What Are Keyed Alike Padlocks?

Keyed alike padlocks are padlocks that are all opened by the same key. This means that whether you purchase two locks or twenty, one key will operate every padlock in the set. They are sometimes also called suited padlocks or same-key padlocks.
They are widely used where convenience is more important than having unique keys for each lock.

When Keyed Alike Padlocks Are Useful

Keyed alike padlocks are ideal when one person or team needs to manage multiple locked points without carrying a large bundle of keys. For example:

• Multiple sheds, gates or storage units on the same property

• Schools and universities managing large numbers of lockers

• Maintenance staff who need fast access across multiple areas

• Business sites with shared equipment or access points
  The key advantage is simplicity. One key, many locks.

Does This Reduce Security?

There is a natural trade-off between convenience and security.
Since others may own identical keyed alike sets from the same manufacturer, there is a small chance that someone else’s key could fit your lock. However:

• Premium brands produce many more key variations (differs)

• Key suites are rotated frequently to reduce overlap

• Specialist suppliers (like us) track suite numbers to avoid duplicates

So while security is technically lower than with fully unique locks, this risk is very small when using good-quality manufacturers.

Can I Add More Locks To My Set Later?

Yes — but only if your supplier keeps a record of your key suite number.
We always record this information, meaning:

• You can order more locks in the future

• They will match your existing key set
  Be cautious: some suppliers rename or hide suite numbers to prevent you from buying matching padlocks elsewhere. This makes it impossible to expand your set later. Always ask for the genuine manufacturer suite number before you buy.

When Keyed Alike Is (And Isn’t) The Best Choice

Keyed alike is ideal for:

• Shared use

• Frequent access

• Situations where losing a key must not lock you out entirely

Choose keyed-to-differ or master-keyed instead when:

• You need strict individual security

• Locks protect high-value or sensitive items

• You require a controlled access hierarchy