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i ve tested 30 smart locks and A comprehensive evaluation of smart locks reveals the best options for enhancing home security and convenience.

i ve tested 30 smart locks and

Introduction to Smart Locks

Smart locks have emerged as a practical solution to common household challenges. Whether you’ve locked yourself out, need to grant access to a friend for a quick errand, or are juggling groceries in the rain, a smart lock can address these issues efficiently. These devices not only provide remote access to your home but also eliminate the need for physical keys, offering various methods to lock and unlock your door.

One of the most appealing aspects of smart locks is their ability to keep track of entry and exit events, allowing homeowners to know when their door was unlocked and sometimes even by whom. For many, the convenience and control offered by smart locks are significant selling points. Additionally, they integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, such as video doorbells and smart lighting systems. For instance, I often use my smart lock in conjunction with an evening routine that locks the doors, dims the lights, and sets the thermostat to sleep mode. This integration is particularly beneficial for homes with multiple entry points, as it saves the hassle of checking each door individually at night.

Security Features of Smart Locks

When it comes to security, a connected lock can be as secure as a traditional lock, and in some cases, even more so. Most smart locks boast security ratings comparable to their non-smart counterparts. Moreover, they are generally more challenging to pick due to the absence of a conventional keyway. Leaving a spare key under a flowerpot is a common practice, but it is significantly less secure than utilizing a smart lock.

Having tested over 30 smart locks over the past six years, I have compiled a list of top picks that cater to various needs. Whether you seek the best overall smart lock, a budget-friendly option, or a lock that doesn’t appear “smart,” there are excellent choices available.

Best Smart Lock: Kwikset Halo Select

Score: 8

Pros: Excellent auto-unlock function, choice of Wi-Fi or Matter-over-Thread, great design, discreet door sensor, can be rekeyed.
Cons: Must choose between Thread and Kwikset’s auto-unlock, lacks Home Key or biometric access, touchscreen shows fingerprints, prominent Kwikset branding.

Where to Buy: $259 at Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowes.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Thread. Access options: Key, keycode, app, voice. Auto-unlock: Yes. Battery type: Four AA batteries. Battery life: Six to 12 months. Guest codes: Yes. Security rating: ANSI Grade AAA. Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Matter (including Apple Home, Samsung SmartThings).

The Kwikset Halo Select stands out as a reliable smart lock with impressive security ratings and broad compatibility with smart home devices. Its auto-unlock function is the most effective I have tested, allowing for a hands-free experience as you approach your door. The lock’s design is aesthetically pleasing, blending well with both traditional and contemporary door styles, although the prominent branding could be less noticeable.

Among the four entry methods—keyway, touchscreen keypad, app/smart home control, and location-based auto-unlock—I found the latter to be the most convenient. The auto-unlock feature worked flawlessly, unlocking the door as I neared my porch. Additionally, the Halo Select can auto-lock based on your location, providing an extra layer of security.

While the lock offers built-in Wi-Fi and a Thread radio, users must choose one for setup. Opting for Wi-Fi allows the use of the Kwikset app and cloud connectivity with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Conversely, using Matter enables local connections with various platforms but disables some features, including the app. This limitation is a common issue with Matter-enabled devices, but Kwikset’s approach allows for current functionality while offering future-proofing potential.

Best Budget Smart(ish) Lock: Wyze Lock Bolt

Score: 7

Pros: Inexpensive, good fingerprint reader, offline access codes, long battery life.
Cons: No Wi-Fi, no smart home support, large rear housing.

Where to Buy: $79.98 at Amazon, Home Depot, and Wyze.

Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0. Access options: Fingerprint, keypad, app. Auto-unlock: No. Battery type: Four AA batteries. Battery life: One year. Security Grade: ANSI/BHMA Grade 3. Guest codes: Yes.

The Wyze Lock Bolt is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable yet functional smart lock. Priced under $80, it features a fast fingerprint reader and a user-friendly backlit keypad. However, it operates solely on Bluetooth unless paired with a compatible Wyze video doorbell, which acts as a Wi-Fi bridge.

While the lock lacks smart home integration, it performs well for those who prefer a straightforward locking mechanism. The fingerprint reader is efficient, and the Bluetooth range allows for remote locking from various locations within the home. However, without Wi-Fi, remote access is limited, making the auto-lock feature essential for security.

