Lock Shop Direct product guide
Mul-T-Lock Locking Platforms Compared
Mul-T-Lock products can be supplied on different key platforms. The platform affects the key technology, level of key-copy control, master-key capability, compatibility with an existing system and the products that can operate from the same key.
This guide compares the principal Mul-T-Lock platforms customers are likely to encounter, including the numbered MTL platforms, Integrator and 7X7, and explains related names such as Classic, ClassicPro, MT5, MT5+ and Interactive+.
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The key point: choose the platform before ordering keyed-alike locks, replacement cylinders, extra keys or a master-key system. Mul-T-Lock platforms are not automatically interchangeable, even where the products look similar.
A locking platform is only one part of security. It does not by itself confirm that a particular cylinder is anti-snap, TS007 rated, suitable for a fire or escape door, or compatible with your existing lock. Always check the complete product specification, door application and cylinder size.
Quick platform guide
Value-focused medium security
Consider MTL200 where dependable operation and price are more important than the strongest restricted-key controls.
Affordable patented key control
Consider MTL300 for residential, small-business and project applications needing a current patented platform and master-key capability.
Enhanced residential or commercial protection
Consider MTL400 / ClassicPro for card-controlled key duplication, keyed-alike convenience and scalable system options.
Complex systems and MT5 continuity
Consider MTL500 / MT5 for larger master-key hierarchies and where compatibility with an existing MT5 arrangement may be required.
High security across many product formats
Consider MTL600 / Interactive+ for advanced key control, complex master keying and cylinders, padlocks and other compatible products on one platform.
Premium protection for large or complex sites
Consider MTL800 for demanding commercial environments and sophisticated master-key systems.
Established 7-pin controlled platform
Consider Integrator where an existing Integrator system must be maintained or where its product and keying options suit a new specification.
Standard-security reversible-key platform
Consider 7X7 for flexible, value-conscious applications, including mixed-security arrangements designed with Integrator.
Mul-T-Lock platform names explained
Product pages, old keys and existing systems may use the platform number, an earlier technology name or both. The following names are commonly encountered.
| Current platform name |
Other name you may see |
Important point |
| MTL200 |
MTL200 |
Medium-security sawn-key platform. |
| MTL300 |
MTL300 |
Patented platform developed from 7x7 technology with an additional telescopic pin. |
| MTL400 |
ClassicPro |
Do not assume an older Classic key is the same as MTL400 / ClassicPro. |
| MTL500 |
MT5 |
Designed with backward compatibility for previous MT5 systems, subject to the exact profile and system. |
| MTL600 |
Interactive+ |
High-security telescopic-pin platform with a patented floating element. |
| MTL800 |
MT5+ |
Current premium platform and successor to the previous MT5+ platform, with backward compatibility subject to system verification. |
| Integrator |
Integrator |
Established 7-pin platform that remains listed by Mul-T-Lock; confirm current UK product availability and the exact profile. |
| 7X7 |
Some Lock Shop Direct listings also use “Garrison” |
Mul-T-Lock’s current official platform name is 7X7. Confirm the exact profile and system reference before ordering. |
| Classic |
Classic |
A separate telescopic-pin platform; it is not the same as MTL400 / ClassicPro. |
At-a-glance comparison
| Platform |
Positioning |
Key-control approach |
Master-key use |
Typical reason to choose it |
| MTL200 |
Medium security |
Special profile, but duplicate keys can be produced using standard key-copy equipment. |
Basic capability. |
Value, durability and straightforward keyed-different or keyed-alike applications. |
| MTL300 |
Affordable patented high security |
Patent-backed key-copy control and controlled profile. |
Suitable for master-key systems. |
Cost-effective current platform for residential and smaller commercial systems. |
| MTL400 |
Enhanced high security |
Magnetic key card and authorised-dealer duplication process. |
Scalable master-key options. |
Strong balance of security, key control, convenience and price. |
| MTL500 |
Advanced complex-system platform |
Controlled key system with enhanced copy control. |
Large, hierarchical and matrix systems. |
Complex organisations or planned migration from an existing MT5 system. |
| MTL600 |
Advanced high security |
Unique coded key card readable by authorised dealers. |
Complex and expandable systems. |
High security across cylinders, padlocks, locks and compatible electronic options. |
| MTL800 |
Premium high security |
Advanced controlled platform with premium protection. |
Large and complex systems. |
Critical commercial sites needing sophisticated key hierarchy and high protection. |
| Integrator |
Established controlled 7-pin platform |
Unique coded key card and authorised-dealer duplication process. |
Flexible master-key systems and mixed-security arrangements. |
Maintaining an existing Integrator system or using its available keying and product options. |
| 7X7 |
Standard security |
Coded key card and authorised-dealer duplication process. |
Keyed alike, master keyed and dual-level systems with Integrator. |
Flexible, value-conscious applications where the exact 7X7 profile is suitable. |
| Classic |
Established high-security platform |
Coded key card through authorised dealers. |
Keyed alike, master keyed and other supported functions. |
Maintaining an existing Classic system; do not confuse it with ClassicPro / MTL400. |
This is a selection guide, not a product certification table. Product formats, keying functions, ratings, minimum quantities and compatibility vary. We will confirm the exact specification when quoting.
