Which deadbolt lock is best for your home? Compare Grade 1, Grade 2, and high-security deadbolts, smart lock options, and get professional installation advice.
The best deadbolt for most homes is an ANSI Grade 1 single-cylinder deadbolt — it resists kick-ins, drilling, and picking at a price that’s accessible for most budgets ($30–$100). If you want smart lock features, keypad access, or app control, add $100–$300. Here’s how to choose the right lock for your door and how to get it installed correctly.
ANSI Grade Ratings — What They Mean
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) grades residential locks on three levels:
- Grade 1 (Residential/Commercial) — Highest residential security. Tested to withstand 6 strikes at 75 ft-lbs of force, 250,000+ key cycles. Bolt must extend at least 1 inch. This is what locksmiths recommend for front doors.
- Grade 2 (Residential) — Moderate security. Tested to withstand 4 strikes at 75 ft-lbs, 150,000 key cycles. Acceptable for interior doors or secondary entrances.
- Grade 3 (Light Residential) — Minimum security. Common on entry-level builder-grade hardware. Not recommended for exterior doors on homes.
Best Standard Deadbolts (2026)
Schlage B60N Single Cylinder Deadbolt — Best Overall
ANSI Grade 1 certified. Built-in alarm technology detects picking and kick attempts. Industry-leading pick and bump resistance. Available in standard door prep sizes. The benchmark for residential security in the $40–$60 range.
Kwikset 980 Single Cylinder Deadbolt — Best Budget Grade 1
ANSI Grade 1. SmartKey rekey technology lets you rekey the lock yourself in seconds without a locksmith — useful if you move often or lose a key. Strong pick resistance for the price ($30–$45).
Medeco Maxum — Best High-Security
UL listed, patent-protected keyway, hardened steel bolt. Virtually immune to picking and bump attacks. Key duplication requires the original card and can only be done by a Medeco dealer. Best for high-crime areas or valuable properties. Cost: $120–$200.
Best Smart Deadbolts (2026)
Schlage Encode Plus — Best Overall Smart Deadbolt
Works with Apple Home Key (tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock), Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Ring. Up to 100 access codes. Built-in Wi-Fi, no hub required. Grade 1 certified. The top pick for Apple ecosystem users. Cost: $200–$250.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock — Best for Retrofit
Installs over your existing deadbolt — keeps your current exterior hardware and keys. No rekeying required. App control, auto-lock/unlock, guest access codes. Works with Alexa, Google, and HomeKit. Ideal if you rent and can’t change the exterior hardware. Cost: $130–$180.
Yale Assure Lock 2 — Best Keypad Only
No physical keyway (no key to lose or duplicate). Up to 250 access codes. Bluetooth + optional Wi-Fi module. Grade 2 certified. Best for vacation rentals and households where keypad access is preferred. Cost: $100–$200.
What to Look for Beyond the Brand
- Bolt throw — 1 inch minimum. Many Grade 1 locks throw 1.5 inches. Longer bolt = more resistance to kick-ins.
- Anti-drill plate — Steel plates or pins behind the lock cylinder that stop drill bits.
- Reinforced strike plate — The strike plate and the screws holding it are often the weakest point. 3-inch screws into the door stud (not just the door jamb) make a major difference.
- ANSI Grade 1 certification — Don’t rely on brand name alone. Look for this on the packaging.
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Most deadbolts can be installed in 30–60 minutes with a drill and a hole saw kit. The prep work (measuring, drilling the bore hole, mortising the faceplate) is the main challenge. Misalignment leads to binding, premature wear, and reduced security. A professional locksmith can install a deadbolt in 15–30 minutes with the correct tools. Installation typically costs $50–$100 on top of the hardware price.
Frequently Asked Questions — Deadbolt Locks
What’s the difference between a single cylinder and double cylinder deadbolt?
A single-cylinder deadbolt uses a key on the outside and a thumb-turn on the inside. A double-cylinder requires a key on both sides. Double-cylinder deadbolts add security on doors with glass panels (a burglar can’t break the glass and turn a thumb-turn), but they’re a fire hazard — people have been trapped in fires because they couldn’t unlock a double-cylinder deadbolt without a key. Most fire codes prohibit them on primary exit doors.
Should I replace or rekey my locks after moving?
Rekey first — it’s cheaper ($25–$75 per lock) and changes which key opens the lock without replacing the hardware. If the existing hardware is low-quality or worn, replace it. If it’s Grade 1 and in good shape, a rekey is sufficient.
How long does a deadbolt last?
A quality Grade 1 deadbolt lasts 10–25 years with normal use. Signs it needs replacement: the key is difficult to turn, the bolt sticks, or the cylinder feels loose. Rekeying doesn’t wear out the lock.
Need a deadbolt installed or replaced? Book a licensed locksmith near you — upfront pricing, same-day availability. Call (888) 351-2810 24/7.
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