Best Retrofit Smart Lock: Nuki Smart Lock

Score: 9

Pros: Lightning-fast, compact design, simple installation, supports Wi-Fi and Matter over Thread, no account required.
Cons: No Apple Home Key, proprietary charging cable, no door sensor included.

Where to Buy: $199 at Amazon and Nuki.

Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Matter-over-Thread. Access options: Key, app, voice, fingerprint, and keypad (sold separately). Auto-unlock: Yes. Battery type: Non-removable, rechargeable. Battery life: Up to 12 months. Guest codes: Yes. Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, Samsung SmartThings.

The Nuki Smart Lock is the most advanced retrofit option available, offering a sleek design and rapid locking capabilities. Installation is straightforward, requiring only the removal of the existing thumbturn and replacement with the Nuki unit. Notably, users can set up the lock without creating an account, a rare feature in smart locks.

The Nuki app provides various settings, including key sharing and activity logs, along with a convenient Night Mode that can lock the door at a specified time. While the lock’s built-in battery is rechargeable, concerns about longevity arise, as it is non-removable. However, Nuki claims it should last up to ten years, with a replacement plan available thereafter.

Best Smart Lock for Renters: Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi

Score: 7

Pros: Easy installation, option for fingerprint keypad, one year of battery life.
Cons: Requires Wi-Fi bridge, keypad is large and unattractive, no support for Matter.

Where to Buy: $129.99 at Amazon and Yale.

Connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (with plug-in module). Access options: Key, app, voice, keypad, and fingerprint reader sold separately. Auto-unlock: Yes. Battery type: Four AA alkaline batteries. Battery life: 12 months. Guest codes: Yes. Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings.

The Yale Approach Lock is an affordable and easy-to-install option for renters. It replaces the thumb turn of an existing lock, allowing continued use of the original key. The lock offers various features, including auto-lock and app control, making it a practical choice for those who do not wish to disturb their landlord.

While the lock’s design is slim and unobtrusive, the optional Bluetooth keypad is somewhat bulky and may detract from the overall aesthetic. The device operates on four AA batteries, promising a year of battery life, but requires a plug-in bridge for remote access and smart home integration.

Best Fingerprint Smart Lock: Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch

Score: 8

Pros: Fast fingerprint reader, compact design, compatible with Apple Home.
Cons: Touchscreen can be unintuitive, auto-unlock may be slow, additional connectivity options cost extra.

Where to Buy: $189.99 at Amazon.

Connectivity: Bluetooth (can add Wi-Fi, Z-Wave). Access options: Key, keypad, fingerprint reader, app, voice. Auto-unlock: Yes. Battery type: Four AA batteries. Battery life: Six months to a year. Guest codes: Yes. Security rating: ANSI/BHMA Grade 2.

The Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch is a versatile option that combines a fast fingerprint reader with a sleek design. It works seamlessly with various smart home platforms, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. The lock’s swappable networking modules allow for easy upgrades, although they come at an additional cost.

While the fingerprint reader is efficient, the auto-unlock feature may require a brief wait, which can be inconvenient when your hands are full. The lock’s design is visually appealing, but the touchscreen interface may not be as intuitive as some users would prefer.

Best Smart Lock that Works with Apple Home Key: Schlage Encode Plus

Score: 8

Pros: Support for Apple Home and Home Key, works over Thread, easy-to-use keypad.
Cons: Expensive, quite loud, no Matter support.

Where to Buy: $329.99 at Amazon, The Home Depot, and Build.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi or Thread. Access options: Key, keypad, app, voice, Apple Home Key.

The Schlage Encode Plus is a premium smart lock that offers compatibility with Apple Home and Home Key, making it an excellent choice for Apple users. The lock features a user-friendly keypad and a sleek design that can complement various home aesthetics. However, its higher price point may deter some consumers.

While the Encode Plus is equipped with a Thread radio for improved connectivity and battery life, it does not support Matter. Despite this limitation, the lock remains a reliable option for those seeking advanced features and seamless integration with Apple devices.

Conclusion

Smart locks present a modern solution for enhancing home security and convenience. With various options available, from budget-friendly models to high-end devices, homeowners can choose a smart lock that best fits their needs. As technology continues to evolve, smart locks will likely become even more integrated into our daily lives, offering greater security and ease of use.

Source: Original report