Best Smart Locks (Updated 2021)

As the twenty-first century rolls on, more and more items in our homes are transitioning to the “smart” versions of themselves. We’ve got smart hubs for turning on and off lights, smart thermostats for adjusting the temperature, smart security cameras to ward off intruders— the list goes on and on. It’s no wonder that smart locks have been added to this ever-growing list. As long as there have been doors with keyholes, there have been humans to lose those keys— and locksmiths to make a fortune from letting them back into their own homes. Smart locks circumvent this problem, allowing users to set up keypad, fingerprint, or even Bluetooth entry. They may not render keys obsolete, but they certainly render getting into your home a heck of a lot easier. Whether you’re looking for a premium smart lock or just a basic old keypad— read on for our picks for the top ten best smart locks. Take your personal preferences into consideration as you read through the pros & cons of each product. Once you reach the end of this guide, you’ll be able to pick one of the best smart locks! From the forgetful to the unlucky, smart locks are a great solution for all homeowners that want to cut the hassle of lost keys and craft an easier way to get in and out of their homes without trouble. They also provide a great solution for homeowners who host a variety of guests and need to be able to let strangers in without worrying about collecting their keys when their stay is up. But with today’s ever-expanding market of gimmicky “smart products,” it can be tricky to figure out where to start and to clarify what you actually need from what sounds oh-so-exciting on paper. Sure, fingerprint enabled locks may make you feel like you’re Bruce Wayne living off in his bat cave, but if you’ve got guests coming around every other day, you’re probably going to want an option with a little more versatility. If you’re sure to clarify what your needs are early on, it’ll be easier to determine what the most successful smart lock for your home might look like.

Also, some users have reported issues with the feature, saying that it’s a bit finicky and doesn’t work every time.

The AKASO runs off 1 AA battery, making it easy to replace but also meaning that it won’t be able to run for all that long before you’ll need to grab a new one. Luckily it does come with a 9v backup battery, so if you miss the signal to replace it, you’ll have a buffer period before you get locked out. Overall, it’s a sleek, cheap alternative to some pricier options, albeit with some minor bugs.

Compared to other smart locks, the Yale Smart Lock offers minimal app support. It’s definitely intended to be synchronized with a pre-existing home security system rather than used as its own independent entity. This gives it some handy features— for example, linking it to the SmartThings (Samsung) line allows you to set up contactless locking and unlocking, where the lock activates and deactivates depending on whether or not you’re within WiFi range— but it also means that there’s no independent Yale app that you can sync the smart lock up to. Still, if you’re happy with the system that you’ve got and just want to add a keypad to the mix, the Yale is a solid selection.

The smart lock syncs with a Bluetooth app that can be controlled with either an Android or IOS device. It can also be set up within a Nest smart home system, though it’s not Alexa compatible unless you purchase an additional WiFi gateway. Some users have reported issues with seizing and jamming for this particular model and its deadbolt features, but the majority of users seem to have no issue with either the deadbolt or its installation, which should be fairly straightforward. It may not be as feature-heavy as other models, but it’s a great starter smart lock for first-time homeowners.

The smart lock has a slightly more intensive installation than other locks since it’s directly connected to the door’s deadbolt but should be easy enough with some finagling. It also comes with a twelve-month warranty from the manufacturer, so if you run into issues, you should be able to get replacement parts without too much difficulty. In terms of smart features, the Hornbill has an app that syncs with the lock via Bluetooth, allowing you to keep track of who has been coming and going and make adjustments to the lock’s general setting. Unfortunately, an additional WiFI gateway is required to sync with a smart home, but if you’re just looking for a straightforward smart lock with minimal software, that shouldn’t be much of an issue.

The Kwikset 888 uses four double AA batteries which come with the device, saving you a trip to the hardware store. It can also be re-keyed to your current house key without you having to buy a new one, which is an especially handy feature if you have a large household and don’t want to have to replace everyone’s keys. It also comes with Z-Wave’s latest 500 Series chipset, a handy piece of hardware that gives the smart lock increased battery life along with an extended wireless range— though it requires the purchase of a hub to work with various smart home items.

Once you set up a custom passcode, the Kwikset can synchronize with Alexa and set up voice controls which can be used to activate and deactivate the locking mechanism. The smart lock can also be controlled through the custom Kwikset app, which allows users to monitor their homes and perform simple tasks, like setting up custom user codes and checking in on entry and exit logs. Note that even if you have other Kwikset devices, you’ll still need to download a separate app for this device specifically since Kwikset has yet to create a blanket app for all of its devices. Despite all the app synchronization, the Kwikset Halo doesn’t allow for geo-fencing, or the ability to set up automatic locking once you and your phone are a certain distance away from home. But for most other standard smart lock functions, the app works just fine.

When it comes to supporting software, ULOQ has one of the best-designed apps on this list. It’s got a built-in calendar log, plus the ability to distribute e-keys to visitors, making it easy for them to let themselves in without having to worry about long, complicated passcodes, an especially convenient feature for homeowners that offer short-term sublets, like Airbnb. It’s also outfitted with a Bluetooth feature that lets you enter and exit with just your phone without having to enter a passcode or use your fingerprint. All around, the U-Bolt Pro is a great, premium solution for users that prioritize convenience.

You can also choose if you want a matte style that’ll be sleeker or a more oily-looking style that’ll be flashier but less likely to attract fingerprints. Whichever option you choose, it should be able to be installed on any door that’s under two inches and larger than one 3/8th inch— the enclosed adjustable latch should be able to fasten the lock without issue.

