8 Best Smart Locks for an Airbnb
Updated: Sep. 15, 2023Upgrade your Airbnb property with a smart lock and make life easier for you and your guests. Here's a collection of some exceptional options.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Smart locks top the list of “must-haves” for your Airbnb. They’re convenient, allowing a hands-off check-in process for owners and guests. Plus, they’re reprogrammable. No more worrying that someone will take your key and lose it—or worse, copy it.
Tech consultant and Airbnb Superhost Qaid Jivan sees lots of folks coming and going from his top-rated Airbnb in Vancouver, and says it’s important for guests and property owners to prioritize safety. Jivan always chooses smart locks to secure his properties because they have several benefits over traditional locks. “They’re more secure (nearly impossible to pick), easy to update with each guest and they provide easy access to your suite in case of an emergency,” Jivan says. “Added bonus: With smart locks, there’s no fumbling with lockboxes, which makes for a better guest experience overall.”
If you’re an Airbnb host or own a rental property (especially a short-term rental property), smart locks should be at the top of your list when it comes to security. So without further delay, here are the best smart locks for your Airbnb.
The Best Smart Locks for Airbnbs
- Best Overall: Yale Assure 2
- Best Easy-to-Install: August Smart Lock
- Best with Built-In Wi-Fi: August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- Best Interior Door: Sifely Keyless Entry Door Lock
- Most Stylish: Eufy Security Smart Lock
- Best for Off-the-Grid: Kwikset Aura Bluetooth Door Lock
- Best Value: Ultraloq U-Bolt Keyless Entry Door Lock
- Best Splurge: Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
Best Overall Smart Lock for Airbnbs
Yale Assure 2
If you’re looking for a high-quality, easy-to-install smart lock for your Airbnb, you can’t go wrong with Yale. It’s a trusted brand that’s been making locks since 1840.
The Yale Assure 2 makes hosting easy by integrating directly with your Airbnb account. Once you pair the Assure 2 with your listing, the Yale software generates entry codes that last only as long as the reservation. If your guest cancels, the code is invalidated. Plus, you can grant timed access to your cleaning service and repair professionals.
The Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled Assure 2 works with Alexa, Google Home, Ring and many other smart home devices. It even alerts you if there’s been unauthorized entry or a guest accidentally leaves the door open.
“I’m a fan of the Yale smart lock,” Jivan says. “It can integrate with short-term rental management apps including Airbnb, which can automate new door codes for each guest (and then send them the code). Easy peasy.”
Pros
- Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
- Easy to install and automate codes
- Optional auto-lock feature
- Custom entry codes
- Available in multiple finishes
Cons
- Pricey
Best Easy-to-Install Smart Lock for Airbnbs
August Smart Lock
If you’re looking for a simple install, the August Smart Lock replaces the inside thumb turn on your deadbolt. The lock is smart, though, allowing Airbnb hosts to control access, assign codes and integrate with Airbnb’s app. August Smart Locks work by replacing the thumb turn on the inside of your door, which makes the existing deadbolt smarter, more secure and way more convenient for guests.
Hands-free auto-unlock is convenient for guests who arrive with their arms full of ski equipment or groceries. And the original deadbolt key still works for manual access if needed.
Pros
- Very easy to install
- Works with your favorite smart home system, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Philips Hue and more
- Totally hands-free
- Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
- Custom entry codes
- Available in different finishes
Cons
- Doesn’t include keypad
- Pricey
Best Smart Lock with Built-In Wi-Fi
August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Many smart locks offer Wi-Fi connectivity, but often you have to buy a hub—at extra cost—to connect to your home’s network. The August Smart Lock comes ready to go right out of the box, with no additional purchase necessary.
It offers all the features you want in an Airbnb smart lock, too: remote access, the ability to assign multiple codes for guests and service persons, and seamless Airbnb, Alexa and Google Assistant integration. This attractive smart lock is easy to install, too.
Pros
- Upgrades existing deadbolt
- Award-winning smart lock
- Easy to install
- Grant access with August app
- Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t include keypad
Best Interior Door Smart Lock for Airbnbs
Sifely Keyless Entry Door Lock
Just because you open your home to guests doesn’t mean they need an all-access pass. If certain places in your Airbnb are off-limits, like the attic, basement or an interior closet, check out the Sifely Keyless Entry smart lock. It’s easy to install on non-deadbolt interior doors. And it can be operated via your smartphone, a key, fob, code or even your fingerprint.
Verified purchaser Nikolai Zlatarev says the Sifely lock is easy to install. “This is a solid product that offers a great set of lock/unlock features. These are easy to understand, easy to use, and have a modern touch to them. Installation is also easy—just make sure not to overtighten the two small screws at the top and bottom of the lock, as they can break. The Bluetooth setup is intuitive, and the configuration of each lock/unlock method from the two I used (fingerprint and passcode) worked without a glitch,” they write. “Truly impressive.”
Pros
- Ideal for indoor use
- Reversible handle
- Auto-lock feature
- Affordable
- 5-in-1 entry: Fingerprint, code, fob, smartphone and key
- Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
Cons
- Touch pad can be a bit finicky
Most Stylish Smart Lock for Airbnbs
Eufy Security Smart Lock
Many Airbnb hosts carefully create the guest experience. If you’re one of those hosts, you’ll want your Airbnb smart lock to be functional but reflect your aesthetic.
The Eufy Security Smart Lock won’t disappoint. Made with high-quality materials (no cheap plastic parts here), the Eufy Security adds style while providing top-notch functions, like fingerprint recognition, auto-locking and Bluetooth accessibility.
