LoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyThe best smart locks can help anyone who constantly misplaces keys, wants keyless entry options, or frequently wonders whether they locked the front door. I'm in the latter camp. After years in tiny apartments, I now own a three-story townhouse that makes checking the front door a literal journey to the bottom floor of the house.
A great smart lock makes opening and locking your front door a breeze. It should offer multiple entry options, from keypads to auto-unlocking when you walk up, and keep your front door safely locked for you. These locks also make it easy to give friends and family entry codes, so you don't have to keep track or hand out spare keys.
If you're curious which smart lock is best for you, you've come to the right place. From a design-forward smart lock to my retrofit recommendation for renters, there's a smart lock here for everyone and every entry point in your house—even the sliding door and garage. Here's everything I recommend after two years of smart lock testing.
Updated May 2026: The Aqara U300 is now unavailable, so it's been removed as a pick (though you can see my notes in Other Smart Locks if you find it used), and I'm testing new picks for an interior smart door lock. I've also added a new section on Aliro and long-term testing notes for the Level Lock Pro and SimpliSafe Series 2 Smart Lock.
Best Smart LockAqara Smart Lock U50Jump to review$124 Amazon
Best DesignLevel Lock ProJump to review$349 Amazon
Best Biometric LockLockly Visage Zeno Series Smart LockJump to review$349 Home Depot
Best Retrofit LockYale Approach LockJump to review$134 Amazon (Biometric)
Comparing Our Top Five Smart LocksWhat’s Aliro?Other Smart Locks to ConsiderAvoid These Smart LocksFAQsWhat Should You Check Before Buying a Smart Lock?What Tools Do You Need to Install a Smart Lock?How Long Do Smart Locks Last?What Happens if a Smart Lock Fails?Best Smart LockPhotograph: Nena FarrellPhotograph: Nena FarrellCourtesy of AqaraChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistAqara
WIREDAffordable and stylish, and has a hidden keyholeEasy to install and controlWorks well and remembers its codes and settings, even if you don't add on a Wi-Fi hubTIREDSome of Aqara's hubs are expensiveI really like the Aqara Smart Lock U50. It's quick to install, affordable, and doesn't look like a budget lock on my front door. This is a full dead-bolt replacement lock, replacing both the front and back pieces of a dead bolt on your front door. It's easy to install. In fact, it's one of the fastest installations I've done. It was even quick to remove and then put back onto my door after the next lock I set up didn't work. It does have some tiny screws that will require a precision screwdriver. It's also easy to take off and put back on; in between testing rounds, or if a lock I test fails to be usable, this is the lock I grab to put back on my door.
The U50's sleek panel blended in nicely with my door, was consistently responsive, and had a high-end feel to it that seemed more expensive than the price tag. This lock previously wasn't a pick because you needed Aqara's expensive hubs to connect it to Wi-Fi, which often retails for more than the lock itself. But Aqara now has cheaper hubs like the M100 ($30), making this a truly affordable option.
I recommend placing the hub near the front door; when I had Aqara's M3 hub ($150) on a different floor and different side of my house than the U50 lock, it frequently disconnected from the Wi-Fi. I also usually needed a Bluetooth connection to do anything serious, even when the Wi-Fi was working. Still, even if Wi-Fi wasn't working right, the premade codes always worked, and it always remembered to lock itself after 10 minutes. It also knows whether the door is closed or not thanks to a built-in gyroscope—no separate door accessory required, which most other locks need to do the same feature.
This lock has a nice range of entry options beyond the keypad, including smart home control (including Apple Home), NFC cards (if you already have one), and even a hidden keyhole, with two keys included with the lock. In the months I tested this lock, I never had any battery issues or needed to replace the batteries, but there is a USB-C emergency port for charging if you need it. My main complaint is that the lock doesn't have any security ratings like you'll find on other smart locks; otherwise, it's a fantastic smart lock.
Photograph: Nena FarrellPhotograph: Nena FarrellPhotograph: Nena FarrellChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLevel
The Level Lock Pro is easily the most visually pleasing lock I've tested. It's also the smallest, with a diameter of only about 2.5 inches at its widest point on either side. The back is just the dial, while the front protrudes forward only an inch. From both sides of the door it truly looks like a small, normal lock. Level's known for this, as its original lock, the Level Bolt ($199), hides entirely inside existing basic locks to add smarts without changing the style.
For such a small and discreet smart lock, the Level Lock Pro has an impressive array of features. The dual-core chip set has wide compatibility, including Matter and Apple Home, and it has a magnetometer to sense whether the door is open or closed without needing an additional accessory. Most smart locks with this feature require some kind of dongle, attachment, or sensor paired nearby. There's a proximity sensor in the front of the lock so that it only activates things like Bluetooth and NFC when someone's actually nearby, helping conserve battery. Speaking of, this lock also has an impressive battery life, claiming up to a year on a single CR2 battery. I've been using the Level Lock Pro for about two months, and so far the battery life is still “Healthy” per the app.
To get the most out of this lock, though, you'll need accessories. At the very least you'll want the Level Connect Wi-Fi Bridge ($79), which will connect the lock to (you guessed it!) your Wi-Fi. Without it, you won't be able to control the lock if you're out of Bluetooth range. I also really like the Level Keypad ($79), since I like to leave the house without my keys, and it's faster to just type in the code than to use my phone (or check if I remembered that, either). It comes with two key fobs, which you can also use to unlock your front door, and it comes with two physical keys.
