Are you wondering which is better, Kwikset 917 vs Kwikset 955? You are in the right place, as this article will provide a detailed comparison of these two products. From features to price tag, we will discuss all aspects of these keyless entry locks.
More homeowners and business owners are replacing the traditional lock security hardware of their entry doors. As a way to improve the security of entryways, many people turn to keyless entry locks.
Keyless entry locks offer more security, effectiveness, and convenience for property owners. In your search for a new lock, you likely have encountered the Kwikset 917 and Kwikset 955. This comparison will help you make the right decision for your needs.
Kwikset: The Best Brand of Keyless Door Locks
Kwikset is a trusted and reputable brand of keyless door locks for homes and businesses. Its two most popular keyless door lock models are Kwikset 917 and Kwikset 955.
The following is a comparison between the two to help you decide which is best to secure the front or rear doors of your home or business:
Kwikset 917

The Kwikset 917 keyless door lock model features a motorized deadbolt locking system and physical keypad with ten different numbered buttons. You enter the PIN code by pressing the keypad numbers in the appropriate order.
If successful, the deadbolt will slide into the unlock position and allow you to open the door. Alternatively, you can still use a key in the keyhole of the door handle to unlock the door manually.
Property owners can benefit from the Kwikset 917 locking system, which is designed to secure front and back doors. The Kwikset 917 has received an ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 lock rating to confirm its above-standard durability and resistance against entry attempts.
Pros
- Open the door with a PIN key code or physical key.
- Create up to 30 key codes for different users to whom you want to give access to your property.
- Smart Key technology lets you rekey the lock yourself, with no professional locksmith needed.
- You can self-install the keyless locking mechanism within minutes. There is no need to call a professional locksmith.
- You can control or manage the locking system with your smartphone or voice by connecting it to Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or a smart home system.
- The automatic locking mechanism will activate 30 seconds after unlocking the door.
- Keypad buttons light up so that users can see them at nighttime or in low-lit conditions.
- Pick-resistant and bump-proof lock cylinder to prevent and deter intruders.
- A low battery alert will be sent to the owner when the locking system’s batteries have low power.
Cons
- The backlighting on the keypad is more challenging to see on a bright, sunny day.
- It costs more than regular key and deadbolt locking systems.
- Less durable than the Kwikset 955; some users indicate that you can scratch the outside easily.
- The battery reportedly does not last long; you may have to replace the battery frequently.
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The Kwikset 917 should be good enough for the owners of residential single-family homes, multi-family homes, condos, and apartments. However, it may not be strong enough to secure commercial offices and businesses.
Kwikset 955

The Kwikset 955 keyless door lock is a heavy-duty smart lock with a keypad, voice control, smartphone compatibility, and the option to use a keycode or key to lock and unlock the system.
It has many of the same technological features as the Kwikset 917, including 10 numbered backlit buttons and Smart Key technology. However, significant differences suggest that the Kwikset 955 is more durable and offers better security for properties.
Pros
- Heavy-duty design offers maximum security and property protection for most commercial and residential properties.
- Secure screen technology integration prevents intruders from using smudges and fingerprints to guess user codes.
- Battery backup system to keep the smart lock activated in the event of a power outage.
- Easily generate up to 30 access codes for family members and employees to access the property.
- Ability to quickly rekey the lock without needing a locksmith.
- Control the locking system remotely via a smartphone or tablet.
- Generate temporary user codes for guests.
- Advanced encryption technology to prevent the hack or theft of user codes.
- Immediate alerts are sent to the owner if forceful impact or lock picking is inflicted upon the lock.
- Easy to install by yourself; A professional installation is not required
- A mobile app is available to download.
Cons
- Compatible with some smart home systems only; check to see if your smart home system is compatible before you buy
- A dead battery may cause you to get locked out of your property; make sure you replace the battery on a periodic basis
- Costs more than standard key and lock systems
The Kwikset 955 is a durable and practical smart lock that you can easily install yourself in any door of a commercial or residential building. Most people use this product option to feel confident in their property’s security.
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It adds an extra layer of protection against intruders and burglars who attempt to use force to enter your property. Due to its heavy-duty build, business owners will particularly benefit from the Kwikset 955.
The Verdict
Overall, the Kwikset 917 and 955 models offer many similar security features and entry technology. Some of the features include smart lock mechanisms, one-touch locking, keypad-based smart code access, Bluetooth compatibility, auto locking, self-installation, battery power, and so on.
The only significant difference between the two is the heavier-duty design-build of the Kwikset 955 model. It seems as if the Kwikset 955 is better for protecting higher-end commercial and residential properties, while the Kwikset 917 is more suitable for protecting standard residential entryways and garages.
All homeowners can benefit from installing the Kwikset 917 or 955 in their front doors, rear doors, and garages. However, if you have an office, commercial building, or valuable residential building to protect, you might be better off choosing the Kwikset 955 to secure its entryways and sensitive rooms.