I’ve been using a keyless entry smart door lock for a few years now, and honestly, I don’t know how I ever managed with just a traditional key. The convenience is a total game-changer. Whether I’m coming home with my hands full of groceries or need to let a family member in while I’m away, being able to control my front door from my phone or with a simple code has made life so much easier. It’s one of those smart home upgrades that provides immediate, tangible benefits.
Security was another big factor for me. With a smart lock, I get instant alerts on my phone when someone enters, and I can create unique access codes for guests or service people that I can deactivate at any time. No more worrying about lost keys or hiding a spare under the mat. If you’re thinking about making the switch, the variety of styles and features available now is impressive. To help you find the right fit, I’ve put together a list of my top picks for the best smart door locks on the market.
My Picks for the Best Smart Door Locks
- Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- Yale Assure Lock SL Touchscreen Deadbolt
- Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi
- Wyze Lock Keypad Wi-Fi Enabled
- Level Lock Touch Edition
- Kwikset Halo Touch Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
I consider the Schlage Encode a top contender because it gets so many things right. The built-in Wi-Fi is its biggest advantage; you don’t need a separate hub to connect it to your home network. This makes setup incredibly straightforward. I had it connected to my phone and Alexa in under 15 minutes. The app is clean and easy to use, allowing me to create up to 100 unique access codes for family, friends, or dog walkers. I also appreciate the built-in alarm that can sound if someone tries to force the door open.
The build quality feels solid and secure, which you’d expect from a brand like Schlage. It’s ANSI Grade 1 certified, the highest rating for residential security. The touchscreen is responsive, even in direct sunlight or cold weather. While it is on the pricier side, you’re paying for reliability, a trusted brand name, and the convenience of not needing extra hardware. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of lock that just works, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a hassle-free, secure smart lock.
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate hub
- Excellent build quality and top-tier security certification
- Simple, intuitive app for managing access codes
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Design is more functional than stylish
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
If you love the look of your existing deadbolt and don’t want to change it, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a perfect solution. This lock attaches over your current deadbolt on the inside of your door, leaving the exterior hardware unchanged. I found the installation to be simple; it basically involves screwing the August mount onto the interior of your door and clipping the motor unit in place. The auto-lock and auto-unlock features are where it really shines. You can set it to lock automatically after 30 seconds, and it can even sense when you’re arriving home to unlock the door for you.
The Wi-Fi is built directly into the lock, so no separate bridge is required. I can lock and unlock the door from anywhere using the August app, and it integrates seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. One thing to note is that because it uses the existing deadbolt, the physical turning of the lock can be a bit slow and noisy compared to a full deadbolt replacement. However, for renters or anyone who wants a non-invasive smart lock upgrade, the August is a brilliant and highly convenient option.
Pros
- Retrofits over existing deadbolts for easy installation
- Convenient auto-lock and auto-unlock features
- Built-in Wi-Fi and broad smart home compatibility
Cons
- The motor can be audible when locking/unlocking
- Requires frequent battery changes if used heavily
Yale Assure Lock SL Touchscreen Deadbolt
The Yale Assure Lock SL wins major points for its sleek, modern design. The entire front panel is a smooth, touchscreen surface that lights up when you approach, which looks fantastic on a modern home. It’s incredibly slim and doesn’t have a bulky keypad. I was impressed by how quiet it is when locking and unlocking. Yale offers a lot of modularity with this lock; you can choose different connectivity options like Zigbee or Z-Wave by adding a separate module, which is great for integrating into a specific smart home ecosystem.
One of my favorite features is the ability to use a 4-8 digit code, giving you more flexibility than some locks that require a fixed number of digits. The app is well-designed for creating temporary or recurring guest codes. The main drawback is that it does not have built-in Wi-Fi, so you will need to purchase a separate Wi-Fi bridge or a compatible smart home hub (like Samsung SmartThings or a Ring Alarm) for remote control. If you prioritize aesthetics and want a lock that can be customized for your smart home setup, the Yale Assure is a great pick.
