Best Smart Locks of 2024

Our top picks come to you by decades of experience and over 150 hours of research and hands-on testing.
Best overall
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
August Wi-Fi
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
  • pro
    Retrofit lock
  • pro
    Optional keypad
  • con
    No security rating
  • bullet
Best fingerprint lock
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
  • pro
    Includes deadbolt
  • pro
    Fingerprint reader
  • pro
    ANSI Grade 1 rating
Best budget lock
Wyze Lock
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
  • pro
    Retrofit lock
  • pro
    Optional keypad
  • con
    No security rating
  • bullet
Best for smart hubs
SCHLAGE Connect Smart
Schlage Connect
4 out of 5 stars
4
  • pro
    Includes deadbolt
  • con
    Requires smart hub
  • pro
    ANSI Grade 1 rating
  • bullet
Best security features
Lockly Secure Pro Latch Edition
Lockly Secure Pro
4 out of 5 stars
4
  • pro
    Includes latch
  • pro
    Fingerprint reader
  • pro
    ANSI Grade 2 rating

Amazon.com discounts as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

SafeWise experts have years of firsthand experience testing the products we recommend. Learn how we test and review. We may earn money when you buy through our links.

After comparing prices, security ratings, customer reviews, and ease of use to choose the most secure electronic locks, the August Wi-Fi tops the list of the best smart locks for homes. It has the easiest installation and complements smart home systems nicely.

If you like smart locks with keypads (the August Wi-Fi's optional keypad sells separately) or that unlock with a fingerprint scanner, you might prefer our other smart lock picks. Some locks prioritize hands-free convenience, while others are high-grade security picks that put protection first.


The 5 best keyless smart locks of 2024


Compare the best smart locks

Product
Best for
Price
Entry methods
Battery life bullet
Smart home integrations bullet
Open door detection bullet
Learn more
Best overallApp, key, keypad*Up to 6 mo.Alexa, Google, HomeKit, IFTTT, SmartThings
bulletYes
Best fingerprint lockApp, key, keypad, fingerprintUp to 6 mo.Alexa, Google, IFTTT, SmartThings, Z-Wave*
bulletYes
Best budget lockApp, key, keypad*Up to 6 mo.Alexa, Google, IFTTT
bulletYes
Best for smart hubsApp,* key, keypadUp to 12 mo.Alexa, Google, IFTTT, SmartThings, Z-Wave, Zigbee*
bulletVia hub
Best security featuresApp, key, keypad, fingerprintUp to 12 mo.Alexa, Google
bulletYes

Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
*Requires purchasing a separate hub, accessory, or a different lock model

Video: Best Smart Locks Under $250

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Best smart lock reviews

1. August Wi-Fi (4th Generation): Best overall

Best overall
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
August Wi-Fi
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
$229.99

Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a pioneer of smart locks and keyless entry—especially for renters and anyone who doesn't want the hassle of brand-new deadbolt installation. No need for a keypad door lock when your auto lock already knows you're coming!

pro
Pros
pro Sleek design
pro Outstanding mobile app
pro Compatible with Alexa, Google, and HomeKit
con
Cons
con No security rating
con Short battery life

We love August as the best door lock because it's packed with features. The lock's secure built-in Wi-Fi connection means you can control it through the August Home app. It's a bit pricier than previous versions, but it doesn't need a hub. That means faster installation and one less device in your outlets.

August's app is one of the easiest we've ever used and helps set the standard for what you should expect from a smart lock app—even competitor apps use layouts similar to August's. We especially love the guest access tools, detailed activity reports, and low battery alerts. It also has an excellent geofencing feature that unlocks your door automatically as you approach.

Although the lock works over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the app automatically chooses the best connection for your needs. It uses Bluetooth if you're within range at home and Wi-Fi when you're not. We love this feature because it maximizes your battery life by turning off the power-hungry Wi-Fi when it's unnecessary. It was fun seeing this in action during testing.

You can expect August Wi-Fi to last three to six months on a set of batteries, so energy-saving features make a real difference. This is a relatively short battery life compared to Schlage Connect and Lockly Secure Pro's 12-month batteries, but it's long enough that you don't need new batteries every month.

The August electronic lock design works with the existing lock and keys you already have, so it took us just minutes to get up and running. This electric door lock may not work with every existing deadbolt model, so make sure yours is compatible before investing.

