Best Smart Locks

Smart locks are the way to protect your property in the present and future. Since you have been searching for the best smart lock, you must be aware of the disadvantages of lock-and-key door locks. Not only do smart locks utilize different ways of locking your property, but they also have features that make home protection nifty.

We suggest that you must upgrade your traditional door locks to smart locks. In this article, you will find a comprehensive buyer’s guide so that you know what to look for in smart locks. You will also find 16 product reviews in this article. You can choose the product that suits your needs from the review list.

If you rent your property thru Airbnb, here you’ll find a list of the most useful smart locks for Airbnb: https://www.bestof.info/best-door-locks-for-airbnb/

Reasons to buy a smart lock

Smart locks have been and will completely overtake traditional lock-and-key locks in the coming years. There are several reasons why you should get a smart lock for your house. Once you have a smart lock installed at your door, you will never have to fumble for keys or worry about duplicate keys to your home.

A smart lock creates a great first impression. With good looking smart locks such as the ones from August, there is no shortage of impressing that you will be able to do to your guests. These locks come with high-tech security. Since smart locks are connected through a mobile application, most of them allow you to view a log of all the locking and unlocking activities.

With a smart lock, you can forget about your home’s safety since you have total control over who enters and does not enter your house.

Smart locks also allow you to leave your house in a hurry and not worry about having left the door unlocked. Most smart locks come with an auto-lock function, which locks the door as soon as the lock comes in contact with the latch.

How to choose a good smart lock

Given below is a buying guide that lists the things that you should consider before buying the right smart lock for your house.

Wireless Connect Method

There are three wireless connectivity options available for smart locks – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Z Wave home security system. Wi-Fi and Z Wave home security mostly allow the lock to connect to voice assistants such as Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa. However, Bluetooth doesn’t. However, all wireless connectivity options come with mobile apps that allow the lock to have functionality.

Unlocking Method

Most smart locks have at least three unlocking mechanisms. However, some can go up to 5 methods of unlocking the door. The smart lock you buy must-have features and facilities to unlock the door even when you have lost access to one. Standard unlocking methods include fingerprint scanning, ID card scanning, manual key, smartphone app unlocking, and passcode entry.

Various Security Features

Even though smart locks are supposed to be of high-security value, not all of them have the optimum security features. Some additional security features that should be included in smart locks are auto-lock, low battery indicators, anti-burglar alarms, anti-pry passcode entry, smudge-free fingerprint entry, and manual hard-resets.

Installation Process

While all products you buy should be easy to install, that is especially the case with home security smart locks. Smart locks should be easy to install so that you do not have to involve a third person in the installation process. This ensures complete safety and privacy of the locking system. If the lock you are considering has a Snap ‘n Stay technology, there is nothing better than you can ask for. These locks are the easiest to install.

Our Favorite Smart Locks

Given below is a list of our favorite smart locks that are ideal for protecting your property. Since each smart lock in this list serves a different purpose, you can choose the product that best suits your needs from this list. So, without further ado, let us get acquainted with the best smart locks.

1.  Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock

The Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is one of our favorites because of the fact that it has a built-in Wi-Fi system that allows for easy locking and unlocking from anywhere. Since Alexa can operate this lo, there is very little that can go wrong while checking the status of your lock.

A great thing about this smart lock is that you can give access to trusted friends and family through the Schlage Home app. This is a huge step forward from the fingerprint operated locks that could only be opened by 2-3 people and needed them to be physically present to do the same.

The said app can generate about 100 access codes for 100 different trusted people. The transparency and permanency of these access codes also vary, and the controls are totally in your hands.

With the help of Alexa, even children can operate this lock and get to know about the status of the lock. Since this lock runs on batteries, Alexa can also place automatic battery reorders when it senses that the lock might run out of power. Other than that, the lock itself has an in-built low battery indicator so that you never pass a day without security.

This lock gives the user the option to either control the lock by voice command or by the fingerprint sensor. The touch screen does not smudge when too many fingers are placed on it, which is a definite pro.

