A combination padlock might be better than a keyed version, depending on your usage scenario.
If like me, you are fairly hopeless with keys, then a combination lock solves that dilemma.
However, if you need to give multiple people access or you want a lock where you can change the code and therefore better control who has access, then a combination lock is a wise choice.
In this guide, we discuss the pros and cons of a tumbler versus a good old-fashioned key and we highlight the areas you need to consider and showcase a few combi padlocks that we think are worth your money.
Table of Contents
Are combination padlocks any good?
Yes. While the best combination padlocks still fall short of the very best keyed versions in terms of shackle thickness and overall security, you can still buy extremely high-quality combination padlocks that are capable of withstanding a sustained attack from multiple tools.
If you need to give access to lots of people, a combination lock beats a keyed version as you don’t have to make key copies or keep track of the ones you have given out. Nor are you at risk of someone cloning the key. A 5-tumbler combination padlock has 100,000 different codes, so you’re unlikely to have a situation where someone guesses the code.
Yes, someone skilled like TheLockPickingLawyer could probably open a combination padlock faster than a keyed one but most thieves use tools, not their brains, so this isn’t worth worrying about.
Is a keyed padlock better than a combination one?
This depends on your circumstances. If you need to give access to multiple people (say tradesmen or people renting a storage facility) then a code that you can change is far better than having to keep track of keys.
However in terms of outright security, you won’t find a combination padlock with a security rating higher than a keyed version. Keys are still more popular and manufacturers of quality padlocks, like Squire and Abus tend to put their focus on their keyed versions when it comes to producing their range-topping offerings.
That doesn’t mean a combination lock can be easily bypassed. Far from it. Both Abus and Squire – two well-known lock manufacturers – produce quality combination padlocks.
Combination locks – 3 factors to consider
Before you opt for a combination padlock over a keyed version – just make sure you’re aware of the following factors.
A KNOWN WEAKNESS
Because this kind of padlock cannot be opened with a physical key, access to the padlock cannot be restricted unless you buy one with an adjustable code. There is no way to prohibit someone from opening the padlock later if they know the code and you can’t change it. People can reveal it to others, unintentionally leave the padlock with the code still dialed, or even have someone look over their shoulder. This is one of the primary security hazards connected to combination padlocks, which is why we always advise using a keyed padlock when safeguarding very valuable things.
SECURITY RATINGS
Organisations like Sold Secure don’t test or rate combi-locks. That’s not to say they don’t offer a decent level of securty, more that these outfits prefer to test keyed versions because of the obvious issue with the combi-lock being able to be left with the code revealed.
A combination padlock does not have an independent security rating, hence none of them are acceptable for insurance requirements. This is because combination padlocks cannot be guaranteed to be locked after use, and the lack of a key renders it impossible to have unique keys, which nullifies the CEN rating. Sold Secure keyed padlocks are key retaining, making it impossible to take the key out of the lock while it is still open.
The padlock manufacturers rate their own locks on a scale of 1 to 10, typically, to show how secure they are compared to all other locks in their line. This is a useful way to gauge a padlock’s security within its own brand, but because they are self-determined, they are not transferable between brands.
RELIABILITY
With every product, there is a chance that it will eventually develop flaws. Combination padlocks tend to have more moving parts than a keyed version. If used in an outdoor application, they can size or rust, which makes them hard to operate.
What is the strongest combination padlock?
Combination padlocks have grown to be a very popular product category, largely because they are simple to use and don’t require keys, allowing the code to be sent to numerous people and updated as necessary.
One of the best heavy-duty combination padlocks on the market is the Squire SS50CS Stronghold closed shackle padlock.
The market-leading product performance of the Stronghold 50mm solid hardened steel padlock is combined with a small, sleek appearance. These locks can operate effectively in the toughest weather circumstances despite being built to withstand the most severe attacks.
The lock has 100,000 potential combinations. It featured a 2″ (50mm) solid lock body of hardened steel and a 10mm boron shackle with a closed boron alloy steel hardening.
The shielded shackle makes it even harder for thieves to attack this with an angle grinder or bolt croppers. The weatherproof design has a closed key cover meaning it can withstand the elements, making it ideal for outdoor use.
What’s a good small combination padlock?
If you want a secure combination padlock for medium risk applications, check out the Abus 180IB/50 Nautilus Lock.
If you’re locking a side gate or a shed or perhaps your bin store, it’s a good option.
It has a retail price of £45 but can be had for as little as £30.
One of the biggest plus-points about this lock is that it’s designed for nautical use. Its body is designed to withstand the elements.
The shackle is constructed of premium stainless steel, while the lock body is made of forged brass. This indicates that the lock has excellent water resistance and the ability to withstand salt-water and corrosion. It can only be opened with a four-digit numeric code that can be adjusted.
You can find these online but also in high-street shops like Toolstation, Wiko, Argos and B&Q.
Combination shutter padlocks
If you are locking a roller shutter door, a garage, gate or shipping container, then a shutter padlock is a good option.
They are also referred to as block, straight shackle, and warehouse padlocks. Despite being made primarily for roller shutters, these high security locks are frequently used on warehouses, motorcycle security chains and shipping containers.
It is extremely challenging to access it with cutting tools since the straight shackle passes between the two rings and connects to the block padlock with maximum strength and the least amount of shackle exposure.
Many of these locks are constructed of materials that have been hardened, making it extremely difficult to break them off with a hammer attack and they are almost impossible to bolt-crop.
One of the best combination shutter padlocks on the market is the Squire CBW85, which retails for around £60.
Combination Padlock FAQ
Are combination locks harder to pick?
Combination padlocks provide a lot of certain advantages, but it’s also critical to be aware of any potential drawbacks.
Importantly, keyed padlocks are more secure than combination locks. It is important to remember that neither Sold Secure nor CEN have awarded combination padlocks with security ratings.
As mentioned, there are only 999 possible code combinations for 3 wheel combination padlocks. This is not suitable for any high security applications, although it might be enough for toolboxes or personal lockers.
A combination padlock with four wheels can hold up to 9999 different numerical code combinations, while a version with five wheels can hold up to 99999.
It’s well known that less expensive combination padlocks may be fairly easily opened by feeling and touching the correct dial positions. Higher quality combination locks, like those in the Squire Range, contain unique security mechanisms that get around this restriction.
If a combination padlock code is cracked, the hacker might set up an alternative code, preventing the lock’s owner from unlocking the lock again.
The number of wheels, lock size, manufacturing standards, and materials used all have an impact on the level of security a combination padlock offers.
Sources
Thanks to the following websites which helped us write this guide on the best combination padlocks: