Choosing between the different Kwikset door locks on this page, 910 vs 907, 909, 911, 912, 913, 914, 915, 916, can be confusing. Most of them are simply separated by one number. And when you look at a picture of them; they look the same or very similar for the most part. Generally, they have a lot in common, so you’re confusion is understood.
But don’t worry, you’ve landed at the right place. On this page you will find all of the information that you need to help you choose the best Kwikset electric door lock.
The prospect of having keyless entry to your home is practical and yet exciting. I mean, I can think of about one-hundred different situations where a keyless door lock would come in handy. And I swear, none of those hypotheticals involve me pretending to be Jason Bourne.
The reasons are much more realistic, like when I try to play Superman and carry all of the groceries from the car in just one trip. Or when my son goes out to play and needs to get back in the house. I could literally think of a bunch of different scenarios where a keyless lock would come in handy.
Below, there is a ton of information. You might not need to read through it all; although you might stand to benefit from doing just that. Check out the table of contents just below and jump ahead to what you really need. I do advise you to also take a look at the “What do you plan on using your lock to secure?” section as it will really help guide you to your perfect lock.
Kwikset SmartCode Locks: 910 vs 907, 909, 911, 912, 913, 914, 915, 916
What do you plan on using your lock to secure?
It’ll be easier to figure out which electric lock is best for you if you first consider where on your house you plan on using it, and what your lock will be used to secure?
Home Use
If the lock is for your home then you might consider the number of occupants. How many people are in your house? Does each person really need a personal code? How often will you need to give out a temporary code? If it’s for a room inside your house, how many people might need a user code to access that room? How often will the secured location be accessed?
The models tend to increase in price as the number of possible user codes increases. Do you need the ability to open doors from your smart phone? Why pay for 30 codes when you only need a handful?
- If you need a lock to secure a location that won’t be accessed very often (like a storage room) then check out the 907 (powerbolt 1 or 2) or 909 (the better option). You can’t create many user codes but you probably don’t need them for this application. Also, you probably won’t need to unlock that room from your phone.
- These models can be controlled by your smart phone and are perfect for remote access as well i.e. vacation property: 910, 912, 914, 916
- For interior doors, you should check out these models: 911, 912.
- Want the most durable lock without smart phone access, check out the 913
For Business…
Do you plan on using your lock for rental properties? Do you need access to the doors at any time to do repairs? What about an office setting? If you have employees then you may need a unit that can store many user codes.
- If you are looking for a lock for rental properties you probably only need them for exterior doors. I recommend the 909. You may also consider the 910 if you need to have access from your smart phone for repair people or contractors.
- For an office I’d recommend the following models: 914 or 916. The reason is because they both allow you to create many more user code combinations as they have 10 digits versus 5. They allow you to lock and unlock from your phone which may come in handy when an employee forgets their key or code. The 916 is BHMA 2 rated which is 20 minute fire rated. Maybe these specs could save you money on your insurance.
Please note: If you plan on getting a smart phone controllable unit you will need to purchase a smart hub as well.
Pros and Cons for most Electric Locks
Many of the pros and cons are similar for each one of these products. Below I’ve listed them for your consideration.
Pros
- Keyless entry (all models)
- There will be minimal abrasions on your lock because you won’t use your physical key often. Therefore your lock will look like new for years.
- Email or text notification when your Smartcode lock is opened.
- Open your doors for guest, employees and contractors from your phone
- Protection against bumping (a technique that skilled thieves use to break pin and tumbler locks)
- You don’t worry “did I lock the door”
Cons
- Compared to traditional locks these are quite expensive
- These things aren’t perfect – I’ve come across instances of reported malfunction
- Failure rate much higher than traditional door locks
- Requires batteries – an additional expense
- Can these locks be hacked…?
User Codes
One of the biggest differences between these door lock models is the number of user codes you can store. The most basic model, the 907, can only store 2 different user codes. For your home situation, this could be just fine. If you trust everyone that would have this user code then you may not need that many codes.
Creating a user code is really simple whether you choose a Z-wave model or not. The instructions to do so are included with the unit.
Can these units withstand the weather?
I wouldn’t install an electric lock on a door that doesn’t have at least some protection from the elements. I have an awning and screen door that would provide some protection from weather. It isn’t recommended that you install one of these locks on a door that will receive direct contact with water.
One Touch Lock & 30 second Auto-lock
Simply press just one button, the one with the lock icon, and your door will lock. This is a feature that you will have no matter which of these products you choose.
The auto-lock feature locks the door after 30 seconds have passed. This feature is also included on all of the models on this page. It’s a very convenient feature, but unfortunately it isn’t customizable, it can only lock after 30-seconds. So, by the time you run outside to check your mail, or water the flowers, or take out the trash, it will probably be locked again.