This smart lock has an in-built security system that senses potential break-ins and alerts you of the same. You get all of these features in an easy-to-install Snap ‘n Stay technology, which helps to install the lock without external interference.

Advantages

• Alexa voice control
• Built-in Wi-Fi that enables quick locking and unlocking from anywhere
• Voice control option
• Low battery indicator
• Snap ‘n Stay technology for easy and no-interference installation.

2. Schlage Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt with Built-In Alarm Lock

This smart lock is another powerful product from Schlage. While the features of both the deadbolts are similar, there are some ways in which one is different from another. Let us have a look at those differences and the features of this particular smart lock.

Just like the previous deadbolt, this one is also compatible with Alexa. It requires an Alexa hub for premium voice control facilities. This lock features the Z wave technology. This enables the lock to be accessed from anywhere through your smartphone or the Internet. Remote access to the door allows for more convenient usage and will let you not give access to multiple people.

The lock does allow for multiple people to have access to your property, though. It can remember up to 30 access codes that allow for at least different family members and frequent visitors to be able to lock or unlock the door at ease.

A great feature of this product is its advanced alarm system. Not only does it alert you if it senses forced entry, but it sends you alerts every time the door is locked or unlocked. This smart lock comes with three alert modes – activity, tamper, and forced entry.

The matte finish of the deadbolt allows for the product to be fingerprint-proof. Therefore, you do not have to worry about smudging or fingerprint theft once you install this lock.

Advantages

• Can generate an optimum number of access codes
• Voice-control and Alexa compatibility
• BHMA/ANSI Grade 1 security certification
• Z Wave technology allows remote access.
• Three alarm alerts for varying levels of seriousness

3. Prodigy SmartLock MaxSecure Interconnect Commercial Grade Lock

Prodigy is a security company that is known for its smart and stylish security products. As with all of the company’s other products, the Prodigy SmartLock is a home security smart lock that is heavy-duty on security features but does not lack in style.

The home-friendly sophisticated design comes with great security features such as fingerprint resistance, anti-pry passcode entry and protection, and illuminated touchpads. While buying this smart lock, you get a variety of finishing options to choose from. You can get a polished brass, a matte black, or a stainless-steel lock, according to your aesthetic requirement.

This smart lock has the capability of enduring about six times more usage than most residential smart locks are tested for. The battery of the lock is also guaranteed to work correctly for at least one year. With the smart access technology and the hyper-tough integrated hardware, there is nothing that can be gone wrong with this lock.

This lock is compatible with RFID cards, stickers, or key tabs and can produce access codes. This allows you to have keyless freedom in your life without worrying about how other trusted people will enter your property. However, the lock does allow for a mechanical key override in time of need.

Advantages

• High endurance
• Durable hardware
• ·Anti-pry pin code entry
• Versatile entry options
• Stylish

4. ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock, 6-in-1 Keyless Entry Door Lock

Most users want a versatile lock for their residence. If you are one of them, this is the right choice for you. Just like other smart locks, this one can also be remotely operated from a smartphone app that lets you generate either permanent or time-based codes. It has also been tested well for voice command control, and it works like a charm.

This smart lock comes with a 350^o capacitive fingerprint sensor surrounded by an LED light that turns red or green according to the code’s correctness entered. Another great thing is the USB port option at the escutcheon’s bottom, which allows the lock to work even if the battery runs out. 

This is easy to install a smart lock that not only looks great but has excellent performance value. The U-Bolt Pro app allows for several customization options, while the Alexa voice control saves a lot of time in code installation.

The Bluetooth and Wi-Fi specks and the Alexa, IFTTT, and Google Assistant compatibility, make this one of the easiest to use and versatile smart locks.

