3D Group introduces a brand-new product from Xhorse.
THE RUNDOWN
The Xhorse Key Reader is a professional and portable key identification device which can identify almost all car and motorcycle keys.
Among many new exciting new features, there is one that we are thrilled to share. This new tool is capable of reading not only metal keys but it can also read aluminium and plastic keys.
In addition, the tool features a built-in optical system, providing users with an intuitive experience.
Furthermore, with a smartphone, the Xhorse Key Reader provides a new working experience, allowing locksmiths to attain the key bitting codes without using a key-cutting machine.
DOES THAT MEAN FEWER BROKEN PROBES? YES, YOU GOT THAT RIGHT!
Do you struggle with your probes breaking? We know this is sometimes caused by daily dirt, grime, or grease. However, you no longer have to worry about this because you can acquire bitting data without using a key-cutting machine. So, save your shiny new Dolphin II for cutting those duplicate keys!
RIGHT, LET'S GET INTO WHAT YOU'RE HERE FOR!
We talk about our quality control team quite a bit, but you might not know we took on an additional member just before Christmas.
He's been undergoing training for the past month, so he's pretty fresh. So, we thought we could use that to our advantage; we gave him the Xhorse Key Reader and asked him to decode key bittings, using only the instructions provided on the tool!
Alex was the first member of the team to use this tool, so he was completely impartial. Alex took the new device out of the box, completed the set-up, and used it to decode a key for the first time; he said it was super easy to use, giving him clear instructions and responsive feedback throughout the process. By glancing at the screen, he quickly saw the job progress; the tool alerted him when it had finished and using the tool's compatibility with the Xhorse Key Machines, he could then cut the key with accurate bitting readings.
Even though he is new to this industry, this entire process took him less than 10 minutes and resulted in him having an accurately cut key that he was able to test in one of our demo locks.
“A nifty little bit of kit, great for newcomers to the industry!”
It wouldn't be an honest review if we didn't get Matt, our quality control lead, a chance to put the product through its paces! We love that his experience and honesty allow us to get a clear picture of how a product stands up.
WHAT MATT HAS TO SAY
Matt has had lots of experience setting up new pieces of kit, but this was one of the simpler pieces. Within minutes, he connected it to the Xhorse App on his phone and connected it with the Xhorse Key Machines we have in our testing room.
He was delighted to see that the instructions were clear and concise!
Xhorse has created a hub of machines and tools, all working together to make your daily tasks easier. This is no exception.
Matt has cut thousands of keys at 3D Group and has even gotten good at visually identifying key bittings. But there are often times when he will receive a key blade with exceptional wear and tear. Visually attaining bittings will be difficult, and using an expensive key machine, might give him shivers. Let’s be honest how many of us have broken a pricey key machine probe on a damaged key!
However, this is where the Key reader comes into play! Matt can accurately ascertain bitting values without using a Key Machine by using his tool. Still, probably one of the best features of this tool is that you can manually alter the bitting value after the decoding process. This is invaluable when the key blade has substantial wear.
A wide range of keys is covered by this tool, even motorcycle, house keys, and most car keys. However, in the essence of honesty, Tibbe keys and SX9 keys are not covered by this tool.
WHO WOULD MATT RECOMMEND THIS TOOL TO?
Great for all auto locksmiths looking for an additional tool to simplify the key decoding/cutting process!
However, Matt highly recommends this tool to complete beginners or inexperienced auto locksmiths. Visually decoding keys can be challenging to start with, not to mention it can take up quite a lot of time; plus, if you make a mistake, you’ll have to cut a new key entirely. Who needs the hassle!?
This really can help all locksmiths experienced or not; depending on your knowledge, it can play a more significant role in your process. For example, if you have a higher level of experience, you might use this tool to decode worn keys rather than all the keys you work with.