When it comes to protecting your home, there are plenty of high-tech options to consider, including alarms, motion-activated floodlights and smart doorbells. But one of the best options is also one of the most basic: a deadbolt.
While just about any entryway will have a keyed doorknob, not everyone has a deadbolt, and you may be wondering if you need one. While a deadbolt is not impervious to a skilled lockpicker, FBI statistics indicate that the most common kind of home intrusions are break-ins — namely, burglars using force to breach doors or windows. Since the bolt in a deadbolt typically extends much further into the door than a latch on a doorknob, a properly installed deadbolt will make it far more difficult to break down the door.
There are a few different kinds of deadbolts, and the best deadbolt for your home’s front door would be a single cylinder deadbolt. A single cylinder deadbolt requires a key to unlock from the outside but can be unlocked from the inside by turning the knob. Double cylinder deadbolts require turning the key on both the inside and outside. This can be dangerous in the event of a fire and wildly inconvenient just about any other time.
If the front door to your home doesn’t already include a deadbolt or you’re just looking to upgrade, we’ve rounded up some of the best options that you can find on Amazon. Many of them are designed to resist picking and bump keys. Plus, we included an option that allows you to enter using a keypad. These are the ones to get.
1. Schlage Single Cylinder Deadbolt
Schlage has been a trusted brand for a century, and they continue to innovate with WiFi and keypad-enabled locks. Of course, if you just want a basic deadbolt, they’re also a great option. The deadbolt is available in various colors and shapes. This square, matte black lock would be a stylish addition to a modern home. The locks are rated 1 by ANSI, which is the highest rating given by the American National Standards Institute.
Pros: Sturdy lock that’s available in various finishes and designs. Rated 1 by ANSI. Designed to be easy to install.
Cons: Somewhat expensive for a basic deadbolt.
2. Kwikset Single Cylinder Deadbolt with SmartKey
Kwikset is one of our favorite brands for locks, keys and doorknobs. While the deadbolt itself may be basic, the SmartKey feature is anything but. A small tool is included that allows you to rekey the deadbolt. If you want your doorknob to match the deadbolt, the SmartKey will allow you to do that without having to call a locksmith. If that doesn’t sound secure, don’t worry — the original key is required to rekey the door. That means a would-be intruder can’t just take one SmartKey to another door. As for the deadbolt, it’s designed to resist picking and bumping. The deadbolt is available in satin chrome, satin nickel and polished brass.
Pros: Included SmartKey allows you to safely rekey the deadbolt without compromising security. Deadbolt is bump key and lockpick resistant. Available in several finishes.
Cons: Smartkey can potentially be finicky if instructions are not closely followed.
3. Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt
If you have kids, frequent guests or contractors that come in and out of the house, you may not want to copy keys for all of them. That’s what makes this keypad deadbolt a good option. You can create up to 19 codes, which can also be later deleted using the master code. No hardwiring is needed — you can easily install this deadbolt like you would any other. Locking the door is also easy. After you’ve closed the door, you can press the Schlage key and then turn the knob to engage the lock.
Pros: Easy install. Can be used to create up to 19 codes. Pressing any button will light up the keypad, making it easier to use at night.
Cons: Buttons are somewhat small.
4. Berlin Modisch Single Cylinder Deadbolt
The square shape of this deadbolt offers a sophisticated, modern look, and you can choose between brushed nickel or iron black. The bolt is sturdy, and it comes with a strike plate, two keys and installation screws. The price shown is for the deadbolt alone, but you can also choose the deadbolt and matching entryway doorknob set from this listing. The doorknob has a long handle that adds a modern finish and is easier to turn.
Pros: Stylish look, comes with all of the necessary installation hardware. Can also be paired with the entryway handle.
Cons: More expensive than some other options.