Abode Smart Lock Review

Looking for a smart lock that doesn't scream "smart lock" from the front porch? You should check out the Abode Smart Lock. We tested this low-profile device at home for two months, and it's got a lot going for it—especially if you're into smart home gear but not complicated installations or clunky designs.

After living with it, here's what we liked (and didn't like).

The Abode Smart Lock lets you upgrade to the extra security and convenience of a smart lock without letting passersby know there's a smart lock securing your door. And even though all the smarts are revealed on the inside of your door, you still get multiple ways to gain entry without a key. Before we dive into my experience installing and living with this lock, let's go over the specs.

Overview

• Works with existing deadbolt
• Works with Abode ecosystem or on its own
• Multiple access options: Bluetooth, fingerprint, and mobile app
• Rechargeable battery that holds a charge for 12 months
• Extended range for Wi-Fi
• Google and Amazon Alexa compatibility
• Auto lock/unlock and arm/disarm with Abode CUE automations

Let's start with what this lock gets right. First, the Abode Smart Lock is a retrofit lock, which means you don't have to replace the deadbolt already in your door. You get to keep your original house keys—a huge win. I love having options to unlock: use my phone, punch in a code on the keypad, or go old-school with a key.

Also? From the outside, it doesn't look like a smart lock, which is kind of the point. It blends right in—no big, clunky smart device giving away your tech setup to the world.

Another big plus is the status notifications. The Abode app tells me exactly when the door is locked or unlocked. So even if I'm not home, I know when someone's coming or going.

It also plays nice with Abode security systems or works solo. If you're into smart home stuff, you'll appreciate that it can pair with other gear, trigger automations, and respond to voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. You can even set it to lock automatically when you arm your Abode system.

Now, let's talk about setup.

Your experience may vary, but for me? It wasn't exactly smooth sailing. I jumped in without reading the instructions (classic mistake), and the little adjusters that come with the lock weren't super intuitive. It took me and my partner a few tries to figure out how it all fit together.

After installing it, we hit another snag: an imperfectly aligned door. That meant the lock didn't always engage unless we gave the door a little nudge—which kinda defeats the whole hands-free appeal of a smart lock.

This door alignment issue has been a recurring problem for me with other smart locks, too. So it's not really Abode's fault—it's my funky door. To get a better idea of how it works, I ended up installing it on two different doors in my home.

• Best Smart Locks of 2025
• Abode Home Security Review
• What Works with Abode? Compatible Devices