Lost my keys. Is it normal 4 a metal key to make engine crank?

What is your question?

I lost my keys 4 weeks ago. A locksmith told me it will cost almost $400 to get 2 new chip keys & reprogram the car. I just found a regular metal key without the chip & it cranks the engine but doesn't actually turn on. Even though the locksmith told me that a regular key can make the engine crank but won't turn it on. Some friends told me that if the car needs a chip it wouldn't even crank. Before I spend all that $ I want to know if it's normal 4 the engine 2 crank without the chip key & all I need is a boost. (since its been laying in cold weather for 4 weeks) Or is it normal to crank without chip & I definitely need a chip key to get this engine started?.