The Ultimate Guide To Key Lock Boxes: How To Choose The Right One For Your Needs

A key lock box, also sometimes called a key safe or key vault, is a secure storage container used to hold keys or access cards. They allow you to control access to whatever those keys unlock, like your home, business, car, or safety deposit box.

Key lock boxes come in handy for many situations:

• Giving household helpers, pet sitters, etc a way to access your home without having to give them a key they could lose or copy
• Allowing access for contractors, inspectors, appraisers, etc to do their work without you having to be present
• Providing emergency access for medical/fire personnel
• Stashing a backup key on your vehicle in case you lock your primary key inside
• Securing keys when going out of town so you don’t have to hide them outside or give them to an untrustworthy neighbor

But with so many lock box models and types available, how do you determine which one meets your specific needs? This guide looks at 10 of the highest rated and most secure key lock boxes across a range of styles and pricing to help you find your best match.

How to Choose the Best Key Lock Box

There are a few main criteria to evaluate when selecting a key lock:

• Security level – Consider how determined potential thieves may be to break in and steal the keys. Outdoor boxes need to withstand attacks. High-value keys may call for unpickable, pry-resistant boxes.
• Mounting type – Will it be used outdoors, indoors, or vehicularly? Lockable mounting is best for permanent outdoor installation. Portable boxes offer more flexibility.
• Lock type – Simple key locks, combination dials, and electronic keypads each have their pros and cons regarding convenience and break-in resistance. Master key override options provide backup access.
• Size & capacity – The box size and interior configuration should fit your intended contents (keys, fobs, cards, valuables, etc). Waterproof boxes protect contents from the elements.

Compare these aspects across the top key lock box options to determine your best fit.

The 10 Best Key Lock Boxes

Based on security, versatility, durability, and high customer ratings, here are 10 excellent key lock boxes to consider for your specific needs:

1. Kidde AccessPoint KeySafe

Style: Wall-mounted
Lock: Combination dial
Material: Zinc alloy
Dimensions: 3 x 2 x 1 inches

This scaled-down keysafe provides an ultra-affordable way to stash a house key outside for convenient access. Its weather-resistant zinc alloy construction and combination dial thwart lock picking. Multiple mounting holes plus a security cable guard against theft. Holds up to four keys.

2. SUPMAX Key Lock Box

Style: Heavy duty outdoor
Lock: Hasp clasp & padlock
Material: Solid metal
Dimensions: 10.6 x 7.5 x 3.7 inches

This rugged outdoor key vault keeps valuables like keys, wallets, jewelry, cash, and small electronics protected yet accessible. Its pry-resistant solid steel casing secures contents from theft and weather. Include your own padlock for customized key control. Versatile wall/fence/pole mounting options plus security cable included.

3. JCOMB Electronic Key Safe Box

Style: Wall mount with keypad
Lock: Electronic digital
Material: Zinc alloy
Dimensions: 3.5 x 2.4 x 1.3 inches

For high tech key security, this electronic model features a programmable digital keypad. You can set and reprogram the access PIN as often as needed. Weatherproof construction makes it suitable for indoor/outdoor use. Compact size holds 1-4 keys. Two included mounting screws deter theft attempts.

4. AES Secure Key Lock Box

Style: Bulldog outdoor case
Lock: Hasp & padlock
Material: Steel
Dimensions: 1.5 x 6 x 9 inches

This heavy duty “bulldog style” lockbox deters smash and grab thefts. At under $25, it’s one of the most affordable high security key boxes. The 14 gauge steel housing withstands abuse from hammers and pry bars. For max safety, provide your own padlock keyed to match your home or vehicle. Versatile mounting options. Holds larger sets of keys, fobs, cards, cash, small handguns.

5. Keyguard Key Lock Box

Style: Portable
Lock: Combination dial with override key
Material: Zinc alloy
Dimensions: 1.5 x 2.75 x 5 inches

Realtors, contractors, and property managers love this enduring portable combo lock box. Its weatherproof zinc alloy provides long term durability, resisting dents, dings, rust, and forced entry. The combination dial is secure yet allows customized access control. Dual rubber seals keep contents dry. Includes security cable. Fits multiple keys. Optional master keys enable owner override access if needed.

6. ShurLok SL200KB Key Vault

Style: Heavy duty truck box
Lock: Key lock
Material: Aluminum
Dimensions: 1.25 x 6 x 8.25 inches

Modeled after high security truck lock boxes, this robust vault uses a traditional key lock for set-it-and-forget-it convenience. Durable aluminum construction withstands the elements and break-in attempts. Multiple mounting points make it easy to install on vehicles, machinery, fences, etc. Holds valuables, documents, cash, tools, and small firearms along with multiple keys or key sets. Pick and drill resistant.