Pros
- Sleek, keyless touchscreen design
- Very quiet operation
- Modular connectivity for smart home integration
Cons
- No built-in Wi-Fi; requires a separate module for remote access
- Touchscreen can be sensitive to wet fingers
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro stands out by offering six different ways to unlock your door, which is more than any other lock I’ve tried. You can use a fingerprint, a smartphone via Bluetooth, a numeric code, a mechanical key, a smartwatch, or even a special fingerprint-enabled key fob. This variety is fantastic for households with people of different ages and tech comfort levels. The fingerprint scanner is surprisingly fast and accurate, becoming my preferred method of entry. The Wi-Fi connectivity is handled by a small bridge that plugs into an outlet nearby, which was simple to set up.
Installation was standard for a full deadbolt replacement. The build quality feels robust, and the auto-lock feature gives me peace of mind. One minor issue is that the app interface feels a bit dated compared to competitors like Schlage or August. Also, the need for the separate Wi-Fi bridge is a small extra step. However, if you want maximum flexibility in how you enter your home and value the security of biometric access, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is a very compelling and unique option.
Pros
- Six unique entry methods, including fingerprint
- Strong build quality and good battery life
- Auto-lock feature for added security
Cons
- App interface is not as polished as others
- Requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote access
Wyze Lock Keypad Wi-Fi Enabled
Wyze has built a reputation on offering impressive smart home technology at a very accessible price, and the Wyze Lock is no exception. This is a retrofit lock similar to the August, meaning it installs on the inside of your door over your existing deadbolt. The installation process is guided well by the app, and I had it up and running quickly. The biggest advantage here is the cost; you get features like auto-lock/unlock, remote access via Wi-Fi, and a separate keypad for a fraction of the price of many competitors.
The performance is solid for the price. The auto-unlock feature, which uses your phone’s location to unlock the door as you approach, works reliably. The companion keypad is a must-have add-on for granting keyless entry to others without a smartphone. The main trade-off is that the build quality and materials feel a bit less premium than a Schlage or Yale, but they are perfectly adequate. If you’re on a budget but want the core conveniences of a smart lock, the Wyze Lock offers incredible value.
Pros
- Extremely affordable price point
- Easy retrofit installation
- Reliable auto-lock and auto-unlock features
Cons
- Build quality is good but not premium
- The keypad is a separate purchase
Level Lock Touch Edition
The Level Lock Touch is the most discreet smart lock I’ve ever seen. From the outside, it looks exactly like a classic, high-quality door handle with a subtle touch-sensitive strip. There’s no keypad, no screen, and no bulky hardware. The magic is all inside the door, as the entire mechanism is contained within the deadbolt itself. This design is perfect for historic homes or anyone who doesn’t want their front door to look “high-tech.” The touch-to-open feature is seamless; you just rest a finger on the outside lever to unlock it if your phone is nearby.
Installation is more involved than other locks because you have to replace the entire deadbolt assembly inside the door, but the instructions are clear. The battery life is advertised as lasting over a year because the lock is so energy-efficient. The biggest limitation is the lack of a keypad, so granting access to guests requires sharing a digital key through the app. If absolute discretion and minimalist design are your top priorities, and your primary access method is your phone, the Level Lock Touch is in a class of its own.
Pros
- Extremely discreet and stylish design
- Long battery life
- Quiet and smooth operation
Cons
- No keypad for guest access without a smartphone
- Higher price point for its feature set
Kwikset Halo Touch Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Kwikset is another well-known name in door hardware, and the Halo Touch brings smart features at a very competitive price. It features a fingerprint sensor as one of its main entry methods, which is a nice touch at this price point. The setup was straightforward, and the built-in Wi-Fi means you can connect it directly to your home network without extra hubs. The app allows you to manage fingerprints and access codes easily, and it works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
The build quality is good, and it includes Kwikset’s SmartKey re-keying technology, which is a handy feature if you ever need to change the physical key to match other locks in your home. The fingerprint reader works well, though I found it occasionally needed a second try if my finger was not perfectly placed. The design is a bit more utilitarian compared to the sleek Yale Assure, but it’s by no means unattractive. For a full-featured lock with biometric access and built-in Wi-Fi from a trusted brand, the Kwikset Halo Touch represents excellent value.
