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In this day and age, it pays to invest in the best home safe possible. Whether you need to protect important documents or valuable jewelry, there are a lot of options to choose from. To make your search easier, we did all the footwork for you.

We reviewed 10 entries that excel in protecting your belongings. We included safes of all shapes and sizes, and with many different entry methods.

Don’t Have Time to Read the Whole Article?

Our top pick for the best safe overall went to Tigerking. The BGX-5 is well-built and loaded with protective features.

SentrySafe’s SF123ES offers one of the best values you’ll find in a safe. There’s lots of storage space inside, and the fireproof construction ensures your items stay secure at all costs.

Top 10 Best Home Safes

When it comes to protecting your belongings, you need the very best in protection. You’ll find exactly that in the reviews ahead.


1. Tigerking BGX-5/D1-45XH-1 Review - Best Overall

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  • Tough and durable
  • Excellent security
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • A bit pricey
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This mini vault is a reliable entry that we just had to include. Tigerking (no, not that Tiger King) delivers a finely-constructed safe that is sturdy, solid, and well-protected. You’ll need both a password and a key to penetrate this fortress.

Inside, you’ll find another way to keep your valuables hidden – a separate lock box. It’s nice to have this third layer of protection at the ready. There is also a shelf within the safe’s walls.

It too is durable, and can be removed to make room for larger items. The entire safe is made out of solid steel and weighs over 50 pounds. Three solid bolts secure the one-inch-thick door when the safe is closed.

There are lots of warning systems in place, too. Too many failed password attempts will cause the safe to violently shake. Or you can set it to go straight for the alarm, instead. For added security, Tigerking’s Digital Safe can be mounted to the wall.

Features

  • 15.7 x 12.9 x 17.7 inches
  • Key and code entry
  • 1.5 cubic feet
  • 55 pounds
  • Solid steel

Ease of Use

The two-stage security system works well, and the interior lock box is a nice touch. We like that a light comes on whenever you open the safe’s main door. You’ll need a couple of AA batteries for this light, however. So make sure you keep some handy.


2. SentrySafe SF123ES Review - Best Value

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  • Solid and secure
  • Nice capacity
  • Pry-resistant
  • Easy entry
  • No interior light
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SentrySafe impressed us with the SF123ES. This mammoth of a safe is equipped with four locking bolts for prime protection.

You get access to 1.23 cubic feet of storage space inside, with a single shelf separating the top and bottom areas. It can be positioned anywhere within the safe thanks to preset slots along the side walls.

One giant hinge holds the thick door in place. It is pry-resistant, deterring thieves from breaking their way in. On top of that, the SF123ES is fireproof. It’s able to withstand heat of up to 1,700 degrees for a full hour.

And at 85 pounds, this unit is no slouch. It’s sturdy, secure, and makes a great addition to any home thanks to its stellar protection.

Features

  • 19.3 x 16.3 x 17.8 inches
  • 1.23 cubic feet
  • 85.2 pounds
  • Fireproof
  • Steel

Ease of Use

Getting inside is quick and easy. Simply enter your passcode with the onboard keypad and turn the lever. We would have liked an interior light, but SentrySafe didn’t include one. But you can pick one up dirt-cheap to fix this minor complaint.


3. Viking Security VS-25BL Review - Most Innovative

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  • User-friendly
  • Quick entry
  • Built tough
  • Innovative
  • Cheap coating
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Viking Security takes things up a notch by introducing biometrics into the fold. The VS-25BL is equipped with a fingerprint scanner for a more personalized approach. An optical sensor determines if it’s really you trying to get in.

You can also set up a pin number for entry. We like this because you’re not limited to a four- five-digit code. This safe lets you choose as many as nine numbers for the ultimate security.

The build-quality is respectable, too. It’s made to prevent prying thanks to its solid steel locking mechanism.

Other nice additions are a warning alarm in case you forget to close the safe. And there’s an interior light to help you see. The inside is carpeted to prevent damage to your belongings. And you can program up to 32 fingerprints if you need to allow access to multiple users.