Advantages

• Several third-party apps support
• Comes with a Wi-Fi bridge
• Easy to install
• Fingerprint, key, keypad, voice, and automatic unlocking
• Beautiful design

5. Schlage BE479AA V CAM 619 Smart Deadlock

Here is another smart lock that proves the testimony of Schlage’s power, a great home security products company. This Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt is a great way to make your routine more convenient than ever. This lock can be paired to your smartphone via Bluetooth, which opens many avenues.

This deadbolt allows Schlage Sense App access; you can trust access codes to several trusted friends and family. You do not even have to worry about the codes’ permanency since they can be changed anytime under your control.

The typical battery life of this smart lock is about a year. This smart lock comes with a low battery indicator for your convenience, which reminds you a few weeks before the battery needs to be changed.

Another great thing about this smart lock is that it can be updated from the app. This means you might find an update on the app whenever you feel your lock lacks some new feature. This saves you a lot of money in new lock installation.

Since Alexa can control this smart lock, you do not have to worry about being somewhere without knowing your door’s lock status.

Advantages

• Remote access
• Multiple access code generation
• Alexa Voice control
• Low battery indicator
• Heavy-duty construction

6. August Smart Lock and Wi-Fi Connect Bridge

If you want to upgrade your lock system but do not want to completely change it or want a smart security solution while not ditching the good old lock-and-key, this is the pick for you.

The August Smart Lock and Wi-Fi Connect Bridge is a smart lock accessory device installed over your previous lock. This can be done from inside of the door within 10 minutes with the minimum tools required.

The August App lets you have certain perks that are exclusive to August locks. It helps you keep track of the people who have come and gone through the protected door. The Door Sense feature also lets you check whether the door has been shut or left open.

You can set up a biometric or facial recognition system into the lock. While the lock can unlocking to the touch, you can also set up a passcode for extra security. This feature also allows you to give access to multiple people.

Like almost all other smart locks on this list, this deadlock also has Alexa compatibility. The metal construction with a satin finish makes this deadbolt easy on the eyes and heavy on functioning.

Advantages

• Installed easily over an existing deadbolt
• Versatile usage
• Customizability through the August App
• Door Sense increases security

Disadvantages

• The August App control is only 1-2 feet of distance compatible.

7. SMONET Keyless Entry Door Lock with Keypads

Just like Schlage, SMONET is another high-end security company. With a SMONET smart lock protecting your house, you should not worry about any kind of security lag.

This smart lock is excellent for hotels, apartments, or Airbnb since it is secure but has many granting access ways. You could use eKeys, Wi-Fi connection, passcode, or even your smartphone to control this smart lock.

To allow guest entry, you can generate custom codes that are only available for a given time. This smart lock has remote functionality that does not waver from any distance. You could even use a key to unlock this lock.

Another great thing about this lock is that it will automatically lock itself if you accidentally leave the door opened. The security is also so prominent that if someone puts it the wrong passcode five times, the lock will have to be manually opened with the reset key.

Since this deadbolt supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, you can connect it to Alexa to enable voice control. This connectivity can also create a security environment that connects all your deadbolts.

To maximize the security with this lock, it comes with an anti-peep passcode system that allows you to be comfortable putting in the passcode even when people are looking. Along with all these perks, this lock is waterproof and weather-resistant to allow for durable usage.

Advantages

• Anti-peep passcode entry
• Versatile access
• Voice-control
• Auto-lock security system
• Weather-resistant

8. Smart Lock Work with Alexa for Home Security

As mentioned previously, SMONET is a very well trusted brand, and here is another powerful product by the company. This smart lock has a memory system that lets you see logs of mistaken code inputs along with the number of times the door was locked and unlocked throughout the day.

Like the previous deadbolt, this deadbolt will lock itself if a wrong passcode is entered five times in a row. This, paired with the auto-lock function, allows the user to be away from home in a stress-free mood. 

The Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity of this smart lock allows for connectivity with smartwatches and voice control devices. This can also help you keep track of all the permanent or timed codes that you generate for either guests, housekeepers, friends, or other trusted people.

