Lock Grades – Everything You Need to Know.

When purchasing a lock for your home you want to know that you are getting one that provides adequate security. To help you in this matter, we explain that locks come with lock grades that impact how secure they are.

Here are how the grades are decided and what each grade means for you.

ANSI

The ANSI (American National Standards Institute) has a standard testing procedure to measure a lock’s strength and durability. The measurements are taken through the following tests to determine the overall quality of a lock.

  • Cycle Test. 

The cycle test measures the number of times a lock can completely retract from the latch and go back into place again. Not only does this measure the durability of the lock, but also the working order of the lock.

  • Strength Test.

Also known as weight testing, this test determines how much pressure a lock can survive before it breaks. A good lock should be able to survive hundreds of pounds of pressure on the lever before breakage.

  • Strike Test.

The Strike test simulates a situation where someone might try to break a lock by forcing or hitting it. To be able to make a grade a lock must survive the strike test at least twice.

Lock Grade 3.

Starting with the lowest lock grade you have grade 3. This is the grade that you will find on most residential homes. In order to be a grade 3, it would have passed the ANSI with the following scores:

 

  • Cycle Test: Handle 200,000 lock cycles.
  • Strength Test: Survive 150 Pounds.
  • Door Strikes: Pass 2 strikes.

While grade 3 is sufficient for your home it is not very secure. It is recommended that you upgrade your lock to a grade 2 or take your current lock to a locksmith to improve it with anti-bumping or anti-picking measures.

Lock Grade 2.

A grade 2 lock exceeds what a residential home needs. It is strong, sturdy, and harder to bypass. Many homes upgrade to a grade 2 lock for added security.

In order to be considered a grade 2 lock, it needs to have passed the ANSI tests with the following scores:

  • Cycle Test: Handle 400,000 lock cycles.
  • Strength Test: Survive 250 Pounds.
  • Door Strikes: Pass 4 strikes.

Despite its strength, it is not commonly used on commercial properties as they use grade 1 for the best security and insurance purposes.

Lock Grade 1.

The highest lock grade a lock can receive is grade 1. This is the grade you would find mostly on commercial properties. However, as technology has improved so have smart locks. Many popular smart locks used on residential properties today are grade 1.

  • Cycle Test: Handle 800,000 lock cycles.
  • Strength Test: Survive 360 Pounds.
  • Door Strikes: Pass 6 strikes.

Grade 1 offers the highest levels of security, which is reflected in the price tag. When it comes to purchasing your locks the higher the price most often means it’s a better quality lock. A lock price is set by its security more than the cost of its parts.

Would You Like More Information?

To learn more about the lock grades or if you require assistance in choosing the right lock for your home, contact one of our friendly and experienced team members at Quickly Locksmiths. You can reach us at (305) 984-9922 or by using the contact us form on our contact page.

Related posts

The Difference Between Scam Locksmiths And Real Locksmith In Miami FL

How to Secure High-Rise Windows in Miami

Smart Locks Upgrade In 2025? All The Latest Security News From CES 2025

Hurricanes and Weather Damage: Protecting Miami's Locks, Doors, and Security Systems

By David Davidof, Owner of Quickly Locksmith Miami

The Complete Guide to Locksmithing

By David Davidof, Owner of Quickly Locksmith Miami

Weather Challenges for Locks and Security Systems in Miami

The Ultimate Smart Locks Guide for Miami Homes in 2025

Commercial Locksmith Services in Miami: Expert Solutions and Industry Insights for 2025

Miami Locksmith Challenges and Solutions

Quickly Locksmith Miami has been at the forefront of safeguarding homes, businesses, and institutions across ...

Smart Security Choices: 5 Effective Alternatives to Video Doorbells In Miami FL.

Living in Miami presents unique security challenges that require thoughtful solutions. As a security expert ...

Can a Locksmith Make a Key From a Door Lock?

What Does Locksmiths Really Do?

Why Locksmiths In Miami FL Are So Expensive?

