Whether you've just bought a new home or want to upgrade your existing locks, a high-quality deadbolt is a critical component of your home security.
Burglars are always looking for an easy target, and a home with wimpy locks is asking for trouble.
In this guide, we'll dive into the best deadbolts on the market—updated for 2023—to help you deter the low lives in your zip code and protect your home from unwanted bumps in the night. These locks have been hand-selected based on my own experience bypassing locks and other characteristics such as security features, pick and bump resistance, and design (to name a few).
What Makes a Good Deadbolt?
The goal of security isn't about making your house Fort Knox but making your home more time-consuming to break into than your neighbors. Or, at the very least, give you a head's up that "someone is trying to break in!"
"When you buy a lock, you're not buying security. You're buying time and noise. The more money you spend on the lock, the more time and noise you get." ~An old grumpy locksmith
This is the purpose of a deadbolt; To protect your doors from forceful attacks and to extend the amount of time it takes to get in.
Depending on the quality of your deadbolt and the strength of your door/door frame, this amount of time could be seconds, minutes, or considerably longer.
There are three things to understand about deadbolts.
- A deadbolt's first and most important function is to protect against forced entry—such as kick-ins. The ideal deadbolt is made well and uses strong components.
- The secondary function is to prevent other types of attacks—such as lock picking, lock bumping, ice-pick attacks, and drilling.
- It's ideal to have a deadbolt that provides both exceptionally well, but these locks are relatively expensive—many start at $150 a lock.
When choosing a deadbolt on a budget, it's statistically best to prioritize the strength of your deadbolt over pick resistance. Most criminals don't actually pick locks, and those who try likely won't be skilled enough to bypass the locks on this list quickly. In fact, in 2019, 55.7% of home entries involved forced entry alone.
Furthermore, good security is layered. In addition to a high-quality deadbolt, consider using additional security devices such as a night latch, security bar, doorbell camera, security system, or alarm. The more obstacles there are, the more likely the vermin will move on.
What Are the Best Deadbolt Locks?
There are a lot of bad deadbolts on the market today; so bad they should be illegal to sell as "security products."
But even worse, some large and well-known websites with zero knowledge of security products and deadbolts are making lists promoting poor quality locks and providing unrealistic expectations of those locks—which is dangerous.
This is not one of those lists. Each deadbolt below was carefully selected and classified based on its overall security, strength, vulnerabilities, features, availability, and average price.
Here are my top picks for the best deadbolt locks to use this year!
1. Schlage B560 Deadbolt
Best Overall Deadbolt for Residential Use
If you're looking for an absolute workhorse that excels in all categories and won't break the bank, the single-cylinder Schlage B560 is hand-down the best-valued deadbolt you can buy. Schlage is known as the king of residential deadbolts, and the B560 is a true testament to that statement.
Lock Features
The Schlage B560 is rated ANSI Grade 2, which means it's designed for heavy-duty residential or low-grade commercial use.
It has a 6-pin re-keyable cylinder, making it a breeze to rekey yourself, and uses the traditional "Schlage C" keyway, so you can easily create new keys. You can also drop other cylinders into this lock—such as the Schlage Primus— to increase pick resistance and key control.
This deadbolt has one of the heftiest bolts you can get without venturing into the realm of high-security locks. It has a "10% larger" diameter deadbolt and a 1" throwbolt that extrudes into the doorframe—making it excellent for resisting kick-ins.
The zinc bolt also includes a free-spinning hardened steel core for additional resistance against saws.
Resistance to Picking, Bumping, Drilling, etc.
With a 6-pin cylinder and anti-pick pins, the Schlage B560 is fairly resistant to lock picking and lock bumping. The faceplate also includes a hardened layer to protect vital areas against drilling.
In addition, this deadbolt has an anti-pry shield and a tapered free-spinning front plate to protect against wrench attacks.
Design and Ease of Installation
The Schlage B560 has a traditional deadbolt look, with a tapered front plate and a satin chrome finish. It can also be found in black and bronze.
It's a breeze to install and will fit nearly any door, and has an adjustable backset of 2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm).
This deadbolt also includes a frame reinforcing security strike to help prevent the bolt from ripping through the doorframe during kick-in attempts.
