The Best Smart Locks of 2022
Updated: Mar. 28, 2023Want to lock your door from your smartphone or give guests access from miles away? These are the best smart locks to consider for your home.
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If you’ve ever thought your door lock could use a bit more oomph or forgot to twist your key one last time before leaving home, we’ve rounded up the best smart locks to buy now. These innovative smart home devices ensure peace of mind and also provide a superior service for rental properties.
There are plenty of different types of smart locks to choose from, too. Some brands give you the freedom to automatically unlock your door as you get closer, remotely lock and unlock your door while you’re a few miles away or across the country on vacation, or even set up codes for friends and family to use for access. Plus, they offer a sense of security, often with no monthly fee! No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a perfect smart lock to fit your needs.
What to consider when buying a smart lock
Before you invest in a smart lock, you’ll want to make sure you understand the most important aspects of choosing the correct addition to your smart home’s network. Your smart lock’s connection type, ease of installation, integration with other smart products and method of access are some of the most important things to consider when choosing the best smart lock for your home.
Look for:
- Built-in video cameras
- Two-way speaker systems
- Emergency sirens
- Anti-theft capabilities
- Emergency button for immediate calls to authorities
Avoid:
- Total reliance on smartphones
- Difficult installation
- Short battery life
Choosing a connection type
Smart locks communicate via a wide variety of protocols, much like the rest of the smart devices available for your home. That includes WiFi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave and Zigbee. WiFi is what you need if you seek remote accessibility (i.e. the ability to lock your door when miles away), while Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave are close-range protocols.
- Bluetooth connection: If you’re looking for close-range access, you’ll want to choose a lock with Bluetooth access. That means when you’re within range of your lock, you can unlock it, which is great for anyone who needs to get their door open before they get near it, in the instance of a storm or when carrying many items.
- WiFi connection: For remote accessibility you’ll need a WiFi signal and a smart lock supporting this type of access. You’ll also need a smartphone with internet access, and an app to control everything. You can access your lock from anywhere, ideally, and it’s quite easy to set up.
- Zigbee and Z-wave connection: Locks using services like Zigbee and Z-Wave need a special smart hub for setup. They create a mesh network between multiple devices on your smart home network. However, Zigbee requires devices set up within 60 ft. of each other. Z-Wave is more forgiving, with a range up to 300 ft. This is one of the biggest things to be aware of when selecting a smart lock.
Evaluation Criteria
There are a wide variety of different smart locks from hundreds of manufacturers on the market. Our list of best smart door locks are based on functionality, reliability and price—plus user ratings and reviews.
Best Overall Smart Lock
Google Nest x Yale Smart Lock
For anyone looking for a sleek, modern smart lock that offers excellent functionality, turn to the Google Nest x Yale Smart Lock. It’s available in three gorgeous finishes that suit just about any type of home decor, so it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. It comes with mounting hardware and an installation guide for an easy set up to replace your current deadbolt. It includes an external keypad with a keyless entry system that lets you lock the door with just the touch of a button, or using a passcode.
The Nest app sends alerts when someone locks or unlocks the door, tries to tamper with the system or when batters are low. The app also allows you to let someone in from anywhere, or you can create unique codes for family and friends, and decide when they work. Going out of town? A privacy mode disables the keypad all together so it can’t be unlocked, even with a code.
Pros
- Modern exterior with high-tech functions
- Responsive and accurate
- Tamper-proof features
Cons
- Only works with Google Nest products
- More expensive than many options
Best Budget Smart Lock
Hornbill Smart Lock
The Hornbill is one of the best smart locks for anyone on a budget, and an excellent choice for those looking for more security in their apartment or condo. It’s slick and simple to use, and only takes 15 to 20 minutes to install with a screwdriver and drill, then a few moments to calibrate via a smartphone app. You’ll need a WiFi bridge, which you’ll have to purchase separately, but once that’s set up you can remotely lock and unlock the door with your smartphone. You can also opt to use a physical key or the lock’s keypad functionality.
Give a temporary code to guests to allow anyone easy access. An added layer of protection: After someone enters an incorrect code five times in a row, it automatically locks for five minutes. It’s also waterproof and built to withstand extreme temperatures. Best of all? The under $100 price tag.
Pros
- Affordable
- Locks automatically when you leave
- Easy-to-use, responsive and accurate
Cons
- Requires WiFi bridge, sold separately
- Lacks some functionality of higher-priced options
Best Splurge Smart Lock
Kwisket Obsidian Smart Lock
Kwikset is a familiar name in locks, and the Kwikset Obsidian Smart Lock is proof this company knows what it’s doing. This is an aesthetically-pleasing option that makes any home look elegant while protecting it. The lock is keyless and includes a lighted touchscreen keypad for access codes—features you’ll use to ensure you never get locked out of the house again. For increased security, create up to 30 customizable logins; and use the SecureScreen feature, which helps prevent code detection from fingerprints on the touchscreen.
