Smart locks have transformed how we secure our homes, offering keyless entry, remote access, and seamless integration with the rest of your smart home ecosystem. Whether you want to let in a dog walker from across town, grant temporary access codes to guests, or simply never fumble for keys again, a quality smart lock delivers convenience without compromising security.

But with dozens of models flooding the market — each boasting different connectivity protocols, installation requirements, and smart home compatibilities — choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That is exactly why we have put together this comprehensive buyer guide. We have tested, researched, and compared the leading smart locks available to help you find the perfect fit for your front door.

How We Chose the Best Smart Locks

Our selection process for the best smart locks involved evaluating each product across several critical dimensions. These criteria form the foundation of our Deck Score, our proprietary rating system that helps you quickly compare products at a glance.

Selection Criteria

  • Security & Build Quality: We prioritize locks with ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 ratings, robust deadbolt mechanisms, tamper alerts, and encryption standards that protect against hacking and physical attacks.
  • Smart Home Integration: The best smart locks work seamlessly with popular platforms like Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. We evaluate how well each lock plays with broader ecosystems, including smart home hubs.
  • Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Thread/Matter support all matter. Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate bridge, while Z-Wave and Thread offer mesh network advantages.
  • Ease of Installation: Not everyone is a locksmith. We favor models that install in under 30 minutes with basic tools and do not require replacing your entire door hardware.
  • Access Methods: Keypad entry, fingerprint scanning, smartphone app control, NFC tags, Apple Home Key, and traditional key backup all factor into versatility and convenience.
  • Battery Life & Reliability: A dead smart lock is a useless smart lock. We look for models offering at least six months of battery life and reliable low-battery warnings.
  • Value for Money: Premium features are great, but they need to justify the price. We evaluate each lock on what you get relative to what you pay.

Each product below receives a Deck Score out of 10, reflecting its overall performance across these categories. Let us dive into our top picks.

Quick Comparison: Best Smart Locks at a Glance

Product Deck Score Connectivity Access Methods Smart Home Installation Battery Life
Schlage Encode Plus 9.4/10 Wi-Fi, Thread, Bluetooth Keypad, App, Apple Home Key, Key HomeKit, Alexa, Google Retrofit (full replacement) ~6 months
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 9.1/10 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth App, Keypad (sold separately), Key HomeKit, Alexa, Google Retrofit (existing deadbolt) ~3-6 months
Yale Assure Lock 2 9.0/10 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave (module) Keypad, App, Key HomeKit, Alexa, Google, SmartThings Full replacement ~6-12 months
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi 8.8/10 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Fingerprint, Keypad, App, Shake-to-Open, Key Alexa, Google, SmartThings Retrofit (full replacement) ~6-8 months
Level Lock+ 8.6/10 Bluetooth, HomeKit (Apple Home Key) App, Apple Home Key, Key, Keypad (sold separately) HomeKit, Ring Retrofit (existing deadbolt) ~12+ months
Kwikset Halo Touch 8.3/10 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Fingerprint, App, Key Alexa, Google Full replacement ~12 months

1. Schlage Encode Plus — Best Smart Lock Overall

Deck Score: 9.4/10

The Schlage Encode Plus earns the top spot in our lineup for good reason. It combines rock-solid security credentials with the broadest set of smart home integrations available in a single lock, including native support for Apple Home Key — a feature that lets you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock your door just like you would with Apple Pay.

Built around an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt — the highest residential security rating available — the Encode Plus gives you genuine peace of mind alongside its smart features. The built-in Wi-Fi means no extra hub or bridge is required, and the addition of Thread support future-proofs the lock for the emerging Matter smart home standard.

The integrated keypad is responsive and backlit, making it easy to punch in codes at night. You can store up to 100 unique access codes, each with customizable schedules, so your housekeeper gets access only during specific hours while family members enjoy unrestricted entry. The Schlage Home app is intuitive and reliable, offering remote lock/unlock, code management, activity logs, and smart lock integration with routines.

