Best Universal Laptop Lock in 2019
From business laptops to Surface 2-1s, we've used a wide range of devices, and they don't all have security slots. Here is the best way to secure your device with a universal lock.
Adding a lock to your laptop is one of the easiest ways to secure the device, but not all laptops come with a dedicated lock slot. Luckily, you can still add a lock to your device using a universal laptop lock. No lock is going to be completely theft proof, but by attaching a lock to your laptop you can deter thieves and make it so your laptop can't simply be picked up and ran off with. The FOLAI Laptop Lock comes with an included mount that attaches to your laptop or device with an adhesive. Then you can simply use the T-Bar style lock to secure your device.
FOLAI Laptop Lock
Who should buy a FOLAI Laptop Lock?
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This lock is extremely convenient because it can work with any laptop that has the T-Bar style lock that's common on business laptops as well as any device that doesn't have a lock slot. Its mount can be attached to a laptop, tablet, or even a phone that's on display.
Is it a good time to buy a Kensington Combination Laptop Lock?
Laptop locks don't have a lot of delicate materials that break down over time. It's reasonable to assume a lock can outlive the usefulness of many electronic devices it protects. While prices can go up and down, this FOLAI Laptop Lock is affordable at just $14. As a result, it's a good time to buy this lock if you want to secure your device.
Securing any device
This lock is versatile and makes it easy to secure a device that you use in a public office or is on display. It has options for a combination-based lock or key-based lock so you can pick which one is most convenient for your usage case.
The T-Bar design means that it can also work with devices that have a dedicated lock slot. As a result, you could have this lock set up at a terminal that sees many devices. It's important to note that no lock setup is impenetrable. For example, if a thief has a thick enough pair of wire cutters they can get through just about any laptop lock. But the idea behind locks is to force a potential thief to have to use enough tools that it would draw attention to them or to just deter them from attempting to steal the device.
The T-Bar design that this lock uses is popularized by Kensington, a well-known lock builder for laptops. While this FOLAI lock isn't made by Kensington, it will work with many devices because manufacturers want to make their laptops compatible with T-Bar style locks.
This lock is especially useful because it works with so many different types of devices. The mount that's included does add a bit of a bump to your device so if it's on a laptop you need to make sure that it's on a part that isn't expected to lay flat. If you're using this lock on a tablet you'll either want the device to be mounted in a way in which a bump doesn't create an issue or be willing to sacrifice the ability to lay your tablet flat on a surface.
This lock is very affordable at only $14 and a great way to increase your devices security that costs multiple times the price of the lock.
Alternatives to the FOLAI Laptop Lock
There are many options when it comes to Kensington locks and locks from other brands. If you prefer a key over a combination or your device doesn't have a Kensington Lock Slot, there are still ways to secure your device.
The Blade
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
This lock is another good choice for people wanting to secure a device that doesn't have a lock slot. It adds a bit of heft to your device but that also provides some grip for a tablet or handheld device that you've attached the lock to.
Bottom line
Adding a lock to your device is a simple and affordable way to increase your device's security. While many devices have lock slots, there are a number of devices that do not, including ultra-thin laptops and tablets. You can still add a lock to these devices using an adhesive mount.
FOLAI Laptop Lock
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.