Types of access on a smart lock

Have you been researching on smart locks, only to find yourself overwhelmed with the amount of information? Or have you been wondering about what are the different types of digital entries for smart locks, and are confused by which ones are best suited for you?

To make your life easier, we've compiled the different types of digital entries so you can get a better understanding and determine which smart lock is most suitable for you.

At a glance, here are the most common entry types:

1. PIN codes

2. Bluetooth

3. RFID cards

4. Fingerprint

PIN Codes

It's not a digital lock if it isn't password-enabled, amirite?

Probably the prerequisite type of entry would be PIN codes. Punch in a combination of digits and your door will unlock, though it means having to remember the code and a possibility of someone making a right guess. It's best to change it up every once in a while like all passwords you have!

However, it's a small price to pay for the convenience of not having to carry keys or access cards around. Basic digital locks with this type of entry mode are usually more affordable too.

There are brands that are mobile app-enabled for you to generate PIN codes on the go too. If you have guests coming over while you're not around, you can share time-sensitive access to ensure no one has to spend time waiting for you to get home.

Bluetooth

To take it to the next level, Bluetooth locks are the next most common ones in the market.

They usually require a Bluetooth-enabled device, like a mobile phone, to be within range to unlock your door. However, if your phone runs out of battery or if the connection is not stable, you could run the risk of being locked out of your home.

Conventional Bluetooth locks will also require you to download an accompanying app and giving someone else access might mean the same for them. This also means more functions for the owner - you may be able to customise certain lock settings for greater convenience.

While there are some that purely operate on the protocol alone, most of them will come with PIN codes as well. If you're someone who enjoys doing everything from your mobile, this is an entry type to consider when shopping for a digital or smart lock.

RFID cards

Not an uncommon sight in offices, buildings and more commercial settings are the usage of RFID or NFC cards.

The lock will feature a reader for you to tap these cards, tags, stickers, and the like to grant access. You'll still need to carry these around with you like keys, but there's no fumbling with the key hole or breaking your keys (by accident).

The downside though, is if misplaced or forgotten, you may not be able to get home. RFID systems may also not work during power outages. But they sure are a step up from keys seeing that you'll only need to tap them or configure existing compatible cards to work with your lock!

Fingerprint

Lastly, the one entry mode that's gaining traction in the market is biometrics. This way of entering your home is definitely more secure and convenient than those we've mentioned above.

You won't forget to bring your fingers out, will you? Nor can you forget a fingerprint like a bunch of digits. No two fingerprints are the same too, so you know that security is definitely high up on the ranks when it comes to granting access.

The initial set up procedure may take a little longer as you'll have to register the fingerprints of everyone in the household, but it's worth it. Although, you may want to take note that those with sweaty palms or the aged may find it slightly cumbersome for the scanner to detect the fingerprints.

At the end of the day, the reliability of the lock (or any kind of lock, really) depends on the quality and standards of the manufacturer and brand.

Many locks out there will incorporate one or a few of these access modes into the package to make lives easier for the user. One such lock is the igloohome Mortise 2, which comes with most of the modes we've mentioned in this article. The upcoming model, the Mortise 2+ will feature the fingerprint function too.

You can also customise the features of the lock and security functions via a mobile app, allowing you to have the best of all worlds!

In conclusion, you'll get to decide which way you want to get home because there's definitely more than one way to enter.