SentrySafe EF4738E
Score: 88/100
Master Lock STW205
Score: 87/100Rankings
The SentrySafe EF4738E is an extra-large, heavy-duty steel floor safe offering high security and multi-hazard protection for documents, cash, and firearms. It features a digital keypad, extensive bolting, and significant interior capacity, though its weight necessitates permanent installation. It is best suited for homeowners needing robust, stationary protection for high-value assets in fire-prone or flood-prone areas.
The Master Lock STW205GYC is a premium home security solution featuring UL-classified fire protection and ETL-verified water resistance. It combines robust steel construction with a programmable digital keypad to deter theft while protecting documents. While it offers excellent security and convenience, its limited water depth protection and battery dependency are notable trade-offs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
30 minutes | 120 minutesbest | |
1,400 degrees_fahrenheit | 1,850 degrees_fahrenheitbest | |
8,133.12 cubic_inchesbest | 3,456 cubic_inches | |
| ↓ lower better | 37.7 inches | 23.8 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 21.7 inches | 18.6 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 19 inchesbest | 19.3 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 208.84 pounds | 192 poundsbest |
72 minutes | 1,440 minutesbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Fire Protection(2) | ||
Fire Rating Duration (minutes) | 30 minutes | 120 minutes |
Fire Rating Temperature (degrees_fahrenheit) | 1400 degrees_fahrenheit | 1850 degrees_fahrenheit |
Compliance & Safety(1) | ||
Certifications | UL Classified, ETL Verified, California DOJ Certified | UL, ETL |
Dimensions & Capacity(4) | ||
Interior Capacity (cubic_inches) | 8133.12 cubic_inches | 3456 cubic_inches |
Exterior Height (inches) | 37.7 inches | 23.8 inches |
Exterior Width (inches) | 21.7 inches | 18.6 inches |
Exterior Depth (inches) | 19.0 inches | 19.3 inches |
Environmental Protection(1) | ||
Water Resistance Duration (minutes) | 72 minutes | 1440 minutes |
Build & Portability(2) | ||
Weight (pounds) | 208.84 pounds | 192 pounds |
Hinge Type | Pry-resistant | Pry-Resistant |
Security & Locking(1) | ||
Backup Access | Keys | Battery Backup |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors position the SentrySafe SFW205 as a dependable solution for those who take security seriously, praising its ability to handle real emergencies with combined fire, water, and theft protection. Editors specifically highlight the superior protection from forced entry provided by the live-locking bolts and pry-resistant design, along with the effective media-safe insulation. However, there is a notable absence of third-party expert reviews from major testing organizations, with ratings primarily derived from aggregated user feedback.
Everyday users express positive sentiment, with aggregated ratings averaging around 4 out of 5 stars across hundreds of reviews. Common praise focuses on the reliable fire and water protection, the spacious and well-organized interior, and the convenience of digital access. Recurring themes in complaints involve the dependency on batteries for digital locks and the heavy weight of the unit, which complicates installation if not bolted down.
Manufacturer and retailer descriptions position this safe as offering the best protection in its class, citing unmatched performance through UL and ETL certifications. Professional highlights emphasize the high-grade steel construction, pry-resistant hinges, and century-old innovation.
Search results lack direct user reviews, but specs imply praise for reliability, particularly regarding multi-user convenience and durable steel construction.
Choose the SFW205 for superior bolt security and lower cost, or the EF4738E if you need the largest possible capacity and are willing to pay more.