What I Like / Dislike about the Schlage B560
Reasons to Buy:
- Great value and ANSI Grade 2
- One of the toughest bolts you can get
- 6-pin cylinder and standard Schlage C keyway
- Anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill features
- Shielded
- Deep 1" throwbolt
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not ideal for commercial use. If you are looking for a commercial-grade deadbolt, check out the Grade 1 version of this lock, the Schlage B660.
2. EASILOK
Runner Up, Best Overall Deadbolt
The EASILOCK deadbolt lock is a new style of deadbolt that has been receiving high praise (even among the harshest lock critics). For its best testimonial, check out the review from the LockPickingLawyer—a renowned lockpicker known for bypassing the world's best locks within minutes!
This deadbolt is an unusual and unconventional lock, but it offers a ton of unique features that makes it worthy of runner-up best deadbolt!
Lock Features
The EASILOCK uses an "easy-locking technology" which allows you to twist the thumbturn on the outside of the door to engage the lock without using a key! The deadbolt can then be unlocked normally using a key.
No more fumbling with keys when you are trying to leave in a hurry- just a quick turn of the knob, and you are good to go. Even better, this easy-to-lock feature also comes in handy when you are carrying things and can't spare a hand to fumble with keys. The large twist knob is easy to grip and turn, making it ideal for those with arthritis or other conditions that make it hard to operate traditional locks.
This innovative deadbolt features a nightlatch switch that will disable the lock cylinder, meaning that even if someone has a key, they won't be able to get in. This also makes it 100% pickproof while the nightlatch is enabled!
The EASILOCK uses a 6-pin dimple lock and a unique keyway. However, because it is a dimple lock, it can't be rekeyed by the user, and duplicating keys is more difficult and costly—which is both a blessing and a curse.
So go ahead and lock down the house for the night - with this deadbolt, you can have 100% confidence that no one will be able to secretly bypass your locks. Sweet dreams!
Resistance to Picking, Bumping, Drilling, etc.
Dimple locks may seem like they would be more difficult to pick than regular pin tumbler locks, but the truth is that they are vulnerable to many of the same attacks.
But truth be told, picking dimple locks is more of a specialized skill, even among hobby pickers. Many lock pickers don't bother practicing with dimple locks because they are not that commonly used.
However, when the nightlatch mode is enabled, the lock cannot be opened from the outside, even if the correct key is used. This makes it virtually pickproof in this mode.
The outer components are also cast in 304 stainless steel, making it tough against any destructive attempts to drill or break the lock.
Design and Ease of Installation
At first glance, the EASILOCK looks gimmicky; at least, that is what I first thought. But once you see it on a door, its unique and round design actually looks quite slick!
The exposed sections of the lock are stainless steel with a lathe finish, so you don't have to worry about it fading or rusting. This lock can also be purchased in black or brass finishes helping match your other hardware.
It is painless to install, and all you need is a screwdriver. In fact, they claim that "it's so easy, a 7-year-old girl can install it."
The EASILOCK will fit nearly any door. It has an adjustable backset of 2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm) and will fit door thickness between 1-3/8" (35mm) to 1-3/4" (45mm).
What I Like / Dislike about the EASILOK
Reasons to Buy:
- Built exceptionally well; will last for a long time
- Nightlatch mode
- It can be used as a child lock
- It can be used on both the left and right side of the door
- Uses ball bearings for buttery-smooth operation
- Keys are not easy to copy
- It comes with five keys
Reasons to Avoid:
- The lock cylinder can't be replaced or upgraded
- You can't rekey it yourself
- Keys are not easy to copy
- It's possible to lock yourself out accidentally
3. Schlage B60N
Best Budget Deadbolt
Most cheap deadbolts offer about as much security as a wet paper towel. But among the trash are a few hidden gems that will provide you with good security at a very low cost! The most popular of these hidden treasures is the Schlage B60N—which is hands down the best budget deadbolt!
Schlage is a well-known and respected brand for a reason. They make some of the best residential on the market, and the B60N is no exception. This lock will make you feel safe and secure, knowing that those pesky intruders won't be getting into your house without a fight.
Lock Features
The Schlage B60N is rated ANSI Grade 1, which is impressive for its low cost. While ANSI grading doesn't represent pick resistance, it does mean that the lock is very durable, highly kick-resistant, is built to last, and will sit on your door for many years to come.
This deadbolt uses a standard 5-pin rekeyable cylinder—which can also be upgraded to a 6-pin cylinder to increase pick resistance.