Some of these locks require a smart hub
There are certain models on this page, the 910, 912, 914, and 916, which require a Z-Wave compatible controller in order to access all features. Z-wave is a protocol for communication between devices used for home automation. There are other wireless protocols as well such as Zigbee and even Wi-Fi.
It is in your best interest to get a controller that is compatible with several different protocols. This will give you greater flexibility in choosing your smart home devices as not all of them are z-wave compatible.
Veralite, MiCasaVerde Vera 2, Homeseer, and Smart Things are some of the best smart hubs on the market.
Batteries
All of these models require “AA” batteries that aren’t included in the box. Installation of new batteries is simple. To change the batteries you simply remove the cover located on the back of the unit.
Battery life should be one of your main concerns when choosing this type of lock. I’ve read that the batteries should last for about a year if the average open and close rate is 10 per day. But this claim is a bit too basic. It doesn’t account for the beeps, automatic 30-second locking feature, or the blinking led lights.
Based on customer reports your batteries will last longer if you turn off these features. You can turn these features on/off by accessing the control panel on the back of the unit. There are 3 switches. The first one controls the blinking light feature, green for unlocked and red for locked; the second switch controls the automatic locking mechanism; and the third one enables beeping when the keypad is touched.
Switch one enables the LED light to blink (green for unlocked, red for locked); the second switch enables the auto-lock feature (automatically relock the door 30 seconds after unlocking); and the third switch enables beeping (on functions performed or keypad touched).
Both Z-wave and non Z-wave models will alert you when the battery is getting low – flashing red light and fast beeping for about 5 seconds. With the Z-wave models you will also receive an email or text alert when the battery is getting low.
I’d probably keep the auto-lock feature on and cut the other two if I were truly interested in conserving battery life.
Installation
Kwikset claims that each of these SmartCode lock models are easy to install – all you need is a screwdriver. What’s my take? Well, like so many things in life, it depends. For the most part, I believe that your experience with installation will be easy as long as you have standard sized doors and they are properly aligned. Also, what’s hard or challenging for one person might be easy to another.
SmartKey Re-Key Learning Tool
With the smartkey learning tool you can rekey your physical key lock at any time without having to install new lock hardware. All of the locks on this page have this feature – and it is an amazing one. It’s really practical, for example, for convenience you may want all of your keys to your home to match or maybe you need it to rekey your rental properties. It’ll also come in handy if you lose your keys for whatever reason. Maybe you loaned a key out and it was never returned. Whatever the reason you can re-key your lock in a few simple steps:
Step 1: Insert the functioning key
Step 2: Insert and remove the smart key learning tool
Step 3: Remove functioning key
Step 4: Insert new key and turn ½ turn counter clockwise
Kwikset 907 Review
Best for: Low Frequency Use
The entry-level 907 actually comes in two different designs to give you more flexibility when installing your new electronic lock; Powerbolt 1 and Powerbolt 2. Both look decent but won’t knock your socks off.
Kwikset 907 Smartlock
But maybe you don’t need all of those extra’s.
The Powerbolt 2 is definitely a step up in comparison to the Powerbolt 1 as you can program up to 6 user codes.
Bottom Line
Budget conscious shoppers may be drawn to the price of this unit. And while the 907 models may be a little easier on your wallet, you will be giving up a lot of features in choosing this option. Then there’s the issue of durability. Lots of users reported that their unit stopped working after just a year. That would make me uncomfortable to buy it especially with so many great options out there.
If you must go with this cheaper option perhaps you should only use it to secure locations that won’t be used very often, such as a storage room. Still, I think that you are better off spending a little more and going with a more durable model, i.e. the also budget friendly 909.
Click here to see price for the 907
Kwikset 909 Review
The designer styled 909 is certainly a step up in class from the 907 as it has the ability to program up to 8 different key codes. The 909 also comes available in a contemporary style that isn’t as fancy.
Kwikset 909 Smartlock
Bottomline
Compared to some of the other models on this page (see below) you might consider this unit to be more of an entry-level model (price should reflect that notion) and I would have to agree. You won’t be able to unlock your doors from miles away, for example. But I think that it is still worthy of your consideration.
Perhaps you don’t need a lock that can alert you when the door has been opened. Maybe you only need an electronic lock so that you can get your groceries in your house without pulling out your key. And maybe 8 codes is plenty. I think that it’s durable and there are many customers that are happy with this model.
Click here to see price for the 909
Kwikset 910 Review
The 910 is a z wave (see z-wave explanation above and some examples of really cool things you can do with it) compatible device. If you were considering one of the non z-wave compatible door locks, i.e. 907, 909, 911, and 913, then this one might really impress you.
Kwikset 910 Smartlock
For added safety you can receive alerts via text or email when someone opens the door.
Bottomline
In my opinion, the Kwikset 910 offers a great combination of cost and features. It will enhance your home automation efforts or perhaps spark you to take on more smart home upgrades. With Z-wave compatibility, you will have a truly smart device that offers you security and automation at a reasonable price.
