The first heavy-duty safe was created on 2 November 1886, when inventor Henry Brown patented a ‘receptacle for storing and preserving papers’.
The container was both flame retardant and accident-proof, as it was constructed using forged metal. The box was the first of it’s kind to have a lock and key and was unique in the sense that it offered increased organization by featuring different slots where owners could store documents and other important paperwork.
Much later, in 1910, the first mass-produced single-dial combination lock was patented by John Junkunc, who owned the American Lock Company.
While these earlier prototypes were groundbreaking for their time, they weren’t without deficiencies. The dial lock was undeniably more secure than it’s lock-and-key predecessor, eliminating the need to carry keys or worry about misplacing them. But it was far from an ideal solution, as dial lock combinations are difficult to change, and take a few moments to open.
Thankfully, as technology became more advanced, the security of safes progressed as well. Today, digital safes provide a level of convenience and peace of mind that dial lock safes can not compete with.
So, in this blog post, we’ll be discussing the most compelling reasons to invest in a digital lock safe, as opposed to a combination lock safe.
Benefits of digital safes
Easy access
Unlike a dial lock safe, a digital lock safe can be opened in just a matter of seconds. The owner simple enters their numeric passcode on an easy-to-use keypad and voila! The safe opens.
This is particularly useful in the event of an emergency when gaining access to your valuables or important documents is essential. It is also advantageous for gun owners, who may need to swiftly reach for their gun for protection.
User friendliness
Digital safes come equipped with LED touch pads that allow owners to easily enter their passcodes in the dark. They also allow owners to set programmable time delays or lock-out features that protect the contents of the safe should an incorrect combination be entered too many times.
These features are extremely useful, especially if you are concerned about employees or wrongdoers trying to gain access to your safe when you aren’t around, or when they haven’t been given permission. They give owners more control over their digital combination safe, without requiring them to go through complicated setup processes.
Increased security
One of the most valuable benefits of a safe with a digital lock is the ability to change the combination at any time, without having to pay a costly locksmith bill. This allows owners to share their passcode with an employee or loved one when necessary, knowing they can modify the code at their convenience to restore security.
Many digital safes also allow owners to set a “one-time use” code that they can give to employees, loved ones, or anyone else who may need to access the contents of their digital lock safe. Once the code has been entered, it will not work a second time— an ideal way to safeguard your prized possessions or business records.
Benefits of dial safes
While most people opt for digital safes when debating electronic locks vs mechanical safe locks, there are still safe enthusiasts who prefer a traditional dial lock safe.
Below are some of the advantages of owning a dial safe:
Durability
Dial locks have been around for hundreds of years, and for good reason! As long as the owner takes the time to perform proper maintenance and care, these locks are extremely long-lasting and dependable. Additionally, many mechanical combination locks now come with comprehensive warranties and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand most forms of tampering.
Battery-free
Unlike digital safes, mechanical dial safes do not require electricity or batteries to remain effective. This makes them impervious to power outages, electronic malfunctions, water damage, and much more.
Lower up-front vost
If cost is a major factor in your electronic vs combination safe decision, a dial safe may be the right choice for you. They come in at a much more budget-friendly price point, with the average option costing somewhere between $150.00 to $800.00, depending on your needs and preferences. Digital safes, on the other hand, can run upwards of $200,000.00, with brand name, size, and features all impacting how much you’ll pay.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a digital lock safe or a dial lock safe, we recommend reading our guide to safe ratings to ensure you decide on a model that meets your security requirements. Ultimately, the choice is yours and only you will know when you’ve found the right unit.
Browse our selection of highly secure luxury safes today to find both mechanical and electronic locking models.