KeyNest Lockers vs KeyCafe SmartBox

A side-by-side comparison of the hardware, setup, and daily use

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KeyNest Smart Locker

KeyNest Smart Locker

  • Trusted and used by millions of customers across a global network of 7,000+ locations
  • Simple-to-use interface
  • 9, 21 or 39-compartment capacity options for a single locker
  • Low upfront cost
  • Low monthly subscription
  • Pick-up-and-go access with fobs, badges and unique codes
KeyCafe SmartBox

KeyCafe SmartBox

  • Mostly in North America, with limited locations in the EU
  • Convoluted interface, multi-step process for simple key pick-up
  • Only offer a 9-compartment capacity, secondary hardware needed for higher capacity
  • High upfront cost
  • High monthly subscription
  • Have to navigate through several menus to use
KeyNest vs KeyCafe
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Calculate your savings

How many keys are you looking to store? info
You only need enough capacity for the maximum number of keys that will be in the locker at one time.

The locker randomises which compartment a key is stored in.

Save over £1,199 with KeyNest

9-slot locker
£1,099
Software
£99/month
Prices ex VAT, shipping and packaging. Lead time is approximately 1 week.

Save over £1,199 with KeyNest

21-slot locker
£1,299
Software
£99/month
Prices ex VAT, shipping and packaging. Lead time is approximately 1 week.

Save over £1,399 with KeyNest

39-slot locker
£1,499
Software
£99/month
Prices ex VAT, shipping and packaging. Lead time is approximately 1 week.

Save over £1,199 with KeyNest

53-slot locker
£2,198
Software
£149/month
Prices ex VAT, shipping and packaging. Lead time is approximately 1 week.

Save over £1,399 with KeyNest

65-slot locker
£2,398
Software
£149/month
Prices ex VAT, shipping and packaging. Lead time is approximately 1 week.

Save over £1,698 with KeyNest

83-slot locker
£2,598
Software
£149/month
Prices ex VAT, shipping and packaging. Lead time is approximately 1 week.

Save over 42% with KeyNest

Up to 2500 slot locker
Custom price
Software
Custom price
 
Technical specs
Height
73cm
Width
89.8cm
Depth
10cm
Technical specs
Height
73cm
Width
89.8cm
Depth
10cm
Technical specs
Height
73cm
Width
89.8cm
Depth
10cm
Technical specs
Height
73cm
Width
44.9cm
Depth
10cm
Technical specs
Height
47cm
Width
44.9cm
Depth
10cm
Technical specs
Height
29.75cm
Width
44.9cm
Depth
10cm
Technical specs

The benefits of superior software integration

While KeyNest and KeyCafe both charge monthly subscriptions, KeyNest includes more capabilities, the best API integration on the market and 24/7 customer support with all their initial software packages.

  • 6-months return policy
  • Access to our open API to automate your operations
  • Time-restricted codes for extra security
  • 24/7 support for complete peace of mind
  • Installation and set up assistance
  • Track every key movement in real time
Knight Frank Dexters
Savils Houst
Guestready

of the 70,000 customers that have their keys handled by us

Testimonials icon

See what KeyNest users are saying about the smart lockers

I appreciate how easy it is for guests to understand and use the system.

Dante T, Property Manager

What I like best is being able to track who took which keys and when. It's made key handovers smoother, especially for vendors and cleaners. Remote access has streamlined how we manage everything. Customer service guided us through the setup and since then everything's been running smoothly.

Marko K, Head of Web Development

Extremely positive. Easy to install, Customer Service good and product is very user friendly, highly recommended.

Jenna, Operations Manager

Personally, I really like the fact that the locker can be accessed with just the click of a button.

Carlos R, Director

KeyNest has made our key handovers so much easier. We used to waste a lot of time coordinating who had which key and making sure they were returned on time. Now everything is logged automatically, and keys can be picked up and dropped off 24/7, which is a huge help for our drivers. It's simple to use, saves us time, and has reduced a lot of the back-and-forth.

Slobodan K, Accountant

Want to see more reviews?
Visit our Trustpilot page.

Happy guest

Where KeyNest has the advantage

KeyNest
KeyCafe
Global network
KeyNest Access a massive global infrastructure of 7,000+ locations, trusted by millions of global users.
KeyCafe Focuses primarily on North American hubs, with fewer than 1,500 established global locations.
Hardware capacity
KeyNest Store up to 39 keys in a single, compact unit without the need for expensive expansion modules.
KeyCafe Base units have limited capacity, often requiring additional paid expansion boxes to match volume.
Connectivity
KeyNest A 30cm high-gain antenna ensures a stable signal in basements, garages, and thick-walled buildings.
KeyCafe Standard internal antennas may struggle for connectivity in underground or signal-shielded locations.
Software integration
KeyNest Native, seamless integration with major platforms thanks to the most in-depth API on the market.
KeyCafe Integration options are available and may require custom API work on their end and an additional specific Business Pro subscription.
24/7 support
KeyNest Multilingual 24/7 phone support is included for every user as standard on all plans.
KeyCafe 24/7 phone support is restricted to high-tier plans, with lower tiers limited to chat and email.
Versatility from the get-go
KeyNest Includes the capability to create user badges with the base plan.
KeyCafe Premium payment plan required to create user badges.
Camera monitored
KeyNest Users can easily install a doorbell camera with one of the internal USB sockets, with the capability to attach it to the locker itself.
KeyCafe Includes a camera sensor.
Two letting agents viewing KeyNest portal on the laptop
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Quick, no‑obligation call to give you an overview of this solution & answer any questions you may have.

Two letting agents viewing KeyNest portal on the laptop
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Looking for a custom solution? Need help? Fill out the form below and one of our friendly team members will get back to you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out to our friendly support team by Chat or give us a ring on 0203 633 4599

Do I need an app?

No. Guests and drivers can collect keys using a simple screen code or a user badge.

Is it secure?

Yes. Our lockers are built from automotive-grade galvanised steel with tamper-resistant locks.

Can it work offline?

Yes. If there’s a power outage and the internet is down, and 4G can’t be detected via the SIM, KeyNest can generate two types of codes:

  • Master code — gives access to all key slots
  • Individual code — gives access to a single slot

How many keys can I hold?

We offer S, M, and L sizes. Our L Locker holds 39 keys in a single sleek unit, and can be extended to hold hundreds more.

What if I move locations?

KeyNest Lockers are plug-and-play. Simply unbolt the locker from the backplate, move it to your new site, and plug it in.

Is it compatible with my existing staff fob?

Most likely, yes — but please double-check with your sales rep.

What is the lead time?

It depends on where you’re located, but on average it’s 5–7 days.

Are KeyNest Lockers IP rated?

Some of our KeyNest Lockers are IP rated — please double-check with your sales rep.