Best Key Lock Boxes: A Buyer’s Guide for Safe Key Storing

Are you looking for a safe, yet easy mechanism for storing a house key? A key lock box is a secure storage solution for keeping spare keys safe and easily accessible. It offers convenience, especially in emergencies or for granting temporary access to specific individuals such as housekeepers, maintenance personnel, or guests. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various key lock boxes available from reputable companies like Masterlock, Kidde, Igloohome, Supra, Kinsley, Wordlock, and Pangea. We will cover the best portable and wall-mounted combination lock boxes made, their performance in indoor and outdoor settings, and the pros and cons of each combination lock box for secure storing of spare house keys.

Table of contents

• What is a Key Lock Box?
• Types of Key Lock Boxes
• Portable vs. Wall Mounted Key Lock Boxes
• Best Portable Key Lock Boxes
• Best Wall-Mounted Key Lock Boxes
• Comparing the Best Key Lock Boxes for Indoor and Outdoor Use
• Best Indoor Key Lock Boxes
• Best Outdoor Key Lock Boxes
• Use Cases for Key Lock Boxes
• Pros and Cons of Key Lock Boxes
• How Key Lock Boxes Work
• Best Key Lock Box Alternatives
• Conclusion

Also, read

• Best Video Intercom Systems
• Best Face Recognition Door Locks
• Choosing a Wireless Call Box System
• Best Apartment Video Intercom Systems
• Expert Guide to Commercial Door Lock Types
• Apartment Intercom System with Door Release

What is a Key Lock Box?

A key lock box is a small, secure container designed to store keys or access cards. They come in various sizes and designs, with different locking mechanisms such as combination dials, push buttons, or electronic keypads. Key lock boxes can be wall-mounted or portable, depending on the desired use and location. They are commonly used for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes to ensure authorized access to a property or facility.

Types of Key Lock Boxes

There are two primary types of key lock boxes: portable and wall-mounted. Portable key lock boxes can be easily attached to doorknobs, fences, or railings, while wall-mounted lock boxes are designed for permanent installation on walls or other flat surfaces.

Portable vs. Wall Mounted Key Lock Boxes

When deciding on the right key lock box, you’ll come across two primary categories: portable and wall mounted lock boxes. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your specific needs and preferences. In this section, we’ll delve into the key differences between portable and wall mounted key lock boxes, helping you determine the most suitable option for your requirements.

Portable Key Lock Boxes

Pros:

• Flexibility: Portable key lock boxes offer greater flexibility, as they can be easily moved and placed in different locations. This feature is particularly useful if you need to grant temporary access to various properties or areas.
• Easy setup: Most portable lock boxes don’t require any installation or mounting, making them a convenient choice for those who want a hassle-free solution.
• Ideal for temporary access: If you need a lock box for short-term use, such as during a vacation rental or for contractors working on your property, a portable lock box might be the perfect solution.

Cons:

• Less secure: Portable key lock boxes might be more susceptible to theft or tampering due to their mobility. It’s crucial to choose a high-quality, durable lock box and secure it to a sturdy, immovable object to minimize risks.
• Limited storage: Portable lock boxes often have limited storage capacity, which might be insufficient for storing multiple keys or access cards.

Wall Mounted Key Lock Boxes

Pros:

• Higher security: Wall mounted lock boxes are generally considered more secure since they are affixed to a solid surface, making them less prone to theft or unauthorized access.
• Larger storage capacity: Wall mounted lock boxes typically have more storage space than portable lock boxes, allowing you to store multiple keys or even small items like access cards or fobs.
• Permanent solution: If you require a long-term solution for key storage and access control, wall mounted lock boxes are an excellent option. They are particularly useful for businesses or properties that need a more permanent and secure key storage system.

Cons:

• Installation required: Unlike portable lock boxes, wall mounted lock boxes need to be installed, which can be a bit more time-consuming and may require drilling into walls or other surfaces.
• Less flexibility: Once installed, wall mounted lock boxes cannot be easily relocated. If you need to move the lock box, you’ll have to uninstall and reinstall it, which might not be ideal for temporary or changing access requirements.

Ultimately, the choice between portable and wall mounted key lock boxes depends on your specific needs, preferences, and security requirements. Consider factors like flexibility, storage capacity, and installation when making your decision, and remember to select a high-quality, reliable key lock box that that best suits your needs.

Best Portable Key Lock Boxes

Portable key lock boxes offer flexibility and mobility. They can be easily installed and removed without the need for tools. These other key lock boxes are suitable for temporary or on-the-go access control solutions.

