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Best Smart Door Locks In 2021

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This product guide was written by GearHungry Staff
Published January 23, 2020
GearHungry Staff
GearHungry Staff posts are a compilation of work by various members of our editorial team. We update old articles regularly to provide you the most current information. You can learn more about our staff here.
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The traditional key is so old-school and if you have a smart home, boasting all the latest digital gadgetry, isn’t it about time that you switched to a smart lock? Pretty much everything these days can be connected, operated and viewed via the internet. From our household appliances to our lighting, security and heating systems. Up until now, the key and lock hasn’t really changed that much and some might argue that if it has served us reliably well for thousands of years, what’s the point in changing it? That said, smart technology is flourishing and no area more so that than of aforementioned smart security and with it start locks. They’ve come one leaps and bounds in terms of design, technology and functionality, with many blending in seamlessly with your home decor and even adding a touch of digital style to your front door. With various input methods and designs to choose from, we’ve collated our favorites for you right here. So if you’re looking to upgrade to a smart home, take a look at today’s guide to the best smart door locks on the market.

The Best Smart Door Lock

1
Next x Yale Smart Door Lock

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If you’re looking to upgrade to smart door locks, then you should check out our Best Choice recommendation, the Nest x Yale system from Google. Use in conjunction with either the Nest app which you can download or with Google Assistant. If you already use Nest smart home devices, you can extend the benefits well beyond your front door!

It’s battery-operated and can be used to replace your existing deadbolt. It even sends alerts if it detects tamper activity. Sometimes the setup of these types of devices can be problematic, but the Nest x Yale benefits from being easy to install and to connect to your internet. It also features an external keypad that can be set up to accept multiple codes separate members of your family to guests, so you can punch the code in to gain access rather than having to use a key. Great if your bag is crammed to the rafters and you can’t find your key that quickly.

There’s also an additional one-touch locking and unlocking option, which enables you to securely lock your door just by pressing the Yale logo. If you want to set it up to also function with pre-set times, you can do that too. It’s currently available in three stylish options, one of which is pound to suit your home decor. Choose from Satin Nickel, Polished Brass, or Oil Rubbed Bronze. You may also be interested in some of the best electric garage door openers from our list, so be sure to check them out.

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Key Features:

Secure and tamper-proof

Replaces your existing deadbolt

Battery operated and can be quickly charged with 9V battery

Use in conjunction with your Nest app to let people in remotely

Create family passcodes

Specification:
  • BrandGoogle
  • ModelRB-YRD540-WV-619
  • Weight0.16 ounces
Pros

Secure

Send alerts

Back-up unlock function

Use with Nest app

Works with Google Assistant

Touchscreen keypad

Multiple user codes

Modern and sleek design

Cons

Sensitive to humidity

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
ZKTeco Electronic Biometric Smart Door Lock

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Our next best smart door lock isn’t for external use but rather for providing internal access to an apartment, for example, or perhaps a study or bedroom where you prefer to limit universal access. ZKTeco Electronic Biometric Fingertip Security Lock utilizes the latest fingerprint technology with its advanced recognition algorithm. This provides quick and convenient keyless access for easy and secure door opening and closing. There’s the facility to enroll up to 100 different fingerprints and access is given in less than 0.5 seconds.

The ZKTeko biometric smart lock is battery operated and features a low battery indicator. There are also external terminals which draw back-up power from a 9V battery plus there’s the latest infrared sensor fitted for simple touch opening. You have the option to set up and program three different user group types; admin, normal as well as a temporary user. Please note that this device is not suitable for use outside as it’s not waterproof and is also sensitive to weather and temperate conditions. You will also need to drill two holes in your door to fit, so it’s only suitable for doors that can easily be drilled.

And for more amazing products to upgrade your home safety, check out our guide to the best outdoor motion sensor lights.

Key Features:

Reversible handle with both left and right-handed operation possible

Latest generation fingerprint recognition algorithm

Easy to install with no wiring required

Infrared sensor touch to open plus LED light indicator

Battery operated with low battery warning

Specification:
  • BrandZKTeco
  • ModelML10 USED
  • Weight5.95 pounds
Pros

Reversible operation

Keyless entry

Guest code access

Fingerprint recognition

100 fingerprints can be programmed

Works in under 0.5 seconds

Sleek and compact design

Cons

Not waterproof

Internal use only

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
August Smart Lock Pro

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Our next recommendation is our Premium Pick product and it has to be one of the most attractive and contemporary designs with seen when it comes to smart door locks. From the outside, you’d never even know that it was there. That’s because you don’t have to remove and replace your existing deadbolt, the August Smart Lock Pro works alongside it. You can keep your current setup and simply set the puck up on the inside. This gives you the element of discretion while also allowing you the reassurance of always being able to use your keys as a back-up when needed.

