Sometimes low-tech just makes more sense, especially when you’re watching your budget.
That’s exactly it. I've seen too many stories about people getting locked out by their own “smart” gadgets, and the first thing that comes to mind is: what happens when the power goes or your WiFi acts up? My approach is pretty methodical—if I can’t troubleshoot it myself with a screwdriver and a battery, I get wary.
I actually did a side-by-side cost breakdown last year when I was considering upgrading to a smart lock. The upfront price was one thing, but then you factor in batteries (which, depending on the model, can get drained faster than you’d think in cold weather), firmware updates, possible subscription fees for remote access... It started to feel like more hassle than it was worth for me.
Here’s my quick checklist for anyone debating between smart and “dumb” locks:
1. **Power Source**: If it needs batteries or electricity, have a backup plan (hidden key, physical override).
2. **Weather Resistance**: Cold snaps can zap batteries or gum up electronics way faster than a regular deadbolt.
3. **Simplicity of Use**: If someone else needs to get in (family, neighbor, pet-sitter), how hard is it to explain?
4. **Maintenance**: Are you comfortable updating software or troubleshooting error codes at 11pm?
Not saying all smart locks are bad—some folks really like the convenience. But for me, the old-school deadbolt plus keypad has never left me standing out in the snow fiddling with an app.
Funny enough, I’ve had friends brag about unlocking their doors from halfway across town, but then call me in a panic when their app glitches or they forget their phone. Meanwhile, my only “tech support” is a dab of graphite powder and maybe changing the keypad batteries every couple of years.
If your current setup works and keeps you sleeping soundly (and indoors), I’d say stick with it. Sometimes the best solution really is the simplest one—even if it’s not flashy or “smart.”
I get where you’re coming from, but I actually went the other direction when I redid my entryway last fall. I was super nervous about smart locks at first—my cousin got locked out once when her WiFi went down and that story stuck with me. But I ended up getting a hybrid lock that works with both a key and an app, and weirdly enough it’s been less stressful than I thought. The app’s handy when my hands are full of groceries, and if the tech ever flakes out, there’s always the old-fashioned key as backup.
I guess for me, it was less about “smart” vs. “dumb” and more about having options. Sometimes the fancy stuff is overkill, but sometimes it solves problems you didn’t even realize you had... or maybe I’m just easily impressed by not having to dig for my keys in the rain.
That’s exactly why I recommend hybrid locks to clients who are on the fence.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve seen people get so hung up on the latest tech, but really, it’s about what fits your routine. One client had three kids and a dog—she was always juggling bags and leashes—so being able to tap her phone or use a code made her life way easier. But she still wanted a key tucked away just in case. Sometimes the best design is just giving yourself a backup plan... and honestly, not digging for keys in the rain is a pretty nice bonus.“it was less about ‘smart’ vs. ‘dumb’ and more about having options.”
Couldn’t agree more with this:
I’ve had tenants thank me for hybrid locks after a power outage. It’s not always about the fanciest tech—sometimes it’s just about peace of mind.“Sometimes the best design is just giving yourself a backup plan...”
I get the appeal of all-in-one smart locks, but honestly, I’m always thinking about redundancy. My biggest fear is getting locked out because of a dead battery or a software glitch—tech is great until it isn’t, right? Hybrid systems seem like the only logical choice if you want reliability. Does anyone actually trust a 100% app-based lock for their main door, or am I just being overly cautious?