It utilizes a classic Schlage C Keyway, so you'll be able to make new keys at just about any hardware store, auto parts shop, or key copy kiosk. However, this convenience can also make it easier for unwanted individuals to make copies as well.
The B60N also uses a 1" bolt, giving it excellent protection against forced attack—which is the true purpose of a deadbolt!
Resistance to Picking, Bumping, Drilling, etc.
The 5-pin core includes four spool pins (anti-pick pins) and is fairly pick and bump resistant compared to other deadbolts at this price range. However, it is by no means pickproof.
Another great feature of this deadbolt is the anti-drill plate that is located behind the faceplate. This prevents attackers from drilling the mounting screws or the shear line.
Lastly, it uses a hardened steel spinning pin in the bolt to protect it against sawing attacks and includes 3-inch screws for the strike plate to provide additional resistance to kick-ins.
Design and Ease of Installation
The B60N is a beautiful deadbolt that comes in an assortment of 12 finishes and several decorative designs. You can find one to fit any door or home style!
It is a sinch to install, requiring no technical knowledge, a screwdriver, and 10 minutes of your time.
Not sure what size to get? This deadbolt will fit any door thickness between 1-3/8" to 1-7/8," and like most residential deadbolts, it has an adjustable backset of 2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm).
What I Like / Dislike about the Schlage B60N
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable price
- ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 rating
- Easy to rekey and make new keys
- Includes anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill features
- 1-inch throwbolt
- 12 finishes and several different designs
Reasons to Avoid:
- Better deadbolts for slightly more money (see top pick)
4. Mul-T-Lock MP5+ Hecular
Best High-Security Deadbolt For Residential Use
If you want the best and most overkill deadbolt for your door, it doesn't get much better than the Mul-T-Lock MP5+ Hecular.
This beast is rated Grade 1 and is UL 437 listed; giving it exceptional protection against drilling, picking, and other common physical attacks.
This MP5+ cylinder offers a ton of features and is patented—meaning nobody can duplicate your key without proving they own the lock via an identification card.
Mul-T-Lock MP5+ Hecular is a top-tier deadbolt and easily made my list of the best high-security deadbolts of 2023!
Lock Features
This deadbolt uses Mul-T-Lock's Hecular ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt lock body and is designed for heavy-duty commercial use. This thing is reinforced and tough.
It has a 1 "bolt with a hardened stainless steel anti-drill ring. At the end of the bolt are two ball bearings that hold the bolt in the strike, which makes jimmying the bolt much harder. Also includes a reinforced steel strike.
Resistance to Picking, Bumping, Drilling, etc.
Okay, here are where things get complicated. High-security locks have a lot going on.
The Mul-T-Lock MT5+ is a dimple-style lock and is manufactured to incredibly high standards with tight tolerances (the internal components fit together nicely with little slop).
Additionally, the MT+ cylinder features several high-security technologies, including:
- Telescopic Pins (T-Pins): Pin-in-pin tech that increases pick resistance
- Sidebar: A secondary locking mechanism perpendicular to the primary pins.
- Countermilling: Threading on the pins or pin chambers to seize components while being lifted under tension.
- Alpha Spring: A moving component on the tip of the key that interacts with a pin in the rear of the keyway.
Overall, this deadbolt is extremely hard to manipulate, and it's a safe assumption that people that can pick these locks aren't targeting homes.
Design and Ease of Installation
The Mul-T-Lock Hecular is a gorgeous and unique-looking deadbolt that will definitely turn some heads.
Installing this deadbolt can be slightly confusing, and the included directions are very vague. However, with a quick YouTube search, you'll find dozens of videos that will take your hand and lead you step-by-step.
It can be purchased as a single cylinder deadbolt or double cylinder and will fit any door with a width between 1⅜" (35 mm) to 1¾" (45 mm) and has an adjustable backset of 2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm).
What I Like / Dislike about the Mul-T-Lock MP5+ Hecular
Reasons to Buy:
- ANSI Grade 1 and UL437 listed
- Patented keyway; Can't duplicate keys without proof you own the lock (Included ID card)
- Highly resistant to picking, drilling, and other bypasses
- MT5+ cylinder can be used in multiple types of locks, including padlocks. So you can have all your locks keyed alike
Reasons to Avoid:
- Expensive
- The patent Expires in 2025; after which key control is lost
- Keys are harder to make; averaging $30 per duplicate key
5. Schlage B562
Best Double-Cylinder Deadbolt
If you need to lock both sides of your door, you might consider using a double-cylinder deadbolt. These types of locks require a key to be used on both sides of the door, giving you access control in both directions. They can also prevent someone from reaching through a broken window and turning the thumb turn from the outside.