Masterlock 5400D

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Both
• Durability: High
• Pros:
  • Over-the-door knob design
  • Large internal cavity
  • Customizable 4-digit combination
  • Weather cover prevents freezing and jamming
• Cons:
  • Limited storage capacity compared to wall-mounted options

Kidde Keysafe Portable 3-Key

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Both
• Durability: High
• Pros:
  • Sturdy metal construction with rubber shell
  • Multiple locking mechanisms: pushbutton, dial, or mortise lid
  • Available in various colors
• Cons:
  • Limited to 3-key storage capacity

Best Wall-Mounted Key Lock Boxes

Wall-mounted key lock boxes provide a more permanent solution for spare key storage. They are securely attached to walls or other surfaces, ensuring a stable and long-lasting access control spare key and solution.

Kidde Keysafe Permanent 5-Key

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Both
• Durability: High
• Pros:
  • StrongBox design for enhanced security
  • Stores up to 5 keys
  • Multiple locking mechanisms: pushbutton, dial, or mortise lid
  • Available in various colors
• Cons:
  • Requires installation with included mounting hardware

Igloohome Smart Key Box 3

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Both
• Durability: High
• Pros:
  • No installation necessary
  • Stores keys and access cards
  • Access modes: PIN code, Bluetooth key
  • Syncs with Airbnb for guest access
• Cons:
  • Requires smartphone app for full functionality

Comparing the Best Key Lock Boxes for Indoor and Outdoor Use

When choosing a key lock box, it’s crucial to consider whether it will be used indoors or outdoors. Outdoor lock key boxes should be weather-resistant and durable, while indoor lock key boxes can prioritize ease of use and design.

Best Indoor Key Lock Boxes

Supra S5 Permanent 5-Key

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor
• Durability: High
• Pros:
  • Sleek design
  • Stores up to 5 keys
  • Customizable mechanical combination lock
  • Easy to install
• Cons:
  • Not weather-resistant

Kinsley KeyGuard SL-591-CVR

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor
• Durability: Moderate
• Pros:
  • Versatile key storage with a removable faceplate
  • Customizable mechanical combination lock
  • Easy to install
• Cons:
  • Not suitable for outdoor use

Best Outdoor Key Lock Boxes

Wordlock KS-052-BK

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
• Durability: High
• Pros:
  • Weather-resistant construction
  • Customizable 4-letter combination lock
  • Stores keys and access cards
  • Easy to install
• Cons:
  • Limited storage capacity

PANGAEA Key Hider

Overview

• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
• Durability: Low
• Pros:
  • Discreet rock-like design
  • Made of weather-resistant poly-resin
  • Can hold up to 5 regular-sized keys
  • Available in various colors and designs
• Cons:
  • Not water-proof
  • Low security 

Use Cases for Key Lock Boxes

Key lock boxes are versatile and can be used in multiple properties in various situations, such as:

1. Providing emergency access to elderly individuals or people with disabilities
2. Allowing after-school access for children
3. Granting temporary access to housekeepers, maintenance personnel, or pet sitters
4. Ensuring access to vacation rentals or Airbnb properties
5. Preventing lockouts in residential or commercial settings

Durability and Performance of Key Lock Boxes

A key lock box should be durable and reliable. Consider the materials used in the combination lockbox and box code construction, as well as the locking mechanism, when selecting a lock box.

Durable Materials

Key lock boxes made of solid metal, or weather-resistant materials like poly-resin will provide long-lasting performance. Some traditional lock box options also include rubber shells or weather covers for added protection.

Reliable Locking Mechanisms

A reliable locking mechanism for front door is crucial for maintaining security. Mechanical combination locks, push button locks, and electronic keypads are common options. Some lock boxes, like the Igloohome Smart Key Box 3, even offer smart access modes like PIN codes and Bluetooth keys.

Pros and Cons of Key Lock Boxes

Pros

• Provides secure storage for spare keys
• Allows temporary or emergency access to authorized individuals
• Prevents lockouts
• Can be used in various settings, including residential, commercial, or industrial

Cons

• Vulnerable to theft or unauthorized access if not hidden or installed properly
• Limited storage capacity for some models
• May require installation or smartphone app for full functionality

How Key Lock Boxes Work

Components of a Key Lock Box

Although designs may vary slightly, most key lock boxes consist of the following components:

1. Storage compartment: This is the area where keys or access cards are stored. The storage compartment size varies depending on the lock box model and can hold multiple keys or just one, depending on your needs.
2. Locking mechanism: The locking mechanism is the heart of the key lock box. It ensures that only authorized users can access the stored keys. Locking mechanisms can be mechanical (such as combination locks or key locks) or electronic (such as keypad locks or smart locks that use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity).
3. Outer casing: The outer casing protects the internal components of the key lock box from the elements and potential tampering. Materials used for the casing can range from metal to heavy-duty plastic, with varying levels of durability and weather resistance.

