residents of the house or guests, etc.

Accessibility

The Kwikset 914 and 916 locks provide the benefit of locking and unlocking your home even while you’re away.

This kind of accessibility can be great if you have to let someone in while being away and without them knowing the passcode to your house. Since you can check the status of the lock remotely, it is also pretty useful in those moments of doubt when you can’t remember if you locked the door behind you.

Z-Wave Technology

These intuitive locks are compatible with other smart home systems, such as Alexa for voice controls and Z wave plus. They connect seamlessly with the security systems, too, providing ultimate control of your smart home systems altogether.

Installation

Both smart locks are easy to install and require no additional hand. You can install them with the help of basic tools by following the instructions mentioned in the manual. However, the 916 does get a slight edge due to its automatic handling function discussed earlier.

Durability

Kwikset 914 and 916 offer exceptional durability with resistance to withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain their functionality in the long run. The 916 features a reliable and responsive touch screen whereas the 914 has a solid build quality too.

Besides being aesthetically pleasing, the sleek contemporary metal design of these locks feels solid and shows a good deal of resistance against corrosion too. They’re designed to resist tampering and boast excellent protective measures overall.

Wireless Operation

Lastly, these smart locks are battery-powered, eliminating the need for any electrical wiring to function. The locks are powered by standard AA batteries that require occasional charging for consistent performance.

The battery life varies widely from user to user and can even last up to a year if you use it as a simple door lock without the integration of smart features.

Features At A Glance

Kwikset 914 vs 916: Price and Value Proposition

The Kwikset 914 generally costs less than its counterpart since it lacks the touchscreen. Both of them are mostly available for under $200.

Amazon frequently offers discounts on the 916 and I’ve frequently seen it up for sale for even less than the cost of the 914 model. You can check the latest price on amazon by clicking on the picture below.

Frankly, the choice is a matter of personal preferences. If you’re specifically looking for touchscreen functionality, you may want to pay an additional 50 to 100 bucks (depending on the model variation) for the Kwikset 916. However, if you can do without that touchscreen display, the Kwikset 914 is just as good of an option. Click below for the updated price of Kwikset 914.

As for the overall value, the reliable protective features and Grade 2 deadbolt certification justifies the price of both these smart locks by Kwikset.

Final Verdict

Both smart locks support keyless entry, auto-lock, multiple codes setting, and remote accessibility options while being exceptionally durable too. With the touchscreen interface being the only major difference between the Kwikset 914 and 916, the decision between the two comes down to your personal preferences!

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