August is one of the best smart locks to integrate into a smart home because it's compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and IFTTT. This compatibility unlocks more possibilities for voice control and automations than you'll see with brands like Wyze and Lockly. It even works with Airbnb, so you can manage guest access for short-term rentals.

August Wi-Fi doesn't have a security rating, unlike Ultraloq and Schlage, because it retrofits your deadbolt and isn't a deadbolt itself. Pair it with these top lock choices for the best security.

Learn more about August locks in our full August smart lock review.

bullet
DoorSense

The August Wi-Fi has a neat DoorSense feature that uses a small sensor to track when your door's open or closed. It's a great way to boost your security and always know the status of your lock.

2. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi: Best fingerprint lock

Best fingerprint lock
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi

Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi is durable and has the most unlocking capabilities of our top picks. You can use the app, key, keypad, voice commands, or your fingerprint to unlock it, so there's really no way to be locked out of your house ever again.

pro
Pros
pro Fingerprint reader
pro Open door detection
pro ANSI Grade 1 security rating
con
Cons
con Unusual design
con Expensive
bullet
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro

You can skip the built-in Wi-Fi and opt for the Bluetooth-only version of the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro for around $40 less. You won't have remote access features or open-door detection, but you'll still have an exceptional smart lock.

While Ultraloq lacks the HomeKit compatibility of August, it works with every other major smart home platform like Alexa and Google voice assistants, IFTTT, and SmartThings. (There's even a Z-Wave version of the lock if you prefer.)

You can set up almost endless automations with your lock and other smart devices. For example, set your front door to lock automatically when your smart porch light turns on.

The Ultraloq lock is super durable and has an ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 Certification. That means this keyless lock comes with the highest security rating available for any lock—the Schlage Connect is the only other lock among our top picks with this rating.

It also allows you to hide your code within a stream of numbers if someone looks over your shoulder. So if your code was 4432, you could tap in 44320134, and the door would still unlock. The longer code would be harder for someone behind you to memorize, and you'd still be able to get into your house. While this is a cool feature, we preferred the speed of the fingerprint reader for unlocking doors during testing.

There's open-door detection so the lock can track when the door's ajar, which is super helpful if your kids often forget to close it all the way.

Unfortunately, it has two drawbacks. It looks . . . weird. Not everyone will go for such an unconventional design that may not blend in with the decor, but there's a certain charm helping Ultraloq—and its excellent smart features—grow on us. Ultraloq is also more expensive than the August Wi-Fi and many other smart locks—especially if you go for the Wi-Fi version.

Still, we think the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi is an excellent runner-up to the August Wi-Fi since it brings an integrated keypad and fingerprint sensor into the mix—even if it's a bit pricier overall. Plus, the Grade 1 security rating means it can take a beating to protect your home.

Video: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock Review

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3. Wyze Lock: Best budget lock

Best budget lock
Wyze Lock
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
$129.98

Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

The Wyze Lock is the most affordable digital door lock on this list, but affordable doesn't mean cheap. This lock is durable and has a long battery life. It lives up to Wyze's reputation for quality at low prices.

pro
Pros
pro Long battery life
pro Geofencing capabilities
pro Easy installation
con
Cons
con Bulky build

We love that Wyze Lock batteries aren't too needy. During testing, we found it could go for months without needing a fresh set of batteries. That's rare for most smart lock brands. (Wyze says the lock can last up to six months, which is closely aligns with our results.)

This smart lock comes with remote access via an included Wi-Fi bridge, so you don't need to sacrifice the flexibility of pricier models like August and Ultraloq to share guest access. There's a keypad accessory for around $25 if you want an option for letting guests in without the Wyze app.

Wyze's geofencing capabilities are nifty too. Like August Wi-Fi, this lock uses your phone's location to lock/unlock doors accordingly. So when it senses that you're heading up the steps to your front porch with your hands full of groceries, it will unlock hands-free. You can turn this feature off if you'd like.

The only real downside is that the lock is a bulky box. It's not pretty, but it gets the job done. The Wyze Lock is a retrofit-style smart lock like August Wi-Fi, so you can keep your existing deadbolt and keys—making it useful for renters. This also means there's no ANSI/BHMA rating, and it's only as strong as the deadbolt you use.

The Wyze Lock is an excellent smart lock for folks on a tight budget. While it doesn't match the sleek designs of competitors like August and Level, Wyze is easy to install and works with Alexa and Google smart home devices.

bullet
Wyze Lock Bolt

Wyze recently launched the Wyze Lock Bolt for around $80, and it's so easy to use—it's one of our favorite Bluetooth-only smart locks. There's no Wi-Fi connection for remote access or smart home integration, but it comes with a built-in keypad and fingerprint sensor for easy access.

4. Schlage Connect: Best for smart hubs

Best for smart hubs
Schlage Connect Smart Lock
Schlage Connect
4 out of 5 stars
4
$239.99

Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

If you want smart home functionality without sacrificing style, the Schlage Connect smart lock is for you. It comes in two trim options: Camelot and Century—both trims come in various colors to match just about any decorating style. Camelot is a more traditional design with curved edges, while Century takes a modern approach with straight lines and sharp corners.

pro
Pros
pro Many designs and colors
pro Ring Alarm system compatibility
pro ANSI Grade 1 rating
con
Cons
con Harder to program without a smart hub

The Schlage smart lock works with Ring Alarm Systems thanks to its Z-Wave capabilities. When you arm your security system, the doors can lock automatically.

It's not just Ring—the Schlage Connect is compatible with most Z-Wave hubs, like SmartThings, Ezlo, and Abode. Depending on the smart hub, you'll also unlock Alexa, Google, and IFTTT integrations. There's even a Zigbee version that works with the latest Amazon Echo.

This keypad door lock also has its own little alarm system built in. If someone tries to tamper with the lock or force the door open, it'll sound an alarm. Plus, it's strong. Like the Schlage Encode and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, Schlage Connect has an ANSI Grade 1 security rating.

While the Connect is easy to install, users report trouble with smart home device connection and getting the codes to work correctly. You may need to google some how-to videos since the instructions aren't very clear. We recommend using this lock with a smart home hub to make programming easier using a mobile app with step-by-step connection instructions.

We think the Schlage Connect is one of the best smart locks to integrate into a smart home system because it's durable, and its Z-Wave radio uses significantly less energy than Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Plus, it's an attractive alternative for folks who don't like the design of the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro. Still, the smart hub requirement makes it more suitable for enthusiasts than beginners.

bullet
Schlage Encode

We like that the Schlage Encode uses built-in Wi-Fi so you don't need a smart home hub. It's easier to use than the Schlage Connect keypad door lock, which works only with Z-Wave or Zigbee smart homes. Still, don't expect more than a couple of months' worth of battery life on this Wi-Fi smart lock.

5. Lockly Secure Pro: Best security features

Best security features
Lockly Secure Pro Latch Edition
Lockly Secure Pro
4 out of 5 stars
4
$319.99

Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

The Lockly Secure Pro offers some of the cleverest security features we've seen in a smart lock. A unique touchscreen keypad randomizes digits across four buttons every time you unlock the door with an access code. This is a great feature for folks worried about fingerprints tipping off someone to your code.

pro
Pros
pro Unique keypad with random digits
pro Fingerprint sensor
pro Quick switch to disable keypad
con
Cons
con Small number of stored access codes
con Limited smart home compatibility
con Unreliable app

You can also disable the keypad with a small switch on the back of the lock indoors. This is a useful feature for guests to prevent other codes from working, though it doesn't disable the mobile app or fingerprint sensor access. The off switch for the keypad always turns back on when the door unlocks, so there's less chance for a guest to lock themself out when leaving.

Lockly placed the fingerprint sensor on the side of the lock, which feels a little more natural than the front-facing sensor on the Ultraloq. We like that it can store up to 99 fingerprints because the lock tops out at just 18 access codes using the keypad. (Most competitors can store at least 50 codes.)

This smart lock has the weakest smart home compatibility among our top picks. While it supports Alexa and Google, it accepts only voice commands for the latter. You can't control the lock from the Google Home app. We'd like to see Lockly improve the smart home functionality since it feels like an afterthought.

During testing, the Lockly app worked well until it didn't. We had no problems the first few days, but we had to restart the Lockly Wi-Fi hub at least once after losing access to the lock in the mobile app.

On the whole, we think the Lockly Secure Pro offers some innovative security features, but its hit-or-miss mobile app and weak smart home compatibility sometimes hold it back.

