Yes, Walmart does offer key duplication services at over 2,500 store locations nationwide through MinuteKey self-service kiosks. This allows customers to quickly and easily get copies of their home, office, and vehicle keys made onsite for reasonable prices typically ranging from $2-$6 per key.
Getting locked out and in need of a spare key is a hassle that most of us have experienced before. Rather than having to make an appointment with a professional locksmith or visit a hardware store during business hours, Walmart provides a convenient solution for key copying needs whenever you need it.
This comprehensive guide will explore Walmart‘s MinuteKey key cutting machines in depth, answering common questions on pricing, key types, location availability, step-by-step usage directions, benefits for consumers, limitations to be aware of, and expert tips for the best experience. Comparisons to other major retail key copying services are also included to help you make an informed decision when you find yourself in need of extra keys.
Overview of Walmart‘s Key Duplication Process
Walmart uses automated MinuteKey kiosks to copy keys quickly and accurately in about one minute. These self-service kiosks utilize laser imaging technology to scan keys and robotic cutting systems to duplicate them precisely.
Here is an overview of how Walmart‘s MinuteKey key duplication process works:
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Customer purchases desired key blank from in-store display
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Blank key is inserted into scanning slot on kiosk
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Key shape is digitally imaged and stored temporarily
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Customer selects quantity of copies needed (up to 5 per original)
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Payment is made via credit/debit card at the kiosk
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Robotic cutting mechanism duplicates key to match original
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Copies are dispensed through output slot in ~60 seconds
The MinuteKey kiosks guide customers through the entire key copying procedure on user-friendly touchscreen interfaces. All you need to provide is the original key, selected blank, credit/debit card for payment, and follow the on-screen prompts.
Walmart team members are available to assist if any questions arise when using the self-service kiosks located in the lock and key sections of stores.
Cost to Copy Keys at Walmart MinuteKey Kiosks
Walmart offers very reasonable key copying prices at their MinuteKey kiosks. Customers only pay for the cost of the key blanks themselves, typically ranging from $2-$6 per blank depending on the type of key needed.
There are no additional service fees or charges to utilize the self-service MinuteKey machines. You can get duplicate keys made for the base price of the blanks when purchased at Walmart.
| Key Type | Average Price per Copy |
|---|---|
| House Key | $2.50 – $3.50 |
| Deadbolt Key | $2.50 – $3.50 |
| Filing Cabinet Key | $2.00 – $3.00 |
| Padlock Key | $2.00 – $4.00 |
| Mailbox Key | $3.00 – $6.00 |
Prices above are samples only based on standard key blank types. Costs may vary by region.
As you can see, prices per key average $2-$3 for standard home and office keys, and under $6 for most other common key types. This is very affordable compared to standalone key copying shops which typically charge $5 or more per key just for the service, not including blank costs.
Walmart‘s biggest retail competitors like Home Depot and Lowe‘s offer similar self-service key kiosks with comparable blank prices in the $3-$5 range per key. So Walmart is very competitively priced, with the potential to save a dollar or more per key copy over other major chains.
What Types of Keys Can Be Duplicated?
The MinuteKey kiosks at Walmart are designed to copy common basic keys for homes, offices, vehicles, and other everyday uses.
According to Walmart‘s website, their machines can duplicate the following standard key types successfully:
- House keys
- Deadbolt keys
- Filing cabinet keys
- Padlock keys
- Mailbox keys
- Storage unit keys
- Apartment building entry keys
- Gate keys
- Shed keys
- Door keys
- Older-style metal car keys (no chips/programming)
However, there are certain specialty or restricted key types that cannot be copied at Walmart‘s MinuteKey kiosks:
- Keys marked "Do Not Duplicate"
- High-security keys
- Car keys with integrated circuits/chips
- Transponder keys
- Automotive laser-cut keys
- Government/official building keys
- School or university keys
- Post office box keys
- Keys for apartments or condos
Walmart complies fully with laws prohibiting duplication of restricted keys for security reasons. Their machines automatically block restricted keys from being copied. This avoids potential legal issues or risks in duplicating secure keys without proper authorization.
