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Most people understand that material possessions are not everything. At the same time, most folks also understand the importance of protecting the valuable things that they do have.
There is no boundary on what is valuable to an individual person; however, there are also objectively valuable items that any person would find valuable. Safes provide a level of security from the outside world as well as the place where they’re situated. But how do you know which is the best small safe for home purposes?
There are a whole set of reasons to lock things away from intruders and even others in your home. That’s why we’ve compared and analyzed a group of home safes to help you determine the best safe for home use.
Continue reading to discover the distinctions and similarities between home-safe models that make them worthy of a place in your home.
10 Best Small Home Safes on the Market:
Take a look at a few of the best small home safes. In this review, we will look at a few of the pros and cons of each safe as well as talk about a few of each safe’s features.
1. SentrySafe SFW123DSB Fireproof Safe and Waterproof Safe with Dial Combination
The SentrySafe SFW123DSB is a reasonably priced unit, one of the most expensive safes on the market. It has a solid steel exterior and is fire and moisture-resistant. It is designed to protect your valuables as well as help you keep things organized. Measuring 17.8 x 16.3 x 19.3”, you have enough space on the inside to store multiple items.
This unit is not designed to be lightweight. It weighs 101 pounds. Offering fire protection for one hour at 1700°, and it is verifying to protect your cash, documents, and electronic media, such as CDs and DVDs as well as memory sticks and USB drives during a fire of up to 1700° for one hour this one the best safe for the apartment.
Verified water-resistant for water up to 8 inches for 24 hours.
This is a combination safe that has the option to unlock the unit with a key. Home safe reviews on this product repeatedly comment on its durability and the warranty provided by Sentry Safe, a company that has been making safes for more than eight decades.
One drawback is that the handles and the internal mechanisms feel cheap sometimes. The included shelf also seems a little flimsy. We agree with the smallest safe reviews for this product. It is an attractive, sturdy unit that offers multiple ways to secure and access your goods.
Features
- A fireproof safe is UL Classified to endure 1 hour at 1700°F
- ETL was Verified to withstand a 15-foot fall during a fire and remain closed
- Waterproof safe is ETL Verified for 24 hours of protection in water up to 8 inches deep offering peace of mind in the event of a flood.
Pros
- This safe is water and fireproof and SentrySafe is so confident in their product that they will send you a second safe at no cost should any damage occur to your original purchase.
- The walls are double thick which makes them harder to break into with a crowbar or a saw.
- Four lock bolts are double the number of bolts of many other safes on this list which makes it more durable and secure.
- The preset combination dial has a secondary locking key for an extra added step of security.
Cons
- The handle is made of plastic which makes it less durable than a metal handle.
- The weight of this safe makes it tougher to move around so you want to be sure where you want it ahead of time.
- This is an expensive safe on our list, though the added durability may make the cost worth your while.
2. Amazon Basics Steel Security Safe and Lock Box with Electronic Keypad
With its steel construction and scratch-proof carpeted floor, the AmazonBasics Security Safe 0.5 Cubic Feet safe has earned its spot on the best safe for home list. This is a compact safe that is organized to allow you to accommodate different items. It has a very sturdy, pry-resistant steel build, as well as a removable and adjustable internal shelf.
It can be mounted to be hung on the wall, it can be set on a shelf, or it can be bolted to the floor. It’s just that versatile. Some of the things you are going to like about this unit are that it comes with two emergency override keys, it has reprogrammable digital access that makes use of AA batteries, and it has a black exterior finish that makes it perfect for use in any home or office.
The keypad feature is kind of a battery hog, so you may find yourself changing batteries frequently. Also, there is no way to shut off the beeping sound when you push the keypad. This is the best personal safe. It is sturdy, attractive, and effective. This is not a heavy-duty fire-resistant or water-resistant safe, but it will provide adequate protection for your belongings.