Installation requires replacing your entire existing deadbolt assembly, which takes most DIYers about 30 to 45 minutes. The lock comes in several finishes — including satin nickel, aged bronze, and matte black — to match your existing hardware.

Pros

  • ANSI Grade 1 security rating — the strongest available
  • Apple Home Key support for tap-to-unlock with iPhone and Apple Watch
  • Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub required
  • Thread support for Matter compatibility
  • Up to 100 customizable access codes with scheduling
  • Excellent build quality and premium finishes
  • Reliable app with activity logs and notifications

Cons

  • Higher price point than competitors
  • Requires full deadbolt replacement (not a retrofit)
  • Battery life is shorter than some rivals at around six months
  • No fingerprint sensor

2. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock — Best Retrofit Smart Lock

Deck Score: 9.1/10

If you love your existing deadbolt and do not want to replace it, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the answer. This clever device mounts on the interior side of your door, attaching directly to your existing deadbolt thumbturn. From the outside, nothing changes — your original key still works, and nobody would ever guess a smart lock is installed.

This retrofit approach makes the August lock ideal for renters who cannot modify their door hardware, as well as homeowners who want to preserve decorative or high-security deadbolts they already own. Installation takes roughly 15 minutes and requires nothing more than a screwdriver.

Despite its compact size, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock packs built-in Wi-Fi (no August Connect bridge needed, unlike earlier generations), Bluetooth, and compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. The August app is one of the most polished in the category, offering features like DoorSense (which tells you whether your door is actually closed, not just locked), auto-lock and auto-unlock based on your phone's proximity, and virtual guest keys that can be sent via text or email.

The optional August Smart Keypad, sold separately, mounts beside your door and provides code-based entry for family members or guests who do not have smartphones. While this adds to the total cost, it keeps the core lock affordable and lets you customize your setup.

Pros

  • Retrofit design — works with your existing deadbolt
  • Extremely easy 15-minute installation
  • Ideal for renters and historic homes
  • Built-in Wi-Fi with no bridge required
  • DoorSense technology confirms door is closed and locked
  • Auto-unlock feature works reliably
  • Excellent, polished app experience
  • Compatible with HomeKit, Alexa, and Google

Cons

  • Keypad sold separately
  • Battery life can be inconsistent (3 to 6 months depending on usage)
  • No fingerprint or NFC access
  • Interior side appearance may not suit all decor styles
  • Requires your existing deadbolt to be in good working condition

3. Yale Assure Lock 2 — Best Keypad Smart Lock

Deck Score: 9.0/10

Yale has been making locks for nearly two centuries, and the Assure Lock 2 reflects that heritage with a design that feels both premium and purposeful. The slim, modern profile and touchscreen keypad make it one of the most attractive smart locks on the market, and its modular approach to connectivity means you can tailor it to your exact smart home setup.

The Assure Lock 2 is available in multiple configurations: a keypad-only version (with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi built in) and a keyed version that retains a traditional keyway as backup. The touchscreen keypad is sleek, responsive, and features smudge-resistant coating that prevents would-be intruders from guessing your code by looking at fingerprint patterns on the surface.

What truly sets the Assure Lock 2 apart is its modular smart module system. Depending on the model you choose, you can get built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or opt for a Z-Wave module that integrates with Samsung SmartThings and other Z-Wave hubs. Apple HomeKit support is available on specific models, and the lock works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant across the board.

The Yale Access app (powered by the same platform as August) provides a smooth experience with auto-lock, auto-unlock, guest access management, and activity history. Battery life is impressive, with the lock running for six to twelve months on four AA batteries depending on your connectivity configuration.

For a deeper look at how smart locks integrate with broader home security, check out our guide on the best smart home security systems.

