Having spare keys is essential for every household. Whether you need copies for family members, a trusted neighbour, or simply as backups in case of loss, professional key cutting ensures your duplicates work perfectly every time. Here is everything you need to know about locksmith key copying services.
Why Choose a Locksmith for Key Cutting?
While high-street key cutting kiosks are convenient, they lack the precision and expertise of a professional locksmith. Minor inaccuracies in key cutting can cause locks to wear prematurely, stick, or fail entirely. A locksmith uses calibrated cutting machines and tests every key in the actual lock before handing it over.
Locksmiths can also cut keys that standard kiosks cannot, including high-security keys, restricted keys, dimple keys and tubular keys. If your key has "Do Not Duplicate" markings or requires authorisation, only a qualified locksmith can legally and accurately copy it.
Types of Keys We Can Copy
Keys4U Locksmith provides precision key cutting for all common types:
- Standard house keys: Yale-type cylinder keys, mortice keys and rim cylinder keys
- High-security keys: Anti-snap cylinder keys with complex profiles
- UPVC door keys: Including multipoint locking system keys
- Padlock keys: Various sizes and profiles
- Cabinet and locker keys: Small precision keys for furniture locks
- Safe keys: Including some high-security safe keys with authorisation
Key Cutting Costs
Key cutting is one of the most affordable locksmith services. Standard house keys typically cost £5 to £10 each. High-security and specialist keys cost more due to the precision blanks and cutting time required, ranging from £10 to £25 per key.
Many locksmiths offer discounts for multiple keys cut simultaneously. It is always worth cutting several spares at once, as the cost per key decreases with quantity.
The Key Cutting Process
Professional key cutting involves several steps:
- Blank selection: Choosing the correct key blank that matches the original's profile and length
- Machine calibration: Ensuring the cutting machine is accurately set to the key's specifications
- Precision cutting: Cutting each groove and flat to exact tolerances
- Deburring: Removing rough edges that could damage the lock
- Testing: Verifying the new key operates the lock smoothly before finalising
Mobile Key Cutting
Many locksmiths, including Keys4U, offer mobile key cutting services. Our technicians carry key cutting machines in their vehicles, allowing on-site key duplication while you wait. This is ideal for emergency situations, such as when you have lost your last spare and need a replacement immediately.
Keys4U Key Cutting Service
Keys4U Locksmith offers precision key cutting at competitive prices. We cut while you wait, test every key in your lock, and guarantee our work. Visit one of our locations or book a mobile key cutting appointment at your home or workplace.
Related Key Services
For professional key copying you can rely on, contact Keys4U Locksmith. Precision cutting, guaranteed fit and friendly service every time.


