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Home safes provide peace of mind when you’ve got cash, important documents, jewelry, and other valuables in the house. We recently tested the durability, security, and water resistance of 10 top options to see which protected best. We evaluated basic models that shield against theft as well as higher-end options that offer fire protection and water resistance to keep precious belongings safe during disasters.
Since home safes are meant for some of your most prized possessions, it’s important to look at lock type and protective capabilities when choosing one. Our
SentrySafe SFW123GDC Digital Fire/Water Safe
Best Bang for the Buck
Amazon Basics Steel Home Security Electronic Safe
Amazon.
Best Lockbox
SentrySafe CHW20221 Fire/Water Chest
Stalwart Electronic Safe With Digital Keypad and Keys
Paragon Lock & Safe Superior Wall Safe
Amazon.
Best Mini
Amazon Basics Small Slim Desk Drawer Security Safe
Amazon.
Best Large
SentrySafe EF4738E Fire/Water Digital Safe
Best Portable
Master Lock Portable Personal Safe
Best Hidden
Jssmst Book Safe With Combination Lock
Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Home Safes
Testing Stats
Products tested
10
Time spent testing
18 hours
Tests performed
5
Price range
$10 to $800
When choosing which home safes to test, we considered basic features like build, wall thickness, and locking mechanisms. We looked at safes of various sizes, weights, and intended purposes, such as travel or concealment. We included options rated for fire resistance and water resistance since they provide an added layer of protection in the event of a natural disaster. We also looked for models with extra features like protective carpet, lighting, and adjustable shelves.
Once we had our safes, a team of Bob Vila writers and editors across the country each performed a series of tests. We used common safe-cracking methods to check basic security and repeatedly dropped the safes against hard surfaces to measure durability. For safes claiming water resistance, we put them in a shower for at least 15 minutes with a roll of toilet paper inside. If waterproof, we submerged the safes storing TP in a bathtub full of water for a minimum of an hour. If the toilet paper showed even the slightest hint of moisture in either test, the safe lost points on our rubric.
Our Testing Scores
Ease of Use
Water Resistance
Durability
Security
Value
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