Screen lock.. Pin vs password?

[Robert7107]

Looking to use screen lock for my note 3..
Which is better a pin or password?

How many tries are given on either and once the attempts have been used what security features go into effect? How is it reversed.... Example if child gets a hold of phone and tries to unlock it how do i get it unlocked after it has been lock out completely???

Not finding a lot of info about this ....

 

[NeoGrandizer]

Password is better as there are more variables (alphanumeric, symbols) to contend with compared to PIN which is strictly numerical. I believe you can reset your security settings through your GMail/Google account.

 

[Stuntman]

What exactly is your definition of better?

I prefer using the pattern lock. I find it faster and more convenient to unlock than using PIN or password.

 

[fdbryant3]

Well I suppose "better" is subjective but at least from a security perspective the password is best as it provides the most possibilities to someone trying to guess it. Depending on complexity it is also slower to enter and more prone to error.

Personally I use a PIN which I can enter as fast as pattern (in fact my PIN is formed from a pattern) but is more secure (no smear to be seen to give it away or worry about erasing) although still not as secure as a password. It is acceptable compromise to me.

I also use the app Safe Areas to disable the lock screen when connected to certain Wifi and bluetooth devices which minimizes my need to enter the PIN.

 

[humei]

I prefer to use pattern. I think it's faster than pin and password. I also use AppLock to protect certain apps. So sometimes I lock screen with slide.

 

[Hadron]

I can type a PIN faster than any but the simplest pattern, and less chance of a smear on the screen giving it away (I used a pattern for a few years, but switched last year). Password is more secure but a good one requires longer to input.

 

[Stuntman]

Do people who use pattern locks just unlock their phone and never touch it again? Whenever I unlock my phone, I actually use it quite a bit and found that my using the phone after I unlock it smears over any smear that resulted from unlocking the phone.