Pros
- Sleek, modern design
- Rechargeable battery provides long-lasting power
- Lightning-fast fingerprint unlocking
- Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Expensive
- Wi-Fi hub sold separately
Best Smart Lock for Off-the-Grid Airbnbs
Kwikset Aura Bluetooth Door Lock
Many people use Airbnb in cities, beach resorts and other popular tourist destinations, but sometimes they want to get away. Far away. If you’re operating an Airbnb in the middle of nowhere, don’t hide a key under a fake rock.
Even without Wi-Fi, Kwikset’s Aura Bluetooth Door Lock allows Airbnb owners to set individual codes with time limits for guests, cleaners and contractors. You can control the lock with a smartphone. You have to be in Bluetooth range, but for off-the-grid locations with no internet, the Kwikset Aura’s got a lot of perks.
Pros
- Bluetooth-enabled
- In-home locking and unlocking
- Affordable
- Auto-lock option
- View history log and receive notifications through Kwikset app
Cons
- Must be in Bluetooth range to control lock with phone
Best Value Smart Lock for Airbnbs
Ultraloq U-Bolt Keyless Entry Door Lock
Smart locks offer tons of helpful services for Airbnb owners—Wi-Fi accessibility, smart home integration and timed access codes. Unfortunately, smart locks commonly cost several hundred dollars.
Luckily, the Ultraloq U-Bolt 5-in-1 Smart Lock gives Airbnb owners plenty of great options for a fraction of the cost. For less than $100, Ultraloq gives hosts keypad and Bluetooth accessibility, auto locking and integration with popular smart home devices.
This lock doesn’t have all the bells and whistles. But Amazon verified purchaser Mike Dowgwillo says, “Every now and then you find an exceptional product on Amazon. My first was a $20 grill cover that was built to withstand 1 million years in the sun and rain. My second, is this lock.”
“We tried multiple brands of cheaper ones for family and friends (it’s kinda been my go to gift; lock + install) and then we got this,” Dowgwillo says. “It is way more heavy duty than any of the others we have tried. It is easy to install and is highly secure.”
Pros
- Very affordable
- Durable
- 5-in-1 entry: Keypad, smartphone, auto unlock, shake to open and key
- Bright backlight for nighttime use
- Easy to install
Cons
- Doesn’t have all of the smart tech features as high-end models
Best Splurge Smart Lock for Airbnbs
Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
If you’re looking to splurge on a smart lock with a thoughtful design, the Schlage Encode is one to look at. It’s a little pricier than other smart locks on our list, but the Schlage name and enhanced security features justify the splurge.
The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen keeps prying eyes from guessing your guests’ passcodes, and the Encode’s built-in alarm technology alerts you to forced entry. This smart lock comes ready to use, too, with built-in Wi-Fi and compatibility with multiple smart home devices.
“Wish I bought sooner,” writes Amazon verified purchaser Mary C. “We put it on our Airbnb door. Now I want one for my house.”
Pros
- Built-in alarm technology
- Finger-print resistant, classic design
- Works with Amazon Key, Alexa and Google Assistant
- Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
- Easy to install
Cons
- Very expensive
- Users recommend installing Schlange Home app and Amazon Key for maximum features
What to Consider When Buying an Airbnb Smartlock
Whether you’re just thinking about starting your own Airbnb business or you’re a seasoned veteran host, here’s what to look for when purchasing a smart lock for your Airbnb:
- Ease of use: If your guest can’t figure out how to get in the front door, it doesn’t bode well for the rest of the stay—or your chances for a five-star review.
- Amenities: Get the most out of your smart lock with Wi-Fi access, smart home compatibility and more.
- Security: Knowing your property is secure gives you peace of mind.
- Cost: Smart locks aren’t cheap, but they come in a range of prices to fit most budgets. If your new smart lock is part of a home security system, you may qualify for a tax deduction, too.
How We Found the Best Airbnb Smart Locks
To find the best Airbnb smart locks on the market, we consulted several experts, including Ally Childress, a Dallas-based licensed electrician, and Qaid Jivan, a tech consultant and Airbnb Superhost who runs a top-rated stay in Vancouver. From there, we researched Airbnb smart locks—looking at cost, safety rating, technological features and consumer reviews—to determine which smart locks are not only the best for securing your property but are also worth your time and money.
FAQ
Do I need a smart lock for an Airbnb?
Let’s put it this way: You don’t want to spend time, energy and resources waiting on guests to arrive to let them into the property when they can easily and securely let themselves in with a smart lock. Smart locks are also a great way to keep your rental safe if a guest attempts to return to the property without permission at a later date. With unique entry codes and other smart features, you remove such risk.
Is Schlage Encode good for an Airbnb?
Yes—and it made our top 8! Schlage Encode gets great reviews from Airbnb hosts who prefer an easy-to-install option that is sturdy and reliable. Users also report that Schlage has outstanding customer service.
Do you need a professional to install your smart lock?
Not necessarily. Many smart door locks are easy to install DIY-style. However, hiccups can occur depending on Wi-Fi connectivity issues and whether you have a custom-made door.
Jivan recommends having a professional install it if you’re unsure about what you’re doing or unable to connect your smart lock to your Wi-Fi properly. “If you have an older generation lock, it can sometimes require being placed closer to your router,” he says. “I made this mistake on my first suite and had to go through a major headache to get it linked properly.”
Shop smarter with our expert recommendations for tools, gear and money-saving deals on can’t miss DIY and home products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
