The 8 Best Smart Locks of 2023 to Safely Secure Your Home
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Our top pick, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, integrates with most popular smart home systems.
Better Homes & Gardens / Jaclyn Mastropasqua
The best smart locks are easy to install and convenient for controlling access to your home. They also allow you to safely grant access to your home without leaving a key under the mat.
With a smart lock, there are many options to gain entry into your home, including a smartphone, smartwatch, keypad code, voice commands, or a fingerprint scan. Some smart locks also come with traditional keys. Each smart lock has unique features and integrations, and it’s important to consider them carefully.
“Some smart locks have their own built-in alarm in case of tampering, while others work within a comprehensive home security system,” says Christen da Costa, founder and co-CEO of Gadget Review.
Although almost all smart locks offer convenience in terms of key sharing and setting up temporary codes for different people, David Mead, founder and tech pro at LinkdHOME, says near-field communication offers a great deal of customer satisfaction.
“Simply being able to move your phone or watch close to the lock to unlock is a great help when your hands are full. It's discrete, fast, and reliable,” says Mead.
To find the best smart locks, we researched the top picks and considered each for size, features, ease of installation, and compatibility with other smart home devices. Overall, the best smart lock is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock because it's easy to install and can be integrated with most smart home systems.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Best Overall
Why You Should Get It: It integrates with the most popular smart home systems and can be installed without replacing your existing deadbolt.
Keep in Mind: It’s pricey compared to many of the other smart locks available.
This lock is an excellent choice if you’re looking for easy integration with your Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Homekit smart home system. However, the main reason it made it on our list of best smart locks overall is its retrofit design, which makes it easy to install. This design feature also means that it does not require you to replace your existing deadbolt, saving you time and money.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock comes in at the high end of the locks we are recommending, but the ease of installation and integration capabilities will save you money in the long run. Aesthetically, the lock features a sleek design that is 45% smaller than earlier versions. It measures 2.8 inches in diameter and 1.8 inches in depth, making it visually pleasing and an interior designer's dream.
This smart lock is powered by two CR123A batteries, which may require replacement after some months. Another useful feature is the built-in Wi-Fi, which allows you to connect to your home network without purchasing additional hardware. This feature will significantly lower the upfront cost of installing your new lock.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock allows you to grant family members, guests, or contractors permanent, scheduled, or temporary access to your home through the app. The Auto-Lock and DoorSense features can be set to automatically secure your door once it's closed or after a set amount of time.
Price at time of publish: $230
Product Details: Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.8 x 2.75 inches | Material: Metal | Color Options: Gray | Batteries: 2 CR123A batteries required (included) | Special Features: Biometric verification, fits existing deadbolt, no hub required
Wyze Smart Lock Bolt with Fingerprint Keyless Entry
Best Budget
Why You Should Get It: This budget-friendly smart lock features a backlit keypad with anti-peep technology.
Keep in Mind: It won’t integrate with your smart home system.
Wyze Lock Bolt is a Bluetooth-connected smart lock that is budget-friendly. It installs quickly and offers multiple unlocking methods, including fingerprint, keypad, and mobile app. Its ultra-fast fingerprint reader allows you to open your door in 0.5 seconds and store up to 50 fingerprints locally. The exterior is crafted from solid metal for maximum security. The lock also comes with a luxurious backlit keypad for easy viewing at night.
This affordable smart lock also features anti-peep technology, meaning you don't need to worry if someone is watching as you enter the code. All you need to do is add different numbers before or after you enter the code, and the Wyze Bolt will still unlock.
The auto-lock timer removes the stress of worrying about whether or not you locked the door. The Wyze Bolt Lock is completely pickproof, and its IPX5 weatherproofing makes it ideal for external and internal applications. The lock’s dimensions are 6.8 x 3 x 2.6 inches, and it is conveniently powered by four AA batteries with a battery life of 10 to 12 months.
The price point may be beneficial to your wallet, but it does come with a few downsides. Most notably, this smart lock doesn't offer voice control support or smart home integration. If these extra features aren't important to you, this may be the perfect smart lock for you.