Click here to see price for the 910
Kwikset 911 Review
The Kwikset 911 is was designed for the interior of your home. This model looks different from the others on this list because it has a lever handle. This model will give you the freedom to control access to certain rooms of your home.
Maybe you don’t want your children (or cleaner, family members, contractors) to have access to your office, bedroom, storage room or even your wine cellar (yes, some lucky folks have a wine cellar).
Kwikset 911 Smartlock
Unfortunately this model is not Z-wave compatible but you can manually program up to 8 key codes.
Bottom line
I think that the Kwikset 911 is a good option that is specially designed for interior use. It looks good and offers you a great option for securing the inner doors of your home. Despite some complaints about malfunctions I still think that this is a durable unit.
Click here to see price for the 911
Kwikset 912 Review
Bottom line
If you’d like an interior lock system with the added bells and whistles then the Kwikset 912 is the way to go. The 912 is the same as the 911 but it has the Z-wave functionality which of course will give you a lot more control over your door locks.
Click here to see price for the 912
Kwikset 913 Review
The 913 is more robust than the locks above. The 913 has 11 buttons as opposed to the 6 you will find on the above models. Ten of those buttons are numbers with one being the lock button. Those 10 buttons give you more options when programming key codes – you can program codes to be up to 10 digits long. You can program up to 16 user codes but z-wave/home connect is not an option.
The appearance was changed a little bit from the 911 and 912 models. The shape is a bit squarer but it still has those stylized bevels that make it good-looking. Also the interior size of the unit has been redesigned to make it sleeker. Overall smaller profile.
Certifications
The 913 is BHMA grade 2 certified – which is a ranking system that considers the integrity of builder hardware. It is also UL certified with 20 minute fire rating.
Mechanical Upgrades
When I researched these locks I came across several complaints that misaligned doors did not close properly this creates an endless loop where the door tries to close itself over and over again. At worst you can end up with an unreliable lock and at best this can shorten the battery life considerably.
To solve this issue, the 913 has a tapered deadbolt that allows the lock to work even when misaligned.
Bottom Line
The 913 was redesigned to be sleeker and more functional. It is very attractive. A lot of customers seem to be happy with the price and the performance. This model solves a major issue; the door not locking when it is misaligned with the door frame. It has 11 buttons which includes the lock button, this gives you exponentially more options when choosing a user code. I think that this model is a great choice.
Click here to see price for the 913
Kwikset 914 Review
The 914 allows for up to 30 user codes and is Z-wave compatible. These are the only things that separate it from the 913.
Bottom Line
Like the 913, the 914 has that innovative tapered deadbolt that allows it to work even when the doors isn’t perfectly aligned with the frame. It’s a great option but a bit pricey. If you don’t anticipate a maligned door then I’d recommend that you choose the 910.
Click here to see price for the 914
Kwikset 915 & 916 Review
The 915 (and 916) models are very different from the models that you’ve come across on this page so far. Customers report being satisfied with the look and feel of this lock. From the pictures, it does look very good. Both come in three different finishes; satin nickel, polished brass, and Venetian bronze.
Touchscreen Technology
But it’s not all about the looks. This model has touchscreen technology. The screen is large and you can see the numbers from far away.
But when I think about touchscreens I think about fingerprints and leaving clues for thieves. Don’t worry, Kwikset thought about that too. You touch the screen to activate it, then 2 random numbers light up. You first touch those numbers then enter your code. Those random numbers will prevent code detection.
Automatic Handing
When you first install the 915 or 916, it will automatically detect the handing; right or left. This is a convenient feature and with it you won’t have to worry about reconfiguring anything.
Bottom Line
Both the 915 and 916 are good looking touchscreen activated keyless door locks. I think that they add even more convenience to an already convenient product type. These are the most advanced models listed on the page and they will probably represent the most expensive options as well (although a sale could definitely change that). The difference between the 915 and 916 is that the 916 is Z-wave compatible.
Summary and Recommendation
All of the keyless door locks on this page are good options but which one is best for you? There is no better or worst here. It all depends on what you want to do with the door lock. Are you looking for an indoor lock or outdoor? How many user codes do you need? There’s lots to consider. Use the guide to determine which one will work best for you.
I don’t always recommend going for the most expensive or most feature rich option, but sometimes you should. For an outside door, I would definitely go for the 916. While it is more expensive, I like the touchscreen, and I like that it can work other home automation tools.
Very detailed and informative.
Per the trouble shooting instructions from Kwikset both the 909 and 913 have tapered deadbolts. They both state “SmartCode deadbolts require a tapered latch bolt for ease of operation.”
However the sideview images on Home depots website show no taper on the 909
Link to troubleshooting docs
http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/content/BDHHI/909-programming-troubleshooting
http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/content/BDHHI/913-programming-troubleshooting