Smart locks have become far more affordable and reliable in recent years, but they are not automatically the right choice for every home.
The main appeal of a smart lock is convenience: keyless entry, remote access for family or guests, and activity logs showing exactly when the door was used.
Traditional mechanical locks, particularly BS3621-rated deadlocks, remain the gold standard for pure physical security and have no batteries or software to worry about.
Many households now choose a hybrid approach - a smart lock for everyday convenience, backed up by a traditional deadlock for extra security at night or when away.
Whichever route you choose, professional installation matters. A smart lock fitted badly can be easier to bypass than a well-fitted traditional one.