Price at time of publish: $80
Product Details: Dimensions: 6.8 x 3 x 2.6 inches | Material: Metal and plastic | Color Options: Black | Batteries: 4 AA alkaline batteries | Special Features: Fingerprint
Yale Assure Smart Lock 2
Best Keyless
Why You Should Get It: This lock works with iOS or Android smartphones and has built-in Bluetooth.
Keep in Mind: It doesn’t have a fingerprint sensor.
This second-generation lock is smaller and sleeker than its predecessor. It comes with built-in Bluetooth and Apple Home functionality, which are great for smart home integrations. The Yale Assure Lock 2 has a Wi-Fi smart module, allowing the lock to connect with your home Wi-Fi without needing a bridge.
This Assure Lock offers multiple access options, with the ability to share and track entry codes. You can also control it with voice commands on your mobile device or smart speaker. Its locking capabilities ensure it engages automatically whenever the door is closed and opens when you approach with a recognized smartphone or Apple Watch.
While this smart lock does not come with a built-in fingerprint sensor, this should not deter most buyers. Unless a fingerprint sensor is a non-negotiable feature for your lifestyle, the app controls, and smartphone unlock option easily make up for it. It works with smartphones on iOS and Android operating systems, so it will easily blend into the tech systems that are already a part of your life.
The Yale Assure Smart Lock 2 is a good fit for entry and front doors, with a door thickness of 1.37 to 2.25 inches. The product dimensions are 0.6 x 2.5 x 3.7 inches, and it requires four AA alkaline batteries.
Price at time of publish: $260
Product Details: Dimensions: 0.6 x 2.5 x 3.7 inches | Material: Plastic and metal | Color Options: Black | Batteries: 4 AA alkaline batteries | Special Features: Touchscreen
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart
Best with Multiple Keyless Entry Options
Why You Should Get It: It has six keyless options, third-party device integration, built-in Wi-Fi, and a fingerprint reader.
Keep in Mind: It doesn’t support Apple Home.
This versatile smart lock offers a multitude of ways to gain access to your home and has six keyless entry options in one device. These include your smartphone (iOS or Android) app, Apple Watch, an anti-peep keypad, 360º fingerprint ID, Auto-Unlock, and Shake to Open. The U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock also comes with a hidden keyhole that allows you to use a standard key if you choose.
This is the best smart lock for multiple keyless entries because it allows you to give family members, guests, and contractors access to your home at your discretion. Access can come through an eKey or code. You can give permanent, temporary, or scheduled access. It also allows you to store up to 100 fingerprints. The Smart Auto Lock feature automatically locks the door when you leave and unlocks it when you arrive if you have your smartphone or watch with you.
While this is one of the most well-rounded smart locks on our list, it does not offer Apple Home integration. However, with all of the other features, most homeowners will still find this smart lock option hard to beat.
U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock's dimensions are 2.95 x 2.95 x 1.22 inches, and it requires four AA alkaline batteries. The lock also has the highest security and durability certification (ANSI/BHMA A156.36 Commercial Grade 1). This IP65-rated dustproof and weatherproof external smart lock is built to withstand heat and cold and is ideal for commercial and residential use.
Price at time of publish: $219
Product Details: Dimensions: 2.95 x 2.95 x 1.22 inches | Material: Plastic and zinc | Color Options: Black | Batteries: 4 AA alkaline batteries | Special Features: Bluetooth control, drill-free installation, fingerprint ID
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Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Best with SmartKey System
Why You Should Get It: The SmartKey system allows you to re-key the system in seconds.
Keep in Mind: It doesn’t come with a fingerprint sensor.
The Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the best smart lock with a smart key system because it allows you to control your lock using a smartphone, physical key, or numeric passcode.
This Wi-Fi-enabled smart lock connects directly to your home network and smartphone to create a secure and interconnected smart home. It does not require a third-party home hub, panel, or even a subscription. In addition, the SmartKey security system protects you from advanced break-in techniques. It allows you to re-key your lock in seconds so that if you ever feel unsafe, you can create a new layer of security on the spot.
This smart lock does not include a fingerprint sensor. However, it does provide other strong user code features which are easy to use and seamlessly give you control over who can enter your home. The subscription-free mobile app allows you to create and track up to 250 unique codes.
