Smart locks have become an integral part of modern home security, offering convenience, safety, and peace of mind. With a wide range of smart locks available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we will discuss the best smart locks for your home, their features, and what you need to consider before making a purchase.
1. What are Smart Locks?
Smart locks are advanced security devices that allow you to lock and unlock your doors using a smartphone, tablet, or other internet-connected devices. Unlike traditional locks, smart locks offer remote access, keyless entry, and various other features that provide enhanced security and convenience. With smart locks, you can control access to your home and monitor who enters and leaves, even when you’re away.
1.1 How Do Smart Locks Work?
Smart locks typically work by connecting to your home’s Wi-Fi network or using Bluetooth technology. This allows you to control the lock remotely using a mobile app or through voice commands via smart home assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
1.2 Advantages of Smart Locks
Some advantages of smart locks include:
- Keyless entry: No more fumbling for keys or worrying about lost or stolen keys.
- Remote access: Lock or unlock your door from anywhere using your smartphone.
- Temporary access: Grant temporary access to friends, family members, or service providers.
- Activity monitoring: Keep track of who enters and exits your home.
- Voice control: Control your smart lock using voice commands via smart home assistants.
- Integration with other smart devices: Use your smart lock in conjunction with security cameras, doorbell cameras, and other smart home devices.
2. Best Smart Locks: Top Picks for 2023
In this section, we will discuss some of the best smart locks available in the market, their features, and why they stand out.
2.1 Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Best Overall
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock is our top pick for its sturdy construction, ease of use, and multiple lock and unlock options. This smart lock features a zinc alloy exterior component with a biometric fingerprint scanner, a keypad, and a traditional keyway concealed behind a fold-down faceplate. The built-in Wi-Fi radio allows you to lock and unlock the door remotely using your smartphone or through voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant. The U-Bolt Pro also includes a sensor that notifies you if your door is open or closed.
Pros:
- Numerous ways to lock and unlock
- Includes fingerprint reader
- Supports voice commands
- Works with many third-party devices
- Built-in Wi-Fi
Cons:
- No support for Apple HomeKit
2.2 August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Best for HomeKit Users
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is an excellent choice for those who use Apple HomeKit or other automation platforms from Honeywell, Logitech, SimpliSafe, and Samsung. This stylish smart lock replaces the interior component of your existing lock, making it easy to install. It offers a range of features, including a door status sensor, Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock options, and multi-platform support, including Alexa, Google, HomeKit, IFTTT, and more.
Pros:
- Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit, IFTTT, and more
- Automatic Lock and Unlock
- Easy to install
- Streamlined design
Cons:
- Pricey
- Short battery life
2.3 Bosma Aegis Smart Lock
Quietest Operation
The Bosma Aegis Smart Lock offers quiet operation and is easy to install. This smart lock replaces only the interior component of your existing lock, leaving the exterior escutcheon and keys intact. It supports voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant and works with many third-party devices. However, it requires a hub (included) to connect to your home network and does not support Apple HomeKit.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Quiet
- Supports voice commands
- Works with lots of third-party devices
Cons:
- Requires a hub
- Doesn’t support HomeKit
2.4 Eufy Video Smart Lock
Best Lock and Video Doorbell Combination
The Eufy Video Smart Lock is a unique solution that combines a smart lock and a video doorbell in a single device. It offers fingerprint, touchpad, mobile app, and key access, as well as sharp 2K video resolution, intelligent alerts, and multiple LEDs for night vision. However, it requires the installation of the included chime box to enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
Pros:
- Built-in 2K doorbell camera
- Dual motion sensors
- Fingerprint scanner
- Multiple lock/unlock methods
- Local video storage
- Intelligent alerts
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited integrations
2.5 Yale Assure Lock 2
Most Versatile Lock System
The sleek and customizable Yale Assure Lock 2 is available in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi variants, both of which support HomeKit. Yale also plans to launch Z-Wave and Matter-compliant modules to ensure compatibility with the next wave of smart home devices. The base model includes a physical keypad, but you can upgrade to a touch screen if desired. Physical keys and a companion app are additional unlock methods.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Keyed, keyless, physical button, and touch-screen options
- Bluetooth and HomeKit support
- Well-designed companion app
- Works with Apple Watch
- Wi-Fi models work with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Cons:
- Poor battery life on Wi-Fi model
- Short low-battery warning lead time
- Iffy Auto-Unlock performance over Wi-Fi
- DoorSense device may require drilling
2.6 Wyze Lock Bolt
Best Basic Smart Lock
The Wyze Lock Bolt is an affordable option for those looking for a basic smart lock with a stylish design and premium features like a fingerprint scanner and backlit keypad. This lock is Bluetooth-only, so you’ll need to be within range to control it with your smartphone. It does not integrate with other smart devices or support voice control.
Pros:
- Reasonable pricing
- Stylish design
- Easy to install
- Fingerprint, keypad, and mobile app unlock options
Cons:
- Bluetooth-only connectivity
- Lacks integrations and automations
- No voice control support
You may like: The Best Desktop Computers
3. Factors to Consider Before Buying a Smart Lock
Before purchasing a smart lock, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best one for your needs:
3.1 Compatibility with Your Door
Ensure the smart lock you choose is compatible with your door’s size, thickness, and existing hardware. Most smart locks work with standard pre-drilled holes, so you generally don’t need to worry about drilling new ones.
3.2 Ease of Installation
Some smart locks are easier to install than others. Look for locks that come with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware for installation. Keep in mind that some locks require you to remove your existing lock completely, while others only replace the interior component.
3.3 Connectivity Options
Smart locks typically use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a combination of both for connectivity. Wi-Fi-enabled locks offer remote access and control from anywhere, but they may consume more power and rely on a stable internet connection. Bluetooth locks have a shorter range but generally consume less power.
3.4 Integration with Smart Home Devices and Assistants
If you have other smart home devices or use a smart home assistant like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, consider a smart lock that integrates with these platforms for seamless control and automation.
3.5 Security Features
Look for smart locks with advanced security features like biometric fingerprint scanners, tamper alarms, and activity logs to keep your home secure.
3.6 Battery Life
Smart locks rely on batteries for power, so consider the battery life of the lock you choose. Some locks offer low-battery warnings and backup power options in case the batteries run out while you’re away.
4. Conclusion
Smart locks offer enhanced security, convenience, and peace of mind for homeowners. By considering factors like compatibility, installation, connectivity, integration, and security features, you can choose the best smart lock for your needs. The top picks discussed in this article, such as the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, and Yale Assure Lock 2, are excellent options that cater to various preferences and requirements.
