2026 Comparison
Jim's Locksmiths vs Sentry Locksmiths
Compare two national locksmith franchise networks for coverage, pricing consistency, and service range across Australian metro and regional areas.
Winner
Jim's Locksmiths
Best overall option once average cost, coverage, and support reputation are weighed together.
Average Gap
$65
Difference in average pricing across overlapping locksmith services.
Market Range
$65 - $520
The full low-to-high range across both providers.
Melbourne, VIC · Est. 2003
From
$65
Average
$151
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Homeowners in metro and regional areas wanting a nationally recognised brand with a satisfaction guarantee.
Review Jim's LocksmithsSydney, NSW · Est. 2004
From
$85
Average
$216
Coverage
7 areas
Best for: Homeowners wanting a reliable 24/7 national locksmith with consistent pricing and warranty support.
Review Sentry LocksmithsSide-by-Side Price Comparison
Compare overlapping service types directly so the right price anchor is clear before you request quotes.
| Service | Jim's Locksmiths | Sentry Locksmiths | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Lockout (House) | $135 | $140 | -$5 |
| Lock Change (Deadbolt) | $232 | $245 | -$13 |
| Lock Rekey (per lock) | $122 | $130 | -$8 |
| Window Lock Install (per lock) | $115 | N/A | - |
| Smart Lock Install | N/A | $350 | - |
Pros & Cons
Jim's Locksmiths
WinnerPros
- ✓Largest national coverage in Australia through franchise network
- ✓Jim’s Group satisfaction guarantee
- ✓Good availability in regional areas
Cons
- ✗Franchisee quality varies significantly between operators
- ✗Less specialist expertise for high-security and commercial work
Sentry Locksmiths
Pros
- ✓24/7 emergency callout across all metro areas
- ✓Standardised pricing with upfront quotes
- ✓Wide range of lock brands stocked on the van
Cons
- ✗Franchise quality can vary between regions
- ✗Slightly premium pricing compared to independent locksmiths
Bottom Line
Verdict
Jim’s Locksmiths has the largest national network including regional areas through its franchise model, while Sentry Locksmiths offers more consistent metro pricing and a stronger 24/7 emergency service reputation.
Choose Jim’s Locksmiths for the widest geographic coverage including regional and rural areas. Choose Sentry Locksmiths for consistent metro pricing and reliable 24/7 emergency response.
Comparison FAQ
Jim's Locksmiths is cheaper on average in this comparison, but the real answer depends on whether you need an emergency lockout, standard lock change, smart lock installation, or a high-security master key system.
Service type, time of day, lock grade, number of locks, and whether hardware is included usually affect the total cost more than a blended average across all services. Always confirm callout fees and after-hours surcharges upfront.
Choose Jim’s Locksmiths for the widest geographic coverage including regional and rural areas. Choose Sentry Locksmiths for consistent metro pricing and reliable 24/7 emergency response.