Article

Retrofit vs Full Replacement

Updated October 11, 2026

What retrofit keeps

Retrofit kits (August Wi-Fi, Yale Approach, Kwikset Convert) replace only the interior thumbturn. The exterior, the keyway, and your existing keys stay. Install takes minutes, landlords rarely object, and cost stays low. The constraint: your deadbolt must be a standard single-cylinder with a compatible tailpiece — verify with the fit checker.

What full replacement buys

A new smart deadbolt (Encode Plus, Assure 2, Halo) resets everything: keyway, grade, finish, and radio. Right when hardware is worn, brands are mixed, or you want Matter/Apple Home Key that no retrofit offers. Price both paths in the model lookup.

Decision shortcut

• Good deadbolt, standard prep — retrofit.
• Worn, mixed, or upgrading protocol — replace.
• Knob or lever only, no deadbolt — neither fits; read the smart lever guide.
• Renter — retrofit, and read the renter guide first.