Features
- Safe offers a 0.5-cubic-foot capacity
- Reprogrammable Digital Access + 2 Override Keys
- Interior Dimensions: 13.5 x 8.75 x 9.5 inches
Pros
- The carpet inside the floor of the safe ensures that even delicate items will be protected.
- This safe comes with two override keys to access the safe even if the electronic keypad is not functional.
- The shelf helps you keep your belongings organized and safe.
- A low battery indicator lets you know when to replace your batteries to keep your things safe at all times.
Cons
- Because this safe is battery-operated, it is possible for the batteries to die which makes the electronic mechanism non-functional. Be sure to keep the backup keys in a known place in case you have to unlock this safe manually.
- This safe is not waterproof or fireproof due to the thickness of the steel, which may also make this safe prone to break-ins.
3. First Alert 2087F Safe with Combination Lock
First Alert has a reputation for making some of the best safes to buy for the home. Their First Alert 2087F-BD product lives up to that reputation. It is designed to protect your valuables from floods and from fire. It is rated to withstand 1700°F temperatures for up to one hour, and it is waterproof, keeping moisture out.
This safe has a combination lock as well as pry-resistant hinges.
The waterproof feature works even when the chest is fully submerged. A nice feature of the safe is that in the case of a flood, the seals are designed to make this safe float. This keeps it from being submerged and makes it easy to find.
The safe has been shown to protect electronic media during a fire. It is equipped with a combination lock as well as an emergency key override. This is a heavy safe, weighing over 82 pounds. This unit can be bolted down to the floor and retain its waterproof and fire-resistant features.
A few drawbacks with the safe include the fact that many of its parts are plastic, and since the safe is so heavy, it often arrives with minor cosmetic damage caused by careless movers.
First Alert makes the best home safes that we have seen in this price range. It will protect your documents, media, and other valuables. It’s heavy. Depending on what you’re looking for, that can be a plus or drawback.
Features
- 0.94 Cu Ft Capacity
- 4 Number Combination Lock With 1 Emergency Key
- Item Demension: 19.00 x 14.50 x 16.50 inches
- Made of durable resin
Pros
- This safe is both waterproof even when submerged and fireproof up to 1700 degrees Fahrenheit for up to one hour.
- Each safe comes with an emergency key override so you can still access the safe if the combination mechanism fails.
- The multiple inner layers of this safe make it much harder to pry or sew into, adding extra security to your belongings.
Cons
- Because the lock is a combination dial, it may be slightly easier to pick than a fingerprint sensor or a digital number pad.
- This is a heavier safe, coming in at 82 pounds, so it is not great for easy moving or travel.
- This safe is on a smaller size at less than a cubic foot, so if you are hoping to store larger items, you may want to look into a different safe on this list.
4. Viking Security Safe VS-25BL Biometric Safe Fingerprint Safe
This is the best mini-safe for people looking to keep small items such as a handgun, small amounts of cash, or jewelry secure. What’s nice about the biometric feature is that you can quickly access whatever is in your safe with the touch of a finger. Conversely, you can use a four to nine-digit PIN or even use a key.
The unit is versatile enough to be programmed for up to 32 fingerprints. This is nice if you want to share access to your safe with others, but it is also nice if one of your fingers is dirty or cut because it allows you to use another finger to access the unit.
The anchor hold feature allows you to bolt the safe down, and the unit will provide you with a warning beep if it is unlocked for more than a minute. This is one of the best safes you can buy at this price range. It does what it is designed to do with almost no downsides. Your valuables will be protected and you will have peace of mind.
Features
- Unlocks Fast by Registered Fingerprint or PIN Code.
- Upgraded 500 DPI Optical Sensor
- Scan & Save up to 32 Fingerprints for Multiple People or 1 PIN Code
- Internal Dimensions: H 9 ½” x W 13 ½ x D 8 ½”
Pros
- The biometric fingerprint reader can hold 32 different fingerprints and allows you to access your belongings quickly and easily.