So in summary, while Walmart‘s MinuteKey kiosks don‘t handle specialized security keys, they can duplicate all common keys for your home, mailbox, shed, filing cabinets, padlocks, and basic metal vehicle keys. Convenient for most daily needs!
Where Can I Find MinuteKey Kiosks Near Me?
As of 2022, Walmart has over 2,500 store locations across the United States equipped with MinuteKey key copying kiosks. But availability varies by region, so not every Walmart has a self-service key machine yet.
Luckily, MinuteKey provides an easy store locator on their website where you can instantly check for kiosk availability near you.
Just enter your ZIP code or city and state, and the locator will display the closest Walmart stores with MinuteKey kiosks along with the address and distance from you.
Here‘s a look at how many Walmart stores offer MinuteKey machines in some example states:
| State | MinuteKey Locations |
|---|---|
| Texas | 178 |
| Florida | 159 |
| California | 155 |
| Ohio | 87 |
| Illinois | 71 |
| New York | 60 |
Data source: MinuteKey store locator tool
Calling ahead to your nearest Walmart location and speaking to customer service is also a wise idea before heading over. They can confirm the MinuteKey kiosk is present and operational in that particular store.
The key copying machines are typically located in the lock and key supply section of Walmart stores for easy access when you need key blanks and duplication services. Signage helps point the way towards the self-service kiosks once inside the store.
Step-by-Step Guide to Copying Keys at Walmart
Making extra copies of your keys at a Walmart MinuteKey kiosk takes less than 5 minutes start to finish. The user-friendly touch screens guide you through the straightforward process:
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Purchase your desired key blank(s) – Match your original key to the blank types available in the keys section of the store. Make sure to buy the correct blank for the key needing duplication.
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Locate the MinuteKey kiosk – Find the self-service key copying machine, typically nearby the displayed key blanks. Look for the blue MinuteKey logo.
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Insert original key – When prompted on screen, place your existing key into the scanning slot. This allows the machine to laser image the key‘s shape.
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Select number of copies – Choose how many duplicates you need of the original key (up to 5 copies).
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Pick fun key design (optional) – Personalize keys by selecting a pattern like floral, animal print, sports team logo, etc. Or leave the copy blank if preferred.
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Pay with credit/debit card – Insert your payment card into the kiosk slot as instructed. Keys cost the base price of the blank, typically $2-$6 each.
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Retrieve duplicated key(s) – In around 60 seconds the copied key(s) will be dispensed through the output slot. Test duplicates with original to ensure proper functioning.
And that‘s it – you now have spare keys made with no technicians required! The MinuteKey kiosks make self-service key duplication fast and hassle-free.
The Pros of Using Walmart‘s Key Cutting Machines
There are many benefits that make Walmart‘s MinuteKey kiosks a top choice for convenient, inexpensive key copying:
Convenience – With over 2,500 kiosk locations across 50 states, you‘re never far from quick, automated key duplication 24/7. No waiting for shops to open.
Speed – The high-tech machines produce duplicate keys in just 1 minute once your original is scanned. Much faster than manual duplication.
Affordability – Keys cost only $2-$6 on average. Significant savings over local locksmiths who charge $5+ per key just for service fees.
No Appointments – You can walk right up and use the self-service kiosks anytime without scheduling or waiting around.
Key Customization – Choose fun designs like animal prints, sports logos, or patterns to personalize and easily identify your keys.
User-Friendly – The touchscreen guides you through the intuitive copying process step-by-step. Easy for anyone to operate.
Assistance Available – Walmart staff nearby can answer questions or provide hands-on guidance if needed at the kiosks.
For fast, inexpensive access whenever you need extra keys made, it‘s hard to beat the convenience and value of Walmart‘s MinuteKey duplication machines.