Accessing a Key Lock Box

To access a key lock box, an authorized user must unlock the locking mechanism using the correct combination, key, combination code or electronic access code. Here’s a general overview of how different types of key lock boxes are accessed:

1. Combination lock: For combination lock key lock boxes, users must enter the correct combination using either a dial or push-button mechanism. Once the correct combination is entered, the lock box opens, granting access to the stored keys.
2. Key lock: Key lock boxes require a physical key to unlock the box. The authorized user must insert the correct key into the lock and turn it to open the lock box.
3. Electronic keypad: Electronic keypad lock boxes require users to enter a numeric code or password on a digital keypad. When the correct code is entered, the lock box electronically unlocks, providing access to the keys.
4. Smart lock: Smart lock boxes use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology to connect with a user’s smartphone or other authorized devices. Users can unlock the lock box using a smartphone app, which sends a signal to the lock box to open it.

Once the user has accessed the keys, they can lock the key lock box again by closing the storage compartment and re-engaging the locking mechanism.

Key lock boxes provide a secure and convenient solution for storing keys and granting temporary or controlled access to properties. By understanding how key lock boxes work and selecting the appropriate type lock box for your needs, you can ensure a safe and reliable access control system for your property.

Best Key Lock Box Alternatives

While key lock boxes provide a practical solution for key storage and easy access, there are modern alternatives that offer more advanced security features and convenience. One such alternative is secure, cloud-based access control systems, like the one offered by Swiftlane.

Swiftlane: Company Overview

Swiftlane is a leading provider of cloud-based access control systems, focusing on security, convenience, and scalability. The company offers a wide range of access control products and solutions, including video intercoms, smart locks, and mobile access control systems. Swiftlane’s products are designed to meet the demands of various industries, including residential buildings, commercial properties, and educational institutions.

Swiftlane’s Cloud-based Access Control System

Swiftlane’s cloud-based access control system allows users to manage access to their property through a secure, web-based platform. With this system, you can grant or revoke access to specific individuals, set temporary access for guests or service providers, and monitor all access logs and events in real-time. This can control access and eliminates the need for physical keys, providing a more secure and efficient alternative to key lock boxes.

Some key features of Swiftlane’s access control system include:

• Mobile access: Users can unlock doors using their smartphones, eliminating the need for physical keys or keycards.
• Remote management: Property owners and administrators can manage access rights, monitor access events, and view video feeds from anywhere through the web-based platform.
• Scalable and flexible: The system can be easily scaled up or down, allowing for seamless integration with existing security infrastructure and support for future growth.
• Real-time notifications: Receive instant alerts for access events, security breaches, or any other activity of interest.
• Video intercom integration: Swiftlane’s video intercom system allows for seamless communication between visitors and property owners or administrators.

How Swiftlane Can Be Used as a Key Lock Box Alternative

Swiftlane’s cloud-based access control system offers several advantages over traditional key lock boxes:

1. Enhanced security: By eliminating the need for physical keys, the risk of unauthorized access due to lost or stolen keys is significantly reduced. The system also allows for real-time monitoring and alerts for any suspicious activity.
2. Greater control: Property owners and administrators can manage access rights for individual users, set temporary access for guests, and revoke access as needed.
3. Convenience: Users can unlock doors using their smartphones, eliminating the need to carry around keys or remember access codes.
4. Integration: Swiftlane’s system can be integrated with other security systems, such as video surveillance or alarm systems, providing a comprehensive security solution.

If you’re looking for a more advanced and secure alternative to key lock boxes, consider cloud-based access control systems like Swiftlane’s. These systems offer enhanced security, greater control, and the convenience of mobile access, making them an attractive option for residential, commercial, and industrial properties alike.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide to the best key lock boxes, we’ve explored various types of key lock boxes, their use cases, and some of the best options available on the market from companies like Masterlock, Kidde, Igloohome, Supra, Kinsley, Wordlock, and Pangea. We discussed portable and wall-mounted lock boxes, as well as their suitability for indoor and outdoor use, durability, and performance. Each lock box comes with its own set of pros and cons, which we’ve addressed to help you make an informed decision about best key lockboxes based on your specific needs.

As technology advances, we also considered a key lock box alternative – cloud-based access control systems, such as the one offered by Swiftlane. These modern solutions provide enhanced security, greater control, and increased convenience when compared to traditional physical key lock boxes.

When choosing the right key lock box or alternative solution for your property, it’s essential to assess your requirements, budget, and the level of security you desire. By doing so, you’ll be able to select the best option that ensures the safety and convenience of accessing your property for you, your family, or your business.