Reliabilt and Kwikset are two reputable names for home security solutions. Due to its versatile lock options, Kwikset outshines Reliabilt and offers a multitude of choices to fit the specific security requirements and aesthetic preferences of homeowners.
However, it’s too early to decide on a winner between these contenders as it requires a more comprehensive evaluation of their specifications.
So let’s dive right into the details and compare them in terms of their design, durability, security features, pricing, and more!
Lock Types and Varieties
Both Reliabilt and Kwikset offer a wide range of locks. While you can find deadbolts, entry door locksets, passage door locks, privacy locksets, handle sets, and smart locks at both places, you may notice Reliabilt lacking in a few aspects.
For one, Reliabilt offers only keypad-based electronic deadbolts, unlike the Kwikset 916, which is famed for its contemporary style touchscreen smart locks too.
Additionally, the smart locks by Reliabilt lack connectivity options, being limited to only Wi-Fi enabled locks, whereas Kwikset supports Bluetooth Enabled Locks, Z-Wave, and Zigbee Technology.
Security Features
Both Kwikset and Reliabilt offer locks graded ANSI/BHMA 1 to 3. However, the edge goes to Kwikset since most of its locks are ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 Professional Deadbolts, while every other lock by Reliabilt is a Grade 3 system.
Nearly every Kwikset lock, like the Kwikset 916, boasts cutting-edge technologies, such as the BumpGuard and High-Security Cylinder, for protection against lock picking and tampering.
Reliabilt, on the contrary, seems to be struggling to keep up with the competition, lacking features as simple as automatic locking.
While the differences between the two are eminent, they share similar offerings too, including rekeying technology and single/double cylinder deadbolt options.
Durability and Build Quality
In terms of build quality, Kwikset and Reliabilt are both quite impressive. With a solid metal construction, their locks stand the test of time and can endure harsh environmental conditions.
While both offer a variety of finish types in their locks, Kwikset provides a more promising range of options.
Overall, locks by Reliabilt and Kwikset are reliable in the long run as they show excellent resistance against corrosion, rust, and routine wear and tear.
But, if we have to pick one out of the two, it’ll be Kwikset since their locks are graded for professional-level security, whereas at Reliabilt, one struggles to find anything better than ANSI/BHMA Grade 3.
Among Kwikset’s locks, Kwikset SmartCode 260 is a particularly durable smart lock.
Ease of Installation
Kwikset and Reliabilt locks are fairly easy to install. Since they fit almost all standard door preparations, you don’t need to do much to install these locks in your existing door.
Using basic DIY skills and a screwdriver, you can replace the existing locks with Reliabilt or Kwikset locks and have them functional within minutes.
Design
Design-wise, each lock is unique. But one of the key differences between Kwikset and Reliabilt locks lies in their entry systems.
Kwikset steals the show by offering keyless and codeless entry systems with a touchscreen interface, allowing you to ditch codes and keys. Good examples include the Kwikset 916, Kwikset Halo Touchscreen, Kwikset SmartCode 260 and the SmartCode 270.
On the contrary, Reliabilt will keep you bound to the traditional key entry or code-entering method.
Both Kwikset and Reliabilt offer universal handling or automatic handling features in most locks. Another excellent shared feature is their compatibility with various entry door configurations, eliminating the need for you to find the right match for the specific type of door installed in your home.
With its contemporary appearance and keyless entry systems, Kwikset takes the lead in terms of design too. However, Reliabilt also competes well with its classic and timeless designs, ensuring versatility for different types of doors.
Price and Value for Money
Reliabilt seems more appealing in terms of pricing as compared to its counterpart. However, it lacks premium smart locks with commercial grade security, therefore, you won’t notice prices that fall on the higher end of the spectrum at Reliabilt.
Let’s start by taking an electronic lock from each brand for example. A keyless Grade 3 smart deadbolt by Kwikset costs around $70, whereas the same at Reliabilt is available for $47 only. For such limited features and Grade 3 security, the Kwikset lock seems a tad bit overpriced to be fair.
But Kwikset offers a lot more if you’re willing to spend more money. For instance, you can get a Grade 2 touchscreen electronic deadbolt under $200 with all the features you’d expect from a smart lock, such as SmartKey technology, auto locking feature, and a wide range of connectivity options.
All in all, the prices at Reliabilt and Kwikset are not too far apart. Reliabilt does seem to be a cheaper option in contrast to Kwikset; however, it’s important to closely compare the specifications you’re getting in exchange for the same amount of money at each place.
Customer Support and Warranty
Both Kwikset and Reliabilt offer a lifetime mechanical and finish warranty for their locks and a one year warranty for the electronic system, which is good enough for the price. The customer support is decent and we haven’t been able to spot genuine complaints by customers of either brand.
While you may see many people complain these locks are useless, it’s because intruders generally do not get into the hassle of breaking in the locks and have plenty of other easier ways instead. So if you’re solely relying on a lock to prevent break-ins, neither of these brands can help you honestly.
Final Word- Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for contemporary style locks with advanced connectivity options and touchscreen interface, Kwikset has a versatile range of options for you.
I’ll personally always recommend going for the Kwikset counterparts because of higher security and more connectivity. An exception would be if you want to get the most basic single cylinder deadbolts, where Reliabilt takes the lead with its lower price.
All in all, Reliabilt is more suitable for people who don’t mind traditional locking systems with limited features. Overall, both Reliabilt and Kwikset locks are reliable options for long-term use.
If you have decided to buy kwikset locks, the following comparsions are sure to help you make your decision: