Keyed Alike vs. Keyed to Differ

Keyed Alike vs. Keyed to Differ Lock Guide

Compare keyed alike and keyed to differ locker locks to find the best setup for your site’s security.

When it comes to locker locks, one of the main decisions is whether to choose keyed alike or keyed to differ. Both options have their advantages depending on how your lockers are used and who needs access.

Keyed alike locks offer simplicity and convenience — one key opens multiple lockers, making them ideal for maintenance teams, supervisors, or shared workspaces where quick access is essential.

Keyed to differ locks provide individual security, with each user having their own unique key. This setup is best for schools, offices, or gyms where privacy, control, and secure storage are top priorities.

🔑 What Does “Keyed Alike” Mean?

Keyed alike locks are designed so that one key operates multiple locks. This setup is all about convenience — ideal for areas where a single person or team needs to access several lockers in an emergency.

For example, a site manager, cleaner, or maintenance team might use one key to open all staff lockers in their section. It saves time and removes the hassle of juggling multiple keys.

Benefits of Keyed Alike Locks

One key opens multiple lockers
Quicker access for authorised staff
Easier key management for larger sites
Perfect for shared or maintenance areas

Things to Consider

If a key is lost, all lockers using that key may be at risk
Not suitable for personal or high-security storage

🔒 What Does “Keyed to Differ” Mean?

Keyed to differ locks are made so that each locker has its own unique key. That means no two locks share the same key number — ideal for personal storage where privacy and security are essential.

Each user gets their own key, and only they can open that specific locker. This is the most common set up for most schools, gyms, offices, and changing rooms.

Benefits of Keyed to Differ Locks

Every locker has a unique key
Higher security for personal belongings
Replacement keys can be ordered using the key code
Compatible with master keys (if required for management)

Things to Consider

More keys to keep track of
Slightly higher admin if you manage large locker quantities

Step 1: Check Your Lock

Remove one of your locks or note down the key number stamped on the key head or lock face.

Step 2: Test Another Locker

Try using the same key on a different locker nearby. If it opens multiple, it’s keyed alike. If not, it’s keyed to differ.

Step 3: Confirm the Key Code

Check the key code range on the key or lock face. Identical codes mean keyed alike; unique codes mean keyed to differ. Send us a photo if unsure.

Identical key codes mean keyed alike; unique codes mean keyed to differ.

💡 Which Option Should You Choose?

If you're running a shared workspace, factory, or maintenance area, keyed alike systems make daily operations simple and efficient. But if your lockers are for individual users — like students, gym members, or staff — keyed to differ will give each person the security they expect.

Need help choosing the best setup? Our team can help match your locks and supply the right key codes for your site. Contact us to get expert advice or a tailored quote.