When upgrading a door with smart locks, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between a single-point lock and a multipoint lock. At first glance, the difference might seem small, one secured at a single location, while the other anchors at several points along the doorframe. But in practice, this choice can impact everything from day-to-day convenience to long-term security and even the lifespan of your door.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences between single and multipoint setups and highlight some smart locks that are compatible with each. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which smart lock setup is right for you and why the right lock makes all the difference in protecting your home.
What Is a Single-Point Setup?
A single-point setup is the most common type of door lock system. As the name suggests, it secures the door at just one location, usually with a deadbolt and latch, or mortise lock at the center of the door edge. Many residential doors are designed this way, making single-point locks widely available and straightforward to install.
When combined with smart locks, a single-point setup becomes both secure and convenient. Features like fingerprint recognition, keyless entry codes, mobile app control, and remote unlocking can all be added without altering the structure of the door. For homeowners with standard doors, this option offers an easy upgrade to modern security without the need for significant modifications.
A single-point setup is often the best choice for:
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Interior and standard exterior doors that don’t require heavy-duty reinforcement
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Budget-conscious projects where cost-effectiveness is a priority
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Quick upgrades where the door design already supports single-point locks
While it may not provide the multi-layered reinforcement of a multipoint system, single-point setups remain a reliable, accessible way to enjoy the benefits of smart locks.
What Is a Multipoint Setup?
A multipoint setup takes door security a step further by locking the door at three or more points along the frame. Instead of relying on a single latch, multipoint systems use a combination of hooks, bolts, or rollers that engage at the top, middle, and bottom of the door. This design spreads the force of entry attempts, making the door more resistant to warping, prying, or forced break-ins.
When paired with smart locks, a multipoint setup combines reinforced physical security with modern convenience. Many multipoint-compatible smart locks allow you to lock or unlock all points simultaneously with a single action, whether that’s entering a passcode, scanning a fingerprint, or using your phone’s app. Some models even support remote control, integration with smart home systems, and audit trails for added peace of mind.
A multipoint setup is often the best choice for:
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High-value custom doors such as pivot, oversized, or impact-rated builds
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Exterior doors in harsh climates, where extra reinforcement prevents warping
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Homeowners seeking premium security for main entrances or luxury builds
While a multipoint setup typically requires more precise installation and compatible hardware, the payoff is stronger security and durability, especially important for custom doors that are both investment pieces and functional entryways.
Smart Door Locks for Each Door Type
Door design matters and so does choosing the right smart lock. The best solution depends on whether you’re working with a single-point or a multipoint setup. Here’s a breakdown of the top smart locks and the benefits they bring to each type of door.
Single-Point Door Setups
For doors with a single latch, deadbolt, or mortise, these smart locks deliver advanced features while keeping installation simple:
Next Gen Smart Lock
The Next Gen Smart Lock combines style, security, and advanced technology. It features a deadbolt auto-lock system for enhanced protection and a 3D face and fingerprint recognition system for quick, secure access. Homeowners can also unlock remotely over Wi-Fi using a mobile app or choose convenient alternatives like passcodes and keycards. This smart lock is ideal for anyone who wants cutting-edge features wrapped in a modern design.
Smart Door Lock
The Smart Door Lock provides a straightforward yet reliable upgrade for single-point setups. With its instant fingerprint recognition system, it allows for quick, keyless access. It also supports remote unlocking over Wi-Fi through a mobile app, along with passcodes and keycards, making it a flexible solution for everyday doors where convenience and reliability are equally important.
Universal Smart Door Lock Camera
Blending security with visibility, the Universal Smart Door Lock Camera is perfect for main entryways. It comes equipped with a live video feed featuring infrared night vision, giving homeowners the ability to monitor activity at the door at any time. Alongside video, it offers remote unlocking via a mobile app, as well as traditional options like fingerprint, passcode, and keycard access. The system also provides unlock history logs directly within the app, making it easy to track who has come and gone.
Multipoint Door Setups
The Smart Door Lock Slim works with both single-point and multipoint setups, but it truly shines when paired with multipoint doors.
The Smart Door Lock Slim can be installed on both single-point and multipoint setups, but it truly shows its strength in multipoint applications. On these systems, often built with a latch at the top and a deadbolt at the bottom, the Smart Door Lock Slim controls the shootbolts by lifting the handle up, allowing all points to engage or disengage in a single motion.
At the same time, it doesn’t sacrifice modern convenience: users still enjoy fingerprint recognition, Wi-Fi remote access, and flexible entry options like passcodes and keycards.
The best results come from pairing the right lock with the right door type. From single-point to multipoint setups, smart locks bring security, convenience, and modern design together in every project.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a single-point and a multipoint setup comes down to more than just hardware, it’s about aligning security, convenience, and design with the way your door is built. Single-point locks keep things simple, affordable, and reliable, while multipoint locks raise the bar for reinforcement and durability. Both become even more powerful when combined with smart locks, turning ordinary entryways into secure, connected, and user-friendly experiences.
The real takeaway is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The best solution depends on your door type, your lifestyle, and the level of protection you want. By matching the right setup with the right smart lock, you’ll not only secure your home but also make everyday access smoother and smarter.