Keeping your valuables safe while on the go can be a challenge. Console safes are a great option for securing items inside your vehicle. Two popular brands of console safes are Lock’er Down and Console Vault.
But which one is right for you?
This comprehensive guide examines the key features, pros and cons of Lock’er Down and Console Vault to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Lock’er Down | Console Vault |
| Fit | Custom for specific vehicles | Universal fit |
| Lock Types | Simplex | Simplex and digital keypad |
| Steel Gauge | 16 | 16 or 14 |
| Weight Capacity | 5-15 lbs | 5-10 lbs |
| Fire Protection | No | Some models rated for 30 mins at 1400°F |
| Gas Lift Strut | All models | Drawer series only |
| Installation | Professional recommended | Easier DIY |
| Everyday Use | Items stay put | May shift while driving |
| Lock Strength | Not upgradeable | Deluxe locks offer more security |
| Theft Protection | Very difficult | Moderate difficulty |
| Smash & Grab | Very resistant | Moderate resistance |
| Price | $159-$699 | $114-$379 |
Overview of Lock’er Down
Lock’er Down offers console safes custom designed to fit specific vehicle makes and models. Their safes are made in the USA from 16-gauge carbon alloy steel and feature a pry-resistant door. Lock’er Down console safes come in two series:
- Original Series
The Original Series features simplex lock options – either key or push button combination.
These safes have a scratch resistant powder coat finish and gas strut for the lifting door.
Interior dimensions range from 5.5 x 6 x 1.5 inches up to 18 x 6.5 x 5.25 inches. Weight capacity is 5 to 7 pounds.
- Deluxe Series
The Deluxe Series steps up with digital keypad and LED lighting. Safes are larger with interior dimensions spanning 10.5 x 6.5 x 3 inches to 18 x 10 x 7 inches.
Weight capacity jumps to 10-15 pounds for larger storage. The Deluxe Series still has the scratch resistant finish and gas strut lift.
Pros of Lock’er Down
- Custom fit – Safes are tailored specifically for your vehicle’s center console storage area. This provides a tight secure installation.
- Strong construction – The 16-gauge carbon alloy steel and pry-resistant door offer sturdy protection against break-ins.
- Smooth access – Gas struts allow the safe door to gently glide open for convenient access to your items.
- Keypad and lighting – Upgraded Deluxe series includes handy features like digital keypad and interior lighting.
- Made in USA – Lock’er Down safes are designed and manufactured in the United States.
Cons of Lock’er Down
- Limited sizes – The set dimensions for specific vehicle models restrict flexibility in storage space.
- Simplex locks only – No advanced electronic lock options like fingerprint access or Bluetooth.
- Installation required – Professional installation is recommended for proper fit and security.
- Higher cost – The custom-fit design comes at a premium price point.
- Lacks fire protection – Safes are not waterproof or fire resistant.
Overview of Console Vault
Console Vault manufactures more universal-fit console safes designed to accommodate multiple vehicle makes and models. Their safes feature pry-resistant lids and come in three series:
- Standard Series
The Standard Series offers simplex lock options just like Lock’er Down. Choose from key lock or push button combination. Safes are made from 16-gauge steel with scratch resistant finish. Interior dimensions range from 5 x 6 x 1.5 inches up to 14 x 7 x 5.5 inches.
- Deluxe Series
This series provides an upgrade with digital keypad and interior lighting. Interior space spans 7 x 6.5 x 2 inches to 14 x 10 x 7 inches. The Deluxe Series has thicker 14-gauge steel construction.
- Drawer Series
As the name suggests, this series consists of pull-out drawer style safes. The Drawer Series features four-digit digital locks, manual override keys, and a gas strut for smooth open and close. Available in smaller dimensions from 5.5 x 6.875 x 1.75 inches up to 11 x 8.25 x 4 inches.
Pros of Console Vault
- Universal fit – Safes are designed to fit multiple makes and models for flexible installation.
- Compact models – Smaller size options like the Drawer Series are great for fitting into tight spaces.
- Advanced lock options – Digital keypad and manual override keys provide access convenience and security.
- Gas strut access – Drawer Series includes smooth opening and closing gas strut lift system.
- Fire protection – Some models are rated fire resistant for 1/2 hour up to 1400°F.
Cons of Console Vault
- Loose fit – Universal models may have a looser fit and require additional mounting or foam pads.
- Thinner steel – Standard models use 16-gauge steel instead of thicker 14 or 12-gauge.
- Fewer sizes – Selection is limited to set dimensions rather than fully custom fits.
