Kwikset SmartCode 270 vs 260: What Is the Difference? (October 2026)
Choose the SmartCode 270 for its touchpad that lights when tapped; choose the SmartCode 260 for its traditional design and Microban-treated keypad. Both share Grade 2 BHMA certification, auto-lock, up to 50 user codes, 10 one-time codes and a 12-month battery-life claim.
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Choose the Kwikset SmartCode 270 for a touchpad that lights when tapped, or the SmartCode 260 for a traditional keypad design with Microban protection. Both are Grade 2 BHMA certified keypad deadbolts with auto-lock, up to 50 user codes and 10 one-time codes.
The differences are mostly about the keypad presentation and a few model-specific details. The 270 has an illuminated touchpad, while the 260's keypad is treated with Microban.
Neither model is described as a Wi-Fi or app-connected lock. If you want remote access or smart-home control, start with our guide to smart locks versus keypad locks.
Kwikset SmartCode 270 vs 260: what changes?
The 270 has a touchpad that lights when tapped, while the 260 has a keypad design with Microban protection. Both share the same stated code capacity, battery type, auto-lock options, Grade 2 BHMA certification and SmartKey re-keying.
The 270's touchpad lights when tapped, which can make code entry easier in low light. The 260 also lists a back-lit keypad among its features, but its description doesn't explain how the lighting works.
The 260's keypad is treated with Microban. That feature is specified for the 260, but not for the 270.
Does the SmartCode 270 have more codes than the 260?
No. Both support up to 50 user codes, 10 one-time codes and 1 programming code.
You can use the programming code to edit or delete user codes.
That capacity works for households with several regular users and occasional guests. One-time codes can suit temporary access, while individual user codes make it easier to manage who can enter.
The best Kwikset smart locks guide compares more models if code management is only one part of your decision. For a broader look at keypad options, see our guide to keypad deadbolts.
Which model is easier to use at night?
The SmartCode 270 is described as having a touchpad that lights when tapped. The SmartCode 260 also lists a back-lit keypad, but its description gives less detail about how its lights work.
The 270's LEDs illuminate the keypad for code entry at night, and tapping the keypad turns on the lights. If you often arrive after dark, that feature may be a practical reason to choose it.
The 260 also has a back-lit keypad feature. Consider the 270 if knowing that the lights turn on when tapped matters to you.
Both locks include SmartKey Security and can be re-keyed to a KW1 key.
Are their security features the same?
Both models share Grade 2 BHMA certification, an intrusion alert, Vacation Mode and SmartKey re-keying. These features address different needs, so consider how you manage access as well as the certification.
Kwikset says the security, durability and finish are Grade 2 BHMA certified, which it describes as up to 2.5 times stronger than Grade 3 certified lock sets. Certification does not replace proper installation or a suitable door and frame.
After 3 consecutive incorrect code entries, each lock sounds an alarm and disables its keypad for 1 minute. Vacation Mode temporarily disables keypad operation while you're away.
SmartKey lets you re-key either model yourself to a KW1 key. If you want to understand what keyless entry changes for your home, read are keyless door locks safe to use?.
How do battery life and auto-lock compare?
Both use 4 AA alkaline batteries, and Kwikset claims at least 12 months of battery life for each. Their auto-lock settings also match, with choices from 30 seconds to 10 minutes.
You can set either model to lock after 30 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes or 10 minutes. Choose a setting that works for everyone entering.
Batteries are not included with either lock. Our guide to smart lock battery life covers habits that can help you plan for replacements.
Which finish and design suit your door?
The 270 is matte black, while the 260 is Venetian bronze. Check the finish and model variant that match your door hardware.
The 270 has a contemporary design and rectangular shape. The 260 has a traditional design and a round shape.
If matching a specific finish matters more than keypad style, compare the exact versions available before choosing. The finish details here apply to these models.
Which Kwikset SmartCode should you choose?
Pick the SmartCode 270 for its touch-activated light-up touchpad; choose the SmartCode 260 for its traditional keypad design and Microban-treated keypad. Both offer the same stated code limits and major access features.
The 270 is the fit if you want keypad lighting details spelled out and a contemporary look. Its 50 regular codes and 10 one-time codes give you the same capacity as the 260.
The 260 may suit you if its traditional design and Venetian bronze finish fit your door. It shares the same Grade 2 BHMA certification, auto-lock choices and SmartKey re-keying, and its keypad is treated with Microban.
For a model-specific feature breakdown, read our Kwikset SmartCode 270 review. Choose by keypad preference and finish, then check that the deadbolt fits your door before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between Kwikset SmartCode 270 and 260?
The main difference is the keypad design: SmartCode 270 has a touchpad with LEDs that illuminate for code entry, while SmartCode 260 is described as a keypad design. Both share Grade 2 BHMA certification, auto-lock timing options, up to 50 user codes, 10 one-time codes and SmartKey re-keying.
Do the SmartCode 270 and 260 use the same batteries?
Yes. Both models use 4 AA alkaline batteries, which are not included.
Kwikset gives each a battery-life claim of at least 12 months.
Can SmartCode 270 and 260 use one-time codes?
Yes. Both support up to 10 one-time user codes in addition to as many as 50 regular user codes.
Each also has a programming code for editing or deleting user codes.
Does the SmartCode 260 have a light-up keypad?
The SmartCode 260 lists a back-lit keypad among its features, but its description does not explain how the lighting works. The SmartCode 270 is described as having keypad LEDs that illuminate for code entry when you tap the keypad.
Which Kwikset lock is better for a shared household?
Either can suit a shared household because both allow up to 50 user codes and 10 one-time codes. Choose based on keypad preference, finish and whether the SmartCode 260's Microban-treated keypad matters to you.