7. Vaultek Rugged Handgun & Pistol Safe

Style: Heavy duty portable safe
Lock: Illuminated keypad & fingerprint bio-metric
Material: 16 gauge carbon steel
Dimensions: 11.5 x 9 x 2.12 inches

Top notch security technologies converge in this innovative rapid access safe. Its hardened steel housing protects multiple handguns, pistols, valuables, and keys from unauthorized users and theft. Choose instant access via backlit keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth app unlock. Interior LED light and two charging ports keep contents visible and electronic devices powered. Rugged construction withstands impact. Also offers manual key and override key alternatives.

8. SKB Waterproof Lockable IB Case

Style: Weatherproof utility transport
Lock: Padlock loops
Material: Polypropylene copolymer
Dimensions: Interior: 7 x 5 x 2.25 inches

Take your valuable possessions on the go while keeping them secure from the elements in this rugged waterproof utility case. The tough polypropylene housing withstands weather, submersion, impacts, dust, dirt, and moisture. Steel padlock loops enable lockable security. Pluck foam interior allows custom configuration for contents like handguns, cameras, tools, electronics, keys, cards, cash, etc. The compact size conveniently transports and secures a multitude of items.

9. LockState LS-52D Keypad Deadbolt Lock Box

Style: Wall mount deadbolt
Lock: Electronic programmable keypad & override keys
Material: Zinc alloy
Dimensions: 4.5 x 3 x 3 inches

Affix this electronic deadbolt lock box directly to exterior door frames for discreet permanent installation. Its zinc construction resists tampering and forced entry. Set your own custom keypad access code – updated anytime. Twin override keys provide backup access if codes are forgotten or mis-entered too many times. Weather gaskets keep contents dry. No wiring required – runs on common AA batteries for years.

10. AMSEC Compact Key Lock Box

Style: Heavy duty armored box
Lock: Group 2 Mechanical Pushbutton & keys
Material: 10 gauge steel
Dimensions: 4 x 6 x 3 inches

When absolute protection against drilling and prying matters most, this muscular key vault delivers. At 10+ pounds, thick 10 gauge steel armor encases contents from all sides. Group 2 mechanical pushbutton lock allows coded PIN access. Includes a set of override keys. Pre-drilled mounting holes enable permanent installation on vehicles, equipment, home entries, gates, etc. Fits keys, fobs, garage remotes. The compact size keeps the heft reasonable.

Lock Box Security Level Comparison

To recap the key lock box security options covered:

As shown in the table, higher security boxes generally cost more. Only you can assess the threat level and value of what you’re securing to determine how much protection is practical for your situation. Less secure boxes may suffice for low risk applications. High security models provide greater deterrence for outdoor installation or irreplaceable contents.

Lock Box Mounting & Placement

Permanent mounting deters theft attempts. For outdoor units, high mounting locations out of easy reach increase security. Avoid openly visible spots to keep unwanted attention away. Secret, discreet placements still allow convenient access for those who need it. Gate, garage, tool shed, and basement entries offer safer options than unsecured yard fixtures.

Indoor boxes can mount to walls, floors, closets, cabinets, shelves, and garage rafters. Slide under beds, desks, and furniture instead of leaving visible.

Most key boxes feature pre-drilled holes for screwing securely to surfaces. Some include mounting hardware like screws, anchors, glue pads, straps, cables, hasps. Choose models with metal loops, brackets, or boxes if welding installation for max security.

Maintaining Your Lock Box

Check and update lock box contents/access periodically:

• Ensure your provided keys still open their applicable locks in case you changed them out
• Test stored electronic fobs and cards to confirm they still activate properly
• Replace batteries on electronic keypad units
• Reprogram electronic keycodes if concerned previous codes got compromised
• Update who has access if needed – change combinations, issue new keys
• Apply fresh weather sealant if worn out to maintain waterproofing
• Fix loose mounting points to prevent shifting and deter break-in attempts
• Clean interior when dust builds up to allow contents to function

Proper lock box maintenance preserves security and ensures reliable access when required.

Key Takeaways

• Key lock boxes conveniently provide controlled access to keys and valuables
• Various lock types (key, combo, e-keypad) strike a balance between security and ease of use
• Permanent mount outdoor boxes resist break-ins better than portable versions
• Higher security models provide enhanced drill/pry/theft protection for high value contents
• Discreet mounting locations maintain convenience while deterring non-authorized users
• Periodic maintenance checks ensure proper functioning when emergency access needed

Install a properly rated lock box in a smart location to securely grant access only to approved key holders. Protect your possessions while avoiding the hassle of constantly tracking down keys.