Best Locks for Lockers – 10 Reviews, Tests, Guide, FAQs, More
We understand that you want to keep your locker safe. However, with so many sub-par locks out there, it’s become very difficult to find a high-quality lock for your locker.
This is why today, we’re going to look at the best locks for lockers available in the market in great detail to determine which one is the best of the best.
In this post, we’ll discuss what factors you need to look at when buying a lock for your locker and what are some things you should definitely avoid.
WINNER
Best Lock for Lockers
Coming in four different colors and a high-quality finish, this lock would look great on any locker. It has a sturdy body and offers great protection against thieves.
RUNNER UP
Master Lock 141D Covered Aluminum Keyed Padlock
2nd Best Lock for Lockers
This product is available in three colors and can be used as an indoor or outdoor lock. Its four-pin cylinder and dual locking makes it resistant to picking and prying.
ALSO GREAT
Master Lock 653D Locker Lock Set Your Own Combination Padlock
3rd Best Lock for Lockers
This indoor lock features a durable metal body with a hardened steel shackle. It features a non-slip grip making it easy to carry around with you.
After much speculation and comparison, we’ve found that these three products stand out the most from the crowd.
Now, let’s get into the extensive reviews for the top 10 best locks for lockers.
Best Locks for Lockers - Top 10 Reviews
#1: All-Around Best Lock for Lockers - Desired Tools Padlock Review
This is one of the highest-rated locks we have come across on Amazon so we had to order this for ourselves and see what the hype was all about.
Indeed, this product delivers on all fronts. It’s incredibly secure and cannot be decoded easily as most common combination dial locks can. We tried decoding its code using traditional techniques and this lock stood up to all our attempts without breaking a sweat.
It looks incredibly great too and it’s available in four different colors, namely, blue, black, green and red.
Features of Desired Tools Padlock - Best Locks for Lockers
Dimensions: 3.6 inches x 2.2 inches x 1 inches
Weight: 5 ounces
Available in four colors
4-digit combination dial
30-day money-back guarantee
If you want a lock that looks great, is dependable and also affordable then this is the product you’re looking for. It has everything you would want from a lock for your locker and more.
#2: Best Keyed Lock for Lockers - Master Lock 141D Covered Aluminum Keyed Padlock Review
Many people still prefer traditional keyed locks as they cannot be broken into or decoded like combination locks can. Even if you happen to lose your key or if it gets stolen, it will still be very difficult for the thief to match up your key to the correct lock.
This lock is extremely cut-resistant and stands up very well to leverage attacks too. It provides great security at an extremely modest price.
Not to mention, it also has a vinyl coating over its body in order to prevent it scratching up your locker’s paint.
Features of Master Lock 141D Covered Aluminum Keyed Padlock
Dimensions: 0.7 inches x 1.8 inches x 2.2 inches
Weight: 2.4 ounces
Available in three colors
Four-pin cylinder
Dual locking lever mechanism
If you want an old-fashioned, traditional lock for your locker then this product is ideal for you. It features a vinyl coating and comes with two keys in case you lose one.
#3: Best Non-Slip Lock for Lockers - Master Lock 653D Locker Lock Set Your Own Combination Padlock Review
This is a 4-digit combination lock that comes in many different colors namely, red, blue, yellow and orange.
The most unique feature about this product is its non-slip grip. Its entire exterior consists of this non-slip coating which ensures you get a firm grip onto it when you’re locking and unlocking it.
The body itself is made of metal while the shackle is made of hardened steel. It can stand up to all forms of basic theft techniques such as cutting, leverage and sawing attacks.
Features of Master Lock 653D Locker Lock Set Your Own Combination Padlock
Dimensions: 8.1 inches x 3.7 inches x 1.8 inches
Weight: 5.6 ounces
Non-slip body
6 mm diameter shackle
Available in four colors
If you’re worried about your lock falling from your hands and becoming damaged, then this product is ideal for you. It’s affordable and comes with a soft, grippable exterior which ensures it won't slip from your hands.
#4: Best Budget-Friendly Lock for Lockers - Master Lock 1561DAST Locker Lock Combination Padlock Review
We often urge our readers to never opt for locks that are too cheap. This is because they are often made from sub-par materials that will not stand up to even the most basic of theft techniques.
However, this product is an exception because it’s manufactured by Master Lock. Master Lock is a company that has been making high-quality locks for years now. You can definitely trust their locks to be secure even when they come with such a low price tag.
This product comes with a glossy finish that looks great.
It also features a well-made locking mechanism that prevents any form of shims from working.
Features of Master Lock 1561DAST Locker Lock Combination Padlock
Dimensions: 6.0 x 4.0 x 2.0 inches
Weight: 5 ounces
3-digit combination dial
7 mm diameter shackle
Available in blue, teal and red
If you’re looking for a reliable lock for your locker but don’t have a lot of money to spend then this product is perfect for you. Its price is definitely cheap but nothing about its quality is.
