Keyed cam locks
The cheapest, simplest, oldest option. Each locker has its own cam lock with two keys — one for the user, one master. Best suited to fixed-allocation environments (staff lockers, school lockers with assigned users) where lost keys are manageable. Add a master-keyed system so site managers can open any locker with one master key.
Combination dial locks
User sets a 4-digit combination at first use. No keys to lose. Good for short-term shared environments — leisure centres, day-use lockers — but generate the highest service overhead long term: forgotten combinations require a manager override, and worn dials drift over years.
Coin-return locks
User inserts £1 (or token) to lock; coin returns when they unlock. Excellent for pay-as-you-go gyms, swimming pools and railway stations — no admin overhead, no keys to lose, intuitive for visitors. Coin or token sleeves can be swapped over time without replacing the whole lock.
RFID locks
Read existing access cards, wristbands or NFC-enabled phones. Ideal for any site where users already carry an ID badge or membership card — corporate offices, NHS trusts, universities and 24/7 gyms. Removes lost-key admin entirely, and most systems include audit logs of who opened which locker when.
- Compatible with most existing access-control standards
- Battery life typically 2–3 years per lock
- Audit logs available on networked variants
- Ideal for hot-desk and free-allocation rollouts
BLE app and electronic keypad
Bluetooth (BLE) smart locks pair with a phone app — convenient for tech-friendly user bases but adds a support burden when staff change phones. Electronic keypads (4–6 digit PIN) are a good middle ground: no phone or card needed, but with the management features of an electronic system.
Choosing the right lock
Quick rule of thumb: fixed users = keyed cam. Daily turnover with no membership = coin-return. Existing card system = RFID. Premium / 24/7 club = RFID with audit logs. Heritage low-tech setting = combination. We're happy to mock up a 1:1 cost-per-locker comparison across 5 and 10-year horizons for your project.