Pros
- Includes a fingerprint reader for convenient access
- Built-in Wi-Fi for easy remote control
- SmartKey re-keying feature is a bonus
Thinking about making the switch to a keyless life? I was in the same boat last year, and finding the right smart door lock can feel overwhelming. There are a lot of options, and you want something that’s secure, reliable, and actually makes your life easier. After a lot of research and testing, I’ve put together this guide to help you figure out what to look for.
First, consider the type of lock. Do you want a full replacement for your existing deadbolt, or something that works with your current hardware? Full replacement locks, like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, give you the most features and a clean look. But if you’re renting or not super handy, a retrofit model that attaches over your interior deadbolt might be a better fit.
Next, think about connectivity. How does the lock talk to your phone and your smart home? Z-Wave and Zigbee locks require a separate hub (like a Samsung SmartThings or an Amazon Echo with a built-in hub) to connect to the internet. This can be more reliable and extend battery life. On the other hand, Wi-Fi locks connect directly to your home network, so you don’t need an extra device, but they can drain batteries faster. Bluetooth-only locks are great for basic keyless entry when you’re nearby, but you can’t control them remotely.
Power is a big one. Almost all smart locks run on batteries, usually AA or CR123. Check the estimated battery life—some last a full year, others might need changing sooner. A low-battery warning is essential. Also, make sure there’s a physical keyhole or a way to charge the lock with a 9V battery in case the batteries die completely. You don’t want to be locked out!
Finally, look at the specific features that matter to you. Do you want a keypad built into the lock itself, like the Schlage Encode, or a sleek, keypad-less design? Voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant is super convenient for locking the door hands-free. The ability to create temporary access codes for guests, dog walkers, or service people is one of the best reasons to get a smart lock. When you’re looking at the 10 best smart door locks for keyless entry, matching these features to your daily routine is the key to happiness.
FAQ
Are smart door locks safe?
This is the number one question I had. The short answer is yes, a quality smart lock is at least as secure as a traditional deadbolt. Reputable brands build their locks with the same physical security standards (like ANSI Grade 1 or 2). The digital security is what you need to pay attention to. Look for locks that use encryption for communication between the lock, your phone, and the cloud. Using strong, unique passwords for your associated app accounts also helps keep your digital front door secure.
What happens if the power goes out or the batteries die?
This was a major worry for me too! The good news is that smart locks are designed for this. They run on batteries, so a general power outage won’t affect them. If the batteries get low, the lock will warn you (with a beep or a notification in the app) long before they die. If they do run out completely, most models have a port where you can touch a 9V battery to provide enough temporary power to unlock it. Many also include a physical key as a final backup, so you can always get in.
Can I install a smart lock myself?
Maybe! If you’re comfortable with basic tools and following instructions, many smart locks are designed for DIY installation. I installed my first one in about 30 minutes. The most important step is to check the compatibility of your current door and deadbolt before you buy. Measure your door’s thickness and the backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the deadbolt hole). Most manufacturers provide templates and clear video guides. If you’re not confident, hiring a locksmith is a great option to ensure it’s done correctly.
Will a smart lock work with my existing smart home system?
It depends on the protocols they use. This is where you need to do a little homework. If you use Apple HomeKit, you’ll need to look for a lock that specifically says it’s “HomeKit-enabled.” For Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, check if the lock supports those voice commands. If you have a broader smart home hub like Samsung SmartThings or Hubitat, look for locks that use Z-Wave or Zigbee, as these often allow for more advanced automation. Checking compatibility is a crucial step when choosing from the 10 best smart door locks for keyless entry.
How many access codes can I usually create?
This varies by model, but it’s a fantastic feature. Most quality locks let you create a surprising number of unique codes—anywhere from 10 to 100. This means you can give a permanent code to family members, a recurring code for a cleaner, and temporary codes for guests that expire after a set time. Managing these codes through an app is much easier than making copies of physical keys.