When it comes to protecting valuable assets, Safes are one of the most effective and reliable solutions.
There are different types of safes designed to meet diverse needs, whether to safeguard documents, money, jewelry, or even firearms
(also known as gun cabinets). The classification of safes depends on several factors, such as their lock type, certification,
security level, and installation method. In this article, we explore the different types of safes and how they are categorized
to help you choose the most suitable one for you.
Types of Safes by Lock Type
One of the primary ways to classify safes is by the locking system they use. The opening systems are crucial in determining both the security
and ease of use. The main types of locks are:
- Mechanical Locks
Mechanical locks are the most traditional and work using a manually entered numeric combination. They are highly reliable,
do not depend on batteries or electricity, and offer excellent resistance against tampering. However, they take a bit more
time to open since you need to turn the internal dials to unlock the safe. - Electronic Locks
Electronic locks are more modern and are opened with a numeric code entered on a digital keypad. They provide quick access
and are usually easier to use. Additionally, some models come with advanced features such as backlit keypads, quick-access keys,
or even alarms that activate in case of unauthorized attempts. - Biometric Locks
These safes use biometric recognition technology, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to access their contents.
They are highly secure since only authorized individuals can open the safe, and they are usually very fast. However, they
tend to be more expensive than mechanical or electronic locks. - Key Locks
Although less common in modern safes, some still use traditional key locks. They are easy to use but are generally less secure
than other locking systems, especially if the key falls into the wrong hands.
Safes by Security Grade
Another way to classify safes is by their security grade, which indicates the level of certification and protection
they offer against tampering or unauthorized access. It is essential to understand that there are different criteria for this classification,
with one of the most relevant being the UNE-EN 1143-1 standards. These standards define both the requirements and testing methods
to evaluate the resistance of safes and other security elements, such as vault doors or armored rooms.
Grade I
Grade I safes offer standard protection against more advanced tampering attempts, such as the use of manual or power tools.
This level is suitable if you are looking for basic security for moderately valuable items. For everyday protection, a safe with at least
this grade is a recommended option.
Grade II
Grade II safes provide a higher level of security, making them more suitable for homes and small businesses. This grade is
designed to protect higher-value items and, as expected, employs more resistant materials and complex security mechanisms than Grade I.
If you have more valuable items, this level is the most appropriate.
Grade III
Grade III safes are for high-security purposes, capable of withstanding sophisticated attacks. Made from robust materials
like steel, concrete, and fiberglass, they offer excellent protection for extremely valuable or sensitive items. This type of safe is
ideal for those who need maximum security, both at home and in small businesses.
Grade IV
Grade IV safes are less common in households as they are designed for specific high-risk businesses. They are used in places
such as jewelry stores, lottery offices, or banks. Their security level is exceptionally high, making them the ideal choice for protecting
high-value assets in locations with a high risk of theft.
Grades V and VI
Grades V and VI represent the most advanced security. With sophisticated measures and extremely resistant materials, these safes
are designed to withstand highly elaborate attacks. Their use is typically limited to high-risk businesses, such as banks or government facilities.
These levels of security are generally unnecessary in residential settings but may be found in exceptional cases.
Safes by Installation Type
Below are the types of safes classified by their installation method. The choice of model will depend on the characteristics
of your home and your personal preferences.
Hidden Safes
Hidden safes are an excellent option if you want to combine security with discretion. These models integrate into the home
environment, disguising themselves as everyday objects. They provide an additional level of protection by going unnoticed by any intruder.
Wall-Mounted Safes
Wall-mounted safes are installed directly into walls or floors. This option is especially useful if you are looking for a discreet
solution that does not alter the aesthetics of the decor. Being built-in, they are also harder to detect and steal.
Fireproof Safes
Fireproof safes are designed to protect their contents in the event of a fire. Equipped with fire-resistant materials, these safes
ensure the safety of important documents and valuable items, even if the property is affected by a disaster.