Pros

  • Sleek, modern design with smudge-resistant touchscreen
  • Modular connectivity — choose Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or HomeKit
  • Excellent battery life (up to 12 months)
  • Yale Access app is polished and feature-rich
  • Auto-lock and auto-unlock functionality
  • Wide smart home compatibility
  • Available with or without traditional key backup

Cons

  • Full deadbolt replacement required
  • Some smart home features require specific module versions
  • No built-in fingerprint sensor
  • Higher-end configurations can be expensive
  • Touchscreen can be slow to wake in very cold weather

4. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi — Best Smart Lock with Fingerprint Scanner

Deck Score: 8.8/10

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi stands out for offering the most diverse set of access methods in a single lock. You get a fingerprint scanner, a backlit keypad, smartphone app control, a mechanical key backup, and even a unique Shake-to-Open feature that unlocks the door when you shake your phone near it. If versatility is your top priority, this lock delivers.

The fingerprint scanner is fast and accurate, reading prints in under half a second and storing up to 100 unique fingerprints. This makes it ideal for families where children may not carry smartphones or remember keypad codes. The scanner uses a 360-degree reading surface, so it works regardless of finger orientation.

Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for an external bridge, and the lock integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings. The Ultraloq app provides comprehensive control, including user management, access scheduling, activity logs, and real-time notifications when someone locks or unlocks the door.

The U-Bolt Pro features an ANSI Grade 1 rated deadbolt and a weather-resistant design rated for outdoor use. Installation involves replacing your full deadbolt assembly, but the process is straightforward and well-documented with video guides. Battery life ranges from six to eight months on four AA batteries, with a USB-C emergency power port on the exterior in case the batteries die unexpectedly.

Pros

  • Fast, accurate 360-degree fingerprint scanner
  • Most access methods of any lock on this list
  • Built-in Wi-Fi — no hub needed
  • ANSI Grade 1 security rating
  • USB-C emergency power port
  • Shake-to-Open feature for hands-free entry
  • Stores up to 100 fingerprints and 100 keypad codes
  • Competitive pricing for the feature set

Cons

  • No Apple HomeKit support
  • Design is functional but less premium-looking than Schlage or Yale
  • App interface could be more polished
  • Full deadbolt replacement required
  • Shake-to-Open can be finicky in practice

5. Level Lock+ — Best Invisible Smart Lock

Deck Score: 8.6/10

The Level Lock+ takes a radically different approach to smart lock design: it looks nothing like one. From both the interior and exterior, the Level Lock+ appears to be a completely ordinary deadbolt. All the smart technology — the motor, the electronics, the battery — is hidden inside the door itself. If aesthetics and discretion are paramount, no other smart lock comes close.

This invisibility comes with genuine engineering sophistication. The Level Lock+ supports Apple Home Key, allowing you to tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock. It works seamlessly with Apple HomeKit and can integrate with Ring security systems for automated routines. The lock uses Bluetooth for direct communication with your phone, enabling auto-unlock as you approach your door.

Battery life is a standout feature. A single CR2 battery powers the lock for over a year in typical use, far exceeding most competitors. When the battery does need replacing, it is housed in the interior thumbturn and can be swapped in seconds without any tools.

The trade-off for this minimalist design is a more limited feature set. There is no built-in keypad (an optional Level Keypad is sold separately), no fingerprint scanner, and no built-in Wi-Fi. The lock relies on Bluetooth and your home hub (such as an Apple TV or HomePod) for remote access. If you are deep in the Apple ecosystem, this is a non-issue. If you need broader compatibility, it may be limiting.

Pros

  • Completely invisible smart lock design
  • Looks like a standard deadbolt from both sides
  • Apple Home Key support
  • Exceptional battery life (12+ months on a single CR2)
  • Tool-free battery replacement
  • Premium build quality
  • Works with Ring Alarm for integrated security

Cons

  • Keypad sold separately
  • No built-in Wi-Fi — requires a hub for remote access
  • Limited smart home compatibility outside Apple and Ring
  • No fingerprint or NFC access (beyond Apple Home Key)
  • Premium price for the feature set
  • Requires full deadbolt replacement

6. Kwikset Halo Touch — Best Budget Smart Lock with Fingerprint

Deck Score: 8.3/10

The Kwikset Halo Touch brings fingerprint access to a more accessible price point without sacrificing core smart features. As one of the most recognized names in residential locks, Kwikset delivers a reliable, no-nonsense smart lock that covers the essentials well.