Once you’ve downloaded the August App, you can also monitor whether your door is securely closed. The device can work as a keyless door lock, since it can also be set to unlock when you are within 20-30 feet of your front door, providing you with keyless entry. The same is true when it comes to securely locking up your home. The lock will automatically bolt in place when you leave and for added peace of mind, you can check using your smartphone.

Separate keyless codes can be set up and sent to guests, other family members, or anyone else who pops by your home regularly. A cleaner, for example. Again, with your smartphone, you can then check all the comings and goings remotely. Finally, this device can be paired with your choice of voice assistant to accept voice commands. So whether you prefer Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, the option is yours. You will, however, require a Wi-Fi bridge to unlock the full potential of your new August Smart device.

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Key Features:

Works with Alexa for voice control operation

Track activity to your home 24/7 with activity feed

Easily attaches to existing deadbolt so you can keep existing keys

Simple and easy DIY installation

DoorSense alert lets you know if your home is adequately secured

Specification:
  • BrandAugust Home
  • ModelAUG-SL03-C02-G03
  • Weight13.9 ounces
Pros

Secure

Sleek design

Voice control

Easy installation

Auto-lock and unlock

Remote access

Guest user keys

Cons

Auto unlock behaves inconsistently

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Schlage Sense Smart Lock

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Our Best Value choice is from Schlage and is an excellent option if you’re looking to provide basic keyless access to your home. Schlage Sense Smart Lock is super easy to install with no wiring needed, so it takes the pain and effort out of making your home smarter. There are a number of different options available so that you can trim to match with your home decor. It does run a bit on the bulky side and it is fixed to your external door so it might not be the preferred choice of everyone. However, for ease of use, value and reliability, it’s a great choice. You’re able to lock and unlock doors using the app or by entering a code on the keypad. Plus, you can still deadbolt your door from inside when you’re all home safe and sound.

With the app, you can conveniently create and delete multiple access codes to share with friends and family. You will, however, need Wi-Fi to access this functionality and our research uncovered that the app was a bit unreliable when it came to providing a stable connection. You can additionally use the Schlage Sense with an Apple HomeKit if you have one to further control and lock other devices around your home such as your Apple TV or iPad. This smart door lock does also supports Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa for voice-controlled activation. Our guide to the best door alarms features more quality products that will enhance the security of your home.

Key Features:

Share and delete access codes securely

Features low battery indicator

Arrives pre-programmed with two codes ready to use

Durable, premium metal construction

Back-lit easy to read keypad

Specification:
  • BrandSchlage
  • ModelBE365CAM619
  • Weight5.35 pounds
Pros

Easy installation

No wiring required

Great compatibility

Multiple user keys

Fits standard doors

Hard-wearing

Keyless convenience

Cons

Slightly bulky looking

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Schlage Keypad Deadbolt

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We’ve got another option for you coming up next from Schlage. Their keyless entry keypad allows you to say goodbye to the hassle of lost or misplaced keys. Yet again, this Camelot Keypad Deadbolt couldn’t be easier to set up and install with no need for any wiring or the help of an electrician or joiner. There are also several different choices when it comes to colours and styles so you can pick a Schlage system to blend with your home decor. It’s slightly bulky, but it is a premium constructed product, sure and reliable too.

With the app, you can create, share and delete codes. Up to a total of 19. Schlage Keypad Deadbolt is also fitted with hard-wearing silicone-coated keypads to prevent the numbers from wearing off over time. It’s fully customizable to meet with your security needs and offers a cost-effective and trustworthy option from a reputable brand in this category. For more amazing product for your home safety, check out our guide to the best smart doorbells.

Key Features:

Create and delete multiple codes for friends and family

Pairs with most popular trim styles for a coordinated home look

Easily installs in minutes with no wiring necessary

Durable, premium metal construction

High-Quality silicone-coated keypads

Specification:
  • BrandSchlage
  • ModelBE365VCAM716
  • Weight5.35 pounds
Pros

Easy installation

No wiring required

Great compatibility

Multiple user keys

Fits standard doors

Hard-wearing

Keyless convenience

Cons

Slightly bulky looking

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
TurboLock Keyless Electronic Entry Door Lock

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The TurboLock Keyless system allows you to enjoy easy, reliable and secure keyless code entry to your home or office. It’s relatively easy to install and can be used to conveniently replace most standard US locks plus it should work on both interior and exterior doors as well as left and right hinged ones too. A screwdriver and a few spare minutes are all that’s required to have your TurboLock Keyless entry system up and running.

