The classic house key is obsolete. More and more private households in Austria are switching to electronic door locks because they offer more security, more convenience, and significantly more flexibility. No more key chaos, no more getting duplicates made at the locksmith, no more worrying if you've locked up when you leave the house.
But which electronic door lock is right for your household? In this guide, you'll learn about the available systems, for which situations they are suitable, and what you should consider when buying one.
What is an electronic door lock?
An electronic door lock is a locking system that uses electronic access methods instead of a mechanical key. These include:
- Smartphone app (via Bluetooth or remote access)
- PIN code via a keypad
- Fingerprint sensor
- RFID transponder or chip card
- Combinations of several methods
The classic key remains a backup for most systems, so you'll never be locked out if the battery runs out or your smartphone malfunctions.
For private households, there are several designs. Some simply replace the cylinder lock, others are mounted on top of the existing lock or replace the entire door hardware. Which variant is suitable depends on your door and your requirements.
Why is an electronic door lock worthwhile for private households?
No more lost keys, no more duplicates
Children lose keys, tradespeople get a spare key, the neighbor keeps a duplicate for emergencies. In the end, no one knows how many copies are in circulation. With an electronic door lock, that's a thing of the past: you grant access digitally and revoke it with a click when it's no longer needed.
More convenience in everyday life
Pram, shopping bags, handbag: when both hands are full, fumbling for keys is particularly annoying. An electronic door lock opens automatically as soon as you approach with your smartphone, or at the touch of a button. For children who shouldn't have their own key yet, a PIN code or fingerprint is significantly safer than a key on a necklace.
Control and overview
Do you want to know if your child has safely arrived home from school? A look at the app shows you when the door was opened. You can also grant specific access rights for tradespeople, cleaning staff, or family members, with time windows and automatic locking after expiry.