#5: Best Heavy-Duty Lock for Lockers - Stanley Hardware S828-160 CD8820 Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock Review
This is definitely one of the heaviest locks on this list. It features extremely premium materials that are forged with care to create a lock that can stand up to almost all forms of attacks.
It has steel ball-bearings which help it resist prying attacks. It has a 6-pin cylinder with anti-pick pins which make it near impossible to pick. It also has a unique keyway cover which protects it from drilling attacks.
Not to mention that its body is also rust-resistant which means this lock is probably going to last you a lifetime.
Features of Stanley Hardware S828-160 CD8820 Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock
Dimensions: 1.6 inches x 6.3 inches x 4.4 inches
Weight: 2.05 pounds
6-pin cylinder
ASTM security grade 5
Patented keyway cover
If you want a heavy-duty lock to protect your locker to the fullest then this is the product you’re looking for. It weighs a hefty 2.05 pounds and its hardened steel body can stand up to all sorts of attacks.
#6: Best 2-in-1 Lock for Lockers - ORIA Combination Lock Review
This product comes in a pack of 2 which is great for people that have multiple lockers that they want to protect.
The lock itself features a zinc alloy body which is both rust-proof as well weather-proof. Along with the zinc alloy exterior, the interior is made of plated steel. This does a great job of protecting the inner locking mechanism from hammering attacks.
It’s going to be a long while before this lock starts to show even the slightest signs of any deterioration.
It has a sleek design that will not only look great but will also blend well into its surroundings.
Features of ORIA Combination Lock
Dimensions: 5.1 inches x 3.9 inches x 2 inches
Weight: 1.6 ounces
Comes in packs of 2
Available in six different colors
4-digit resettable combination locks
If you have more than one locker that you have to secure then this is the product you’re looking for. It comes in packs of 2 and it offers tremendous security.
#7: Best Password Lock for Lockers - Master Lock 1534D Locker Lock Set Your Own Word Combination Padlock Review
This product is a great option if you have several different lockers that you want to secure. You can choose to order just one of it if you want but it’s also available in packs of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 16.
The password consists of 5 letters which means it is much more difficult to crack than standard combination dials that have 3 or 4 digits.
The hardened steel shackle will stand up to just about any cutting tool that a potential thief might have on him.
It’s available in four different colors that are black, blue, green and white.
Features of Master Lock 1534D Locker Lock Set Your Own Word Combination Padlock
Dimensions: 6.6 inches x 3.5 inches x 1.70 inches
Weight: 6.4 ounces
Available in a whole bunch of different quantity packs
5-letter password lock
Metal body construction
If you want a password lock rather than a traditional combination lock for your locker then this product is definitely for you. It’s much more secure than 3 or 4-digit combination locks and you can order multiple of them too.
#8: Best Speed-Dial Lock for Lockers - Master Lock 1500iD Locker Lock Set Your Own Directional Combination Padlock Review
This is a dial lock from Master Lock and it features a sturdy exterior with a speed dial that works smoothly and is very easy to use.
A dial lock is great because even if someone is looking over your shoulder to determine your combination, it will be very difficult for them to do so.
Furthermore, it features anti-shim technology and a 7 mm thick hardened steel shackle. All of these features ensure that no thief will be breaking into it any time soon.
Features of Master Lock 1500iD Locker Lock Set Your Own Directional Combination Padlock
Dimensions: 7 inches x 4 inches x 2 inches
Weight: 6.4 ounces
Available in three different colors
Available in different quantity packs
6 mm diameter shackle
If your locker is situated in a crowded area then this product might be something you should invest in. Its unique access mechanism makes it very difficult for someone to peer over your shoulder to find out what your combination is.
#9: Best Bluetooth Lock for Lockers - Master Lock Lock Box Review
Many people are intimidated by smart locks because they feel they can be very difficult to get the hang of. This was actually true a few years ago but as of late, innovators like Master Lock are coming up with products like these which are very easy to use.
This product connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth. You can then use the Master Lock Home Vault app to make configurations to the lock as well as use it. If you don’t have your smartphone with you, you can also make use of its touchpad to enter a valid code to gain access.
Features of Master Lock Lock Box
Dimensions: 5.2 inches x 2.5 inches x 8.4 inches
Weight: 3 pounds
Runs on 1 lithium metal battery
Low-battery indicator
10 mm diameter shackle
If you’re looking for a smart lock for your locker that is both secure as well as convenient then you’ve just found it. It’s very easy to get the hang of and it even allows you to share access.
#10: Best Weather-Proof Bluetooth Lock for Lockers - Master Lock Padlock Review
This is another smart lock that impressed us thoroughly not only with its design and durability but also with its ease of use.
You can control who gains access to it via its accompanying smartphone app and you also use this app to unlock it during regular use as well.
Not only is the lock very difficult to break into but it also immediately sends an alert to your phone as soon as anyone even attempts to mess with it.
Features of Master Lock Padlock
Dimensions: 5.3 inches x 2.2 inches x 1.1 inches
Weight: 12.5 ounces
Boron-Carbide shackle
2-piece weather cover
Tamper-resistant
If you want a smart lock that can stand up to harsh weather conditions while protecting your locker then this product is the one for you. It’s jam-packed with features and boasts a very durable body.
