Smart locks bring so much more to the table security-wise than traditional locks. From unlocking doors using your fingerprint to generating virtual keys, these nifty home devices give you peace of mind when you leave your home. August and Schlage are just two of the most popular brands in this category. However, there are plenty of other names you can check out when looking for the best smart locks. Below, we narrow down your options to some of the top-rated and best-reviewed models in the market today.
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Best Smart Lock Comparison Chart
| Model | Image | Price |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock |  |  |
| Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt |  | |
| Master Lock Padlock |  | |
| Catchface Fingerprint Door Handle |  | |
| Lockly Vision Doorbell Camera Smart Lock |  | |
| Ismartgate Pro |  | |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The best smart lock for front doors.
Easy to install and use, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is one of the best models to get. Building on the success of the original, the latest iteration now has built-in Wi-Fi, making it simpler to integrate with smart home devices. However, it’s also 45% smaller than its predecessor while brandishing a refined design that should fit most existing deadbolts.
The Wi-Fi Smart Lock boasts several security features, including the use of Bluetooth Energy (BLE) technology encryption and TLS. Users can set up two-factor authentication, too. Moreover, you can enable your smartphone’s biometric access to unlock and lock doors. For Apple fans, the Apple Watch can even be supported as a key. But if you’re not a fan of keyless access, August’s smart lock allows you to still use the key from your existing deadbolt.
Through the companion August app, homeowners can also create unlimited virtual keys for permanent, temporary, or scheduled use. The app also allows users to track activity and monitor visitors. This makes the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock the best smart lock for Airbnb use. Aside from Airbnb, the Wi-Fi smart lock has integrations with Apple HomeKit, Google Assitant, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung Smart Things.
Type: Deadbolt | Wi-Fi: Built-in | Keypad: Optional | Mobile App: Yes
Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
The best smart deadbolt.
If you want a smart lock that looks like one, the Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt should be up your alley. More keypad than just a round attachment to your door, Schlage Encode is also available in several colors and styles, including a more traditional-looking Camelot trim. It also installs and attaches to most existing deadbolts. Beyond design, however, this smart lock is packed with security and convenience features.
The Schlage Encode’s most obvious appeal is the capacitive touchscreen keypad for homeowners who prefer a tactile input. Nonetheless, remote and keyless access is still supported, including Amazon Key service. For recurring, temporary, or permanent access, the Schlage or Amazon Key app can generate and manage up to 100 access codes. There’s also a built-in alarm that sounds off when someone attempts to tamper with the lock.
Schlage’s Encode comes with built-in Wi-Fi and compatibility with Alexa-enabled devices, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant.
Type: Deadbolt | Wi-Fi: Built-in | Keypad: Built-in | Mobile App: Yes
Master Lock Padlock
The best smart padlock.
Smart locks are typically used for doors and gates. If you’re looking to secure something smaller — like lockers and vaults — then a smart padlock is better. Here, the Master Lock Padlock is the best you can get. While it sports the appearance of a traditional padlock, its LED indicators are quick signs this isn’t your usual shackle.
The Master Lock Padlock comes with Bluetooth and uses your smartphone for it to be locked or unlocked. The device doesn’t require a Wi-Fi connection to operate. Through its Master Lock Vault Home app, which is available for both iOS and Android, users can also add guests and generate access codes. Access history and tampering can also be monitored.
If you don’t have your smartphone, you can still unlock the padlock. Master Lock shares its padlock uses a directional code on the device as simple backup access.
Type: Padlock | Wi-Fi: No | Keypad: No | Mobile App: Yes
Catchface Fingerprint Door Handle
The best smart lock for bedroom doors.
If deadbolts aren’t your thing, consider a door handle instead. The Catchface Fingerprint Door Lock comes in the form of a sleek handle with an integrated keypad. There’s also a fingerprint sensor that supports one-touch access.
Catchface says the door handle fits most single-cylinder door locks and is fairly easy to install. Because of the straightforward setup, it’s ideal for places where you don’t want to put up something permanent like an apartment or bedroom door. Aside from fingerprint access, the Door Lock supports an anti-peep virtual password, smartphone unlock, and physical key.
For users, the accompanying TT Lock App can send an unlimited number of passwords while supporting up to 150 custom ones. In case the handle’s battery is low, a backup key is provided via the app. You can also charge the handle during emergencies using a micro USB powerbank.
Type: Handle | Wi-Fi: Optional | Keypad: Yes | Mobile App: Yes
Lockly Vision Doorbell Camera Smart Lock
The best smart lock with a camera.
For added security, consider getting a door lock with a camera. The Lockly Vision Doorbell Camera is exactly this, a smart lock and a video doorbell. As a smart lock, Lockly Vision comes with several unlock options. The standard app, digital password, and fingerprint option are available. But you also get voice control via Alexa, two physical keys, and a share key or code.
To ensure no one finds out your code, the Lockly Vision implements PIN Genie. It’s basically a feature that shuffles number locations on the keypad, making it impossible to guess your combination. If you have guests while you’re away, Lockly’s Access Portal allows you to remotely let people in.
As a video doorbell, Lockly Vision features two-way audio, live feed recording, and real-time video monitoring. There’s also compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Type: Deadbolt | Wi-Fi: Yes | Keypad: Yes | Mobile App: Yes
Ismartgate Pro
The best smart lock for outdoor gates.
Securing outdoor gates can be challenging, not only because of their size but also because they’re exposed to the elements. Thankfully, products like the Ismartgate Pro makes it possible to manage your home’s entrances. Whether it’s the gate or garage door, this smart device remains one of the best security measures.
The Ismartgate Pro can be set up for automatically closing and opening gates and garages. The sleek device is compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. There’s also support for Samsung SmartThings and IFTTT. Speak to any of the voice assistants via your home speaker or inside your car, and you can open or close gates.
Like smart locks for doors, the Ismartgate Pro provides remote alerts, letting you know if you left the garage door open. If you’re at work, a few taps on your smartphone means you can close the garage doors remotely. With a single Ismartgate, you can also add three gates or access points.
Type: Gate/Garage Door Opener | Wi-Fi: Yes | Keypad: No | Mobile App: Yes
Verdict
Smart locks are one of the most effective and convenient ways of securing homes and spaces.
While traditional door locks and keys are far from being replaced entirely, smart locks offer a secure and modern alternative. Combining wireless connectivity with the convenience of mobile applications, they present a new way of keeping homes safe.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock remains the best to get. However, similar deadbolt locks like the Schlage Encode and Catchface Fingerprint Door Handle are capable alternatives with built-in keypads to boot. The Lockly Doorbell Smart Lock even comes with a shuffling numeric keypad.
For larger entrances like outdoor gates and garage doors, Ismartgate Pro is a highly-rated option. Meanwhile, the Master Lock Padlock is ideal if you’re securing lockers and vaults.
FAQs
Smart locks are great investments for your home security. Because several models can be operated remotely, they’re ideal to use for spaces that are being rented out. For instance, temporary virtual keys can be generated, which is more cost-efficient than copying keys.
Yes, it is. Most smart locks use multiple access methods protected by various authentication measures.
August smart locks are the best smart locks to get for Airbnb accommodations. The smart device enjoys integration with the Airbnb app, too. You can read more about it here.
Typically, smart locks rely on Bluetooth to pair with your smartphone for locking and unlocking. However, smart locks with built-in Wi-Fi are more secure, allowing homeowners to remotely lock or unlock doors via a mobile app.