**Smart locks** are making a splash as people aim to **enhance home security** with neat gadgets. **These clever devices** allow door locking and unlocking via smartphone, key fob, or keypad, making homes safer and more convenient. **Traditional keys** lose their purpose, and you control who steps inside.
When it comes to choosing the best smart lock for your home, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure that the lock is compatible with your existing door and lock hardware. You also want to consider the type of connectivity that the lock offers, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave, and whether it requires a hub or other additional equipment.
Another important factor to consider is the level of security that the lock provides. Look for locks that use strong encryption and have been tested for resistance to hacking and tampering. You may also want to consider features like two-factor authentication or the ability to remotely monitor and control your lock.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing the best smart locks for home use. We evaluated each lock based on its compatibility, connectivity, security features, ease of installation, and overall value. Whether you’re looking for a basic smart lock or a more advanced model with additional features, we’ve got you covered.
Best Smart Locks for Home
We have researched and tested various smart locks available on the market to bring you the best options for securing your home. These locks offer convenience and added security, allowing you to control access to your home from your smartphone or other smart devices. Whether you’re looking for a simple keypad lock or a more advanced system with biometric authentication, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for the best smart locks for your home.
Aqara Smart Lock U100
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-tech smart lock, the Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a great option. It’s easy to install, and the multiple ways to unlock make it a versatile addition to your home security system.
Pros
- The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is fully integrated into Apple Home, making it easy to manage and share door access for guests.
- With up to 50 fingerprints stored, the high-precision fingerprint reader is a convenient and secure way to unlock your door.
- The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is compatible with third-party ecosystems like Google Home, Alexa, and IFTTT, making it easy to integrate into a wide range of smart home setups.
Cons
- The NFC card is not included and must be purchased separately.
- The auto-lock feature can be a bit finicky and may not always work as expected.
- The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is not compatible with all types of doors, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
We recently upgraded to the Aqara Smart Lock U100 and have been impressed with its performance. The installation was straightforward, and we were able to set up the lock in just a few minutes. We love the convenience of being able to unlock the door with our fingerprints, and the ability to manage door access for guests through Apple Home is a great feature.
One thing to keep in mind is that the NFC card is not included, so you’ll need to purchase it separately if you want to use that feature. Additionally, the auto-lock feature can be a bit finicky and may not always work as expected, so be sure to test it out before relying on it.
Overall, we highly recommend the Aqara Smart Lock U100 for anyone looking for a reliable, high-tech smart lock. Its compatibility with multiple smart home ecosystems and the convenience of being able to unlock the door with your fingerprint make it a great addition to any home security system.
eufy Smart Lock C220
If you’re looking for a smart lock that’s easy to install and use, the eufy Smart Lock C220 is a great option.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery life of up to 8 months
- Self-learning AI for precise fingerprint recognition
- Can be controlled from anywhere with built-in Wi-Fi
Cons
- May have difficulty reading fingerprints in cold weather
- Some users have experienced connectivity issues
- Does not work with all types of deadbolts
This smart lock is perfect for those who want a secure and convenient way to access their home. The long-lasting battery life means you won’t have to worry about changing batteries frequently, and the self-learning AI ensures that the lock becomes more accurate over time.
One of the best features of the eufy Smart Lock C220 is the ability to control it from anywhere with built-in Wi-Fi. This means you can lock and unlock your door remotely, and receive real-time notifications when someone enters or leaves your home.
However, some users have reported difficulty with fingerprint recognition in cold weather, so keep that in mind if you live in a colder climate. Additionally, some users have experienced connectivity issues with the lock, although this seems to be a rare occurrence.
Overall, the eufy Smart Lock C220 is a reliable and convenient smart lock that is easy to install and use.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
If you’re looking for a smart lock that is easy to install and use, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- Upgrade your existing deadbolt without changing the look of your front door
- Share access to your home with friends and family using the August app
- Auto-locks and unlocks for hands-free operation
Cons
- Batteries may need to be replaced frequently
- Wi-Fi connectivity can be spotty
- Keypad is sold separately
We recently installed the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) on our front door, and we were impressed with how easy it was to set up. The lock fits over our existing deadbolt, so we didn’t have to change the look of our front door. The installation process took only about 10 minutes, even for someone who is not so handy.
One of the best features of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the ability to share access with friends and family using the August app. We were able to quickly and easily grant virtual guest keys to our housekeeper and dog walker, so they could come and go as needed without us having to be there to let them in.
The auto-lock and unlock feature is also a great convenience. We no longer have to fumble with keys when we come home with our hands full of groceries. The lock is able to auto-unlock as we approach our front door for totally hands-free unlocking.
However, we did notice that the batteries may need to be replaced frequently. We also experienced some spotty Wi-Fi connectivity, which made it difficult to lock and unlock the door remotely at times. Additionally, the keypad is sold separately, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) for its ease of installation and use, as well as its convenient features like virtual guest keys and auto-lock and unlock.
eufy Security C210 WiFi Smart Lock
We highly recommend the eufy Security C210 WiFi Smart Lock for those looking for an easy-to-install, durable and secure smart lock for their home.
