10 Best Cable Locks Of 2026
Cable Locks — Reviews, Recommendations & Updated Buying Guide October 2026
TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks
Why We Love It
Master Lock 8417D Python Adjustable Locking Cable
Why We Love It
Master Lock Cable Lock
Why We Love It
Master Lock Cable Lock
Why We Love It
SURE LOCK TSA Approved Luggage Locks with Open Alert
Why We Love It
1/8" Stainless Steel Security Cable Luggage Lock
Why We Love It
QWORK Lockout Tagout Cable Lock
Why We Love It
Master Lock Bike Lock Cables with Key
Why We Love It
Hunters Specialties 6' Cable Lock with Key Lock
Why We Love It
Master Lock Black Set Your Own Combination Bike Lock
Why We Love It
Quick Pick
10 Best Cable Locks Of 2026
Quick Pick
TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks, Re-settable Combination with Alloy Body
Master Lock 8417D Python Adjustable Locking Cable, Braided Steel, 6-Foot X 3/16-Inch, Black
Master Lock Cable Lock, Set Your Own Combination Bike Lock, 6 ft. Long, Black, 8122D
Master Lock Cable Lock, Python Adjustable Keyed Cable Lock, 6 ft. Long Cable, 2 Pack Mossy Oak Country DNA Camouflage
SURE LOCK TSA Approved Luggage Locks with Open Alert Indicator, 3 Digit Combination Cable Travel Lock for Suitcase, Backpack & Travel Bag, 2 Pack Black
1/8" Stainless Steel Security Cable Luggage Lock, Double Loop, 2Pack | Rustproof, flexible wire rope, 4/6/10/15FT, anti-theft, weatherproof, durable, for luggage bike gate
QWORK Lockout Tagout Cable Lock, 8 Pack Adjustable Steel Vinyl Coated Cable Lockout, 3/16" Diameter, 5.9' Length, Red
Master Lock Bike Lock Cables with Key, Blue, Green, and Red 3-Pack of Keyed-Alike Bicycle Cable Locks, 6 ft. Long, 8127TRI
Hunters Specialties 6' Cable Lock with Key Lock
Master Lock Black Set Your Own Combination Bike Lock, Metal Cable Lock has a Weather Resistant Vinyl Coating for Outdoor Durability, 5 Feet Long, 8370D
Buying Guide: Cable Locks
📋 Table of Contents
1What cable thickness do I actually need for my bike or equipment?
Cable thickness (usually 8-12mm diameter) should match what you're protecting—thicker cables resist cutting better but weigh more and are harder to carry. For valuable bikes or electronics, aim for at least 10mm; lighter items can use 8mm cables without sacrificing much security.
2What's the difference between coiled cable locks and straight ones?
Coiled cables are compact and easy to carry on rides, while straight cables give you more flexibility in how you wrap them around objects. Straight cables are generally better for securing multiple items, but coiled ones are more convenient for commuters.
3How do I know if a cable lock is actually secure or just marketing hype?
Look for locks tested by independent rating systems or with verified customer reviews mentioning resistance to bolt cutters and pry tools. Avoid locks with cheap, thin casings around the cable—they're easy to cut through regardless of the cable material inside.
4Should I buy a cable lock with a combination or key lock?
Combination locks are convenient if you forget keys, but key locks are generally harder to pick and faster to open when you're in a hurry. Choose based on your lifestyle—commuters often prefer keys, while casual users prefer the simplicity of combinations.
5Is a cable lock alone enough, or do I need a U-lock too?
Cable locks alone aren't recommended for high-theft areas since bolt cutters can cut through them in seconds; combining a cable with a U-lock provides much better protection. For low-risk situations like locking inside secure areas, a quality cable lock is sufficient.
How we choose
Our editors are people who genuinely love testing and writing about products. We compare each product's real-world usability and strengths, then distill what matters most into our own "Why We Love It" points — so you get an honest, at-a-glance sense of what counts before you buy.