Smart Locks and Doorbell Systems: A Game-Changer in Home Security

Smart tech is here to revolutionize home security. Traditionally, spare keys were put under the flower pots, and doorbells were just that: doorbells. Today, homeowners can opt for non-physical keys and hi-tech doorbells that are combined with a security camera.

Just how popular are smart home tech solutions? The global market growth for automatic house locks went from $2.14B to $2.48B in just one year (2022-2023). As for the video doorbell systems, the estimated global market size for 2023 is set at $9368.7M with a CAGR of 22.0% for the period of 2023-2030.

Let’s check out how video doorbells and smart locks operate – and why they are so practical. 

Smart Locks: How They Work

What is a smart lock? Unlike the more traditional locks, smart tech supports keyless access to your property. Such systems typically work through a key pad, a fingerprint, or a remote fob. Now you don’t have to search your bag for the key under the rain or snowfall. Instead, you can type in a code, use a finger pad, or wave a key fob to get inside. 

Digital door locks with cameras utilize Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to operate for non-physical access. This allows you to close or open doors via your smartphone and check on all the locks. In addition, this tech can notify you about any unlawful entries so you can quickly act and call the authorities.

Can a smart lock with a doorbell camera still have keys? Yes, however, these are not necessarily physical. The digital locks like Level Bolt allow you to continue using an existing material key. However, this option is rather a backup plan if your smartphone is damaged, stolen, or low on battery. 

Benefits of Smart Locks for Your Home

Here are some of the main advantages of switching to a smart lock: 

Digital keys. Security camera door locks not only make traditional keys obsolete, they provide a convenient and secure entry option for family members, friends, guests, workers, etc. Instead of making multiple key duplicates, you can simply give out the entry codes. Alternatively, your close friends or guests can utilize applications to enter the premises. The hospitality industry is actively adopting this solution, which offers strong proof of its efficiency.

Access management. Provide and manage your property access remotely, while keeping an eye on the indoor activities. The smart lock safety features include a full report on who unlocked what, and when. This is especially convenient for families with kids and home safety enthusiasts. Even if you are on a long trip, you can let people in – or lock them out of your property. 

Multiple lock/unlock options. The top electronic door locks with a camera let you decide on the easiest way to allow entry. Some of the popular variants include

• Smartphone app,
• Fingerprint,
• Apple Watch,
• Access code, and 
• Auto Unlock.

While the first four seem rather obvious, the last one could raise questions. In reality, it’s one of the simplest ways to get inside. Auto Unlock opens your door automatically when you approach it. This can help a lot if you are carrying grocery packages or travel baggage.    

Boosted security. Digital locks for home present a problem for the burglars, being much more difficult to crack. Your app can also notify you about any unusual or suspicious activity. How safe are smart locks? They are certainly not 100% hack-proof. However, the app-controlled door locks have modern encryption and authorization to minimize the risks.

Smart Doorbells: In Detail

Firstly, what exactly is a smart doorbell system? It’s your typical ring button, but equipped with a camera, motion sensor, and audio system. When a person approaches your door – or uses the doorbell button, you’ll get online alerts. No matter if you are at work or traveling, you can always monitor the front door. 

Why is this new tech so important for homeowners? With around 2.5M burglaries occurring in the USA each year, you would want better protection. The video doorbell systems offer you just that: a modern way to keep track of visitants. Watch them in real time or communicate with them via a 2-way audio component. There is also an option to set off the home security alarm. 

Benefits of Smart Doorbell Systems

The main perks of this smart solution include the following:

Saving on homeowners insurance. If burglars decide to target your place, a home video doorbell will help a lot. Firstly, it can detect intrusions at an early stage enabling you to act quickly and make a call to the authorities. Secondly, the motion sensor and doorbell camera will help you gather the important information. This information can then be passed on to claim your insurance and avoid unnecessary stress. In fact, you could be saving around $100 yearly by getting a digital doorbell.

Front door monitoring. The plain truth is that we don’t really want to interact with each and every visitor. Complaining neighbors, salesmen, or local activists, some people are better left outside. With a video door camera, you will be receiving a live feed to your smartphone. Even if you’re out, the front door alerts will remain the same. You can then talk to a visitor through the audio feature – or simply ignore them. 

Round-the-clock video footage access. Your smart CCTV doorbell is always on, even if your smartphone isn’t. These devices record the front door activity 24/7 using a built-in SD card or cloud storage. Load the footage anytime and check on what has been happening during your absence; see if your kids came home before 9 P.M., if the cleaning was done on schedule, if the repair man came, etc. 

Package tracking. You now have a powerful weapon against porch pirates. The motion sensor and built-in camera will alert you immediately should something go wrong. Your next action might be using the speaker to give the thief a warning. Alternatively, doorbell security systems like Vivint can automatically detect deliverers and lurkers. On spotting a criminal, such doorbells notify them visually and audibly to discourage theft.

Night vision feature. The infrared tech is indispensable for your home safety at nighttime. Whenever a person approaches your door, you’ll be able to see them via the doorbell camera. Take away the burglars’ confidence of not being seen at night and protect yourself against trespassers. The most secure video doorbells provide high clarity footage even in the darkest hours.  

Conclusion

Modern tech is actively reshaping home security through smart locks and doorbells. Let’s summarize what these devices can bring to your table.

Smart locks

• providing non-physical access options;
• reducing the need for key duplicates;
• monitoring all locking/unlocking activities; and 
• reinforcing domestic safety.

Smart doorbells

• tracking front door activities 24/7 from any place;
• getting timely notifications on a smartphone;
• preventing unlawful entries and package thefts; and 
• saving on insurance. 

While the traditional locks and doorbells may seem “tried and tested”, there are better home security solutions. It’s never too early or too late to ensure your safety and protect your property.