Features

  • 10 x 14 x 10 inches
  • Motorized deadbolt
  • Biometric scanner
  • 27 pounds
  • Solid steel

Ease of Use

The fingerprint scanner is a huge plus. If you need to get inside the safe quickly, this is the way to go. You can gain entry within a couple of seconds.

An onboard digital display alerts you to the status of the safe, as well as battery life.


4. AmazonBasics Steel Safe Review - Best Budget Runner-Up

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  • Solid security
  • Easy to use
  • Low-profile
  • Affordable
  • No interior light
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AmazonBasics delivers an affordable home safe that comes with a good amount of storage space. At 1.2 cubic feet, you’ll have plenty of room to house your valuables.

You set your own security passcode using the built-in digital user interface. It’s really straightforward and easy to use. You also get a couple of override keys just in case you forget your code. It’s also reprogrammable. So you can always change your code for added safety.

The interior is lined with carpet to prevent your items from getting scratched or dented. We like that this model is built to prevent thieves from trying to pry their way in.

This safe sits low to the ground and is rather elongated in shape. There’s a single shelf inside to separate your valuables.

Features

  • 16.9 x 14.6 x 10.63 inches
  • Reprogrammable
  • 1.2 cubic feet
  • 26.4 pounds
  • Metal

Ease of Use

We like this safe because it’s easy to get into if you’re in a hurry. Simply enter your passcode and turn the knob. The security on this one is pretty solid, too. There are two thick bolts that secure the door when it’s locked.


5. First Alert 2087F Review - Best for Flood Damage

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  • Excellent protection
  • Heavy-duty
  • Affordable
  • Reliable
  • Limited storage
  • Entry takes some time
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If you’d rather take a more basic approach to getting inside your safe, First Alert’s 2087F is right up your alley. It uses an old-school combination dial with an electronic locking mechanism. It’s straightforward and easy to use.

You will need some patience if you aren’t used to a combination entry. It can be a rather tedious process until you get it down. And even then getting inside is going to take some time. If you’re going to need quick access to your valuables, you’ll likely want to look elsewhere.

Now, that being said, the 2087F offers superb protection. The heavy, thick door uses two steel bolts to secure your belongings. And since there are less technical gadgetries involved, this safe is less apt to breaking or malfunctioning.

Storage is a bit limited, with less than a cubic foot of space inside. But it is waterproof and fireproof. If you’re looking for a safe that will hold up in a flood and keep your valuables protected, look no further.

Features

  • 16.5 x 14.5 x 19 inches
  • Combination entry
  • 5-year warranty
  • 79.2 pounds
  • Resin

Ease of Use

Once you have perfected the combination dial, entry is straightforward and uncomplicated. It takes longer than other methods we reviewed. But you can’t beat its reliability.


6. Steelwater AMSWEL-530 Review - Best for Documents

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  • Lots of space
  • Quick entry
  • Heavy-duty
  • Fireproof
  • Expensive
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If you’ve been looking for a safe to store your important documents, we think we’ve found a solid unit. Steelwater’s AMSWEL-530 is made to withstand up to two hours of fire damage and heat as high as 1,850 degrees.

Your paperwork and files will come out unscathed thanks to this safe’s thick and sturdy construction. Steelwater used solid steel for the best protection.

Inside you’ll find a shelving system that lets you position it anywhere you like. And there’s a slide-out tray to make housing your documents easier.

Features

  • 20.8 x 17.1 x 17.3 inches
  • 1.44 cubic feet
  • Keypad entry
  • 143 pounds
  • Fireproof

Ease of Use

Gaining entry is done via a simple keypad located on the front of the safe. Once you have entered the correct sequence, just turn the knob to open the door.


7. BARSKA Biometric Safe Review - Best for Weaponry

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  • Solid security
  • Quick entry
  • Low-profile
  • Limited storage
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If you’re in need of a secure place to store your handgun, BARSKA has the perfect solution. This small, low-profile safe fits nicely underneath your bed.

It sports a biometric fingerprint scanner for quick and immediate access. There’s no time for waiting when you need to protect your loved ones.