The lock also allows you to set custom parameters—such as expiration dates or specific dates and times for access—for each of the custom codes. This is a great feature for families with teens since you can ensure they make it back before curfew or if you have a dog sitter or house cleaner who only comes by between certain hours. The dimensions are 3.99 x 4.24 x 9.74, and it is powered by four AA batteries.
Price at time of publish: $229
Product Details: Dimensions: 3.99 x 4.24 x 9.74 inches | Material: Metal | Color Options: Black or Venetian bronze | Batteries: 4 AA alkaline batteries | Special Features: 1-year electronics warranty
SMONET Keyless Entry Lock
Best with Built-In Door Handle
Why You Should Get It: This lock has a reversible handle, so you can adjust it to fit your door. It also features five different unlock options.
Keep in Mind: Installation may take a bit more time than other options.
If you are looking for a smart lock that includes its own integrated lever door handle, the SMONET Fingerprint Keyless Entry Lock is a versatile choice. This smart lock offers five different unlock options: app control, fingerprint, passcode, key fob, and traditional key.
The lever door handle is reversible, which means that you can easily use it for any door, whether it is a right-hand door or a left-hand door. The built-in door handle may require a bit more time and effort to install than other smart locks that have just a deadbolt or keypad locking mechanism. However, there is a convenience and aesthetic appeal of having your door handle function, as well as alternative entry options for guests, contractors, or long-term tenants.
The free app used to control this smart lock allows you to create and delete passcodes remotely. It also allows for timed entry for certain codes. Plus, this smart lock also integrates with Alexa and Google Home.
Price at time of publish: $200
Product Details: Dimensions: 6.2 x 2.67 x 1.2 inches | Material: Zinc alloy | Color Options: Black | Batteries: 4 AA batteries (not included) | Special Features: 60-day money back guarantee
Lockly Vision
Best with Built-In Camera
Why You Should Get It: It seamlessly integrates a doorbell, video camera, and smart lock into one convenient device.
Keep in Mind: It’s more expensive than other options.
The Lockly Vision Doorbell Camera Smart Lock is packed full of features, making it one of the best smart locks to consider. Although it’s more of an investment than some other options, the design also features a doorbell and a built-in camera for added security.
With the built-in video camera, you can monitor or record video through the app in real time. At the office but need to let the delivery driver know where to put your package? The two-way audio allows you to speak with anyone at your door, whether you are at home or away.
You can choose to unlock the door using voice assistant control, 3D fingerprinting, a touchscreen PIN pad, the Lockly mobile app, temporary eKeys, or a physical key. The 3D fingerprint reader ensures that no one can use an image of your fingerprint to enter your home, while the PIN pad includes a number-scrambling security feature that helps prevent your PIN from being memorized.
The Lockly mobile app allows you to create one-time-use eKeys, as well as time-sensitive codes for guest access. In addition, you can set "trusted user" codes that can grant access until you manually remove access in the app.
Price at time of publish: $400
Product Details: Dimensions: 7.8 x 3.14 x 3.8 inches | Material: Galvanized Zinc Alloy | Color Options: Matte black, venetian bronze, satin nickel | Batteries: 8 AA batteries (included) | Special Features: Built-in video doorbell, offline access codes, peek-proof keypad
Hornbill 8-in-1 Keyless Entry Door Lock
Best with Keys
Why You Should Get It: It offers an emergency charge feature, so you can continue to keep your home secure even if the batteries die.
Keep in Mind: If you plan to use the remote control and voice control features, you may need to purchase another WiFi gateway.
If you prefer an option that can operate with physical keys, the best smart lock is this Hornbill 8-in-1 style. The lock is designed to be easy to install and offers one-touch locking, as well as customizable auto-locking.
With this versatile smart lock, you will never run short on access options. You can program up to 250 fingerprints, as well as 300 custom access codes. Additionally, you can use a physical key to unlock it, or an Integrated Circuit (IC) card. It comes with two IC cards, which is ideal for anyone who may struggle with a keypad or a physical lock.
The Hornbill lock offers Google Home and Amazon Alexa integration. However, this feature, including remote control and voice control, requires a secondary WiFi gateway for operation.