Limitations to Note
While the MinuteKey kiosks offer many perks for key cutting needs, there are some restrictions to be aware of:
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Availability varies by location – be sure to check online locator or call ahead to confirm your local store has a kiosk
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Keys marked "Do Not Duplicate" cannot be copied for legal reasons
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High-security keys, like for government buildings, will be rejected for duplication to maintain safety
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Keys with electronic chips or programming, like modern car keys, typically can‘t be duplicated accurately at the machines
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Payment is by credit/debit card only – Walmart does not accept cash at the MinuteKey kiosks
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Maximum 5 copies allowed per original key as a security measure
As long as your keys aren‘t highly specialized, restricted, or programmed electronically, the MinuteKey machines can accurately duplicate them in about a minute at 2,500+ Walmart locations. Just know the limitations before heading in store.
Expert Tips for Using MinuteKey Kiosks
To ensure the quickest, smoothest experience using Walmart‘s self-service key duplicators, keep these expert tips in mind:
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Call ahead to confirm your local Walmart has an active MinuteKey kiosk before going
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Avoid visiting during peak hours when kiosk lines may be long
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Know the proper key blank you need before purchasing – match your original key type exactly
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Carry spare change in case key blank prices exceed whole dollar amounts
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Bring your own verified key blanks to potentially save money over Walmart‘s in-store stock
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Keep copies separate from original keys for easy organization and identification
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Test duplicated keys immediately to verify proper functioning before leaving the store
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Take a photo of any ornamental/specialty keys in case blanks can‘t be found in-store
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Ask a Walmart associate for help if unsure about using the MinuteKey machine
Following these tips will make for the quickest, most efficient experience getting keys copied at the MinuteKey kiosks. Take advantage of the convenience and savings over local locksmiths!
Alternatives for Key Duplication Without Walmart
Not every area has a Walmart with a MinuteKey kiosk yet. If there‘s not one near you, here are some alternative options for key copying services:
Home Depot – Most Home Depot locations have key kiosks similar to Walmart‘s MinuteKey. Pricing is comparable, typically $3-$5 per key.
Lowe‘s – Lowe‘s also offers in-store self-service key machines at many stores with prices averaging $2-$6 per copy.
Ace Hardware – Most Ace Hardware stores provide duplicate key services for around $3-$5 per key. Call ahead to confirm availability.
UPS Store – In addition to shipping, UPS Store locations offer key cutting starting at around $3 per key. Some have self-service kiosks.
Online Key Duplication – Services like EasyKeys.com and KeyMe.com let you order key copies by mailing in originals or using smartphone image capture.
Locksmith Shops – Brick-and-mortar locksmiths can cut keys on the spot but typically charge higher prices starting around $5 per key just for service.
Hardware Stores – Chains like True Value, Do it Best, and Farm & Fleet also offer retail key cutting machines in many locations.
So if Walmart isn‘t convenient, look to major home improvement chains, UPS Stores, online duplication services, local locksmiths or hardware shops to get keys copied affordably.
Key Takeaways on Walmart‘s MinuteKey Duplication
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Walmart provides quick, inexpensive key copying at over 2,500 MinuteKey kiosk locations nationwide
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The automated machines duplicate keys in about 1 minute for an average price of $2-$6 per key
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Basic home/office keys can be copied – restrictions apply to high-security and electronic keys
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Use MinuteKey‘s website to search for kiosk locations near you by ZIP code or city/state
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Friendly touchscreens walk you through the simple copying process in a few easy steps
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Pay by credit/debit card at the kiosk – cash not accepted for MinuteKey service
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Key benefits include convenience, speed, affordability, no wait times, and customized designs
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Limitations include variable location availability, tech key restrictions, card-only payment
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For fast, inexpensive duplicates, Walmart‘s MinuteKey kiosks offer an excellent self-service solution
So next time you‘re in need of spare keys made, turn to the convenient MinuteKey automated machines at your local Walmart. Just confirm kiosk availability first and avoid any restricted specialty keys for fast, affordable copies anytime!