- This safe allows you to use up to a nine-digit access code along with the fingerprint scanner and the manual override keys let you access the safe even when the electronic mechanism isn’t working.
- The carpeted floor of the safe helps to keep even your most delicate belongings safe and secure.
- The slim design fits easily onto any shelf or closet space.
Cons
- It is recommended that you purchase your own batteries for this unit as the ones that are supplied are not always dependable.
- The keypad does not light up so the code and fingerprint scanner may be harder to use in the dark.
5. Book Safe with Combination Lock, Ohuhu Dictionary Diversion Book Safe
The Book Safe is one of those things that you have to see to believe. However, thanks to its unique design, even if you were looking at it, you would not know what it is. It is a cleverly designed safe that is made to look like a dictionary.
Inside the façade is a secure metal safe that can be locked and unlocked with keys. This budget safe has a real paper exterior. The ridges on the outside of the unit look like real pages. This is the perfect place to hide jewelry or heirlooms. Also, these types of safes are a good choice for a dorm room.
This is the best small safe for someone who wants to keep their valuables protected when they travel. Just throw it in your luggage, and you won’t even need to worry about getting a safe at the hotel.
This safe is perfect for what it is designed to do. When you stick it on a bookcase, there is no way that anyone is going to know that it’s not just another book.
Features
- Interior Dimension: 8.86*5.31*1.57 inches
- Real Paper Cover
- Upgraded metal material
Pros
- The book design of this safe adds an extra bit of privacy to your security. When placed on a bookshelf, it would be much harder to even tell there is a safe in the room.
- The realistic book design comes in a variety of colors, giving you the option to have multiple safes on various shelves without detection.
Cons
- Because the paper outside of this safe is realistic, it is possible that it may deteriorate with regular use.
- If you plan to use this safe during travel, keep in mind that it will rattle around if it is not properly packed ahead of time. Be sure to secure your items when traveling with this safe
6. SereneLife Safe Box, Safes and Lock Boxes
The keypad and turning knob on this digital home safe make it easy to program and open. This affordable home safe is a great starter safe for someone wanting security without spending hundreds of dollars.
This box operates on four AA batteries and includes fingerprint-sensing technology. You can open this safe either by putting in a manual numerical code or by using the manual override keys which allow the safe to be opened if anything should happen with the digital keys.
You will love the easy-to-use electronic locking system with two steel locking bolts. Many people appreciate the added security for such a reasonable price and boast that this safe is a great deal.
If you are looking for security at an affordable price, this SereneLife lockbox is a great choice. This safe will keep your documents secure with a variety of features.
Features
- Heavy-Duty, Rugged & Reliable Safe Box
- Digital Touch Button Control Pad
- Steel Thickness: 3mm Door, 2mm Body
- (2) x Manual Override Keys
- Total Size (L x W x H): 9. 1’’ x 6. 7’’ x 6. 7’’ inches
Pros
- This safe is affordable but without sacrificing safety and durability.
- The finger sensor technology gives the safe added security by requiring the user to touch the screen with their thumb after adding the security code.
- The safe comes with a low battery light to let you know when to replace your batteries. This way you can be sure that your items are safe at all times.
Cons
- While the safe is made of steel, the turning knob is made of plastic and may not be as secure as a metal handle.
- The steel of this safe is 3mm thick which may be thinner than other safes available today.
7. Barska Biometric Fingerprint Top Opening Security Drawer Safe Box
Barska’s Biometric Top-Opening Safe is described in many home safe box reviews as being one of the fastest-opening biometric safes available. It has sturdy steel construction and the ability to store up to 30 different fingerprints.
In addition to using your fingerprints, a backup key provides a second way for you to gain access to the safe. Its pre-drilled holes for mounting on the floor along with its motorized deadbolt lock add to its security.
The biometric safe is powered by four AA batteries that need to be replaced once every two years. This is not an exceptionally heavy safe, coming in at only 21 pounds.