More smart locks we considered

Yale Assure Lock SL

The Yale Assure Lock SL (about $309) has a slick keyless touchscreen and one of the best mobile apps. (The Yale Access app is basically a reskin of the August Home app—the brands are sibling companies.) It's not as easy to set up as the August smart lock, but we love the integrated touchscreen and excellent smart home compatibility. It's our top pick for the best Airbnb smart lock.

Read our Yale smart lock review to learn more about the Yale Assure Lock SL.

bullet
Yale Assure Lock 2

Yale just announced the Yale Assure Lock 2 (about $260), which refines the design of the original into something more compact with a lower price. (At least on Yale's site.) We're excited to test it in the coming months.

Kwikset Aura

Kwikset is one of the most well-known names in home locks. The Kwikset Aura Bluetooth lock (about $149) combines a conventional keypad lock with high-tech functionality. Aura uses Bluetooth to connect to your smartphone, so you can lock and unlock your door with the Kwikset app—you can control it only when you're close to the lock. It's disappointing that there's no remote access.

Despite the trusted brand name, the Aura smart device isn't a customer favorite—though it fares better than other Kwikset smart locks, like the Kwikset Halo. This smart deadbolt has quite a few customer reviews complaining about the lock quality. Reliability, slow response time, and glitches with the app are among the top concerns.

Learn more in our Kwikset smart locks review.

Level Bolt

The Level Bolt (about $200) understands that retrofit smart locks can mess with your door's aesthetic, especially if you have a high-end deadbolt and handle. Instead of attaching to your deadbolt, Level Bolt fits inside the door's borehole, so it's invisible from the outside.

Our main beef with the Level Bolt is minimal smart home compatibility. It works with Apple HomeKit—a big plus since few smart locks do—but not with Alexa or Google. It's a first-generation effort from a new company, so it's understandable if the lock can't quite compete with veterans like August, Schlage, and Yale yet. We're keeping an eye on this one.

Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch

The Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch (about $170) is one of the market's more affordable fingerprint lock options. Unfortunately, there are no smart home integrations unless you pay extra for a Wi-Fi bridge accessory. It's also disappointing that you still need the Wi-Fi bridge to use this lock remotely, even if your Eufy security cameras and Eufy security system already use a HomeBase base station for Wi-Fi.

Learn more in our Eufy Smart Lock Review.

SimpliSafe

The SimpliSafe Smart Lock (about $119) is a relative newcomer to the smart lock scene that gives you a keyless lock option for the SimpliSafe ecosystem. We like that it works as an extra keypad for disarming your security system. Unfortunately, it requires a SimpliSafe monitoring subscription, so it's useless to folks without a SimpliSafe system.

For a deeper look at this lock, read our SimpliSafe Smart Lock review or watch our YouTube video review.

Google Nest x Yale

Google will end support for the Nest x Yale lock in April 2024. We no longer recommend it—Yale and August are suitable alternatives.

The Google Nest x Yale (about $279) is an excellent keyless smart lock if you love the Google Home ecosystem. It boasts some of the best customer support options of any lock on our list, including a two-year warranty. (Most competitors top out at one year.)

While we love the design and ease of use, the lock's Google exclusivity means it doesn't work with Alexa, HomeKit, or SmartThings.

Things to consider when buying a smart lock

Installation type

Smart locks either retrofit an existing deadbolt to keep using your keys or replace the entire lock with a new deadbolt.

While both installation options work well for homeowners, we recommend retrofit-type smart locks for renters and folks wanting slightly easier installation. New deadbolts typically offer a bit more security through ANSI/BHMA certifications.

Entry methods

While the point of a smart lock is adding mobile app controls—all smart locks always have a backup option, like a key or keypad, for unlocking if the app or batteries fails.

A key is a nice low-tech option that works even when the batteries die, but a keypad offers more flexibility for guest access. (Keypads without a physical key require power from an external battery if the internal batteries die—usually through a port on the bottom of the unit.)

Connection type

Smart locks may connect to your smartphone through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a smart home hub using Z-Wave. Here's a quick reference to demystify the jargon:

Bluetooth: Bluetooth locks use your smartphone's Bluetooth to connect to a mobile app. This type of smart door lock has a short range—usually within 100 feet or so—and requires an adapter to connect to your Wi-Fi network for remote access.

Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi locks connect directly to the internet but are typically the priciest type of smart lock. Despite their advantages for remote access, Wi-Fi locks tend to drain batteries faster than Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Zigbee locks.

Z-Wave or Zigbee: These smart home devices use mesh networks where all the devices talk to each other. Both Z-Wave and Zigbee require a smart hub to communicate with mobile apps.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) or near-field communication (NFC): RFID locks use a key fob or card—radio waves communicate with the lock to allow entry. This is the same tech behind tap to pay. Currently, none of the locks on our list feature this technology.

Final word

The August Wi-Fi is our pick for the best smart door lock. It's easy to install, works directly with your smartphone (thanks to built-in Wi-Fi), and connects with nearly every smart device in your home automation system.

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi is a good pick if you want a keypad door lock with a deadbolt. It offers a rigid construction that stands up to abuse and earns a Grade 1 security rating.

Smart lock FAQ

What's better in a smart lock, convenience or security?

Both convenience and security play big roles in an effective smart lock, so it's wise to choose a smart lock with equal helpings. (Our ratings lean slightly more toward convenience.) But it's also okay if you prefer one over the other.

Convenience: Remote access, no more spare keys, and hands-free entry are all big perks of smart locks. You can't beat a smart door lock when you're coming in with an armload of groceries or letting in the dog walker from somewhere else. In essence, smart locks are about convenience.

Security: While smart locks aren't stronger than traditional ones, they control who has access to your home and when. Locks that allow you to create a virtual key or pin code for users (and disable it as needed) give you much more security than traditional keys.

What are ANSI/BHMA security ratings?

The ANSI/BHMA (American National Standards Institute/Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) grading system is the most common rating used to provide consumers with quality assurance.

These organizations put consumer locks through a series of tests to determine operational function, pull strength, key torque cycles, and impact resistance. Look for locks with an ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or Grade 2 for the best security. These industry standards ensure your locks work for years to come.

Depending on the lock, you might see a letter rating instead—like AAA. The letters cover three categories: durability, strength/security, and finish. Grade A is the highest rating in a given category, and Grade C is the lowest.

Our top smart lock pick for security is Schlage Connect. It's keyless, convenient, and boasts ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certification (the highest rating available).

Yes, a smart door lock is vulnerable to remote hacks. A burglar no longer has to be on-site to bypass your lock. But most hackers aren't interested in breaking into homes when they can target bigger fish for a similar effort.

Considering the downfalls of a traditional lock—like lost keys and lock-picking—the risks aren't any greater, and they may actually be less likely to occur.

Smart locks don't use a standard key tumbler, so they look different from other door locks. Some believe the sleek, modern look of smart locks signals to a burglar that you like to spend money on fancy gadgets.

But this is speculation, and there's no evidence to support that fear. If this concerns you, seek a smart lock that looks more like a traditional deadbolt.

An electronic door lock can be your gateway to a fully automated smart home. Folks skeptical or intimidated by home automation often find a smart lock easier to understand.

After experiencing the magic of a keyless lock, they just can't wait to make something else smart—maybe something as simple as a Crock-Pot or more advanced like smart lighting or a smart thermostat.

They may move on to smart home hubs like Amazon Alexa or Google Home to control all their smart devices with the sound of their voice. If you find yourself sliding down the slippery slope of smart home automation, do it the right way by checking out some of our related articles.

How we reviewed the best smart locks

We pushed through all the high-tech razzle-dazzle to find the best smart and electronic keyless door locks for your home. We've tested most of the locks in our lineup and plan to fill in the gaps in future updates.

August Wi-Fi on our smart home product testing box

SafeWise's latest round of smart lock testing helped us break in our new smart home testing box.
Photo: John Carlsen, SafeWise

To find the best electronic door locks, we researched locks for overall security, functionality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. We considered national standards for lock security, expert ratings, and customer reviews.

  • 150+ hours researched
  • Dozens of hours of hands-on testing
  • 30+ products considered
  • 2,500+ customer reviews consulted
  • 368 ounces (or much more!) of coffee consumed

Our smart lock ratings methodology

We measure 29 criteria across five categories when reviewing and testing smart locks. Here's an overview of each category's influence on our scores, with criteria listed from most to least valuable.

