Dimple vs Sawn keys
Dimple vs. Sawn keys: Which one’s right for your building?
When you’re sorting out the security for a building—whether it’s an office, school, warehouse or anything in between—there’s one choice that often gets overlooked: which type of key system to use.
It might seem like a tiny detail, but the right system makes everyday life easier for users and helps facilities and security teams keep things running smoothly. Two of the most popular options are dimple keys and traditional sawn keys. They each have their strengths, and choosing the right one can make a big difference.
Let’s break it down simply.
Dimple key systems: Easy, modern and great for busy workplaces
Dimple keys like our CY110 and CY100 are the smooth, modern option. If you’ve ever tried to unlock a door in a hurry and had to flip the key around three times, you’ll appreciate these.
Why people love dimple keys
• They work either way up. No more upside-down key drama.
• They look and feel modern. Clean lines, smooth operation - very “new office energy.”
• Great for everyday users. Ideal for staff who come and go frequently.
• Strong security + patent protection until 2036. Your keys can’t be copied without permission.
• Supports medium-large master key systems. Up to 20 profiles with CY110.
Where dimple keys make the most sense
• Office buildings
• Coworking spaces
• Retail front-of-house areas
• Small and medium-sized businesses
• Places with frequent staff turnover
Best cylinder options
Euro cylinders for entrances, thumb turns for internal rooms, and cam locks for storage.
In short: if you want your users to have a smooth, frustration-free experience while keeping things secure, dimple keys are a brilliant fit.
Sawn key systems: Tough, reliable and built for big, demanding sites
If you’re dealing with a large site, high foot traffic, or areas where security can’t be compromised, sawn key systems such as CYS10 and CYS00 are the heavy hitters.
Why choose a sawn key system
• Huge master key capacity. CYS10 manages up to 63 profiles and 144,729 differs.
• Excellent physical resistance. Great for environments where locks take a beating.
• Patent protection until 2037. You stay in full control of key duplication.
• Reliable in extreme conditions. Even works easily with gloves.
• Ideal for 24/7 use. Built for constant operation.
Best suited for
• Schools, colleges and universities
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Warehouses and logistics hubs
• Industrial sites
• Large campuses with complex access hierarchies
Best cylinder options
Euro doubles, thumb turns, metal-compatible screw-ins, plus padlocks and cam locks for equipment storage. If your site needs resilience, durability, and complex key control, sawn systems are the way to go.
So…which should you choose? Here’s the quick guide
For offices with lots of staff changes - choose Dimple (CY110)
Friendly, easy, modern perfect for everyday use.
For education or public buildings - choose Sawn (CYS10)
Top-tier resistance and excellent for multi-layered key hierarchies.
For healthcare environments - choose Sawn (CYS10)
Glove-friendly, reliable around the clock, and supports anti-barricade functions.
For warehouses/logistics hubs - it depends
• High-risk zones: Sawn
• Staff areas & low-risk zones: Dimple works well
Side-by-side comparison
The bottom line
Both systems are secure it’s all about choosing the one that matches your building’s day-to-day reality.
• Pick dimple keys if you want ease of use, modern aesthetics, and a great experience for everyday users.
• Pick sawn keys if you need maximum strength, long-term durability, and the ability to manage complex access levels across a large site.