Standard Grade 1 deadbolts (Schlage B60N, $40-$60) stop 99% of break-in attempts. High-security locks (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, $200-$450) add pick-proof protection and key control. Most homeowners are fine with Grade 1 standard. Upgrade to high-security if you need key control or live in a high-crime area.
What Makes a Lock "High-Security"?
Two things: physical resistance to attack and key control. A high-security lock from Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, or Abloy uses rotating pins, sidebar mechanisms, or disc detainers that defeat standard picking and bumping techniques. A standard Schlage or Kwikset uses conventional pin tumblers that a skilled person can pick with $20 in tools.
The second difference is key control. Standard key blanks are available at every hardware store and self-service kiosk. Anyone with your key can make a copy. High-security key blanks are patented and restricted to authorized dealers. Without your authorization card, nobody can duplicate your key. Not at Home Depot, not at a kiosk, not at another locksmith.
How Much More Do High-Security Locks Cost?
| Lock Type | Hardware Cost | Installed Cost | Key Copy Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kwikset (Grade 3) | $15-$25 | $75-$100 | $3 anywhere |
| Schlage B60N (Grade 1) | $40-$60 | $120-$160 | $5 at hardware store |
| Medeco M3 (High-Security) | $150-$200 | $250-$350 | $15-$25, authorized only |
| Mul-T-Lock MT5+ (High-Security) | $175-$250 | $300-$400 | $20-$30, authorized only |
| Abloy Protec2 (High-Security) | $200-$300 | $350-$500 | $25-$35, authorized only |
Do You Actually Need High-Security Locks?
For most homeowners, an ANSI Grade 1 standard deadbolt is enough. Here's why. According to FBI Uniform Crime Report data, the vast majority of residential burglaries happen through forced entry (kicking the door) or through unlocked doors and windows. Lock picking accounts for less than 1% of break-ins.
A properly installed Schlage B60N with 3-inch strike plate screws resists forced entry just as well as a Medeco. The difference is the Medeco also resists picking and controls key copies. If nobody is trying to pick your lock or make unauthorized copies of your key, you're paying extra for protection against threats that aren't realistic for your situation.
When IS High-Security Worth It?
Key control is the real value. If you're a landlord who needs to ensure tenants can't make unauthorized copies, restricted keyways solve that completely. If you manage a commercial property with 20+ employees, key control prevents the "who has copies of our keys?" nightmare.
Also worth it for: homes in high-crime areas, properties with valuable collections or assets, vacation homes that sit empty for months, and anyone who has experienced a break-in and wants maximum deterrence.
Our Honest Take
Spend the first $200 on a Grade 1 deadbolt with proper strike plate installation. That covers 99% of threats. If you have specific reasons to need key control or pick resistance (and you'll know if you do), then step up to Medeco or Mul-T-Lock. Don't let anyone scare you into buying $400 locks for a $250,000 condo just because they make a bigger commission.
We install all grades and we'll tell you honestly what you actually need. If a $130 Schlage solves your problem, that's what we'll recommend. We'd rather earn your trust and your next 10 referrals than upsell you once.