MTL200
MTL300
MTL400 / ClassicPro
MTL500 (MT5)
MTL600 / Interactive+
MTL800 (successor to MT5+)
Integrator, 7X7 and Classic systems
Keying options explained
Keyed different
Each lock normally has its own operating key. This provides separation between doors but can create more keys to manage.
Keyed alike
One key operates several compatible locks. This is useful for homes, small businesses, gates, padlocks and other access points where the same people may enter all areas.
Master keyed
Individual keys operate defined doors, while master or sub-master keys operate authorised groups. The system must be designed before manufacture.
Construction or temporary keying
Selected platforms can allow a temporary common key during a project and then change to the permanent combinations. Availability and minimum quantities must be confirmed.
3-in-1 keying
On supported products, the lock combination can be changed up to two times using designated keys. This is not available on every platform or product.
Mechanical and electromechanical integration
Selected MTL platforms can integrate with Mul-T-Lock CLIQ solutions, combining mechanical keying with programmable access control.
How to choose the right platform
Before deciding, consider:
- Whether this is a new system or an addition to an existing one.
- The number and type of cylinders, padlocks, cabinet locks or specialist products required.
- Whether keys must be keyed different, keyed alike or master keyed.
- How strictly additional keys need to be controlled.
- The number of access levels, departments, buildings or sites.
- Expected future expansion and the consequences of losing a high-level key.
- Door and cylinder security requirements, including anti-snap or certification needs.
- Budget, lead time and any minimum manufacturing quantity.
For a planned hierarchy, use our Master Key Systems guide. For replacement cylinders, record the inside and outside dimensions separately using our Door Cylinder Measurement Guide.
Adding locks or keys to an existing Mul-T-Lock system
Please provide as much of the following as possible:
- The platform name shown on the key, card, cylinder or previous invoice.
- The system or profile reference.
- The registration card or other proof of authority where required.
- Clear photographs of the key head and cylinder markings. Avoid publishing key cuts or card codes on public websites or social media.
- The required cylinder type, size, finish and orientation.
- Whether the new item must operate from an existing individual, keyed-alike, sub-master or master key.
Do not order by appearance alone. Two Mul-T-Lock keys may look similar but belong to different platforms, profiles or master-key systems. Made-to-order cylinders and specially cut keys may not be cancellable once production has begun, except where faulty or incorrectly supplied.
Frequently asked questions
Is the platform with the highest number always the best choice?
No. The right platform depends on the risk, product range, key-control requirement, master-key complexity, existing compatibility and budget. A carefully designed MTL300 or MTL400 system may be more appropriate than MTL800 for many applications.
Can one Mul-T-Lock key operate cylinders and padlocks?
Often, yes, where the required products are available on the same platform and are designed into the same keyed-alike or master-key system. Availability must be checked before ordering.
Can you add to my existing master key system?
Often, but we need the platform, profile, system reference, key card and access requirement. Capacity and product availability can limit an older system.
Do I always need a card to obtain an extra key?
It depends on the platform and profile. Controlled platforms commonly require a key card and evidence of authority. MTL200 uses a different key-control approach. We will confirm the process for the exact system.
Does choosing a high-security platform make every cylinder anti-snap?
No. The key platform and the physical cylinder specification are related but separate. Check the complete cylinder's attack resistance, certification, size and intended door application.
What should I do if my key says Integrator, Interactive+, Classic, MT5 or Garrison?
Contact us before ordering. These names identify different Mul-T-Lock platforms or platform generations, and the exact profile, key card and system reference must be checked.