We included this safe because there’s no hassle to get inside. And you don’t have to worry about children finding the key and opening it up.

You do get a backup key in the event that the scanner battery dies. But the process of accessing the key and opening the safe is quite complex.

You’re pretty limited on storage space. But for a handgun and a box of ammo, it’s perfect.

Features

  • 16.5 x 14.5 x 7.75 inches
  • Biometric scanner
  • 0.8 cubic feet
  • 27.9 pounds
  • Solid steel

Ease of Use

Simply place your finger on the scanner and within seconds you’ll be inside. If the battery happens to die, you’ll first have to remove the BARSKA logo plate using an Allen wrench. Once this is off, you’ll have access to the keyhole. Use the backup key and turn clockwise to gain entry.


8. Verifi Smart.Safe. Review - Easiest to Use

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  • Easy to use
  • Quick entry
  • Compact
  • Secure
  • Expensive
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Verifi’s Smart.Safe. is another biometric entry that uses a fingerprint scanner to access the safe’s contents.

We like this one because it’s so easy to use. Verifi takes a no-nonsense approach to securing your belongings. There’s just a simple scanner and a backlit digital display. From here, you can clearly see the safe’s remaining battery life.

It also keeps you apprised of any failed attempts to gain access. Alarms are also in place to deter would-be thieves.

Features

  • 17.4 x 16.1 x 7.9 inches
  • Motorized deadbolt
  • 0.28 cubic feet
  • 29 pounds
  • Solid steel

Ease of Use

A hidden keyhole lets you get inside in the event that the safe’s batteries die. There are lots of security measures in place to keep others out. To gain entry, simply place your finger on the scanner.


9. AdirOffice Security Safe Review - Most Storage Space

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  • Plenty of storage
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Carpeted
  • Not very sturdy
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The AdirOffice safe is made of steel and protected with more than just a locking mechanism. It is built to prevent prying, so thieves will have a harder time busting their way in.

You set your own code, and there are two override keys in the event that you forget your password. This is also useful if the keypad’s batteries die.

There is a digital display that keeps you updated on battery life, as well as the safe’s physical status.

This model comes with 2.32 cubic feet of storage space. A single shelf is mounted inside to separate the top and bottom areas. At only 39 pounds, it isn’t very heavy considering its size.

You won’t find much in the way of bells or whistles. This is a pretty ho-hum safe design-wise, but you’re getting quite a large unit for a relatively low price. It isn’t as sturdy as other models we tested. So you may want to spend more for a beefier unit if you have really valuable items to lock up.

Features

  • 13.8 x 14.2 x 20.5 inches
  • Carpeted flooring
  • 2.32 cubic feet
  • 39 pounds
  • Steel

Ease of Use

The digital keypad is easy to use, but it requires two AA batteries to operate. So you’ll want to be sure you have a couple handy in the event that they die. You can always gain entry with the included override key in a pinch, however.


10. SereneLife Safe Box Review - Most Budget-Friendly

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  • Good for beginners
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Limited security
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If you’re on a tight budget, you can still secure your valuables without breaking the bank. SereneLife’s Safe Box is an affordable option that does a fine job of keeping your items locked up.

You won’t find any fireproof or waterproof features, so you’ll need to look elsewhere if that’s important to you.

The construction is also a lot thinner than other entries we reviewed. But if you want to secure a few items under your bed or in your closet, this is a fine option.

Features

  • Requires 4 AA batteries
  • 9.1 x 6.7 x 6.7 inches
  • Digital keypad
  • 7.28 pounds
  • Steel

Ease of Use

A digital keypad is used to gain entry into the safe. If the batteries die, you get two override keys as a failsafe. We like that this safe can be mounted to a wall for even greater security.


Home Safe Buyer’s Guide

If you have tried doing research on your own, then you have probably noticed that you can get overwhelmed in an instant.

There are many types of home safes on the market – media safes, firearm safes, diversion safes, and plenty more. We have put all of the relevant information in one place, so you don’t have to.

Safe lingo might be complicated for the uninitiated. But, you can easily learn more about it.

