Choosing a Key Safe Box: Safe Key Series vs Key Box 60
Choosing a key safe box depends on how many keys you store, whether it is wall-mounted or hung on a shackle, and the code type. Safe Key series and Key Box 60 compared.
Short answer: When choosing a key safe box, look at three questions: how many keys will be stored (a few keys, or a 60-key cabinet), where it will be fitted (wall-mounted, or a shackle that hangs on a door handle), and the code type (4-digit mechanical or 6-digit digital). The Mühlen Safe Key series ranges from small mechanical code boxes for a few keys to the Key Box 60, a 60-key cabinet with a digital code and key override.
What Is a Key Safe Box, and Who Uses One?
A key safe box is a steel box in which one or more keys are stored securely yet within reach. It stands out in these uses:
- Rental flats and landlords: Keeping the spare key in a locked box.
- Property management, hotels, gyms: Keeping the keys of members and rooms organised and secure.
- Rental companies: Storing a large number of keys safely on numbered hooks.
- Home and business: Keeping the spare key in a locked box instead of hiding it outside.
1. How Many Keys? Small Box or Key Cabinet?
Small boxes are for a few keys; for many keys you need a key cabinet:
- Key Box 60: Holds 60 keys/key fobs at once on numbered key hooks. The steel hook strips can be removed and repositioned if desired. The manufacturer supplies 60 coloured key fobs with the product. The product page describes this model for rental companies, hotels, property management and gyms.
- Safe Key series: Small boxes for a few keys, with a zinc alloy and double-layer steel body.
2. Where Will It Be Fitted? Wall Mount or Shackle?
| Model | Mounting | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Safe Key 3 | Wall mount (with screws) | 4-digit mechanical |
| Safe Key 6 | Wall mount | 4-digit mechanical |
| Safe Key 4 | Hanging shackle and mounting | 0000–9999 |
| Safe Key 7 | Hanging shackle and wall mount | 10,000 combinations |
| Safe Key 12 | Shackle or wall mount | 10,000 combinations |
| Safe Key 9 | See the product page | 10 numeric keys, wide code range |
| Key Box 60 | Wall mount (2 screws, steel wall plugs and nuts) | 6-digit digital, changeable, key also used |
Because shackle models can be hung without drilling, they are practical where you cannot modify the wall; check the product page for which hanging points they suit. Wall-mounted models are more permanent and harder to remove. The Key Box 60 is supplied with its mounting kit; the product page states that it can be easily mounted on a concrete or wooden wall.
3. Code Type: Mechanical or Digital?
- 4-digit mechanical code (Safe Key 3 and 6): No battery needed. 10,000 combinations are enough for box-type use; change the code regularly.
- 10-key keypad (Safe Key 9): The product page states a wide code range.
- 6-digit digital code (Key Box 60): The code can be changed, and it also opens with a key; this is flexible for cabinet use where many people need access.
We explain the differences between lock types in more detail in our comparison of fingerprint, keypad and key safes.
4. Body and Durability
On the Safe Key series, the body and cover are made of double-layer steel and zinc alloy; the product pages state resistance to impact and cutting. The Safe Key 11 product page describes a 6 mm thick body and a cover that protects against water, and the Safe Key 6 is also stated to protect against water and dust. This matters for a box that will be fitted outdoors.
Selection Guide
- Single flat/home, 1–5 keys: The Safe Key 4 or 7 with hanging shackle.
- If you want a fixed wall mount: Safe Key 3 or 6.
- Property management, hotel, gym, rental company: Key Box 60.
- You will change the code often: The digital Key Box 60 or an electronic safe; see how to choose a money safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a key safe box?
A product in which one or more keys are stored in a coded, steel-bodied box. Small boxes are used for a few keys, while cabinets such as the Key Box 60 are used for many keys, up to 60.
How is a key safe box mounted on a wall?
The Key Box 60 is supplied with two mounting screws, steel wall plugs and nuts; according to the product page, it can be mounted on a concrete or wooden wall. The Safe Key 3 and 6 are fixed to the wall with mounting screws.
What is a key safe with a hanging shackle for?
It is hung without drilling into the wall; models such as the Safe Key 4, 7 and 12 offer both shackle and wall-mounted use.
How many digits is the code?
The Safe Key 3 and 6 have a 4-digit mechanical code, the Safe Key 4, 7 and 12 have 10,000 combinations in the 0000–9999 range, and the Key Box 60 has a 6-digit digital code.
How many keys does the Key Box 60 hold?
It holds 60 keys or key fobs; 60 key fobs in different colours are supplied with the product.
Related Content
- Business Safes by Sector
- Key Safes · Installed Steel Safes
- Steel Safe Guide
- How to Choose an In-Wall Safe
- How to Choose a Home Safe
To find the key safe box that fits your needs, use the form on the product pages or get in touch with us.