Instead of connecting to your home’s power source, the AmazonBasics Lock runs off of four AA batteries, so you don’t have to worry about resetting it if you’re on a block that has to deal with power outages. Plus, if the battery is running low or you happen to forget your code, the lock comes with two keys that users can carry with them as backups. It’s a great, practical option for anyone looking to transition to the world of smart locks.

As keyless locks go, it’s probably one of the most aesthetically pleasing options on the market— slim, sleek, and easy to maneuver without the raised keys of some other keypads. It also has a backlight that users can trigger that makes it easy to maneuver.

In terms of power source, the lock runs on four AA batteries. If they’re running low, it’ll trigger an alarm system, and the lock will beep until you replace them. If you aren’t able to replace them in time, instead of locking you out, the lock will allow you to temporarily draw power from a 9-volt battery that can be attached to the bottom of the lock, keeping you from having to call a locksmith or climb in through a window.

The Schlage Encode is a smart home compatible with either an Alexa or a Google Assistant device. Once you’ve synced the lock with your smart home, you can set up voice controls to enable or disable the lock. It can also be paired with either the Schlage app or the Amazon app so it can be controlled even when you’re not in or near your home. You can also put it on an auto-lock setting and set it up to automatically lock once someone has exited your home and a predetermined time span has passed. The app sets up intervals of 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes or 4 minutes, depending on what your personal preference may be. While the app setup is convenient, having multiple apps can make it difficult to figure out what functions you’re meant to set up on which app. Still, if you’re looking for a basic setup, classic design, and settings you can manage away from home, the Schlage is a great start.

Key And Ekeys

The two most practical distinctions to consider are the importance of keys and Ekeys. While most smart locks can be used key-lessly, many of them provide a keyed option, just in case. When you’re making your purchase, consider how much you value having a backup, and how difficult it would or wouldn’t be to get into your home if the keypad dies out. If you’d like a backup but don’t want to deal with the hassle of carrying around a key, look for keypads that offer an external backup battery you can use for a quick recharge.

Ekeys won’t help you if your keypad dies, but they’re still an important, handy feature. Most common in smart locks that are app-enabled, Ekeys can allow you to permit guests into your home without worrying about changing the code before and after they leave. If you’re a frequent host or run an Airbnb, they can provide an easy, secure solution to letting folks come and go without compromising your home.

Aesthetics

Finally, it can be helpful to consider what you may want from an aesthetic standpoint. Some smart locks are made to blend in and copy the style of a traditional door latch, while others are meant to make your home look like you’re living in the latest Back to the Future installment. Consider what the rest of your house already looks like, and whether you want this keypad to stand out or to blend in. A standout keypad may deter potential intruders, but clash with your home’s exterior. Make a list of your priorities and try to evaluate based on a practical understanding of what you’ll actually value in a smart lock.

Now that you’ve reached the end of this guide, you can revisit our list of the best smart locks and find the perfect one for you!

FAQ

Q: Are Smart Locks Worth the Investment?

A smart lock is a worthy investment for homeowners who want to upgrade their home security systems. Unlike the traditional lock and key, users can leave their house keys behind and lock/unlock doors with a voice command or a mere tap of a finger. Smart locks also allow remote access, so you can let a guest in, while away. And with the integration of features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the locks have multiple intelligent features. For example, a smart lock can alert you when a guest is approaching the door and trigger other smart devices like the security system and lights.

Q: What are the Most Important Features to Look at When Buying a Smart Lock?

You’ll want a smart lock you can control remotely, e.g., via a mobile device. This is only possible if the smart lock has Android and iOS apps. Also, the intelligent lock should enable you to use multiple keyless entry options, including remote unlocking, voice commands, custom code numbers for guests who want to enter your home, and touch/ fingerprint recognition. You might also want to limit the number of times guests can access your home. As such, you should opt for a smart lock that allows you to set specific codes during particular days of the week.

Q: What are the Different Types of Smart Locks Available?

Knowing the types of smart locks available helps you identify the best for your needs. Most smart locks still have a physical key option in case of technical problems or battery failure. The most common types are:

Bluetooth smart locks: This kind relies on Bluetooth and has multiple locking features. For example, it can sense when you’re within a specific distance and unlock the door automatically

Wi-Fi connected smart lock: Smart locks with Wi-Fi capability have more features. For example, you can track stats of who is opening and closing the door, when, and you can lock/unlock the door from anywhere in the world

Biometric smart locks: This type is ideal for small businesses that want to keep their store or office secure. It ensures only authorized employees enter restricted areas

Keypad smart locks: They are the easiest to set up, and you can use various pin codes for different people accessing the house. This feature makes keypad smart locks perfect for landlords

RFID smart locks: This lock is often used in workplaces. It uses a card or a key fob to unlock doors, and you must press them against the RFID reader

Q: What is the Battery Life of a Smart Lock?

Most smart locks use a rechargeable lithium-ion cell or multiple AA alkaline batteries. The battery life often depends on the lock’s features and the manufacturer. Most companies rate the battery life in terms of the number of cycles (number of times the lock is locked and unlocked), and it can last three months to a year. Once the battery is depleted, you get an alert on the app prompting you to replace them. Most smart locks send alerts when they reach a 25 percent capacity, and if you don’t replace them, you may receive push notifications daily.

Q: Should You Buy an All-in-one Smart Lock or a System with Separate Devices?

The answer to this question depends on your preference. An all-in-one unit is simple to install as you only need a few minutes to set it up. However, the initial investment is relatively high compared to its counterpart. Smart locks with separate parts are also known as piecemeal systems. They are more affordable but eventually cost more to acquire an entire system, i.e., the smart lock, door cam, Wi-Fi bridge extender, keypad, and more.