While the price has a small impact on our overall ratings, it helps gauge the value of a smart lock. Locks with lower retail prices tend to perform well in this category, but high prices still receive a healthy amount of credit to stay competitive. We also rate whether a smart lock requires a subscription—a rarity—and dock points accordingly. Unlike a security camera or security system, we don't see any benefit to a monthly fee for a standalone smart lock.

Security and user experience contributed equal weight to our ratings at first—although we ultimately gave a slight edge to user experience. Security is still important, but we quickly discovered that nearly every security feature contributes some convenience. If a feature tips the scales toward security, it ends up in this category.

The most important security factor in a smart lock is battery life—many vital features won't work without it. Locks rated for at least 12 months earn a perfect score, though you can expect lower battery performance during everyday use. Next, we consider a lock's ANSI/BHMA rating, or if it has one, which indicates resilience against physical attacks and tampering. We award points to locks with any combination of a keypad and physical key because having other unlock methods without an app or batteries is crucial.

Open door detection helps verify that your door closes completely, but it's uncommon enough that we we give only a little credit. For the same reason, we score biometrics lower than other unlock methods. We examine hardware biometrics (fingerprint sensor on lock) and software biometrics (face unlock and fingerprint on a smartphone). Finally, we give a tiny amount of credit for tamper alerts and push notifications, which inform you of your lock's status.

As mentioned earlier, most of the following items could easily apply to our security category, but these are more likely to make for a pleasant experience.

Installation plays a heavy role in our rankings. We give slightly more credit to retrofit-style locks than lock replacements because they're easier to install and are great options for renters and homeowners alike. We also strongly emphasize the mobile app, which makes or breaks a product—a great smart lock with a terrible app isn't much better than a regular deadbolt.

The remaining user experience criteria don't carry much weight separately but cumulatively make up about 40% of the category. For guest access, we consider users (like assigned codes and app accounts) and schedules for customizing who can enter your home and when. You'll find these features in every smart lock, so they don't affect the overall score much.

Geofencing uses your phone's location to unlock the door when you arrive home, but it's not 100% reliable—there's enough of a security risk that we can't give much credit. Auto-lock (using a timer) and auto-unlock (using a phone connection) are a bit more reliable than geofencing. Auto-lock contributes less to our score because it's not unique to smart locks—even app-free electronic deadbolts have a timer. In contrast, auto-unlock isn't common enough among smart locks to significantly impact our ratings.

Our last criterium, finish selection, might give you more colors to match your perfect decor, but it's less important for retrofit locks using existing deadbolts. Still, it's the only score we give for aesthetics, which otherwise comes down to your preference.

As the name implies, smart home covers how a smart lock connects to other devices. Naturally, we give the most credit to locks using Wi-Fi for remote access, though we favor locks with built-in Wi-Fi over those requiring a separate hub. Our following three criteria need Wi-Fi to link your lock to popular smart home platforms: Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home. Locks that support all three platforms will consistently dominate this category.

While Bluetooth is helpful, the lack of remote support and compatibility with non-phone devices makes it less useful than Wi-Fi. As for locks with hubs, we dock points for those that require one, especially when it's a separate purchase. This usually affects locks supporting our next two platforms. Z-Wave and Zigbee locks are exceptional for smart home systems but have more limitations than universal standards using Wi-Fi.

Lastly, we give credit for an IFTTT integration, but since this platform works best with a subscription, we couldn't place it at the same level as Amazon, Apple, and Google. We don't give credit for Matter support yet but will adjust our scoring when Matter becomes more common among smart locks.

Customer support is your lifeline when something goes awry with your smart lock. We rate each lock based on the available customer resources: phone, email, chat, user forums, and articles. It makes up just over half of the category's score. We also look at the general/electronics warranty, giving full credit to locks offering at least two years of coverage. While we track warranties that cover a lock's finish/mechanical elements, we don't assign a score.

Learn more about our general approach to reviewing products and services on our SafeWise methodology page.

Contributing writers: Rebecca Edwards, Alina Bradford

Related articles


Disclaimers

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.

†Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

John Carlsen
Written by
John Carlsen
John is a technology journalist specializing in smart home devices, security cameras, and home security systems. He has over a decade of experience researching, testing, and reviewing the latest tech—he was the Smart Home Editor for Top Ten Reviews and wrote for ASecureLife before joining SafeWise as a Staff Writer in 2020. John holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism emphasis from Utah Valley University. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, photography, cooking, and starting countless DIY projects he has yet to complete.

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