I would say it is primarily for convenience but there are security benefits... Convenience example: I go cycling, jogging nowadays without key(s) jiggling in my pockets - and my RFID card allows access faster and fits into my wallet Security example: how many times have I (or my kids) left the key stucked to the door after entering the home; this does not happen anymore! ... and of course, the fact that the key is electronic pin - you can change it as often as needed (and not change the lock when you loose a physical key. To keep your existing physical lock, use the RIM type lock instead of the mortise lock (eg. Gateman F10 instead of F100) or the equivalent Samsung ones. As for Samsung versus Gateman, I use both and my conclusion is it is all about the looks.