Due to the anti-fingerprint smudge touch surface and the anti-peep technology integrated, you do not have to worry about others stealing your password. You can enter random numbers as long as the passcode is included in them. This will allow you to give away the exact passcode to someone who might be looking.

You do not even have to worry about forgetting to change the batteries of this product. This is because the lock will always remind you when the batteries are running low through the smart reminder on the lock’s app.

Advantages

• Smart reminder
• Anti-theft passcode entry
• Auto-lock
• Hard lock system after five wrong passcode entries

9. August 4th Gen Wi-Fi Smart Lock

The retrofit design of the August 4^th Gen smart lock makes it easy to install over any existing deadbolt. Although all generations of August smart locks have been the best in their segment, this 4^th gen smart lock makes everything easier for the average user.

It is a definite update from the previous model. It includes Apple HomeKit compatibility along with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT connectivity. This smart lock’s smoother mechanics helps in a more fabulous user experience, and the updated app is very well integrated.

Most smart locks are not pleasing to look at because they have to include a colossal battery and other hardware. However, this smart lock looks great and is slimmer and 45% smaller than most smart locks.

The company August has integrated a geofencing auto-lock and auto-unlock system. This feature does because if you are about 200 meters in the vicinity of the lock and your connected smartphone, the door will unlock itself. Similarly, the door will lock itself if you are not nearby. This premium feature can be turned on or off through the smartphone app.

The battery notification helps the users keep the full lock-in power to lose connectivity and security. However, in case you lose batteries, you can still use this lock with its physical keys.

Advantages

• Easy on the eyes
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Smooth Mechanics
• Compatible with all smart home environments
• Geofencing locking and unlocking

Disadvantages

• Battery life is low, and the mobile app might show early false notifications of low battery.

10. ULTRALOQ UL3 Smart Lock

The company claims that this is the world’s first smart lock that allows 5-in-1 entry. The entry options include advanced fingerprint identification, passcode, smartphone configuration, manual key, and knock to open.

The lock allows you to connect to the ULTRALOQ app that easily lets you view lock and unlock logs. Since the lock also comes with an OLED display, it is easily customizable and is intuitive.

This smart lock is weatherproof and comes with a reversible handle, which is covered with satin nickel. The battery life of this lock is about 18 months, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Advantages

• 5-in-1 entry system
• Weatherproof
• Intuitive OLED screen
• Easy installation

11. SMONET Electronic Smart Lock for Home, Office, Apartment

This is another smart lock that has a 5-in-1 entry functionality. This smart lock also features the auto-lock system that will hard lock the door if the wrong passcode is entered three times in a row. Since there are many other ways to open this lock, you do not have to fret about losing the IC card or forgetting the passcode.

Since this lock’s auto-lock function also locks the door within 5 minutes of coming in contact with the lack, it is excellent for a household with children. If your children’s friends come over, you do not have to worry about them not locking the door since this smart lock will do it for them.

You can generate 100 timed or permanent passcodes and configuring 100 fingerprints that will allow easy access to all trusted people of the household. Your guests do not have to wait for you to unlock the door now.

Since the app is also capable of generation eKeys, you do not have to worry about them resharing the passcode. You do not have to remember to manually change or remove all the shared passcodes since the eKeys are usable only once.

Advantages

• Easy to Install
• eKeys generation
• Auto-lock system
• 5-in-1 entry options
• Anti-theft fingerprint pad

12. Kwikset Traditional Smart Lock

Even though the name of this smart lock says traditional, there is nothing traditional about it. It is a smart lock that has functions at par with all other smart locks in this list. The only traditional thing about this lock is the way it looks, which might be preferred by some but hated by others.

This smart lock allows Alexa compatibility; however, you will have to get a hub to use the voice control features of this lock. This lock has completed 128-bit encryption, which is very hard to hack.