Quickly Locksmith Guide: How to Keep Your Office More Secure in 2024

Top Lock Brands of 2024: Securing Miami's Homes and Businesses

What are the Average Locksmith Costs in Miami FL? (A 2024 Pricing Guide)

How Solar-Powered Smart Locks are Revolutionizing Security In Miami Fl

Securing Miami's Waterfront Properties

Evaluating the Strength of Your Miami Home’s Perimeter - What to Look Out For

How to Balance Aesthetics and Security When Choosing Door Hardware

Security 101: A Guide to Locksmith Services for Educational Institutions

Choosing the Right Security System for Your Retail Store: A Comprehensive Guide

7 Vital Steps Every Miami Airbnb Host Should Take for Flawless Guest Experience & Property Safety

Push Start vs. Traditional Car Keys: Which Is Better for You?

Are Biometric Locks Worth the Hype? A Look at the Pros and Cons

How to Protect Your Locks From Weather Damage: Tips and Tricks

How to Open a Padlock without a Key

Automotive Locksmith Services: What to Expect - A Comprehensive Guide

How Much Does a Security Risk Assessment Cost

How to Secure Mailbox from Theft

Moving to a New Miami Home in 2023 - the First Areas to Secure

Signs That Your Home Is Marked or Has Been Forcibly Entered

How Property Owners and Tenants Can Keep Apartment Buildings Secure

Should You Leave Your Key In The Lock?

 

How to Get Out of a Room When a Lock or Door is Jammed

What Should I Do If An Electronic Lock Fails?

Lock Impressioning. What You Need To Know.

Should You Tip a Locksmith?

Top Tips for Keeping Valuable Documents Safe

Why Would a Copied Key Not Work?

By David Davidof, Owner of Quickly Locksmith Miami

How to Diagnose a Car Key That’s Stopped Working

getint-icon-banner
About the author
David Davidof is the founder & owner of Quickly Locksmith. The business has grown from strength to strength to become Miami’s go-to provider for Locksmith and Security services. Whilst the company has grown, the founding ethos has remained the same - Helping people in emergency situations and giving them the feeling they are safe.
image_to_use_for_author_page
icon testimonials
TESTIMONIALS

What Our Clients In Miami Are Saying About Us

Customer satisfaction has always been at the heart of our work. Our reviews reflect the dedication, expertise, and reliability we bring to every job.

Tanya smith - Client Review Quickly Locksmith Miami

Tanya Smith

stars

Needed new keys made and couldn’t believe how quick and professional Adir was!!! He came within 5 minutes of my call, made 3 keys, cleaned up, and I was done within 10 minutes!!! He was very professional too. Absolutely blown away and great value too.

Steph peñaherrera - Client Review

Steph Peñaherrera

stars

I had an outstanding experience with Quickly Locksmith From the moment I walked in, they were professional, fast, extremely helpful, and got the job done quickly without any hassle. It’s rare to find a company in Miami that is this reliable and honest.

Ben kessler - Client Review

Ben Kessler

stars

They did a fantastic job! I used them for both my previous apartment and my current one and highly recommend them. Great customer service and they stand by their work. Natalie is wonderful!

Some of our satisfied clients in Miami:

icon getint
GET IN TOUCH

Let’s talk about your security requirements & needs

    image left tips
    icon tips
    TIPS

    Our Tips For Getting The Best Locksmith Services In Miami FL

    We truly care about your security. Keeping you, your family and your most valuable possessions safe is why we are in business. However, whenever you are looking to hire professional services from a locksmith in Miami, here are some valuable tips to make the right choice.

