Alexis Kestler
Have you ever felt frustrated digging through your bag to find keys? Or wished you could let in a family member when you‘re not physically at home? Smart door locks solve these problems through technology that enhances both security and convenience.
I‘ve researched some of the top-rated smart locks on the market today to help you choose an option tailored for your needs. You‘ll learn key features about each lock type, from brands like August, Yale, Schlage and more.
Let‘s explore how smart locks work and the best options available in 2025!
What Are Smart Locks and How Do They Work?
Smart locks replace traditional deadbolts and keys with electronic locking mechanisms. They connect to your smartphone via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or bridge device to enable convenient features:
- Remote app control – Lock or unlock from anywhere in the app
- Virtual guest keys – Grant access to visitors or services without physical keys
- Auto lock/unlock – Locks after you leave, unlocks as you approach
- Alerts – Receive notifications whenever someone accesses the door
- Activity log – See who has entered and exactly when
Many popular smart locks leverage your existing deadbolt and strike plate hardware for an easy install. A touchscreen, fingerprint scan or keypad interface controls the electronic motor to secure the bolt.
Now let‘s dive into the top smart lock options I recommend based on extensive hands-on testing…
1. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
August is one of the original smart lock makers, introducing innovative convenience features in a slender retrofit design.
Key Features:
- Fits over existing deadbolts with 45 min DIY install
- Built-in WiFi connects directly to phone app
- Auto-unlock/locks as you arrive/leave
- Virtual keys for permanent, recurring or temporary access
- DoorSense alerts to open status when ajar
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit
I like the August lock for its broad smart home ecosystem support and battery efficiency. It also has the benefit of future-proofing existing deadbolt hardware. My only gripe is lack of native Apple Watch support.
Price: $249
August Smart Lock
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
2. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock
The Schlage Encode series brings both sleek aesthetics and leading smart access features.
Key features:
- Built-in Wi-Fi connects directly to app
- Auto-locks and can detect door ajar status
- Create 100 access codes for one time, recurring or permanent use
- Withstands temperature extremes from -31 to 151 °F
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and HomeKit
- No smart hub required
Schlage has really refined both the hardware and software experience with this latest generation lock. I love the understated design and rock-solid performance. It‘s also quite affordable for the technology integration.
Price: $262
Schlage Encode
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
3. Yale Assure Lock SL
Yale takes the keypad smart lock concept to new levels with their Assure series – integrating both touchscreen and advanced modules.
Key features:
- Key-free touchscreen with backlit keys
- Built-in Wi-Fi and bridge hub connects to phone app
- Auto unlock/lock based on proximity
- Real-time activity feed shows who enters and when
- Create 25 unique pin codes with various permission levels
- Works with HomeKit plus Alexa and Google voice assistants
- Withstands weather from -31 to 151 °F
This Yale lock really brings an enterprise-level experience tailored to homes. I especially like the ability to assign custom permissions to virtual keys along with getting alerts for each door activity.
Price: $237
Yale Assure Lock SL
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
4. Kwikset Halo WiFi Fingerprint Lock
Kwikset‘s Halo lock stands out with Enhanced SmartKey security and WiFi/bluetooth technology packed into one weather-resistant build.
Key Features
- Stores up to 100 fingerprints with Enhanced SmartKeyTM cylinder
- Auto-locks and includes DoorSense sensor
- Direct WiFi connectivity plus Bluetooth mobile access
- High-end encryption protects all wireless communication
- Withstands all weather conditions (-35 to 151 °F)
- Works with Alexa Plus Google Assistant
I‘m thrilled Kwikset added a biometric fingerprint sensor to the app-connected Halo series. It combines the latest smart and security advancements for worry-free keyless access. Installation does require drilling due to cylinder integration.
Price: $235
Kwikset Halo
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
5. Eufy Smart Lock Touch
Eufy Touch is an affordable smart lock solution that still retains both fingerprints and WiFi access.
Key Features:
- Stores 20 fingerprints for keyless unlock
- Includes eufy security app plus optional WiFi bridge
- IP65 weatherproof rating withstands all climates
- Auto-lock ensures security if in a rush
- Generous 18-month electronic warranty
- Voice assistant control with Amazon Alexa
As expected for the price point, Eufy makes some tradeoffs by limiting fingerprints and relying on Bluetooth connectivity without the WiFi bridge. However, it packs excellent value amongst electronic deadbolts on the market.
Price: $169
Eufy Smart Lock Touch
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
6. Level Smart Lock
The appropriately named Level lock sports an incredibly compact, concealed design that fits nearly flush against doors.
