| Lock Type |
Mechanism |
Security Level |
Common Uses |
Advantages |
Disadvantages
|
| Warded Lock |
Uses a set of fixed metal wards (obstructions) that only a correctly shaped key can bypass. |
Low |
Old cabinets, antique locks, basic security applications. |
Simple design, easy to manufacture. |
Can be easily picked using skeleton keys.
|
| Pin Tumbler Lock |
Uses a set of pins of varying lengths that align when the correct key is inserted, allowing the lock to turn. |
Medium to High |
Door locks, padlocks, safes. |
Widely used, relatively secure. |
Vulnerable to picking and bumping.
|
| Disc Tumbler Lock |
Uses rotating discs that align when the correct key is inserted, allowing the lock to turn. |
High |
High-security padlocks, bike locks. |
Highly resistant to picking. |
Can be difficult to operate in harsh conditions (dirt, debris).
|
| Lever Tumbler Lock |
Uses a set of levers that must be lifted to a specific height to allow the lock to open. |
Medium to High |
Safes, older door locks, high-security applications. |
More secure than warded locks. |
Can be picked using special tools.
|
| Magnetic Keyed Lock |
Uses magnets in the key to move internal tumblers or release the lock. |
High |
High-security doors, hotel rooms, modern security systems. |
Difficult to pick, no mechanical wear. |
Requires precise key alignment, can be expensive.
|
| Combination Lock |
Uses a dial or keypad with a sequence of numbers to unlock. |
Medium |
School lockers, safes, luggage. |
No key required. |
Can be cracked using trial and error or brute-force attacks.
|
| Rotary Combination Lock |
Similar to a combination lock but uses rotating dials to align internal mechanisms. |
Medium to High |
Safes, lockers. |
More secure than basic combination locks. |
Vulnerable to manipulation techniques.
|
| Time-Delay Combination Lock |
A combination lock that requires a set delay before unlocking after the correct combination is entered. |
High |
Bank vaults, ATMs, high-security safes. |
Prevents quick access during a robbery. |
Inconvenient for quick access.
|
| Time Lock |
A lock that only opens after a set period has passed, regardless of input. |
High |
Bank vaults, high-security areas. |
Prevents forced access outside designated hours. |
Inflexible, requires precise timing.
|
| Tubular Pin Tumbler Lock |
Uses pins arranged in a circular pattern rather than in a straight line. |
Medium to High |
Vending machines, bicycles, ATMs. |
Harder to pick than standard pin tumbler locks. |
Can be vulnerable to special picking tools.
|
| Wafer Tumbler Lock |
Uses flat wafers instead of pins, which align when the correct key is inserted. |
Low to Medium |
File cabinets, car locks. |
Simple and inexpensive. |
Easier to pick than pin tumbler locks.
|