Types of Home Safes

Home safes are put into three categories depending on the way they are stored.

  • Wall safes: They can be a good choice if you can modify your home. You can hide them behind your doors, and they don’t take up floor space. You should make sure that a wall safe is mounted properly – between the studs in the wall.
  • Floor safes: You can keep them anywhere in your home, and some can be bolted to the floor. They can be a good choice if you don’t want to make modifications to your home. You can keep them in the basement, closet, pantry, bedroom, and even closet.
  • Bedside safes: The purpose of a bedside safe is to keep them close to your bed. Most of the bedside safes are used to store guns. But, you can use them for other purposes.

Types of Protection

You need to consider what you want to protect. But, more importantly, think about whether you want to protect your valuables from burglars, fire, or water.

  • Fire-resistant safes: This type of home safes is created to protect valuables from fire. Most of the fire-resistant safes will keep your valuables safe from fire for up to one hour. But, make sure that the manufacturer has specified how long your valuables remain protected in their safes. Important: Never use a fire-resistant safe as protection from burglars! They utilize thinner metal in construction, which the burglars can easily penetrate.
  • Water-resistant safes: This type of home safes is a good choice for areas that get flooded frequently. While water-resistant safes protect from water, they have their limits. If they get submerged for a long time, then the contents inside could get damaged.
  • Tamper-proof safes: This type is perfect against burglars. They are constructed to withstand tampering and abuse. Since most of the burglars spend eight to twelve minutes inside the home, they will give up quickly versus a tamper-proof safe. While the weight of a safe might deter a burglar, it is wise to anchor a safe into wood or concrete.

Types of Locking Mechanisms

Locking mechanisms influence the access time to the safe. But, they also influence the price and functionality.

  • Key locks: Key locks are the most basic feature of every safe. Key locks let you gain access to the safe even when all the other safety measures fail. Most of the manufacturers out there will provide you with two override keys.
  • Combination dial locks: This type of lock uses a mechanical locking system. Combination dial locks don’t use electricity, so you never have to worry about dead batteries. They produce a clicking noise while being operated, and they have to be maintained. You should periodically call a locksmith who will clean and lubricate your combination dial lock.
  • Digital keypad locks: Plenty of today’s safes come with a digital keypad lock. They are easier to use than dial locks, but they require batteries. You can easily access your home safe with a digital keypad lock. But, remember to replace the batteries.
  • Biometric scanner locks: If you want convenience, then look no further. Biometric locks scan your fingerprints and allow you access only if the fingerprints match the ones previously set. Some home safes allow you to set more than just one fingerprint. So, you can give access to other people.

In the end, it all boils down to convenience. You should choose a locking mechanism that provides you with a feeling of safety without sacrificing your comfort.

Where Should I Place My Safe?

Before you decide where to place your safe, you need to think about a few important factors.

Most of the burglars will head straight for the master bedroom. So, if you won’t be hiding your safe, then consider a room other than your bedroom. Never favor convenience over security!

We have told you that’s important to anchor your safe. Find a place where you can bolt your safe to the ground. Try to bolt it to concrete instead of wood.

If you will be accessing your safe often, then don’t put it in a dark place, especially if it is a firearm safe.

Try to think like a burglar. Which places in your home don’t seem inviting? Maybe it is a utility room or a pantry. It could be an enclosed stairway, or perhaps a closet in the guest bedroom. If you have a basement, then it could be a good idea to keep your home safe in there. Whatever the place is, don’t make it inviting, and try to draw the attention away from it.

Correct Safe-Keeping

While home safes can protect your valuables, all of it can be for naught if you don’t follow a few simple rules on safe-keeping.

  • Always locked: There is no good reason to keep your safe unlocked. The purpose of a safe is to keep its content stored safely. So, always keep your safe locked.
  • Don’t talk about it: You might get the urge to brag to your friends about your new safe, but don’t do it! You never know who might find that information useful. Never tell anyone outside your family the location of your safe.
  • Remember your access code: Never write down your access code. Take your time and remember it! If you must write down the code during the first couple of days, then keep it on yourself at all times.