Smart Door Locks, Which One to Buy?

You already know that smart door locks are essential to ensure security and convenience in hotels, tourist accommodation and any type of establishment, including your home.

But, with so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. In this article, we help you choose the ideal smart lock for your business or home.

What are smart locks?

According to its definition, a smart or intelligent lock is an electronic device that allows access to a door without the need to use a physical key.

This type of electronic lock can be controlled through an app from any smartphone, via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or even using a remote control. In addition, most of these locks have a high security cylinder that increases protection still further.

Advantages of smart door locks

Without a doubt, we are talking about a product that offers numerous advantages in terms of safety and convenience, especially for the hotel sector:

1. Improved security: Smart locks are designed to provide a high level of security. Many models have automatic locking, so the door closes automatically after a set time. Additionally, electronic locks can be controlled remotely, allowing for greater surveillance.
2. Convenience: Forgetting or losing your keys is a thing of the past with smart locks. Guests can unlock their rooms using their mobile phone, a proximity card or a numeric code. This is not only more convenient for users, but also reduces hotel staff workload.
3. Flexibility: Smart locks have made much more flexible access control a reality. Now administrators can grant or revoke permissions instantly; a great boon for hotels without a 24-hour reception, for example.
4. Integration and compatibility: Many smart lock models are compatible with existing management systems in hotels. This means they can be easily integrated with the hotel’s PMS; enabling efficient, centralised management.

Types of smart door locks

To help you choose, let's see what types of smart door locks exist. We’ll show you the models we offer you at Omnitec Systems, which are among the most popular on the market.

MiFare electronic proximity locks

First of all, there is the MiFare proximity lock, which uses cards, key fobs or bracelets to unlock the doors. It is managed through Omnitec’s SmartPass software and allows quick, secure access to any room. These locks are ideal for a complete security package.

You can choose between:

• Gaudi. This lock combines ease of installation with a sober, robust design. It is ideal for hotels looking for a practical solution which is good value for money.
• Fit-In. Designed to be used with your existing lock, this electronic lock makes it easy to modernise physical locks without making any major structural changes.

Electronic locks with Bluetooth and proximity cards

There are also smart locks that incorporate proximity cards with the best Bluetooth technology, to provide even more convenience and security.

Our most notable models of this type are:

• OS SLIM. A lock distinguished by its narrow, elegant profile. You can open and close the door via Bluetooth, with a MiFare proximity card or also remotely, via a gateway; this makes it a highly promising alternative in the hotel sector.
• EVO. This has a more minimalist design and integrates the physical lock and electronic components inside the door. The best thing is that its external reader can be customised.

Electronic locks with Bluetooth, proximity and numerical code

If you're looking for something more versatile, you should choose a smart lock with numerous access methods. This is precisely what our high technology OS SLIM CODE model offers, as well as our FLAT 2 lock:

• OS SLIM CODE. Opening via Bluetooth, MiFare proximity card, numerical code or remote access via a gateway, it is ideal for small hotels, residences and lodgings without a 24-hour reception.
• FLAT 2. Its design adapts to the existing DIN mechanics, and is thus ideal for modernising old doors.

Which one should I buy?

So, which of these numerous smart door lock options are you going to choose? That depends on your needs and requirements. Fundamentally, you should look at factors like its price, level of security, ease of installation, access control, compatibility with your current doors and systems and even the design itself. Furthermore, if your goal is to be able to open the door without complications and ensure a high level of security, you must consider the quality of the lock and the cylinder.

Of course, in the Omnitec catalogue you have a wide range of smart locks that can fit with various needs and budgets. If you have questions or need advice to find the best solution, contact us. We are here to help you!