Since the lock powers the Z wave smart home system, it can be locked and unlocked from anywhere using only your smartphone. For the user’s peace of mind, the door will automatically lock itself within 30 seconds of contact with the latch. The SecureScreen patented technology of one-touch locking is another great feature that helps you feel secure even in a hurry.

This smart lock also comes with SmartKey security that works as an anti-theft device. It uses advanced anti-break-in techniques that let you re-key the lock in case of emergency or theft. It identifies break-in by negating the 30 passcodes that are permissible to be generated through the mobile app. Any wrong passcode input after this will be notified to you through the app.

The installation of this lock is a little complicated than any traditional lock. This is because of the electronic and digital setup that follows the fixing of the lock. However, with a little bit of patience, it is achievable easily.

Advantages

• SmartKey security
• SmartScreen technology
• Auto-shut
• Voice control compatibility
• The app can generate up to 30 passcodes.

Disadvantages

• The look of the lock is subject to personal opinion.

13. SMONET Bluetooth Keyless Entry Smart Deadbolt for Homes and Hotel

There is no doubt that SMONET is one of the most trusted and powerful companies that make smart door locks. The varied products from the company on this list pay testimony to the reliability of the company. This product, too, is a powerful one that works great for residential purposes.

It has an extremely quick fingerprint recognition facility. It catches fingerprints within 0.5 seconds and can unlock the door within a second of your arrival at the doorstep. Therefore, it is much quicker to unlock than fumbling for your keys or entering a passcode.

With the lock’s mobile app’s help, you can check a log of all the entries and exits through the door. In case you are expected guests, you can also generate one-time or partial times passcodes to share with them. With the help of these passcodes, your guests can enter the house themselves, without you having to be available again and again.

This lock is made from high-quality Zinc Alloy that is durable and shock-proof. It can not be easily broken or hacked for forced entry. The battery life is of about six months, and the app will remind you to change the battery when it starts to drain off.

This smart lock also features the auto-shut function, which will allow the lock to be opened only manually by the key of the wrong passcode is entered five times in a row.

Advantages

• Auto-lock system
• Zinc alloy construction
• Quick fingerprint centric unlocking system
• Fingerprint-resistant touch panel
• IPX5 waterproof built

Disadvantages

• Low battery life

14. Yale Assure Lock Touchscreen, Wi-Fi Smart Lock

Just like other smart locks on this list, the Yale Assure touchscreen smart lock allows you to access your home without having to carry a lot of keys. It is a quick and hassle-free way of managing home security. This lock does not require you to have any additional hub for connectivity since it is a standalone unit.

The Yale Assure app allows you to look into the login details and logs of the door that the lock is placed on. It also helps you generate one-time passwords or other customizable timed passwords to allow access to multiple, trusted people.

If your phone is connected to the lock and you are in the vicinity of the said lock, it will open automatically for you. However, if you do not have your phone handy, you can use the keypad to unlock or lock the door.

With smart home environments such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, you can control the lock with your voice. You can also check the status of the lock with the help of these applications. Most of these home environments will also let you know whenever the battery is running too low so that you can replace it on time.

If you enable the auto-relock function from the app, you do not have to worry about leaving the door unlocked. This feature ensures that the door will always lock behind you. You can also set up a biometric configuration for this lock. The best part about this entire system is that it can be easily installed over any deadbolt slot.

Advantages

• Auto-relock feature
• Auto-unlock when you are near the door
• Built-in wi-fi connectivity
• Voice command with several smart home environments
• No external hubs required for set up
• Easily installable on ant deadbolt slot

15. Schlage BE469ZP CAM 716 Connect Smart Deadbolt

We have lost count of the number of Schlage smart locks that are featured in this list. This is proof of how reliable and high-performance the products of this company are. The Schlage BE469ZP CAM 716 Connect Smart Deadbolt is similar to its competitors but has some features that set it apart.

This lock comes in 5 color options, all of which are equally powerful. This locking system is supported by the Z wave smart home security system that allows for easy locking and unlocking from anywhere under the sun as long as your mobile is connected to the lock.

