If you’re in the market for new door levers, you may be wondering how Kwikset Casey and Halifax models compare. Both brands offer stylish, high-quality levers at reasonable prices.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the pros, cons, features, and other key differences to help you decide which is best for your home.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Kwikset Casey | Halifax |
| Style | Traditional, rounded handles | Contemporary, straight handles |
| Materials | Solid brass | Zinc alloy |
| Finishes | Satin nickel, polished brass, antique brass, etc. | Satin nickel, matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, etc. |
| Security | Grade 2 ANSI rating, 1” deadbolt throw | Grade 3 ANSI rating, 1” deadbolt throw |
| Durability | Lifetime finish and mechanical warranty | More limited warranties |
| Installation | Universal latch, adjustable backset | Universal latch, adjustable backset |
| Smart key | Uses Kwikset SmartKey | Standard keyed |
Overview of Kwikset Casey
Kwikset is one of the most popular lock brands in the US and their Casey lever sets are a mid-range offering with classic styling. Here are some quick facts:
- Constructed from solid brass for durability
- Variety of finishes like satin nickel, polished brass, and vintage bronze
- Features a dual-locking deadbolt for added security
- ADA compliant levers work for accessibility needs
- Covered by Kwikset’s limited lifetime mechanical and finish warranty
The Casey deadbolts and levers feature a traditional, rounded style with a return lever handle and a separate deadbolt keyway.
This versatile look blends well with many home designs ranging from traditional to modern. Installation is straightforward with a universal latch and adjustable backset.
Overall, Kwikset Casey offers a good balance of aesthetics, security, and value. They are an excellent choice if you want classic levers backed by a reputable brand.
Overview of Halifax Lever Sets
Halifax levers have a more modern, streamlined look with straight lever handles and concealed fixings. Here are some key features:
- Crafted from heavy-duty zinc alloy with steel mechanisms
- Variety of plated and painted finishes in satin nickel, matte black, and more
- Keyed entry options plus bedroom and bathroom privacy locks
- Lower profile levers designed for comfortable grip and ease of motion
- Grade 3 residential security deadbolts with 1” throw length
The Halifax sets come with everything you need for easy DIY install including levers, latches, strike plates, and deadbolts. Matching interior and exterior handles give a cohesive look.
Halifax provides a sleek and sturdy lever option if you like contemporary hardware. The brand is less known than Kwikset but offers similar quality for often lower prices.
Key Differences Between Kwikset Casey And Halifax Door Levers
Appearance
In terms of looks, Kwikset Casey has those traditional, rounded lever handles many homeowners know and love. The sculpted return lever arm adds a decorative flair. Halifax levers have a more minimal, straight handle design that fits in with modern and transitional style homes.
Both Kwikset and Halifax provide multiple finish options to coordinate with your existing décor. Popular choices like satin nickel, bright chrome, and matte black are available from both brands along with some more unique finishes like oil-rubbed bronze.
It comes down to your personal taste. Kwikset Casey offers classic charm while Halifax is more streamlined and contemporary.
Security
Safety is a top priority when choosing locks and both Casey and Halifax offer secure options. Here’s how they compare:
- Deadbolts – Kwikset Casey includes a keyed deadbolt with 1” throw length for each exterior door. Halifax has similar quality Grade 3 deadbolts optionally available. The longer throw length makes these harder to force open.
- Lock design – Casey features a dual-locking mechanism engaging the deadbolt and latch together for added strength. Halifax has a standard single-cylinder design.
- Cylinders – Kwikset uses its patented SmartKey technology. This allows you to easily rekey the locks yourself using the provided tool. Halifax uses standard pins and needs professional rekeying.
- Levers – Both brands use sturdy brass or zinc alloy levers that will resist bending or breaking during forced entry attempts.
- ANSI grade – Casey meets ANSI Grade 2 standards while Halifax is Grade 3, suitable for residential use.
Overall, Kwikset Casey edges out Halifax slightly on security features. But Halifax still provides basic residential security. And both brands offer optional higher grades for even more security.
Durability
You don’t want your new levers bending, tarnishing, or breaking anytime soon. How do Casey and Halifax compare in terms of durability?
- Materials – As mentioned, Kwikset uses solid brass and Halifax uses zinc alloy. Brass is heavier duty but zinc still holds up well for interior use.
- Finish – Halifax’s plated zinc finishes may be more prone to flaking or scratching vs. Kwikset’s metal finishes. Proper handling and cleaning is important for both.
- Mechanisms – Internal parts are similarly designed for longevity, with steel used for tension and support.
- Warranty – Kwikset offers excellent coverage with a limited lifetime warranty on mechanical and finish defects. Halifax warranties are more limited.