Pros
- Control your smart lock from anywhere via the eufy Security app
- 5 ways to unlock, including voice control with Alexa/Google Voice Assistant
- Easy installation and excellent customer service
Cons
- Cable routing may pinch the cable
- Limited to black color
- Batteries required
We recently upgraded our home security with the eufy Security C210 WiFi Smart Lock and were impressed with its features and performance. The built-in WiFi allows us to control the lock from anywhere using the eufy Security app, which also provides real-time notifications and event history. We appreciate the convenience of having 5 ways to unlock the door, including voice control with Alexa/Google Voice Assistant. The installation was a breeze, taking only 15 minutes without drilling, and their customer service is top-notch.
One minor downside is the cable routing, which may pinch the cable. Additionally, the lock is only available in black and requires batteries. Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the eufy Security C210 WiFi Smart Lock is a great investment for those looking for a reliable and secure smart lock for their home.
Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
We highly recommend the Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt for anyone looking for a reliable and secure smart lock for their home.
Pros
- The built-in Wi-Fi allows you to lock and unlock the door from anywhere, and you can set up guest access codes for recurring, temporary, or permanent access using the Schlage Home app or Key by Amazon app without any additional accessories required.
- The fingerprint-resistant, capacitive touchscreen is easy to use and allows you to create and manage up to 100 access codes for trusted friends and family.
- The built-in alarm technology senses potential security breaches at the lock, providing an additional layer of security for your home.
Cons
- The lock requires four AA batteries, which may need to be replaced more frequently with heavy use.
- The lock may be difficult to install for those without experience installing deadbolts.
- The Schlage Home app can be somewhat confusing to navigate at first.
We found the Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt to be a great addition to our home security system. The lock was easy to install and set up, and we were able to customize access codes for each member of our family and our trusted friends. The built-in alarm technology gave us peace of mind knowing that our home was secure, and the ability to lock and unlock the door from anywhere using the Schlage Home app was incredibly convenient. Overall, we highly recommend the Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt for anyone looking for a reliable and secure smart lock for their home.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best smart lock for your home, there are several important factors to consider. In this section, we will discuss the key features that should be taken into account before making a purchase.
Security Features
One of the most important aspects of a smart lock is its security features. Look for locks that offer strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and tamper alarms. It is also important to consider whether the lock is compatible with your home security system and if it can be integrated with other smart home devices.
Ease of Use
A smart lock should be easy to use and operate. Consider locks that offer multiple methods of entry, such as keypads, fingerprint scanners, or mobile apps. Look for locks that have a user-friendly interface and can be easily installed without the need for professional assistance.
Compatibility
Make sure the smart lock you choose is compatible with your existing door and lock hardware. Some locks may require additional hardware or modifications to your door, which can add to the cost of installation.
Battery Life
Smart locks are powered by batteries, so it is important to consider their battery life. Look for locks that have long battery life and offer low battery alerts. It is also a good idea to choose locks that have a backup power source in case of a power outage.
Price
Smart locks can range in price from affordable to high-end models. Consider your budget and the features you need before making a purchase. Keep in mind that a higher price does not always guarantee better security or features.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best smart lock for your home that meets your security needs and fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a smart lock?
When considering a smart lock for your home, there are several features to look for. First, ensure that the lock is compatible with your smartphone and has a user-friendly app. Second, look for a lock with strong encryption and secure communication protocols. Third, consider the type of access you want to provide, such as temporary or permanent access codes. Finally, look for a lock with a backup power source in case of a power outage.
How do smart locks enhance home security?
Smart locks can enhance home security by providing real-time access control and monitoring. You can receive notifications when someone enters or exits your home, and you can grant or revoke access remotely. Additionally, smart locks can integrate with other smart home devices, such as cameras and alarms, to create a comprehensive home security system.
What are the differences between August, Schlage, and Yale smart locks?
August, Schlage, and Yale are all well-known brands of smart locks. August locks are known for their simple installation process and compatibility with a variety of smart home platforms. Schlage locks are known for their durability and extensive security features. Yale locks are known for their sleek design and advanced features, such as voice control.
Can smart locks be operated without a physical key?
Most smart locks can be operated without a physical key, but it’s important to check the specific model you’re interested in to confirm. Some locks may still have a physical key as a backup option, while others may rely solely on digital access methods.
What are the potential vulnerabilities of using a smart lock?
Like any technology, smart locks can have vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. It’s important to choose a lock with strong encryption and secure communication protocols to minimize the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, it’s important to keep your lock’s firmware up to date to ensure any security patches are applied.
How cost-effective are smart locks compared to traditional locks?
Smart locks can be more expensive than traditional locks, but they offer additional features and convenience. Additionally, smart locks can potentially save you money in the long run by reducing the need for locksmith services and allowing you to monitor and control access to your home remotely.