The fingerprint sensor on the Halo Touch is integrated into the exterior escutcheon and stores up to 100 prints. It is reasonably fast, though not quite as instantaneous as the Ultraloq's scanner. The lock also includes a traditional keyway with Kwikset's SmartKey Security technology, which allows you to re-key the lock yourself in seconds if a key is lost or compromised.

Built-in Wi-Fi connects the lock directly to your network, and the Kwikset app provides remote lock and unlock, user management, activity logs, and notification alerts. Alexa and Google Assistant integration enables voice control and routine automation. For example, you can set your smart lights to turn on automatically when the door is unlocked after sunset.

Battery life is a strong suit, with four AA batteries lasting approximately 12 months under normal use. The lock carries an ANSI Grade 2 rating, which is solid for residential use though a step below the Grade 1 rating found on the Schlage and Ultraloq models.

Pros

  • Affordable price point for a Wi-Fi smart lock with fingerprint
  • SmartKey Security allows easy re-keying
  • Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub required
  • Long battery life (~12 months)
  • Reliable Kwikset brand reputation
  • Straightforward app and setup process

Cons

  • ANSI Grade 2 rating (lower than Grade 1 competitors)
  • No Apple HomeKit or Home Key support
  • No keypad — fingerprint, app, or key only
  • App is functional but lacks polish
  • Design is basic compared to premium options
  • Full deadbolt replacement required

What to Consider Before Buying a Smart Lock

Choosing the best smart lock goes beyond picking the highest-rated model. Your specific door setup, smart home ecosystem, and lifestyle needs all play a role. Here are the key factors to weigh before making your decision.

Retrofit vs. Full Replacement

Retrofit smart locks like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Level Lock+ attach to or replace only the interior mechanism of your existing deadbolt. They preserve your exterior hardware and are generally easier and faster to install. Full replacement locks like the Schlage Encode Plus and Yale Assure Lock 2 replace the entire deadbolt assembly, which gives you a fresh, integrated system but requires more installation effort and changes the exterior appearance of your door.

If you rent your home, have a decorative or high-security deadbolt you want to keep, or simply prefer a quick installation, a retrofit lock is the way to go. If you want the cleanest integrated look and do not mind replacing hardware, a full replacement lock often offers more features.

Smart Home Ecosystem Compatibility

Your existing smart home setup should heavily influence your lock choice. If you are invested in Apple's ecosystem, look for HomeKit and Home Key support — the Schlage Encode Plus, Level Lock+, and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock all deliver here. For Alexa and Google users, nearly every lock on this list will work, though feature depth varies.

If you use Samsung SmartThings or a Z-Wave hub, the Yale Assure Lock 2 with its Z-Wave module is an excellent choice. And if you are planning to adopt the Matter standard as it rolls out, the Schlage Encode Plus with Thread support is the most future-proof option.

Access Methods That Match Your Household

Think about who will be using the lock and how. Families with young children benefit from fingerprint scanners (kids lose things and forget codes). Tech-savvy households may prefer app-based access with auto-unlock. If you frequently host guests or employ service workers, a keypad with schedulable codes is essential.

For households with elderly members or anyone uncomfortable with technology, a lock with a traditional key backup provides a familiar fallback. Every lock on our list includes at least one non-digital access method, but the ease and convenience of each varies.

Battery Life and Emergency Access

Smart locks are battery-powered, and a dead battery means a locked door. Look for models with at least six months of battery life and reliable low-battery notifications. Most locks warn you well in advance through the app, but it is worth considering what happens in a worst-case scenario.