This unit has a one-year limited warranty that is backed up by the manufacturer. This product has been built and designed taking advantage of the latest optical technology, guaranteeing precision.
This is the best small safe for those who want to get access to their belongings without using a key or a combination. The safe uses a series of beeps to confirm that your fingerprint has been registered.
The system can be a bit confusing as the unit also uses a series of beeps to indicate that your fingerprint did not register properly. The unit also has intermittent issues with recognizing multiple fingerprints. This is a nice concept for a safe. It is roomy enough for storing multiple items and sturdy enough to protect its contents. It can be difficult to program and open because the biometric reader works inconsistently.
Features
- Included: Mounting Hardware ; Backup Keys x 2 ; AA Batteries x 4
- Metal Thickness: 16 Gauge
- Interior Dimensions (DxWxH): 11.19″ x 14.56″ x 3″
- Easy Manual Access
- Advanced Fingerprint Scanner: 2.5-Second Instant Access
Pros
- The fingerprint scanner can hold up to 30 different readings, allowing multiple members of your household to access the safe at any given time.
- The top opening allows this safe to be easily stored in a desk drawer while still maintaining accessibility.
- The electronic mechanism on this safe can work for up to two years on four AA batteries.
Cons
- While there are manual override keys available for this safe, there is no numeric keypad and the fingerprint sensor is the only primary way to open the safe.
- The fingerprint reader occasionally takes multiple tries to access, making it less helpful for quick and easy gun access. If you are planning to use this as a gun safe, keep that in mind.
8. Verifi Smart Safe Biometric Gun Safe with Fingerprint Lock Security for Home
The modern design of this solid steel safe is packed with extra safety features. The slim design makes a discreet addition to any home office and the fingerprint design is larger than most, making for more detailed detection. This auto-lock safe features backup key access, with the keyhole located behind the logo plate.
The tamper logging lets you know when someone has attempted to open the safe. Easy user management allows you to program different users, and an LED night light lets you easily open the safe and view contents in the dark. People love this small safe because it is easy to set up and use, and the LCD screen gives you a number of added security options.
The company is known for quality customer service, so you can be sure to get quality help with any questions you may have about this safe. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use fingerprint safe, this is one of the best on the market.
Features
- Self-Diagnostics and Logs
- Safe Door: 4mm, approx. 8ga.
- Safe Walls: 2mm, approx. 14ga
- Battery Health Monitoring
- TouchChip TCS1 capacitive sensor, FIPS 201 (gold coating), 508 dpi
Pros
- Can operate for years on a single set of 4 AA batteries.
- The safe is wall and floor mountable so you can secure it easily in your house.
- Tamper logging allows you to know if others have attempted to open your safe.
- You can save up to four different fingerprints so that multiple people in your home can access the safe.
Cons
- The handle is made of plastic which makes it less durable than a metal handle.
- The weight of this safe makes it tougher to move around so you want to be sure where you want it ahead of time.
- This is an expensive safe on our list, though the added durability may make the cost worth your while.
9. AdirOffice Security Safe with Digital Lock – Black – 2.32 Cubic Feet
The AdirOffice security safe is made of pry-resistant steel and is one of the best small safes for your home office. Because you can order this safe in four different colors, you can add design to your home office as well as added security. This safe comes in 0.5, 1.25, and 2.32 cubic square feet and features a digital key entry with a manual override.
The electronic function runs on two included AA batteries and can be bypassed with the two included manual override keys. You will love the modern design and easy-to-operate design of this home safe. Customers love that this safe is easy to set up and use. They say that the light-up display is easy to read and program and the safe is a good deal for the price.
Whether you are planning to use this safe daily, or if you plan to use it when you travel or go on vacation, the AdirOffice safe will add extra security to your home office.
Features
- High-Quality Construction
- Operates on Two AA batteries (included)
- Security Safe Features Two Live-Door Bolts
Pros
- Two live door bolts and pry-resistant steel will help keep your documents and personal items safe from intrusion.