High-tech features for added safety make this one of the best smart locks worth splurging on. For example, an alarm sounds after three incorrect codes are consecutively entered, and the screen temporarily locks out. There’s also a tamper-resistant cover that prevents unauthorized access.
Pros
- Slick, modern design with lots of bells and whistles
- Up to 30 access codes
- Protects against users guessing codes
Cons
- Batteries not included
- More expensive than many options
Best for Renters and Apartments
August Home Smart Lock
This August Home Smart Lock attaches on the inside of your door over an existing deadbolt. This retrofit setup makes installation easy and lets you keep your physical key, making it a great option for renters. The smart lock connects to your home’s WiFi right out of the box (since it requires no additional bridge) and works with voice-activated assistants like Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant.
With this smart lock, you’ll get full voice and remote access without any fuss. Send secure keys to friends, family or people you trust instantly, then cancel access at any time. You can also opt to use your smartphone’s fingerprint or facial recognition as an added security verification. Then check out how to set up a DIY home security system to feel even safer.
Pros
- Easy installation perfect for rental units
- Fits over most single cylinder deadbolts
- Get notifications if your door is open, closed, locked or unlocked
Cons
- Batteries can be difficult to replace—‎this model requires two CR123A batteries
- Pricey
Best Smart Lock with an Alarm
Schlage Encode Smart Deadbolt
If you’re looking for the best smart locks with a built-in alarm to act as a security system, we suggest the Schlage Encode. The built-in alarm technology senses potential security breaches at the lock and will unleash an extremely loud siren if someone tries to break-in. The smart home device connects to your home’s WiFi, there’s no need to purchase an additional hub or accessory, making it easy and intuitive to use. The keypad offers remote access and is compatible with several smart home systems. You can also use the manual lock and a physical key, or the optional voice control for hands-free use.
Pros
- Built-in alarm offers peace of mind
- Available in four attractive finishes
- Easy to install with just a screwdriver
Cons
- Buyers noted short battery life
- Pricey
Best Smart Lock with a Key Pad
RemoteLock 550
Looking for a fairly straight-forward smart lock with a key pad? The RemoteLock 500 allows you to keep track of who enters your property and when. This especially comes in handy if you are renting out your home on Airbnb or Vrbo. Just connect to your wireless internet and you can manage and monitor door usage remotely from your phone or computer. It also allows you to set up both permanent and temporary codes, making it easy for staff or service companies to enter your property. Looking for more? We’ve curated a list of the best smart locks for Airbnb.
Pros
- Up to 1,000 user codes available, ideal for vacation rentals
- One-touch lock button
- Lighted keypad
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription to Edge State cloud software
- Does not work with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant
Best Smart Lock with a Fingerprint Reader
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Door Lock
Since everyone’s fingerprint is unique to them, using fingerprint technology in smart locks just makes sense. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro has a dust-proof and waterproof sensor that makes unlocking your door easy and secure. You can store up to 100 fingerprints for friends, family and service workers. In addition, this smart lock also works with a pin code, a smartphone app and a traditional key so you’ll never be left out in the cold.
Pros
- Fingerprint reader unlocks in .3 seconds
- Six easy access methods
- Easy to install (no drilling required)
Cons
- Extra WiFi bridge required
- Some buyers noted issues with the software app
Best Amazon Smart Lock
Wyze Lock with Wireless Keypad
If you’re browsing for the best smart locks on Amazon, you’ll want to take a look at the Wyze Lock with wireless keypad. It’s ideal for people who aren’t sure about making the switch: Wyze uses your existing hardware so you can keep your key, but still get the benefits of a smart lock. This Amazon smart lock not only lets you lock your door from anywhere using the Wyze app, but the door will unlock when you get close and lock automatically behind you once your inside. It’s a particularly helpful feature for days when your hands are full. Or choose to unlock the door with your voice (it’s compatible with Alexa and Google), or with a simple tap.
Share access codes with friends, family and service workers, and you’ll be able to see a history of who entered and left your home at certain times. The lock can also be paired with other Wyze products, such as their smart light bulbs, for added security (sold separately).
Pros
- Auto-lock and unlock features eliminate the need to use keys or codes
- Backlit keypad
- Easy to install
Cons
- Wireless and fingerprint keypads sold separately
- Some buyers noted issues with customer service
FAQs
Can smart locks be hacked?
Even though smart locks are safe, and even more secure than traditional locks in many instances, they are still vulnerable to hacking because they are often connected to the internet. With that said, security company ADT recommends a few tips to keep your smart lock safe, including using two-factor authentication, long passwords, Z-Wave technology and making sure your lock comes from a reputable company.
How do you turn off a smart lock?
Each smart door lock will have specific instructions on how to turn the lock off, depending on the manufacturer and the model. Check the user’s guide.
How do you change a smart lock code?
As with turning your smart door lock off, you’ll need to follow the directions from the manufacturer whenever you want to change the lock’s code. Some locks may ask you to do this manually on the keypad itself, while others may allow you to change the smart lock code via the internet or on an app.
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