What Are Key Blanks Made Of?

If you’ve ever visited a key cutting shop, you’ve probably noticed the large racks of key blanks—uncut keys about to be shaped into working copies. But what exactly are these blanks made of, and does the material matter?

In this article, we’ll cover:

• The common materials used for key blanks
• Why some are more durable than others
• How the material affects the price and performance of your key
• Where you can find quality key blanks and cutting services

The Most Common Key Blank Materials

Most key blanks are made from metal alloys. The three most common types are:

• Brass – The most widely used material. Brass keys are durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to cut, which makes them a favorite for locksmiths.
• Nickel-Silver (Nickel Alloy) – These keys have a silver appearance and are more resistant to wear than brass. They’re often used for high-traffic keys that need to last longer.
• Steel – Less common today, but still used in some industrial or security settings. Steel is strong but harder to cut, which can wear down cutting machines faster.

Some specialty keys (like Medeco or high-security systems) use stronger alloys and protective coatings to resist duplication and provide extra durability.

Does the Material Matter?

Yes. The material of your key blank affects:

• Durability – Nickel-silver keys last longer than brass if you’re constantly using them.
• Cutting quality – Brass is easier to cut and provides smooth operation in locks.
• Corrosion resistance – Brass and nickel-silver resist rust, while steel is prone to corrosion if not protected.

For everyday apartment or condo keys, brass or nickel-silver blanks are usually the best choice.

Price Differences

Brass key blanks are usually the most affordable option. Nickel-silver keys cost slightly more but pay off with longer lifespan. Steel keys are less common for residential use and usually reserved for special situations.

Where to Get Key Blanks and Cutting Services

At MiniFob and FobToronto, we not only duplicate apartment keys, fobs, and remotes, but we also sell key blanks and cutting machines through our online shop TryMiniFob. 

.Whether you’re a tenant who needs a spare, or a small business looking to stock up on blanks, we offer:

• High-quality brass and nickel-silver key blanks
• Fast cutting services (done in minutes)

Final Thoughts: What Are Key Blanks Made Of?

So, what are key blanks made of? Mostly brass, nickel-silver, or sometimes steel—each with its own pros and cons. For most everyday use, brass or nickel-silver is the best balance of strength, affordability, and reliability.

And if you’re looking to get a spare key or stock key blanks for your own business, MiniFob, FobToronto, and TryMiniFob are your best choices.