There’s a particular kind of frustration that builds up over time, a small daily annoyance that becomes a heavy weight. For me, it was my keychain. It was a tangled, noisy mess of metal—a key for the front door, another for the back, one for the garage service door, and a spare I’d given to a contractor years ago that I always worried was still floating around somewhere. Every time I left the house, it was a frantic pat-down of pockets, a moment of panic, and then the jangling search for the right key. It felt archaic and, more importantly, insecure. The thought of having to call a locksmith to rekey three separate doors after a lost key or a change in tenants was a wallet-clenching nightmare. This quest for a simpler, more secure, and stylish solution is what led me to take a hard look at the hardware on my doors, seeking a modern upgrade that didn’t require a degree in electrical engineering or a second mortgage.
- KEYED DEADBOLT: Use on doors requiring a high level of security, turn piece interior locking, exterior locking using a key. Recommended for exterior-facing...
- SMARTKEY SECURITY: Kwikset’s SmartKey Security technology protects against advanced break-in techniques and allows you to re-key your lock yourself in...
What to Consider Before Buying a Deadbolt
A deadbolt is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for peace of mind. It’s the primary line of defense for your home, the physical barrier that separates your private sanctuary from the outside world. The main benefits of a quality deadbolt are rooted in security, durability, and control. A strong, properly installed deadbolt deters forced entry, providing a robust locking mechanism that is far superior to the spring-bolt latch found in a standard doorknob. It gives you control over who has access to your home, a fundamental aspect of feeling safe and secure. Neglecting this crucial piece of hardware can leave your home vulnerable, while choosing the right one can be one of the most effective and affordable security upgrades you can make.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a common homeownership challenge: managing key access. This includes new homeowners looking to standardize their locks, landlords needing to change keys between tenants quickly and affordably, or anyone who has ever given out a spare key and later regretted it. It’s for the design-conscious individual upgrading their home’s aesthetic who wants their door hardware to be as stylish as it is strong. However, it might not be the best fit for those seeking the absolute pinnacle of high-security commercial applications (who should look for BHMA Grade 1 certified locks) or for the tech enthusiast who wants to integrate their door lock into a fully automated smart home system with remote access and entry logs. For them, alternatives like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart locks would be more suitable.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Security Rating & Features: Look for a BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) certification. Grade 3 is considered good for residential security, Grade 2 is better, and Grade 1 is the best, typically used for commercial applications. Features like pick-resistant pins and reinforced strike plates add significant layers of protection.
- Installation & Compatibility: A deadbolt is useless if it doesn’t fit your door. Check your door’s thickness (most locks fit 1-3/8″ to 1-3/4″) and the backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole), which is usually adjustable between 2-3/8″ and 2-3/4″. A lock that promises a simple, screwdriver-only installation is a huge plus for DIYers.
- Materials & Durability: The lock’s construction material—typically metal alloys like steel, brass, or zinc—dictates its resilience against both physical attack and the elements. A lifetime warranty on the mechanical parts and finish, like the one offered with this Kwikset, is a strong indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability.
- Key Control & Convenience: How easy is it to manage your keys? Traditional locks require a costly locksmith to rekey. Innovative systems, like Kwikset’s SmartKey technology, allow you to rekey the lock yourself in seconds, offering an unparalleled level of convenience and control over your home’s security.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- KEYED DEADBOLT: Use on doors requiring a high level of security, turn piece interior locking, exterior locking using a key. Recommended for exterior-facing...
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control...
- Ansi Grade-3 Security Single Cylinder Deadbolt With Decorative Turn-Piece.Note: Measure your door's backset, cross bore and thickness to ensure you find...
First Impressions: Sleek, Solid, and Surprisingly Smart
Unboxing the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt, the first thing we noticed was the satisfying heft of the components. In a market flooded with flimsy hardware, the solid metal construction immediately inspires confidence. The Matte Black finish is deep, rich, and flawlessly applied, giving it a sophisticated and modern look that feels premium. The square design is crisp and clean, a deliberate departure from the traditional round deadbolts that have dominated for decades. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a significant impact on a modern door design.
Inside the box, everything was neatly organized: the exterior keyed cylinder, the interior thumb-turn piece, an adjustable latch, the strike plate, two keys, mounting screws, and the small but mighty SmartKey tool. The included installation guide was clear and illustrated, reinforcing the promise of a simple DIY project. Holding the deadbolt, the mechanism felt smooth, not loose or gritty. Compared to older, builder-grade locks we’ve replaced in the past, the difference in quality was palpable. It feels less like a basic necessity and more like a deliberate design choice—a piece of functional art for your front door.