The Z wave system also allows the lock to be connected to Alexa, making it easy to be controlled with voice. It can also be connected with other environments such as Ring Alarm and Samsung Smart Things. The mobile application allows for 30 access codes to be generated and shared with trusted people.

The unique Snap ‘n Stay technology makes it very easy to install. It can be put into place by anyone within minutes with only a screwdriver. When your batteries run low, you can easily replace them due to the quick accessibility of the battery compartment. The alarm features a low battery alarm to notify you when it is time to change the batteries.

This lock also features built-in alarms. They will notify you if the lock senses any forced entry.

Advantages

• Z wave home security system compatibility
• Voice control compatibility
• Low battery indication alarm
• Easy to install
• Anti-burglary alarm

16. Eufy Security Smart Lock

Last but not least, on our list of the best smart lock is the Eufy Security Smart Lock. The reason why this lock is last on the list is that it does not support Wi-Fi. However, apart from that, it is a very powerful lock at par with the rest of this list.

The Eufy Security Smart Lock is one of the fastest fingerprint sensor door locks. It can identify fingerprints within 0.3 seconds of contact and open the door in less than a second. Even though the lock can not be remotely controlled, it can be unlocked in 4 ways – manual key, Eufy security app, electronic keypad, or fingerprint.

Just like most other good locks on the list, this smart lock also has an auto-lock system. It can identify when the door has been closed and will lock itself immediately. Therefore, you do not have to worry about leaving your house unlocked, even when you are in a hurry.

This smart lock is weather-resistant with an IP rating of 65. For maximum security, it is BHMA certified. Another great security feature is that the lock does not share your fingerprint data with the cloud. It stores your access code and your fingerprint information locally.

Advantages

• Ultra-quick fingerprint sensor
• Auto-lock system
• IP 65 rating
• BHMA certification

Disadvantages

• Does not support Wi-Fi connectivity
• Does not support voice control

Frequently Asked Questions

Given below are answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding smart locks. You might be able to have a better understanding of smart locks once you go through these questions.

How do Smart Locks Work?

Most smart locks are connected to the Internet through your Wi-Fi system. This allows the lock to be connected to your smartphone to allow identification. Connectivity to the Internet also will enable locks to store various access codes. If your smart lock is not Internet-powered, it can scan a fingerprint or allow passcode entry, which acts as a  non-physical key.

Are Smart Locks Safer than Regular Locks?

Yes, smart locks are more secure than regular locks. Not only can no layman duplicate the passcodes that can be used to unlock smart locks, but the log data allows the user to see if some unusual activity has taken place. Smart locks are safer because they include anti-burglar alarms that will warn the user if someone is trying to enter their property by force.

Can Smart Locks Be Hacked?

Yes, smart locks can be hacked. However, if you buy a lock from a reliable company, you will receive a so well encrypted lock that only expert hackers will be able to get past it. If you want to negate the possibility of hacking, you can remove the Wi-Fi connectivity from the smart lock. This will make it go off the radar but still be unlocked with a fingerprint, passcode, or id card.

Do Smart Locks Require Electrical Connections?

No, smart locks are standalone units. They work with the help of batteries that are put into them. These batteries generally need to be changed on an annual basis. Smart locks’ wireless existence makes it easy to be installed and allows them to work even if your house has a power cut. In case your battery drains, some locks can be connected to wires, though.

Is it Safe to Assign Custom Codes to My Friends?

If you trust your friends, yes. However, instead of times codes, if your lock supports eKeys, they are better. This is because eKeys can only be used once. Therefore, you do not risk them sharing the passcode with someone else, or you forget to manually delete the passcode information.

Endnotes

Smart locks are the future of home security systems. Adding smart locks allow you to go about key-free, and most of them have extra security features that come in handy in tricky situations.

There is a huge variety of smart locks to choose from to ensure your house’s safety. You must always choose locks from reliable companies for optimum safety and use the safety features mindfully.