- No customization – Safes are not tailored specifically for make and model of vehicle.
- Lower weight capacity – Maximum weight storage is 5 to 10 pounds for most models.
Key Features Comparison of Lock’er Down And Console Vault
Now that we’ve looked at Lock’er Down and Console Vault overview and pros and cons, let’s directly compare some of their main features:
- Lock Options
Lock’er Down – Simplex key lock or push button combination lock choices on all models. No advanced electronic locks offered.
Console Vault – Simplex lock options plus four-digit digital keypad and manual override key on Deluxe and Drawer models.
- Steel Construction
Lock’er Down – 16-gauge carbon alloy steel on all safes with pry-resistant doors.
Console Vault – Entry models have 16-gauge steel, Deluxe version steps up to thicker 14-gauge.
Not specified as pry-resistant.
- Customization
Lock’er Down – Fully customized fit for specific vehicle make and model.
Console Vault – Universal fit for multiple makes and models. Not tailored to each vehicle.
- Weight Capacity
Lock’er Down – 5 to 15 pounds across safe sizes.
Console Vault – 5 to 10 pounds depending on model.
- Fire Protection
Lock’er Down – No fire rating or waterproofing.
Console Vault – Some models offer 30 minute 1400°F fire protection rating.
- Ease of Use Comparison
Beyond the technical specifications, let’s look at how easy Lock’er Down and Console Vault models are to use on a daily basis:
- Accessing the Safe
Lock’er Down – Door glides open smoothly thanks to built-in gas struts. Provides quick, convenient access.
Console Vault – Only Drawer Series has gas strut for simple open and close. Other models require manually lifting the lid.
- Interior Lighting
Lock’er Down – LED lighting included in higher priced Deluxe models.
Console Vault – LED lighting also only available on Deluxe safes.
- Installation
Lock’er Down – Professional installation recommended for customized, secure fit. More difficult DIY.
Console Vault – Universal models allow for easier DIY installation. Some mounting or pads may be needed.
- Everyday Use
Lock’er Down – Custom tight fit keeps safe firmly in place during driving. Items don’t shift around.
Console Vault – Loose universal fit may allow some small movement while driving. Foam pads can help stabilization.
- Security Comparison
Now let’s examine how Lock’er Down and Console Vault stack up in terms of security and protection:
Lock Strength
Lock’er Down – No ability to upgrade lock strength. Simplex locks only.
Console Vault – Deluxe digital keypad and manual key provide added security.
Steel Strength
Lock’er Down – Durable 16-gauge carbon alloy steel resists cutting and prying.
Console Vault – 16 or 14-gauge options, not specified as pry-resistant like Lock’er Down.
Concealed Install
Lock’er Down – Completely enclosed custom fit hides safe out of sight.
Console Vault – May have small exterior overhang with universal fit depending on location.
Theft Protection
Lock’er Down – Tight custom installation deters and delays potential theft.
Console Vault – Universal safes can be removed more quickly depending on mounting method.
Smash and Grab
Lock’er Down – Tight metal-on-metal fit makes prying open difficult. Foil lines interior to prevent scanning contents.
Console Vault – May be susceptible to crowbar or other prying tools and contents scanning based on installation.
Also Read: Decked Substitutes For Truck Bed Storage Systems.
Price Comparison
Pricing is always an important factor when choosing any security product. Here is how Lock’er Down and Console Vault compare based on current retail pricing:
Lock’er Down
- Original Series: $159-$349
- Deluxe Series: $299-$699
Console Vault
- Standard Series: $114-$289
- Deluxe Series: $169-$379
- Drawer Series: $159-$379
In terms of budget, Console Vault generally offers less expensive models, particularly in their Standard universal fit series. The Lock’er Down custom-fit safes come at a premium price point. But the extra cost may be warranted for certain vehicle models and buyer needs.
Final Recommendation
So when all factors are considered – features, ease of use, security and price – which console safe is best?
For maximum security, Lock’er Down is the top choice. The custom-fit models have very tight installation that helps deter theft. Console Vault offers more flexibility and lower cost with their universal models. But the looser fit compromises security somewhat.
If purchasing a Deluxe model with digital keypad and lighting, either brand provides excellent convenience. Lock’er Down still maintains the advantage in fit. But Console Vault gives you more size options.
Ultimately, it comes down to your specific vehicle, budget and security priorities. For those wanting the highest level of protection, Lock’er Down’s custom-designed safe is worth the premium price. Console Vault works best for universal installation and smaller spaces.
Carefully examine the pros and cons to determine which console safe best secures your important items.