Key Benefits
- Revolutionary SmartKey rekeying technology for ultimate convenience.
- Striking contemporary square design with a modern Matte Black finish.
- Excellent value for a stylish and reliable deadbolt.
- Simple DIY installation for standard prepped doors.
Limitations
- BHMA Grade 3 security is suitable for residential but not high-security needs.
- Some users noted a bit of “slack” in the mechanism compared to premium brands.
Deep Dive: A Masterclass in Form and Function
After spending considerable time installing and testing the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt across multiple entry points, we’ve broken down our experience into the key areas that matter most to a homeowner. This isn’t just about how it looks, but how it performs day in and day out as the guardian of your home’s entrance.
Installation: From Box to Door in Under 30 Minutes
Kwikset advertises a “hassle-free” installation that takes minutes with just a screwdriver, and for a standard, pre-drilled door, we found this to be absolutely true. Our first installation on a modern steel door was a breeze. The instructions are straightforward, and the adjustable latch mechanism cleverly accommodates the two most common backset measurements (2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″), eliminating any guesswork. The pieces fit together perfectly, and the long mounting screws anchor the deadbolt securely, creating a solid, reassuring connection through the door.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that not all doors are created equal. Corroborating a user’s experience, we attempted an installation on a much older wooden door that previously held a non-standard lock. This required some minor chisel work to properly seat the new strike plate and ensure the latch housing was flush. As one user noted, “If I didn’t have to bore out the door with a beveled edge, install would’ve been a lot simpler.” This is not a fault of the lock itself, but a critical reminder for any DIYer: measure twice, and check your door’s existing prep work before you begin. For the vast majority of homeowners with standard doors, the process is incredibly smooth. For those replacing very old hardware, a little extra prep work might be needed, but the end result is well worth it.
The SmartKey Security Feature: Your Personal Locksmith
This is, without a doubt, the star of the show. The SmartKey technology is a feature that, once you use it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. The genius lies in its simplicity. We decided to key three separate doors—the front, the back, and the garage—to a single key, eliminating that bulky keychain for good. The process felt almost like magic. You insert the currently working key and turn it 90 degrees clockwise. Then, you insert the included SmartKey tool into the tiny slot next to the keyway until it clicks. You remove the tool, then the old key, and insert your new key. Turn it 180 degrees counter-clockwise, and you’re done. The lock is now rekeyed.
The entire process for one lock took less than 30 seconds. We were able to rekey all three of our new deadbolts in under two minutes. This is a game-changer for countless scenarios. As several users, particularly landlords, pointed out, this feature saves an incredible amount of time and money. One user who manages several rental units stated, “Before it would take us maybe 10 minutes to rekey a single cylinder deadbolt, but with this technology it takes less than two minutes per lock.” The peace of mind is immense. Gave a key to a dog walker you no longer use? Rekey the lock. Lost a key on vacation? Rekey it when you get home. New roommate moves in? Give them a new key and rekey the lock when they move out. The control this gives you over your home’s security is something traditionally reserved for expensive locksmith visits, now available to you anytime. If this level of key control and convenience appeals to you, the Kwikset 660 is an outstandingly practical choice.
Aesthetics and Build Quality: Modern Style Meets Everyday Durability
The visual impact of the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt cannot be overstated. Its sharp, square profile and deep Matte Black finish provide an instant upgrade to any door. We found it paired beautifully with other modern hardware, confirming a user’s report that it was a perfect match for Kwikset’s Pismo-style square doorknobs. The finish has proven to be resilient, resisting fingerprints and showing no signs of wear after weeks of daily use, even on an exterior-facing gate. The lifetime finish warranty provides extra assurance that it will maintain its handsome looks for years to come.
In terms of build quality, the lock is certified BHMA Grade 3. This means it’s designed to meet rigorous standards for security and durability in a residential setting. The deadbolt throw is a full 1-inch, and the all-metal construction feels substantial. The locking mechanism on our test units was consistently smooth, both with the key from the outside and the thumb turn on the inside. That said, we want to provide a balanced perspective. A couple of users mentioned they wished it felt “more heavy duty” or noticed a small amount of “slack in the mechanism.” While we didn’t find the play in the thumb turn to be excessive or indicative of a flaw—some tolerance is necessary for smooth operation—it’s true that it may not have the ultra-tight, bank-vault feel of a Grade 1 commercial lock that costs three or four times as much. For its intended application and price point, we found the build quality to be excellent and perfectly aligned with the needs of the average homeowner seeking a secure and stylish lock.
