When it comes to securing a building, many businesses and property owners still rely on traditional keys. However, electronic door locking systems are becoming increasingly popular across commercial and industrial properties.
So which option is better, electronic door locks or traditional keys? In this blog, we look at the differences, benefits, and key considerations to help you decide.
Traditional Keys: The Familiar Option
Traditional mechanical locks and keys have been used for decades and are still common in many buildings.
Advantages of Traditional Keys
- Simple and familiar to use
- Lower upfront cost
- No reliance on power or electronic components
Limitations of Traditional Keys
Despite their simplicity, traditional keys come with several drawbacks:
- Lost or stolen keys can pose a serious security risk
- Keys can be copied without permission
- Locks often need to be changed if access needs to be revoked
- No way to track who has entered a building or when
For businesses with multiple staff, shift patterns, or contractors, managing keys can quickly become inefficient and insecure.
Electronic Door Locks: A Modern Security Solution
Electronic door locks replace physical keys with controlled access methods such as key fobs, PIN codes, cards, or smartphone-based access.
Advantages of Electronic Door Locks
Electronic access control systems offer a range of benefits:
- Access can be granted or removed instantly without changing locks
- Reduced risk from lost or stolen credentials
- Improved control over who can enter specific areas
- Scalable systems that grow with your business
- Enhanced security for high-risk or restricted areas
Many systems can also integrate with automatic door openers, fire alarm systems, and wider security solutions.
Considerations
- Higher initial installation cost compared to basic mechanical locks
- Requires professional design and installation
- Ongoing maintenance is recommended to ensure reliability
While the upfront investment is higher, electronic systems often provide better long-term value for commercial and industrial properties.
Which Is Better for Your Property?
The right choice depends on how the building is used.
Traditional keys may be suitable for:
- Small properties with very limited access requirements
- Low-risk areas with minimal staff turnover
Electronic door locks are ideal for:
- Offices and commercial buildings
- Industrial sites and warehouses
- Schools, healthcare, and public buildings
- Managed residential properties
If security, flexibility, and control are priorities, electronic door locking systems are usually the better option.