Best Locks for Lockers - Buyers’ Guide
What are the different types of locks that can be used on lockers?
There is generally only one type of lock that is commonly used to secure lockers and that type of lock is the padlock. Its sturdy body with its strong steel shackle is the perfect design that is suitable to go through the metal rods of your locker and secure it well.
That being said, padlocks have many different types that you can choose from. The different types of padlocks available in the market are:
Old-School Key Padlocks
This is the most traditional form of padlocks. They feature a standard metal body and a shackle that is normally made of either steel or some other compound alloy. You can lock and unlock it with a traditional, mechanical key.
Combination Dial Padlocks
These are the most common types of padlocks that you will see in schools, gyms as well as other places that have lockers. They do not require a key to open. Instead, they have a combination dial on them which you can utilize to enter a predetermined access code. If the access code you entered is correct, the lock will open.
Smart Padlocks
These are a recent invention; They are quickly becoming more and more popular in today’s day and age. They are often a lot more expensive compared to key and combination dial padlocks.
Different smart padlocks can offer many different mechanisms that you can make use of in order to access them.
What are some factors to keep in mind before buying locks for lockers?
Here are the main factors that you should think about and keep in mind when you go out to buy a lock for your locker:
Sturdiness and Security
You’re buying a lock. Obviously, you should be thinking about just how much security it will provide.
You may not have to invest in a lock that’s too heavy-duty if you have your locker in a fairly secure area. However, if you feel your locker is in a high-risk area, then we suggest that you opt for a lock that provides greater security.
Size
Thinking about the size of your padlock is important. Before you go out to buy a lock, we recommend that you inspect the lock holes that are built onto your locker. After that, you should have a general idea of how big you want your lock to be and how thick its shackle should be. You don’t want to get one that’s too big or too small as the lock won’t be able to fit onto your locker if either of that is the case.
Appearance
This is not too important of a factor but it’s definitely worth thinking about. If you’re buying a lock for your child’s school locker, for example, you may want to ask them what color they want.
Other than that, the appearance is also important to think about because you don’t want the lock to stand out too much.
How easy are locks for lockers to break into?
All of this depends on the quality of the lock you buy. If you take your time and invest in a high-quality lock for your locker, any thief is going to have a very tough time trying to break into it. Cutting or drilling into the lock would take a tremendous amount of time and resources, something that a thief really won’t have in most situations. As for other types of attacks such as picking attacks, you can opt for a lock with a higher number of pins to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Best Locks for Lockers - FAQs
What is the average price of locks for lockers?
You can generally buy a high-quality lock for your locker at a fairly reasonable price. Most locks for lockers that are either lock-and-key padlocks or combination dial padlocks. These are often priced anywhere between the $5 and $15 price range.
Smart locks for lockers tend to be slightly more expensive. They can start from $20 and go anywhere up to several hundred dollars depending on how many features they have.
Is a combination lock more secure on a locker or a key lock?
This is a tricky question because in some cases, a combination lock is much more secure than a key lock but in other cases, it isn’t.
For example, a combination lock is much harder to be picked than a key lock. This is because a combination lock literally does not have a keyway.
However, if your locker is situated in a part of the building where it is generally quite crowded, you may be at risk if you have a combination lock. This is because there’s a chance someone may find out your combination just by looking over your shoulder while you enter it. Thus, we recommend that you exercise vigilance when opening your combination lock when it’s crowded around you.
How do I use a locker lock?
This depends on what type of locker lock it is. You can use a simple keyed lock the same way you would use any other ordinary lock: with its key.
For a combination lock or smart lock, you’re going to have to configure it before you start using it.
Where can I buy locks for lockers from?
You can buy locks for lockers from your local shops or you can also look for them online on websites such as Amazon.
What are some of the most reliable brands when it comes to locks for lockers?
- Master Lock
- Desired Tools
- Stanley Hardware
- ORIA
Is it possible to break into a combination lock for lockers?
Older combination locks could definitely be broken into. There are still techniques you can learn online that help you determine what the combination for a certain combination lock is. However, newer combination locks have additional mechanisms inside them. These mechanisms make it difficult for potential thieves to determine the combination.
What are some advantages of having a smart lock for lockers instead of a regular one?
The biggest advantage of having a smart lock is convenience. Unlocking a smart lock is generally much quicker and easier as compared to traditional locks such as combination locks and key locks. All you have to do is touch your finger to the sensor or tap an icon on your smartphone.
Final Verdict
Many people store some of their prized possessions within their lockers. Hence, it’s important for them to make the right decision when it comes to the lock that’s going to protect them.
After much debate and research, we’ve concluded that the Desired Tools Padlock is the best of the bunch. It’s simplistic in its design and use, it’s small in size, it’s extremely secure and it’s not too harsh on the pocket either.
With that, we’re at the end of our post for the best locks for lockers.
Let us know what lock you’ve been using to protect your locker.