What Other Users Are Saying
After analyzing a wide range of customer feedback, a clear consensus emerges. The overwhelming majority of users are thrilled with the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt, frequently citing its incredible value. One happy customer noted they found it for a fraction of the price they saw at a big-box hardware store and that it “worked and installed perfectly.” The modern aesthetic is another point of universal praise, with comments like “they look very nice and the black color is modern” and “fit the aesthetic of my new door handles” appearing repeatedly.
Of course, the SmartKey feature is a standout highlight. One reviewer who installed 15 of them in their house praised the ease of use, while another who replaced locks on “2 very old doors” was amazed they could be “installed and keyed to my old set of keys in less than 30min.” This convenience is a recurring theme.
On the critical side, the feedback is minor and often situational. A user who noted “lock assembly has a lot of slack in the mechanism” represents a small subset of users who prefer a tighter feel. The most common critique, echoed in our own testing, relates to installation on non-standard doors, which can require minor modifications. It’s a fair point that highlights the importance of checking your door’s specifications before purchase. Overall, the sentiment is strongly positive, positioning this deadbolt as a reliable, stylish, and brilliantly convenient choice for home security.
How Does the Kwikset 660 Compare to the Alternatives?
The Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt excels in its niche of stylish, mechanical security. But if your needs lean more towards technological integration or different features, the market has strong contenders.
1. SCHLAGE Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control...
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes for keyless entry, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and...
The Schlage Encode represents the premium smart lock category. Its biggest advantage is built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to lock or unlock your door from anywhere in the world using an app. It integrates seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control and allows you to create and manage dozens of unique entry codes for guests, family, or service providers. This is the lock for the fully connected smart home enthusiast who prioritizes remote access and detailed entry logs above all else. The trade-off is a significantly higher price and a reliance on batteries and a Wi-Fi connection for its advanced features.
2. WYZE Auto-Lock Bolt Fingerprint Keyless Smart Door Lock
- Fingerprint Unlock: Gone are the days of fumbling for keys. Wyze Lock Bolt recognizes your fingerprint and unlocks the door in under a second. Store up to...
- Numbered Keypad (+ Anti-Peep): Use a code to get in and out. Feel free to create unique codes for each person, so you can tell who came in when. Or, decide...
The Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt strikes a middle ground. It offers multiple keyless entry methods, including a fast fingerprint reader and a backlit keypad, at a more accessible price than the Schlage. Its standout features are convenience and speed at the door itself. However, it uses Bluetooth for its smart connectivity, meaning you need to be within range to control it with your phone; full remote access requires an additional Wi-Fi bridge. This is an excellent choice for someone who wants to ditch their keys for fingerprints and codes but doesn’t necessarily need to control their lock from another city.
3. Kwikset Powerbolt 250 Keyless Entry Electronic Deadbolt
- CONVENIENT KEYLESS ENTRY: Keypad entry makes coming and going secure and simple. Easily lock and unlock your door without having to take out your keys
- EASY CODE MANAGEMENT: Customize up to 25 user codes, 5 one-time user codes and 1 programming code that lets you edit or delete user codes whenever you need...
The Powerbolt 250 is Kwikset’s answer for simple, reliable keyless entry without the complexity of smart features. It offers a straightforward 10-button keypad where you can program user codes and an optional auto-lock feature. It’s a direct, battery-powered electronic lock that focuses on one thing: letting you in with a code instead of a key. This is the ideal alternative for someone who is tech-averse or doesn’t want to deal with apps and connectivity, but still craves the convenience of not having to carry a key. It lacks the advanced rekeying of the 660 and the remote capabilities of the others, but excels in its simplicity.
Our Final Verdict: Unbeatable Style and Convenience for the Modern Home
After extensive hands-on testing and evaluation, the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt has earned our enthusiastic recommendation. It masterfully blends three critical elements: a sharp, contemporary design that elevates a home’s curb appeal; the revolutionary convenience of SmartKey technology that puts total key control in your hands; and a price point that represents outstanding value in the hardware market.
While it may not be a Grade 1 lock for a high-security commercial building, its BHMA Grade 3 certification is more than sufficient for residential peace of mind. It’s the perfect solution for new homeowners, landlords, or anyone tired of a cluttered keychain and the high cost of locksmiths. It proves that you don’t have to choose between style, security, and smart features—at least, not when the smartest feature is a brilliantly simple one. It’s a confident, stylish, and practical choice for securing the modern home.
If you’ve decided the Kwikset 660 Contemporary SmartKey Deadbolt is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API