Kwikset and Schlage are the two most common residential lock brands in the US, and their keys are not interchangeable. If you're comparing Kwikset vs Schlage for a new lock, or you just need to figure out which key you already have, the keyway is what actually matters, not the brand name on the lock face.
Kwikset uses the KW1 keyway. Schlage uses the SC1 keyway. This becomes especially important when you're ordering a replacement key blank from our website because KW1 and SC1 keys are not interchangeable. A KW1 blank is made for Kwikset-style locks, while an SC1 blank is made for Schlage-style locks. If the blank doesn't match your lock's keyway, it won't fit or work correctly once cut.
Kwikset vs Schlage: Quick Comparison
| Kwikset (KW1) | Schlage (SC1) | |
| Common blank number | 66 | 68 |
| Pin count | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Head shape (standard key) | Five-sided head, multiple cutouts | Wider, diamond-shaped head, single keyring hole |
Neither brand is "better" outright — Kwikset's SmartKey system rekeys faster without a locksmith, while Schlage ships more Grade 1-rated hardware at the standard tier. For key blanks specifically, though, the comparison comes down to one thing: you need the keyway that matches your existing lock, not the "better" brand name.
Let's figure out which type of key you have.
| Key Brand | Keyway | Numbers |
| Kwikset | KW1 | 66 |
| Schlage | SC1 | 68 |
The stamp and blade shape are usually more reliable than the head shape. On a basic house key, the head shape can be a helpful clue because standard KW1 and SC1 keys do look different. But the stamp is still the best place to start because it usually tells you the actual key blank type.
When ordering one of our keys, this matters a lot. The design on top can look different from the plain key you use now. The blade still needs to match your lock's keyway, so choose the keyway first and the design second.
Let's figure out what type of key you have.
Step 1: Check the Stamp on the Key
Flip your key over and look at the head, which is the part you hold when you turn the key. You should see some numbers and letters stamped right there.
If your key says KW1, you have a KW1 keyway. If it says SC1, you have an SC1 keyway.
You may also see a number instead of the keyway name. A 66 usually points to a Kwikset KW1 key blank. A 68 usually points to a Schlage SC1 key blank.
If you see a KW1 or SC1, great, you know your keyway and you're already ahead of the game. If the stamp is worn down or you just can't make it out, no worries. Keep reading.
Step 2: Look at the Grooves on the Blade
Next, look at the blade, i.e. the long metal part that slides into the lock. KW1 and SC1 keys have different groove patterns, which is why they fit different locks.
How to Identify a KW1 Key
Side 1
Looking at the front face of the key you'll see two grooves running the full length of the blade. The main narrow groove sits slightly off center to the right and runs flat to the edge. To the left of it is a wider groove that runs all the way to the left edge of the blade.
Side 2
Flip it over and the layout shifts. The narrow groove is now on the left side of the blade, followed by a flat section in the middle and then a wider groove on the right that runs all the way to the right edge of the blade.
If both sides match what you see here you've got a KW1.
How to Identify an SC1 Key
Side 1
Looking at the front face of the key you'll see two grooves running the full length of the blade, a narrow groove sitting slightly off center and a wider groove to the left of it. The SC1 and USA stamps are visible on the shoulder just below the bow.
Side 2
Flip it over and this side has a single narrow groove only, running the full length of the blade slightly off center to the left.
If this matches your key you've probably got an SC1 keyway.
Step 3: Look for the Numbers
If you still aren't sure, look for a number stamped on your key, most commonly a 66 or a 68. If you see a 66, you have a Kwikset KW1 key.
If you see a 68, you have a Schlage SC1. At this point, between the stamp, the grooves, and the numbers, you should have a pretty clear answer.
Step 4: Don't Rely on the Head Shape Alone
The top of the key can help, especially if you're looking at a basic KW1 or SC1 house key. A standard KW1 key often has a five-sided head with multiple cutouts. A standard SC1 key often has a wider or more diamond-shaped head with a single keyring hole.
That said, don't rely on head shape alone. Some keys from the same brand family can use different keyways, and the head shape can vary once you start looking at decorative or printed key blanks. The part that matters most is the blade. If the blade doesn't match the lock's keyway, the key won't fit or work correctly once cut.
What If You Still Can't Tell?
Some keys have no stamp at all and that is okay. If you can't identify your key from the stamp or the grooves, swing by your local locksmith or hardware store and they'll know right away. You can also email us a clear photo of both sides of your key and we'll take a look.
Bottom Line: Kwikset vs Schlage
At the end of the day, you don't need to know everything about Kwikset and Schlage. You just need to know which key blank to order. Check the stamp first, then the numbers, then the grooves. One of those three will give you the answer. If your key says KW1 or 66, choose a KW1 blank. If your key says SC1 or 68, choose an SC1 blank.