- The safe comes in either black, blue, red, or white. With the variety of colors available, you can add some flair and design to your home office.
- There is a carpeted floor on this safe to keep more delicate items protected.
Cons
- This safe is among the more affordable safes on this list.
- This safe is not fireproof or waterproof.
- The plastic knob is not as sturdy as a metal knob would be and the thin steel may be easier to break into.
10. Honeywell Safes & Door Locks – 5705 Curved Top Security Safe with Digital Lock
Honeywell is a company that has built a reputation over the decades for being trustworthy and for providing quality products. The Honeywell 5705 Digital Curve Top Security Safe is no exception to this trend. Weighing around 26.6 pounds and powered by four AA batteries, this is a solid steel security safe that allows you to store your documents and valuable possessions in a competent way.
This unit is designed to prevent unauthorized tampering and features .74 ft.³ of space. It has a programmable electronic lock, featuring an LED display. You have the option to program combinations using between three and eight digits.
The steel bolt, recessed doors, and concealed hinges all increase the security protection you receive. The unit comes equipped with pre-drilled mounting holes that will allow you to bolt the unit to the floor. One thing you will like about this unit is that it is protected by a seven-year limited warranty.
Although the unit is not fire-resistant or water-resistant, it is a quality small safe that will allow you to store things like firearms, ammunition, a small computer, or important documents. It is easy to conceal and fasten to the floor for added security.
Features
- Programmable 3-8 digit Pass Code
- 7-year Limited Warranty
- Interior Dimensions: 7.1 in H x 16.9 in W x 10.6 in D
- Carpeted Floor
- Large Latching Lock Bar
Pros
- You can program this safe using up to eight digits, giving you more security than safes that only use four-digit combinations.
- The carpeted interior of this safe is great for storing delicate valuables without damaging them.
- This safe comes with the guaranteed satisfaction of all Honeywell products.
- Manual override keys come with this safe in case the digital mechanism fails to work.
Cons
- The electronic mechanism is battery-operated, so you have to be sure to keep the batteries replaced.
- The thin dimensions of this home security safe make it difficult to store larger items.
- If you want to store more than a few documents, you may want to look into a bigger safe for your home office.
What to Consider when Choosing a Small Safe for Home
Burglary Protection
When looking for the best personal safe for your needs, it is important to focus on the type of protection the safe provides. If you are using your safe to store valuables, and cash, or to store your gun, then you want a safe that has high burglary protection features.
You want a safe that is heavy and unwieldy. Burglars are lazy, and they want to be able to grab something easy and run.
Water & Fire Protection
If your goal is to prevent documents or valuables from getting destroyed, then you want a safe that is heavy on water resistance and fire resistance features. Remember, not all fire-resistant safes are safe for electronic media.
Portability
The portability of your safe is determined by its size as well as its weight. There are some safes that are very small and made to mimic everyday household items.
They keep your valuables secure while at the same time allowing you to transport them from one place to another with ease.
Types of Safes
Diversion Safes
Designed to look like an ordinary object, such as a book, a candle, or remote control. Valuables can be stored in these in an inconspicuous manner. A diversion safe is the best small safe for people who are looking to hide their valuables in plain sight.
Fire-Resistant Safe
Designed to protect your valuable items from extreme temperatures. They are rated based on how well they can hold up to extreme temperatures while at the same time keeping the inside of the safe cooler than 350°. Most safe models offer between 30 minutes to four hours of protection.
Combination Safe
Uses a special type of lock that can only open if you turn the dial to the correct sequence of numbers. One of the benefits of these types of safes is that they do not require a key. The downside is that if the combination is forgotten, it can be all but impossible to access the safe. Many would argue that a biometric safe is the best mini-safe that you can purchase.
Biometric Safe
Offer the best of both worlds, allowing you to use your fingerprint, retinal scan, or some other form of biometric identification in conjunction with a combination lock or a key. They offer security while at the same time providing you faster access to the things you have stored.
