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Smart Locks vs Traditional Locks: Which Is Better for Your Tampa Home?

March 20, 20253 min read

Ready to Upgrade Your Locks? Here’s What You Need to Know

In 2025, more Tampa homeowners are switching to smart locks — but traditional deadbolts still have their place.

So which one is better?

This guide compares smart vs traditional locks in the real world — not theory. You’ll learn:

  • Which is safer

  • Which lasts longer

  • What Tampa locksmiths recommend

  • What it really costs to upgrade


Table of Contents

  1. What Are Smart Locks?

  2. Benefits of Smart Locks in Tampa Homes

  3. Pros of Traditional Locks

  4. Side-by-Side Comparison

  5. Common Mistakes When Upgrading

  6. What Pro On The Go Recommends

  7. FAQ: Smart Locks in 2025


1. What Are Smart Locks?

Smart locks are keyless entry systems that use:

  • Mobile apps

  • Fingerprints

  • Keypads

  • Bluetooth or WiFi

Most are battery-powered and still offer a keyhole backup.


2. Why Tampa Homeowners Choose Smart Locks

- Keyless entry — no more lost keys
- Remote access — unlock from your phone
- Guest access — create temporary codes for Airbnb, cleaners, friends
- Activity logs — see who opened your door and when
- Smart home integration — works with Alexa, Ring, etc.

Security Tip: Always choose a Grade 1 or 2 smart lock with encrypted signals and 2-factor authentication.


3. Why Some Still Choose Traditional Locks

- Lower cost
- No batteries to replace
- Fewer failure points
- Works during power outages
- Still highly secure if properly installed

Great for: rental properties, back doors, or budget-conscious upgrades.


4. Smart vs Traditional Lock Comparison

Feature Smart Lock Traditional Lock

Entry Type Keypad, phone, app Physical key only

Cost Range $150–$400 $75–$180

Security High (w/ good brand) High (Grade 1 or 2 deadbolt)

Convenience ✅✅✅ ✅

Failure Risks Battery, WiFi, tech bugs Jammed cylinder, rust

Best For Primary home, smart home Rentals, secondary doors


5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

- Buying a cheap off-brand smart lock online
- Forgetting to secure the deadbolt (not just the knob)
- Not checking your door’s fit and frame strength
- Assuming all locks fit all doors (they don’t)

Need help choosing the right lock for your home?
Send us a photo — we’ll give you a recommendation in 30 seconds.


6. What Our Locksmiths Recommend

Our standard Tampa homeowner upgrade package includes:

  • Grade 2 Smart Lock with Keypad + Mobile App

  • Rekeyed back and side doors with traditional deadbolts

  • Free app setup + code training

  • Battery replacement calendar

  • Optional: Ring or Nest camera doorbell integration

Starting at $299 — installed.


7. FAQ: Smart Locks in 2025

Q: Can you install smart locks on any door?
Not all — some require custom fits. We assess your door first and recommend best-fit options.

Q: What happens if the smart lock battery dies?
Most models send alerts first. All our locks include a backup keyhole or 9V emergency override.

Q: Are smart locks really safe?
Yes — especially with encryption, proper setup, and physical deadbolt backup.


⭐ Real Client Feedback

“I was nervous about switching to smart locks, but Jerry made it easy. He installed everything in under an hour and even helped me set up the app. Love the peace of mind!”
Trina S., Tampa, FL


Ready to Upgrade Your Lock System?

BOOK SMART LOCK INSTALLATION →
Call 813-534-2911 for a free quote]
TEXT “SMART LOCK” to (813) 534+2911

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Owner, CEO of Pro On the Go Locksmith

Jerry Paneto

Owner, CEO of Pro On the Go Locksmith

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