For high-traffic and exterior doors where durability is crucial, Kwikset Casey is the winner. The solid brass build ensures a longer lifespan. Halifax will also withstand normal wear and tear but may not last as long under extreme conditions.
Ease of Installation
Convenient DIY installation is possible with both of these lever sets. Here are some install factors to compare:
- Tools needed – Just a screwdriver is required for installing either Casey or Halifax levers. Halifax includes the screwdriver.
- Backset – Casey and Halifax both have adjustable backsets fitting 2-3/8” or 2-3/4” door preps.
- Included parts – All necessary mounting hardware and components are in the box for straightforward installation.
- Instructions – Clear instructions with pictures are provided to walk you through each step. Halifax also has online videos available.
- Time to install – Approximately 30-45 minutes for the complete installation depending on skill level.
Overall, the installation process is essentially the same with both brands. Halifax provides a few more supporting materials like videos but Kwikset also has detailed instructions. Both are designed for DIY-friendly use and have similar install times.
Smart Key vs. Standard Key
One unique feature of Kwikset Casey is the SmartKey re-key technology. Here’s an overview of how it compares to Halifax’s standard key system:
- Re-keying – Kwikset SmartKey allows you to easily re-key the lock yourself by inserting the included tool. Halifax requires a locksmith for re-keying.
- Master key – With SmartKey you can use one master key for all doors. Halifax does not have this capability.
- Key copying – Additional SmartKeys can only be copied with authorization to enhance security. Standard keys can be copied anywhere.
- Ease of use – SmartKey is more convenient for accessing multiple doors and for re-keying when needed. But standard keys are simpler and more familiar.
For the ultimate flexibility, SmartKey is the winner. But Halifax’s more traditional keyed locks still do the job. It just depends if the extra functionality of SmartKey is worth the slightly higher Casey cost for you.
Cost Comparison
On average, you’ll pay a little more for Kwikset Casey levers vs. Halifax. Here are some typical price points:
- Kwikset Casey – $55-150 per handleset
- Halifax – $30-100 per handleset
Keep in mind Halifax pricing is often for both interior and exterior levers while Kwikset Casey exterior and interior levers are usually priced separately.
The cost difference comes down to brand reputation and product features. As an established brand, Kwikset can command a premium price. And the SmartKey functionality adds value compared to standard keyed Halifax locks.
But Halifax still provides pleasing style and quality at a budget-friendly price point for standard levers.
For high-end levers with maximum features, Casey is worth the investment. But Halifax delivers good looks and durability if you want to save money.
Which Is Better For You?
So which brand comes out on top in this match-up? Here are some final recommendations based on your priorities:
- For traditional style – Kwikset Casey
- For contemporary style – Halifax
- For maximum security – Kwikset Casey
- For lots of finishes – Casey and Halifax both have good options
- For exterior doors – Kwikset Casey
- For interior doors – Either will work well
- For easy DIY install – Both are very novices friendly
- For SmartKey convenience – Kwikset Casey
- For budget pricing – Halifax
As you can see, Kwikset Casey excels when it comes to classic styling, security, and durability. But Halifax provides pleasing style at a more affordable cost point.
Ultimately, choosing the best lever set depends on the style you like and the level of security, convenience, and durability needed. Consider how heavily the doors are used and if exterior vs. interior levers are needed. This will help guide you to the right brand choice.
With their quality construction and easy installation, you can’t go wrong with either Kwikset Casey or Halifax levers for your home. Determine the must-have features for your needs and décor style to pick the perfect product.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have some questions about Kwikset Casey and Halifax levers? Here are answers to some common FAQs:
Halifax is a brand of door levers with a more modern, straight handle design. They are constructed from zinc alloy and feature several finish options in satin nickel, black, bronze, and more. Halifax lever sets include all the necessary mounting hardware for installing on exterior and interior doors. They offer an affordable alternative to more expensive lever brands.
Higher end door levers from brands like Baldwin, Schlage, and Rocky Mountain can cost $200+ or more. These are made from top-quality solid brass and feature premium finishes and ornate detailing that drive up the price. More expensive electronic options also integrate keypads, fingerprint scanners, WiFi, and smart home tech. The higher cost accounts for more durable materials and high-end design.
Kwikset is owned by the Spectrum Brands company, which produces its locks in a few different locations. Most Kwikset locks sold today are made in China to Spectrum’s specifications. However, some high-end Kwikset door hardware collections are instead produced in the United States. So where the locks are made varies between product lines.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Kwikset Casey has a more classic style, is made of higher-grade materials like solid brass, and has better warranties. Halifax has a more modern aesthetic, standard keyed locks, and is generally more budget-friendly.
Consider your priorities like style, security, and cost when choosing between the two brands.