The best double-cylinder deadbolt is the Schlage B562—which has all the amazing features of the Schlage B560 (the first lock on this list) but with two cylinders instead of one!
Note: Double-cylinder deadbolts can be a safety hazard as they can block egress during an emergency, and in some instances, there are building codes or local laws that you must refer to before installing one.
Lock Features
The Schlage B562 is rated ANSI grade 2, which is intended for heavy-duty residential or low-grade commercial. If you need a lock for commercial purposes, consider this lock's big brother—the Schlage B662—which is Grade 1, but also much more expensive.
This deadbolt comes with a 6-pin-cylinder but typically comes stock with only 5 pins chambered. Still, it is nice to have the option to throw an additional pin in if you want.
It is a breeze to rekey yourself and uses a standard Schlage C keyway, so getting new keys made is easy and convenient.
The Schlage B562 also has a big and tough 1-inch solid zinc bolt with a hardened steel center pin that rolls to protect against sawing.
Resistance to Picking, Bumping, Drilling, etc.
The Schlage B562 has a 6-pin capable core; however, it can be purchased stocked with five pins—the more pins, the better, so I highly recommend looking for a model stocked with six pins.
It also contains anti-bump security pins. While not impenetrable or tamper-proof (no lock is), it is relatively a harder lock to bypass.
The faceplate also includes an extra layer of hardened material to protect vital areas against drilling.
In addition, this deadbolt has an anti-pry shield and a tapered free-spinning front plate to protect against wrench attacks.
Design and Ease of Installation
The Schlage B562 is a classic-looking deadbolt with a traditional tapered front plate and can be found in a variety of finishes and colors.
This deadbolt is easy to install, fits most doors, and has an adjustable backset of 2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm).
It also has a frame-reinforcing security strike to help prevent the bolt from being forced through the doorframe during kick-in attempts.
What I Like / Dislike about the Schlage B562
Reasons to Buy:
- Great value and ANSI Grade 2
- One of the toughest bolts you can get
- 6-pin cylinder and standard Schlage C keyway
- Anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill features
- Shielded
- Deep 1" throwbolt
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not ideal for commercial use. If you are looking for a commercial-grade deadbolt, check out the Grade 1 version of this lock, the Schlage B662.
Things to Consider When Buying a Deadbolt
When selecting a new deadbolt, there are several things you should take into consideration. The following characteristics can significantly impact the reliability, functionality, and overall security of your deadbolt.
1. Resistance to Kick-ins or Brute Force
The primary purpose of a deadbolt is to protect your doors from brute force—such as kick-ins.
To this end, you want a deadbolt that extends well into the doorframe, preferably a 1-inch bolt.
Consider the material used for the bolt and strike plate. Cheap and weak materials could bend or break with force. Also, be sure to install your strike plate properly and use a minimum of three-inch screws. Many cheaper deadbolts (and even some premium ones) come with short strike plate screws—don't use these and invest the $5 at your hardware store for strong and long replacements.
Lastly, your deadbolt is only as good as the door and frame it is attached to. A cheap deadbolt is a statistically better defense than a cheap door, so if your doors are questionable, consider an upgrade.
2. Common Deadbolt Exploits, Bypasses, and Vulnerabilities
I like to think of security as a small boat. If there is a single hole in your boat, it may float for a while—but it's effectively useless for any journey.
By understanding the common vulnerabilities of your deadbolts, you'll make better buying decisions, have an honest assessment of your home security, and can take action to patch those holes by other means of security. The deadbolt is but one tool in the toolbox.
Resistance to Lock Picking, Lock Bumping, and Snap Guns
The first vulnerability of the deadbolt is lock picking, lock bumping, and snap guns—all of which aim to manipulate the internal pins of the lock to the correct positions.
The best features you can look for in a lock to deter these techniques are:
- A higher number of pins; five pins or more is ideal
- A tight paracentric keyway that reduces room for tools in the keyway
- Anti-pick security pins, which trap manipulated pins if the core is under tension.
- Don't master key your locks; master keys make picking easier.
- Use additional high-security features—like sidebars.