    FAQ

    HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER MY MIAMI LOCKSMITH IS CERTIFIED?
    In Miami-Dade County, licensed locksmiths are issued an official Locksmith ID card after completing the required application process and passing background checks. By law, they must carry and display this card at all times while providing locksmith services, regardless of the location. Always request to see it before any work begins to ensure you’re hiring a certified professional.
    HOW LONG WILL A LOCKSMITH TAKE TO ARRIVE?
    Our team aims to arrive at your exact location within 15 minutes. This rapid response time helps ensure you’re back inside your home, car, or business as quickly and safely as possible.
    WHAT DOES A CERTIFICATION GUARANTEE?
    Hiring a certified Miami locksmith means your service is backed by a full warranty — covering your locks, your property (including doors, hallways, and related areas), and your personal safety. If any issues occur during the job, you hold zero liability, and your locks and security systems are 100% insured for complete peace of mind.
    CAN A MIAMI LOCKSMITH OPEN ALL LOCKS?
    With the right tools and years of experience, a professional locksmith can open almost any lock without causing damage. In rare cases where unlocking isn’t possible, the lock can be safely replaced. Either way, your property and valuables will remain fully secure.
    CAN AN AUTO LOCKSMITH CREATE A SPARE KEY AT MY LOCATION?
    Yes. If you’re locked out or need a spare key, Our mobile unit will come directly to your location. Our technicians can create and program a replacement car key on the spot, saving you the hassle of arranging transportation to a locksmith shop.
    DO I NEED THE ORIGINAL KEY TO MAKE A KEY COPY?
    Not necessarily. If your original key is lost or damaged, a certified Miami locksmith can use a code cutter to read the lock’s unique key code and determine the correct groove depths. This precise information allows us to create a brand-new key without needing the original.
    ARE YOU AVAILABLE 24/7 FOR EMERGENCIES?
    Yes. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — including nights, weekends, and holidays. No matter when you’re locked out or facing a security issue, our team is ready to respond immediately.
    HOW MUCH DOES A LOCKSMITH SERVICE COST IN MIAMI?
    Costs depend on the service type, lock complexity, and time of day. We provide upfront, transparent quotes before starting any job, so there are no hidden fees or surprises. Emergency services may have additional charges for after-hours calls.
    CAN YOU REKEY LOCKS INSTEAD OF REPLACING THEM?
    Yes. Rekeying allows you to keep your existing locks while changing the internal pins so old keys no longer work. It’s a cost-effective security upgrade often used after moving, losing keys, or changing tenants or employees.
    DO YOU INSTALL SMART LOCKS AND HIGH-SECURITY SYSTEMS?
    Absolutely. We install a wide range of smart locks, high-security deadbolts, and advanced access control systems for homes, businesses, and vehicles. Our experts can recommend the best solution based on your security needs and budget.
    CAN YOU MAKE KEYS FOR HIGH-SECURITY OR RESTRICTED LOCKS?
    Yes. We have the tools and authorization to cut and program keys for many high-security and restricted lock systems. Some models require proof of ownership or manufacturer authorization, which we’ll guide you through before starting the work.
    WHAT AREAS OF MIAMI DO YOU SERVICE?
    We cover all of Miami-Dade County, including Downtown Miami, Wynwood, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Aventura, Kendall, and surrounding neighborhoods. Our mobile units allow us to reach you quickly anywhere in the area.
    CAN YOU HELP WITH BROKEN KEYS STUCK IN LOCKS?
    Yes. Our locksmiths use specialized extraction tools to remove broken keys without damaging the lock. If necessary, we can also cut you a new key or rekey the lock during the same visit.
    DO YOU OFFER COMMERCIAL LOCKSMITH SERVICES?
    Absolutely. We provide a full range of commercial services, including master key systems, high-security locks, access control, panic bars, and storefront door repair. We work with offices, retail stores, warehouses, and property managers across Miami.
    HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY HOME OR BUSINESS SECURITY?
    We recommend starting with a security audit to identify vulnerabilities. This may include upgrading to high-security locks, adding deadbolts, installing smart locks, reinforcing entry doors, and securing windows. We provide tailored recommendations based on your property and budget.
    Service Areas

    Our Service Areas In Miami:

    Find The Nearest Locksmith To Your Location in Miami FL

    icon blog short
    BLOG

    Check Out The Latest Security Updates On Our Blog

    Custom Doors Guide For 2025

    What Kind of Locks a Locksmith Can’t Open

    The Difference Between Scam Locksmiths And Real Locksmith In Miami FL

    How to Secure High-Rise Windows in Miami

    Smart Locks Upgrade In 2025? All The Latest Security News From CES 2025

    icon branches
    LOCATIONS

    Our Locations in Miami FL

    icon Quickly Locksith Miami Locations

    Come And Visit Inside Our Locksmith Stores In Miami, FL!

    Midtown Miami Location: 2680 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137.
    Downtown Miami Location: 26 SE 1st St, Miami, FL 33131.

    Professional and Certified Locksmith Installers For
    All Of The Top Locks & Keys Brands