In the current day, a whole new generation of lock products has become accessible, with Schlage, Emtek, and Kwikset being the three dominant brands.
Each brings its unique set of features and aesthetics to the table, appealing to different demographics and needs. The question is, which one should you choose?
You might also want to read my comparison between Schlage, Emtek and Baldwin, during your decision making process.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty, but before that, a tabulated summary:
| Comparison Criteria | Schlage | Emtek | Kwikset |
| Lock Types | Four types | Six distinct types | Keyless entry and locks. |
| Design & Aesthetics | Three primary styles. | Eight styles and twenty finish choices | Blend of tradition and modernity product range. |
| Technology & Apps | Schlage Home App & Schlage Encode App. Alexa and Google Assistant integrated. | Emtek Yale Access App. Compatible with home automation systems. | Kwikset Smart App. Apple & Android compatibility. App, code, and key entry. |
| Safety Standards | Built-in alarms, high ANSI grade. | Grade 1 BHMA rating, Schlage C-keyway. | Resistant to tampering, SmartKey technology. |
| Ease of Installation | DIY-friendly, user-friendly smart locks. | Quality components, straightforward installation. | Simplistic design, easy replacement of deadbolt. |
| Price & Value | Varied price points, some premium offerings. | Premium pricing, luxury aesthetics. | Affordable without compromising security. |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime mechanical 3-year for electronic | Limited lifetime for mechanical. 2-year for electronic | Limited Mechanical warranty1-year for electronic |
Aesthetics and Design
Schlage
Schlage’s approach to design is a streamlined one. With three primary styles – Traditional, Transitional, and Contemporary – they target a customer base that leans towards classic and universally accepted designs.
Their style selector tool is particularly noteworthy, guiding users through a seamless selection process.
Moreover, while they might not offer as many finishes as Emtek, the range they do provide is tastefully curated, ensuring that each finish is timeless and elegant.
The range is categorized under Gold, Silver, Bronze and Black tones,
Emtek
Emtek offers a broader spectrum in terms of stylistic diversity. From the rustic charm of their Rustic Living style to the sophisticated elegance of Art Nouveau, they ensure that their designs cater to an expansive clientele.
Furthermore, with eight different styles featuring forged handles, and an impressive twenty finish choices (from polished brass to matte black), Emtek promises customization like no other.
Kwikset
Kwikset’s history, rooted in California, adds a touch of American flair to its designs. They offer an array of designs and finishes, ensuring a blend of tradition and modernity, just like the state it originates from.
The brand is known to be an all-rounder. From deadbolts, levers, to doorknobs, and electric locks, you will find each product and that too in an appropriate finish, ranging from the modern Satin Nickel to the timeless Venetian Bronze.
Technology
Schlage
Schlage smart locks are grounded in reliable and user-centric software. The brand offers the Schlage Home App and the Schlage Encode App, the choice of which depends on the specific lock model you opt for.
These apps provide the bedrock for managing locks, curating unique access codes, and vigilantly monitoring access. Schlage’s approach to the app interface is praiseworthy – it’s refreshingly straightforward.
Plus, the added flair of integration with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, along with in-built Wi-Fi, grants Schlage an edge that’s hard to overlook.
Emtek
Emtek’s smart locks seamlessly combine innovation with user-friendliness. Their Yale Access app, hailed for its intuitive design, gives homeowners an impressive level of control right at their fingertips.
With this app, you can keep tabs on your locks remotely, tailor-make access codes, and stay updated with real-time alerts.
Moreover, Emtek doesn’t limit its integration prowess; these smart locks harmonize beautifully with several mainstream home automation systems, amplifying convenience for its users.
Kwikset
Kwikset brings its unique blend of technological sophistication to the table. Its smart lock, with Wi-Fi capabilities and a sleek touchscreen keypad, speaks elegance with security.
The Kwikset app, compatible with both Apple and Android devices, becomes the remote control to your home’s entrance. Lock or unlock from continents away, manage user codes, keep an eye on lock activity, and get notifications on the go.
As a plus, there is compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa as well. With three modes of entry – the app, a code, and a traditional key, Kwikset offers flexibility that many homeowners would appreciate.
Lock Types
The world of locks isn’t just about looks; functionality is equally, if not more, critical. Both Emtek and Schlage are on par when it comes to the range of lock types.
While Emtek offers six distinct types ranging from the classic single locks to the more advanced multipoint locks, Schlage provides four, with a special emphasis on smart electrical locks, catering to the growing demand for smart homes.
Not to be left behind, Kwikset, too, has made significant strides in integrating technology with security. A notable feature of Kwikset is the simplicity of integration of keyless entry and smart key options, which stands out against Schlage and Emtek.
Safety Comparison
When it comes to securing our homes, safety stands paramount. Schlage, Emtek, and Kwikset, each with its legacy, approach safety with meticulous precision.