Resistance to Drilling
A common but overlooked deadbolt exploit is drilling important components of the lock—such as the pin stack, shear line, or mounting screws.
A good deadbolt will have hardened plates or ball bearings in front of vulnerable areas to protect against drilling attacks.
Resistance to Sawing
The strength of the bolt is critical—not only for providing protection against brute force but also cutting attacks.
A good bolt should be resistant to cutting and sawing. This is typically accomplished through hardened steel bolts or implementing a free-spinning hardened bar within the bolt that rotates if cutting is attempted.
Other Exploits
In addition to the above, a good deadbolt should protect against the following:
- Ice-Pick and Prying Attacks
- Hammer Attacks
- Wrench Attacks
3. Budget
If you're trying to secure your home as much as possible on a budget, the best thing you can do is diversify—remember, the best home security is layered.
For example: For the price of an expensive high-security deadbolt, you could have purchased a good Grade 2 deadbolt (such as the top one on this list), an upgraded strike plate with extended screws, a night latch, and a cheap video doorbell without a subscription.
Not only would this pickproof your door while the night-latch is active, but you'll have 24/7 surveillance and real-time notifications of your doorways—even when you're not home.
4. Lock Grade
In a nutshell, an ANSI security rating represents the lock's durability and overall toughness. They do not take into consideration resistance against other types of vulnerabilities, such as lock picking.
I recommend a deadbolt lock that is at least ANSI Grade 2 or Grade 1; avoid Grade 3 or non-rated deadbolts for exterior doors.
5. Installation
Are there any strange installation considerations or changes that you'll have to make to your door or doorframe to install the deadbolt?
For example, replacing a traditional deadbolt with a mortise deadbolt would require you to remove internal sections from the door—which is a nightmare.
You'll also need to measure your door thickness and the backset (distance from the center of the borehole to the edge of the door) to ensure your desired deadbolt will fit your door.
6. Compatibility With Other Locks
If you want to use as few keys as possible, do your best to match brands and keyways. If you have a Kwikset on your garage door and a Schlage on your front door, you'll be forced to carry around a key for each.
If you're replacing a deadbolt and your budget will allow it, you might consider upgrading all your locks with similar locks. You may have to take those locks to a locksmith to have them all keyed alike, or you can do it yourself following my rekeying guide.
7. Key Control
Lastly is key control; do you want a key that can't be duplicated easily?
Key security falls on a spectrum of convenience. The easier it is for you to make a copy, the easier it is for someone else too as well. If you can bring your key into any hardware store and make a dozen copies, so can anyone else.
True key control is typically a feature of high-security deadbolts (such as Multi-lock, Medeco, and ASSA). To make duplicates key for these locks, you must visit a licensed dealer of the locks and have an ID card to prove the key is yours.
However, most of the Schlage deadbolts on this list can be fitted with a Schlage Primus core which provides key control similar to other high-security lock brands.
Deadbolt FAQ
What is a Deadbolt?
A deadbolt is a locking mechanism that is used to secure doors. It consists of a bolt that slides into the door frame and is locked by turning the knob or key.
How Do Deadbolts Work?
A deadbolt is a locking mechanism on a door that is much more secure than a regular doorknob. Deadbolts have a bolt that goes into the door frame, making it very difficult to force the door open.
What is the Most Common Type of Deadbolt?
The most popular type of deadbolt is the single-cylinder deadbolt. These locks require a key to lock and unlock them from the exterior side but can also be actuated using a thumbturn on the inside.
Is There a Deadbolt That Can't Be Picked?
No, there is no such thing as a "pickproof" deadbolt or lock. Every lock can be picked; however, there is a difference between a lock that is easy to pick (can be picked by a beginner) and those locks that take require special skills to pick (someone who has spent considerable time, sometimes years, practicing on that particular type of lock.)
Final Thoughts
Installing a deadbolt is a relatively simple DIY project, but if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always hire a locksmith. Either way, upgrading your locks is a smart investment in the security of your home and an essential layer of security.
After testing and reviewing many different types and brands of deadbolts, I have come to the conclusion that Schlage's B560 deadbolt is the best overall choice for most homes. This deadbolt is made of high-quality materials, rather tamper-proof, and is relatively affordable.
I hope this guide helped further your understanding of deadbolts and general home security and if you would like to learn more ways to secure and protect the things you care about most, consider checking out my other home security guides!
Thanks for reading!