The lock includes a Smart Reminder feature to let you know when your batteries are low. Thankfully, it gives you time to replace them before they die. However, if you forget to replace them, this lock also has an "emergency charge" feature, which will keep your door secure until the batteries are replaced. If you are searching for a flexible smart lock that does the thinking for you, this model comes highly recommended.
Price at time of publish: $145
Product Details: Dimensions: 6.3 x 2.56 x 1.77 inches | Material: Zinc | Color Options: Black, gold | Batteries: 4 A batteries (not included) | Special Features: Emergency charge, smart reminder
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The Bottom Line
The best smart locks secure your home while giving you and your guests easy access. If your home is already equipped with smart home devices, your smart lock must also integrate with your other devices and electronics.
Whether it’s Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant, the best smart lock system for you must be compatible and integrated with it. We found the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock to be the best overall choice. It integrates with the most popular smart home systems and can be installed without replacing your existing deadbolt.
What to Know About Smart Locks Before Shopping
Dimensions and Thickness of Door
Measure the width and length of your door and any designated door plates. Make sure the lock can neatly fit on your door without any gaps or sticking points. If the lock is not well secured, work with a locksmith and/or carpenter to make sure the door closes fully.
Lock Features
Although it may be hard to determine the functionalities you need before shopping, read each device description thoroughly. Note connections to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as any fingerprint, camera, voice automation, or keypad features to your device.
Integration Features and Compatibility
If you plan to use your smart lock with other third-party platforms and devices, check the compatibility of the lock you’re considering. Not all smart locks work with all smart home apps and platforms, but many do.
Read the manufacturer label and online reviews to determine if your favorite smart lock will work seamlessly with the smart home technologies already in place. Otherwise, you may need to make a switch to a new platform that better integrates your locks, alarm, and home appliances.
Your Questions, Answered
Are smart locks safe?
Smart locks are as secure as any traditional lock in terms of physical strength. Also, as long as you use the built-in security features, there is little to worry about from hackers or tech-savvy burglars. Smart locks are excellent additions to any home security system.
How do smart locks work?
How a smart lock works will depend on the type of lock and its built-in technologies. For example, some locks may use a smartphone app to lock and unlock the door. Others may use biometrics, a numeric keypad, or an actual key. In contrast, some may use a combination of two or more options.
What are the benefits of using a smart lock?
Increased accessibility without compromising security is one of the primary benefits of a smart lock. Another benefit is simplified home security. With smart locks, you don’t need to worry about any lost key drama. Using a code, FOB, or smart home app, you can easily ensure that you and your guests can get in and out of your home quickly and easily.
What are the most important features to look for in a smart lock?
This depends in part on the capabilities that are most important to you. That said, experts agree that certain features should be at the top of your ‘must have’ list. Da Costa says that “the top features you'll want to look for are ease of use, installation, and whether they can be integrated with smart home assistants.”
Mead echoed the need for ease of use, noting that “Simply being able to move your phone or watch close to the lock to unlock it is a great help when your hands are full.”
How do smart locks and alarm systems work together?
Integration between your smart lock and your home alarm system is a key feature. So how does it work?
Typically, your smart lock and alarm system are connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This makes it simple to connect the two through the internet or Bluetooth. Depending on your system and the lock you choose, you may connect them using either the alarm system’s settings or your smart lock’s settings.
Once connected, Mead says “Integrating your locks and alarm system is a practical enhancement to both. Depending on the capabilities of the alarm system and the lock, you can create better awareness and automation that can enhance your security overall. For example, you can program the door to lock automatically as part of arming the alarm or disarm the alarm if the door is unlocked by certain people. You can potentially also automate unlocking in the event of a fire if your alarm system includes smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and have an overall view of the security state of the home when you are away.”
Who We Are
Dr. Nafeesah Allen is a multilingual freelance writer who has been writing about homes and decor for Better Homes & Gardens since 2021. To better understand the role that smart technology plays in home security for today’s families, Nafeesah consulted David Mead, IT pro and founder of smart home technology site LinkdHOME, and Christen da Costa, Founder and Co-CEO of Gadget Review.
She also researched top-rated smart locks and compared common factors raised in customer reviews. She then narrowed the results and consulted published information before making the final list of the best smart locks on the market today.