The Media/Data safe
Designed to provide specialized protection to sensitive electronics. Most media/data safes are not designed to protect against burglars.
A media safe provides fire protection, but it keeps the inside of the safe at a lower temperature than a fireproof safe. This is because most electronic devices can be corrupted or destroyed between 120 and 180°. The safes are also designed to protect against humidity.
Think Twice Before Buying
There are a lot of factors to take into consideration when determining the best safe to buy for home use. It’s worth taking the time to read reviews and learn about the safe you’re going to purchase because in most cases a safe is a once-in-a-lifetime purchase.
Small Home Safes FAQ
I’m reading that my safe is UL fire tested. What does that mean?
UL fire testing is divided into three categories.
1. There is the fire endurance test, which records the rate at which the temperature rises inside of the safe during a fire as well as how well the locking mechanisms and fastening parts maintain their durability during and after a fire.
2. Next, there is the explosion hazard test, which examines the way the safe reacts when it is exposed suddenly to superheated temperatures.
3. Finally, there is the fire drop test. This test determines how well the safe will endure the effects of falling through burning and collapsing buildings when its surface is heated to 925°.
Where is the best place to store my safe?
The exact location where you store your safe is going to be something that you will need to decide. However, the safe should not be exposed to high levels of humidity nor should it be in direct sunshine. Both of these things can eventually damage the materials.
As a rule of thumb, store your safe in any place that will not immediately catch people’s attention.
You do not want thieves to immediately notice your safe as they are rummaging through your belongings.
How frequently should I change the batteries to my electronic safes lock?
The answer will vary depending on how frequently you use the safe. With some safes, a pair of AA batteries will keep the unit functioning for multiple years. However, as a good rule of thumb, you should change the batteries every year to guarantee your lock will function properly.
Where Will You Store It?
If you are planning on fastening your safe to the ground, you want a unit that has pre-drilled anchor holes. Where you choose to store your safe will also determine the dimensions of the safe you will purchase.
When thinking about the dimensions of your safe, don’t just focus on cubic feet. Think about how space is distributed. How deep is it? Is it wide? How tall is it? Look at the number of shelves the safe offers, as well as whether or not the shelves can be removed or adjusted.
What Can I Afford?
You want to purchase the best safe for the money. But before you can do that, you have to determine how much money you have to spend.
For just a few dollars, you can get a very simple cash box but if you want to get a fireproof safe for cash or documents it may cost a little bit more. Or you may find a portable safe (case) where you can store your handgun for a small price.
On the other side of the coin, you could find a luxury safe that will cost you in excess of $2,000. Determining what your safe budget is will help you to eliminate certain safes from consideration and allow you to focus on safes that are right for you.
What Type of Lock Do I Want for My Safe?
There are advantages to manual dial locks and electronic locks. If the unit is UL rated, the lock will provide you with excellent protection.
Some safes have electronic locks that are EMP resistant, while others are not. Purchasing a safe with a redundant lock gives you the best of both worlds, allowing you to use a mechanical and an electronic lock. If one lock fails, the other one will allow you access to your safe.
Mechanical locks need to be serviced by a technician every five years, whereas electric locks are sealed from the factory and will only require you to change the batteries.
Conclusion
We have enjoyed offering our small home safe reviews. Our goal was to help you find a safe that meets your needs. As you can see, there are a lot of options out there, and our brief review barely scratched the surface.
We hope that the information we provided about specific safes, as well as the information we provided about safes in general, will help you make a good purchasing decision.
There’s no reason for you to leave your valuables unprotected. Crime, especially burglary, is on the rise. Thieves are lazy. If your belongings are protected in a secure safe, most thieves will think twice about trying to steal them. Once you have determined the right safe for you, you will have to determine where you will buy the safe. Do your due diligence, learn as much as you can about the safe you want to purchase, and then order it.
Thank you for reading our review. We look forward to reviewing other products for you in the future.