Key Features:
- Ultra-discreet size hides lock body internally when closed
- Unlock via app, NFC cards or fingerprint ID sensor
- 45+ software security mechanism protect against hacking
- Certified pick-proof, bump-proof and drill-proof
- Built-in WiFi plus Bluetooth allows remote access
- Works with Apple HomeKit and Siri voice control
Level impressively squeezes premium smart lock engineering into a stealthy form factor. The concealed silhouette maintains a classic door look that high-end homeowners will appreciate. It is on the pricier side, but buyers do get leading security assurances.
Price: $329
Level Smart Lock
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
7. Wyze Smart Lock with Keypad
Wyze may be best known for affordable home security cameras, but their Smart Lock packs quite the value-focused punch as well.
Key Features
- Includes separate WiFi gateway hub required for app access
- Auto-locks door as you leave the house
- Create unlimited virtual guest keys with customizable schedules
- Protects against advanced break-in techniques
- Works with Alexa + Google assistant voice controls
- 18-month warranty on electronics
For $100, I‘m floored by what Wyze squeezes into this full-featured smart lock. Granted connectivity relies on the included hub versus native WiFi. But the remote access, guest keys and voice integration still compete with locks 2-3x the price.
Price: $99
Wyze Smart Lock
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
8. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
The U-Bolt pro nicely balances both physical key access with app connectivity including fingerprint unlock capabilities.
Key Features
- 6 ways to unlock: Fingerprint, app, Morse code, magic shake, physical key
- Wi-Fi bridge enables full phone app controls
- Stores up to 100 fingerprints with auto-sync
- Customize Morse code pattern knock to unlock
- Pick/drill/kick resistant with protective plate
- 18 month electronic warranty
With six unlock options, this Ultraloq model caters to both smart and mechanical preferences. I especially like the unique Morse code knock pattern as backup. It offers premium security specs not typically found at this price.
Price: $179
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
9. Lockly Vision Elite Smart Lock
The Lockly Vision Elite takes home security up another notch with its integrated finger, face and voice unlocking capabilities.
Key Features:
- Optical + capacitive fingerprint sensor
- Facial recognition camera
- Voiceprint recognition by speaking a key phrase
- WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity to phone app
- Customizable backlit serial touchscreen
- Integrates with Lockly home security cams
- Withstands weather conditions from -22 to 158 °F
I‘m thoroughly impressed that Lockly built cutting-edge biometrics into their smart lock lineup. The finger/face scanning offers a seamless experience, while voiceprint match provides contingency unlock if hands are full. It‘s a pricey investment but delivers next-gen access sophistication.
Price: $469
Lockly Vision Elite
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
10. Sesame Touch Free Smart Lock
Sesame enables hands free unlocking via Alexa voice assistant – a great option when carrying packages or kids.
Key Features:
- Ask Alexa to unlock hands-free
- Wave hand gesture to unlock via motion sensor
- Fast Bluetooth connection directly to phone
- Syncs up with Nest, Hue, IFTTT platforms
- 30 user access code creation
- Easy install over existing deadbolt
The Sesame Touch Free nicely balances innovation and simplicity. Unlocking via an Alexa command or hand wave gesture caters to unique use cases. And Bluetooth connectivity proves quick, reliable access when phones are nearby while avoiding the cost of a hub.
Price: $129
Sesame Touch Free
| | |
| ————- |:————-:|
| Ease of Install | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
What To Consider When Buying a Smart Lock
With so many options on the market, it helps to evaluate a few key factors when choosing a smart lock:
Connectivity – WiFi enabled models provide the most flexibility for remote access. Bluetooth saves costs but limits range. Separate hubs connect non-connected locks.
Platform Compatibility – Ensure the lock works natively or through partners with your smart home ecosystem (HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant etc.)
Power Source – Batteries offer the easiest install but require occasional replacement. Hardwired power is unlimited but needs nearby outlets.
Design – Consider a slim design that fits over your existing deadbolt without requiring new strike plates or significant alteration for a quick DIY project.
Feature Set – Do you want just basics like app unlocking and activity notifications? Or advanced add-ons like fingerprint matching or facial recognition? This impacts costs but also functionality.
Transform Your Home‘s Security With Smart Locks
A smart lock upgrades home security without the need to replace door hardware or do complex wiring. Modern options connect wirelessly to give homeowners peace of mind through mobile alerts, remote access controls and advanced unlock methods via biometrics.
I hope this breakdown of the top-rated smart locks on the market helps identify your perfect fit based on connectivity, platform support, design constraints and feature requirements. Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions!