Locks with traditional keyways always provide a mechanical backup. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro goes further with a USB-C emergency power port on the exterior, letting you jump-start the lock with a portable battery pack. Consider your comfort level with battery management when choosing.

Door Compatibility

Before purchasing any smart lock, verify that your door meets the lock's requirements. Key measurements include door thickness (typically 1-3/8 to 2 inches for residential doors), backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole, usually 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches), and bore hole diameter (standard is 2-1/8 inches). Most smart locks accommodate standard doors, but unusual or older doors may require adapters or professional installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are smart locks as secure as traditional deadbolts?

Yes — when you choose a quality model. Smart locks with ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 ratings meet the same physical security standards as traditional deadbolts. In fact, smart locks often add security layers that traditional locks lack, such as tamper alerts, activity logs, auto-lock features, and the ability to instantly revoke access codes. The digital components use encryption (typically AES 128-bit or higher) to protect against hacking. The main security risk with smart locks is poor password hygiene or failing to update firmware, both of which are easily managed.

What happens to my smart lock if the Wi-Fi goes down or the power is out?

Your smart lock will continue to function for local operations even without Wi-Fi. The deadbolt mechanism is battery-powered, so household power outages do not affect it. Keypad codes, fingerprint access, and Bluetooth-based app control all work without an internet connection. What you lose during a Wi-Fi outage is remote access — the ability to lock or unlock the door from outside your home via the app. Once your internet connection is restored, the lock reconnects automatically. If the lock's batteries die, models with keyway backups let you use a physical key, while models like the Ultraloq offer USB-C emergency power.

Can I install a smart lock myself, or do I need a professional?

Most smart locks are designed for DIY installation and can be installed in 15 to 45 minutes with basic tools — typically just a Phillips screwdriver. Retrofit models like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock are the easiest, as they attach to your existing deadbolt without removing exterior hardware. Full replacement models require removing your old deadbolt and installing the new one, which is still straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic home projects. Every lock on our list includes detailed instructions, and manufacturers provide video tutorials. If your door has non-standard dimensions or you are uncomfortable with the process, a locksmith or handyman can handle installation for a modest fee.

Do smart locks work with rental properties and apartments?

Absolutely — retrofit smart locks are particularly well-suited for rentals. Models like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock mount on the interior side of your door and work with the existing deadbolt, meaning you can install one without modifying the exterior hardware or violating lease terms. When you move out, simply remove the smart lock, reinstall the original thumbturn, and take your smart lock to your next home. Always check with your landlord first, but most are amenable to smart lock installations that do not damage the door or change exterior appearance. For property managers, smart locks offer tremendous value by eliminating the need to re-key locks between tenants — simply reset the access codes instead.

How long do smart lock batteries last, and what type do they use?

Battery life varies significantly by model, connectivity usage, and how frequently the lock is operated. On average, expect three to twelve months of battery life. Locks using Wi-Fi tend to consume more power than Bluetooth-only models. The Level Lock+ leads our list with over 12 months on a single CR2 battery, while the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock sits at the lower end at three to six months. Most smart locks use standard AA batteries (four cells is typical), though some use CR2 lithium batteries or proprietary rechargeable packs. All quality smart locks send low-battery alerts to your phone well before the batteries are depleted, giving you ample time to replace them.

Final Thoughts

The best smart lock for your home depends on your priorities. If you want the most complete package with top-tier security, broad compatibility, and Apple Home Key support, the Schlage Encode Plus is our top recommendation. If you need a renter-friendly option that preserves your existing hardware, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is hard to beat. For design-conscious homeowners who want their technology to disappear, the Level Lock+ offers an unmatched invisible aesthetic.

Whatever you choose, upgrading to a smart lock is one of the most impactful smart home improvements you can make. It enhances security, simplifies daily life, and integrates your front door into the connected home you are building. Pick the model that fits your door, your ecosystem, and your budget — and enjoy never searching for your keys again.