Schlage
Schlage is renowned for its locks with built-in alarms, a proactive approach that deters potential threats. Notably, these alarms are triggered when there’s an attempt to tamper with the device or force the door open.
Such advanced features exemplify Schlage’s commitment to offering fortress-like security.
In terms of certification, Schlage flaunts a slightly superior ANSI grade, indicating that their locks are rigorously tested to resist breaches.
Emtek
Emtek, on the other hand, relies on craftsmanship and design to bolster security. Their Grade 1 BHMA rating signifies adherence to high standards.
Their keyway, the Schlage C-keyway, is a testament to their precision engineering. This open keyway system, with its five-digit code, is ubiquitous and revered for its reliability.
Kwikset
Kwikset, while being more budget-friendly, doesn’t cut corners in safety. Their locks, though having a marginally lower ANSI grade compared to Schlage, are crafted to resist tampering and unauthorized entry effectively.
Their SmartKey technology, which allows users to re-key their locks swiftly, is an example of integrating convenience with security.
Ease of Installation and Use
For many homeowners, the ease of installation and everyday use can significantly influence their choice.
Schlage
Schlage locks are crafted with the modern homeowner in mind. Their DIY installation process is relatively straightforward and comes with user manuals.
Emtek
Emtek locks have a bit of a complex installation. However, the brand provides detailed guides that make the installation process as seamless as possible.
Kwikset
Kwikset has simplistic designs and easy-to-follow installation procedures. Kwikset ensures that users can set up their locks without professional help.
Price and Value
The age-old adage, “You get what you pay for,” often holds, but with a subtle change when it comes to these three brands.
Schlage
Schlage offers products at varied price points and the decision of choosing will depend on your budget. While they do have premium offerings in their smart lock range. They also ensure that their basic locks are more affordable and accessible to a broader audience.
Among the Schlage locks, the Schlage Encode Plus is a particularly good value lock, especially when compared to equivalent counterparts. If you are looking for a simple deadbolt, the Schlage B60N would be the best choice, in my opinion. You can check out my detailed review of the Schlage B60N for further details.
Emtek
Emtek often caters to a clientele that seeks luxurious aesthetics. Their locks are a mixture of design and function. So, for those looking for luxurious locks, Emtek stands on the very top.
The Emtek 8467 deadbolt, is a painfully gorgeous simplistic lock, and is a testament to what I said earlier.
Kwikset
Kwikset, being the least expensive, is the top choice for those looking for value without burning a hole in their pockets. Their locks are more affordable than the other two brands but do not compromise security or functionality.
A great example of affordability would be the Kwikset SmartCode 916 smart lock, which is the most economical, yet perfectly functional smart lock money can buy. It also provides every feature that smart locks in the $500 dollars range provide.
Another great option is the closely related Kwikset 914, which is slightly different and cheaper. You can read my comparsion between the 916 and 914, if you are seeking further detail.
Warranty
Schlage
Schlage, providing a limited lifetime mechanical and finish warranty showcases their trust in the resilience of their locks. The 3-year limited warranty specifically made for the electronic components is especially reassuring.
Electronic components, often vulnerable to glitches, are protected under this warranty for a considerable period. By offering this comprehensive warranty coverage, Schlage ensures it remains at the forefront of customer trust.
Emtek
Emtek extends a non-transferable limited lifetime warranty for all its door hardware products. The longevity of these mechanical components is a testament to Emtek’s commitment to durable engineering.
As for the electronic components, a 2-year warranty is provided. This duration strikes a balance, giving the users enough time to discern any potential issues in the electronics, ensuring they’re not left wanting should a problem arise.
Kwikset
Kwikset adds a layer of scrutiny by urging buyers to only buy from authorized retailers. Kwikset offers a 1-year warranty for all its products, which is on par with the industry standard these days.
Recommendations for Buyers
Choosing the right lock brand depends on individual needs and preferences. If you ask our verdict, homeowners leaning towards heightened security with added features like built-in alarms should consider Schlage. It’s an ideal choice for those willing to invest a bit more for top-tier protection.
Schlage is also my personal pick, among the three. I would not want to pay extra for the Emtek looks, especially since I quite like the Schlage locks’ designs.
As such, the Schlage Encode Plus would be the most appropriate choice for your main door, while the Schlage B60N would be the best choice for an economical multi-purpose deadbolt.
On the other hand, for those who prioritize premium aesthetics and a wider array of finish options, Emtek stands out. The Emtek E3020 EMTouch is a relatively higher value option with all the Emtek design DNA.
But, if you’re looking for affordability without compromising on security, Kwikset is your go-to. The brand offers a wide range of options at competitive prices and many new features each day.
If you are opting for Kwikset, you might as well save some bucks and go for the Kwikset Pismo which is available on Amazon for around 33 bucks.
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