Never worry about getting locked out of your home again! You can set the keypad to operate with multiple codes for different users, up to ten in total. One master code, a separate passage code, as well as eight individual user codes for friends, family, or colleagues. The device is battery operated, but don’t worry about running low on power. It comes with an accompanying battery pack that can be used in an emergency. Better still, it features something called Code Camouflage. This very cleverly disguises your code from prying eyes keeping it a secret. It’s weather durable and resistant to dust and water, plus it’s been designed to provide long-lasting resilience against Mother Nature. Our guide to the best security cameras features more useful products for your home safety.

Key Features:

Left and right hinged door compatible

Digital lock with back-up battery port in case batteries run out

Simple to use and program with option for up to 8 codes

Replaces most standard US front doors

Built-in code camouflage protects your system from prying eyes

Specification:
  • BrandTurboLock
  • ModelYL-99-BZ
  • Weight2.51 pounds
Pros

Easy to install

Back-up power

Safe lock/unlock

Multiple user codes

Backlit keypad

Camouflage protection

Weather-resistant construction

Cons

Must replace existing door lock

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt

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We’re back again with Schlage for our next best smart door lock product, taking a look at their Connect Smart Deadbolt. Use in conjunction with Amazon Cloud Cam and Alexa to unlock a wealth of additional features, including home monitoring as well as voice-activated controls. With the Schlage Connect, you can enjoy keyless convenience and never worry about the hassle of losing your keys ever again.

It’s easy to install, requiring nothing more than a screwdriver to quickly connect to your Zigbee-certified system. Using the app, you have the power to lock and unlock your home remotely, plus you can check in anytime and view live clips of your home. You’re able to set up to 30 different access codes for friends, family and frequent visitors, plus the touchscreen is highly durable and weather resistant. There’s also a low battery indicator that provides weeks of advanced warning so that you can take action to ensure you don’t end up getting locked out! It’s the perfect choice for any home with a Zigbee home automation system and comes in four attractive and contemporary finishes; Aged Bronze, Satin Nickel, Bright Brass, Bright Chrome, as well as a Matte Black. Here are some of the best trailer locks you may be interested in, as well. Check them out.

Key Features:

Lock and unlock your home using your smartphone and voice control

Pair with Cloud Cam for home monitoring

Unique easy to install snap and stay technology

Create and share up to 30 access codes

Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen

Specification:
  • BrandSchlage
  • ModelBE468GBAK CAM 619
  • Weight1 pound
Pros

Easy installation

No wiring required

Great compatibility

Multiple user keys

Durable construction

Keyless convenience

Voice control operation

Cons

Slightly bulky looking

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Schlage Z-Wave Connect Touchscreen Deadbolt

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Our next recommendation is once again from popular home security brand, Schlage, and is their Z-Wave Connect keyless entry door system. Z-Wave technology enables you to connect to your existing home automation system so that you can remotely lock and unlock your home using a smartphone or web access. This model also has the bonus of featuring a built-in alarm with three different modes; activity, tamper as well as forced entry. It features a fingerprint-resistant touchscreen, which ensures that wear patterns remain undetected so nobody can try to crack your code.

It’s easy to install and is an excellent choice for any smart connected home that takes its safety and security seriously. It’s been given the highest grades residential security rating, delivering superb levels of durability and protection. If you run a busy household, love to spend time away from your home, or perhaps have regular renters staying at your property, then the Schlage Connect will bring a new level of control and convenience to your home. You may also be interested in some of the best smoke detectors from our list, so take a moment to check them out.

Key Features:

Lock and unlock your home using your smartphone and voice control

Z Wave technology connects to your home automation system

Built-in alarm features three alert settings

Create and share up to 30 access codes

Durable finger resistant touchscreen

Specification:
  • BrandSchlage
  • Weight3.8 pounds
Pros

Easy installation

No wiring required

Great compatibility

Multiple user keys

Durable construction

Keyless convenience

Built-in alarm

Cons

Sensitive to humidity

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
Schlage Keypad Accent Lever Door Lock

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For our next option, we’ve picked out a keypad lever device from Schlage’s extensive range. With Schlage Keypad Accent Lever Door Lock, you have the opportunity to use either keyless or with a key in case of back-up. It’s available in a choice of contemporary trims to match your home decor and is so easy to set up and use. It arrives pre-programmed with two access codes so that it can be used immediately. There’s also a low battery indicator providing plenty of warning for when it’s time to switch those batteries. Overall, this is durably constructed from premium metal and will provide valuable peace of mind as well as convenience and an additional layer of security. For more products that will upgrade the safety of your home, check out our selection of the best water detectors.

Key Features:

Easy to install keypad lever device

Available in a range of popular trims

Premium metal construction

Low battery indicator

Ready for immediate use with two access codes provided

Specification:
  • BrandSchlage
  • ModelFE595VCAM716ACC
  • Weight4.71 pounds
Pros

Easy installation

No wiring required

Back-lit keypad

Premium construction

Keyless convenience

Pre-programmed

Cons

Issues reported with battery life

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Yale Assure Touchscreen Lock SL with Zigbee

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Our final product recommendation is a sleek, compact and modern looking electronic deadbolt to help better secure your home. The Yale Assure Lock is touchscreen operated and features backlit numbers, which won’t wear off or give away any telltale signs of your code pattern. It also requires simple one-touch only operation. To lock the door behind you, tap the keypad with three fingers and you’re done. It also features voice assistance, which can guide you through the initial setup. Taking you through the menu and familiarising you with how to set up pin codes. Talking of which, you can create up to 250 unique pin codes, selecting anywhere between four to eight-digit combinations.

This device allows you to enjoy 100% keyless convenience and there’s also no need to worry about getting locked out because your battery has died. The Yale Assure device can be charged with a 9V battery. Your device can be set up to work in conjunction with Echo Plus to provide status updates and notifications as well as being compatible with most Zigbee home security systems. While it’s slim, attractive and discreet in design, it’s also weather-resistant and with a quiet motorized deadbolt, is an excellent choice for your home.

Key Features:

Slim and stylish looking touchscreen deadbolt

Features backlit numbers that won’t wear off

Fully motorized tapered deadbolt can even accommodate misaligned doors

Customized settings including auto re-lock and privacy mode

Works with Zigbee smart home and alarm systems

Specification:
  • BrandYale Security
  • ModelYRD256-HA2-619
  • Weight3 pounds
Pros

Touchscreen operated

Slim design

Voice assistance

Motorized deadbolt

Easy installation

Back-up 9V terminal

No hub needed

One-touch locking

250 unique pin codes

Cons

Some connectivity issues reported with various apps

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Features To Look For In Smart Door Locks

Not sure where to even get started picking a new smart door lock? You wouldn't be alone as this is still a relatively young but certainly growing market. It's unlikely that you'll come across one universal smart door lock that's perfect for all doors and environments, especially if you live in an older home that has irregular style fixtures and fittings. However, we've tried to stick to widely compatible systems and have put together a couple of key features we recommend you consider to help you narrow down your search.

Level Of "Smartness"

Don't be fooled by the word "smart" in the product description. It doesn't necessarily follow that the product you're about to buy will be compatible with your smartphone. Many are nothing more than an electronic lock, utilizing an alpha-numeric key code pad for entry as opposed to a traditional key. If you are interested in something that goes a step beyond and integrates with a smartphone app so you can monitor remotely, then what you need is something with Bluetooth.

Are You Looking To Replace Entirely Your Existing Fixtures And Fittings Or Retrofit Them?

If you have a vintage Victorian doorknob on a much loved old door, then you might not necessarily want to replace that with a modern metallic device that looks like you're entering a security zone as opposed to your home. A large proportion of today's best smart door locks don't necessitate the complete removal and replacement of all your existing hardware. Some can be installed inside the house to replace the deadbolt, for example, with an option to open either with your standard key still or the smartphone app.

smart door lock

Integrating With Any Existing Smart Home Hub

If you already have an existing home hub, it's worth checking the compatibility with the smart home system you're considering investing in. While many might support Bluetooth, they're not yet necessarily at the stage where they boast the technology need to connect to your home system.

  • Alternate Entry - It's always best to have a Plan B! How will you get back into the office if you've lost your phone or forgotten your keypad code? You don't want to get caught loitering on your doorstep. Hanging around like a spare part waiting for your other half to return home from work!
  • Power Source - What happens when your power source packs in? Does that mean that you will be stuck outside? You might want to consider investing in a system that allows for emergency power to be applied.
  • Guest Access - An excellent idea if you operate an Air B&B style business from your own, some of the best smart door locks allow you to set up separate spare key codes for guests, which can be deleted when they leave or which you're able to set with time restrictions to limit entry during certain hours.

Types Of Smart Door Locks

Smart locks that can be controlled by a mobile device are one of the most significant innovations in recent years when it comes to home security. Most of today's popular devices are keypad operated, either with a backlit touchscreen or with sturdy and durable buttons, with many still retaining the back-up option to also use with a key.

Smart door locks will mostly be operated by one of the following systems:

  • Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) - These use a key fob or card for entry and use radio waves from your key card to directly communicate with the lock providing entry
  • Bluetooth - These type of devices pair with your smartphone's Bluetooth ID to provide keyless, remote unlocking of your door when you approach it
  • Z-Wave - This type of device opens doors using a mesh network that's made up of several devices that communicate with each other. If you have other smart tech in your home, you can enjoy a strong network using Z-Wave technology.
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