I've had this lock on my front door for the better part of six months, and I'm impressed with how well it's consistently worked and am especially impressed by the battery. It has a single CR2 battery (that's created by Level for this lock) inside of it and has yet to need a new one. The Level app doesn't show exact percentages for battery life but currently reports my lock's battery life as “Healthy.” Level's replacement batteries come in two packs for $15, and after seeing how long this one lasts, it's the only one I'd replace it with.
Photograph: Nena FarrellPhotograph: Lockly; Getty ImagesChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLockly
WIREDTons of biometric entry options, including fingerprint and facial recognitionFacial recognition uses IR sensors, so there's no cameraHas an included door sensor to tell if your door is open or closedTIREDInitial Bluetooth connection was frustrating, but Lockly has since issued a patchExpensiveIf you thought the fingerprint reader on the above Yale Approach sounded handy, then let me introduce you to the Lockly Visage. Not only does the Visage have a fingerprint reader, but it has built-in sensors to recognize your face to unlock the door as you walk up. That's right, this lock can see you coming.
When installing this lock, I recommend moving fast when you get to the battery stage. Don't put in the rechargeable battery until you've downloaded the app, located the activation card inside the box (keep this safe in case you ever reset the lock), and are prepared to finish the in-app setup steps, specifically the Visage ID—Lockly's face-recognition tech. The battery activates a Bluetooth signal that was only live for a few minutes in my testing, and you'll need to input the code and finish the steps in that amount of time. Restarting it over and over is frustrating, but possible. Lockly says it has pushed an update to fix this short-lived Bluetooth window, but I'd still plan to be ready to roll once you put in the battery.
Once set up, I had zero connection issues and was happy with how quickly this lock could recognize my face as I walked up (even with sunglasses on!) and how quickly it could read my fingerprint. The Visage uses infrared (IR) sensors and a camera to see when a person is approaching and who they are. The sensors in the lock have both live-body detection and face recognition, so it isn't spoofed by pictures. The infrared sensors have about a 2.6-foot range, and I did find that to feel accurate in my tests. The company promises that no stills are captured, and the live face-tracking data is encrypted and is saved on-device. It's nice to have both the face and fingerprint options, so members of your household can choose whatever they prefer. There's also a keypad and a regular mechanical key, with two keys included.
The Visage Zeno uses the Lockly Home app (iOS, Android), Lockly's newest app. It works specifically with the Zeno line. There's another Lockly app that will work with this lock, but it doesn't look as nice. Within the app, you can easily generate codes for guests, customize notifications, and set up preferences, like having your door automatically lock after a certain amount of time.
A door sensor also sticks to your door below the lock, and a second part sits on the door jamb to sense whether or not the door is closed. You can customize notifications around that as well, and it's a nice add-on, though the whole system isn't the most attractive on the door itself—it's a little cluttered.
Photograph: Nena FarrellCourtesy of YaleChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistYale
WIREDWorks with your existing lockCan add on a keypad with a fingerprint readerFairly quiet and does a good job with scheduled settingsTIREDNot as powerful of a motorNeed an Abode subscription to get full details about lock historyYale's lock might look like it's a full lock replacement, but this is a retrofit design that only changes out the back of your thumb-turn deadbolt. That means your existing keys will still work, and everyone outside of your house will have no idea that it's smart. It's ideal for renters, but also nice for anyone who doesn't want to switch out their front lock and swap keys. All of that also means installation was fast and easy—the hardest part is keeping your existing lock from falling to the ground while you swap out the backing, but it only takes a few minutes to complete.
As its name suggests, the Yale Approach Lock can sense when you approach. It uses your phone's location to do this, and within the app, you place a small range to establish what counts as you “arriving” home. I have a patio and a small staircase between my door and my car, so I made a larger range that could sense me once I hit the staircase. That worked better than placing the range in the center of my home, since it wouldn't count me as arriving until I was already at the door.
Yale's parent company also owns another popular smart lock company, August. If you've used an August lock, then the included Wi-Fi bridge will look familiar, and August's current offerings can include the Yale accessories I tested with this lock. The bridge connects to the smart lock via Bluetooth, so it has to be plugged in close to your door. This is what connects the lock to Wi-Fi for remote unlock functionality (plus other features). The whole setup is pretty similar to how August's locks have worked in the past, though I like the design of the Yale Approach better than the silver cylinder of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock ($200).
You can choose to get a keypad for the Approach, and there are two styles to choose from. The basic Keypad bundle ($160) includes Yale's numerical Keypad, but the biometric Keypad Touch bundle ($134) has the numerical keypad and a fingerprint scanner. I recommend upgrading to the fingerprint reader—it's insanely convenient and fast. Just a single touch and your door is unlocked. You can also purchase the lock without a keypad ($140) if you don't have anywhere to place it, but keypads are a great addition to a smart lock, so that you can give out guest and temporary codes, and it also allows you to get inside without your keys or phone.
Courtesy of The Connected ShopPhotograph: Julian ChokkattuChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistThe Connected Shop
WIREDSpecial design for sliding doors, and overall build quality is exceptionalBuilt-in doorbell, but you'll need to be nearby to hear itTIREDThe instructions are complicated, and our reviewer needed a professional's help to installThere's a risk that install will shatter your sliding doorCan’t set up codes, fingerprints, or users in the appThe day I moved into my home, I realized the previous owner had not left me any keys for the sliding glass door that opens into my backyard. I reached out, and she … did not have them anymore. Great! I wanted to smarten up my home anyway, so I searched long and hard for smart locks built for sliding doors. Very few options exist. But I came across The Connected Shop, which was exactly what I was looking for (but super expensive). The company sent me the Next Gen Smart Lock to try. I’ve used it for more than a year, and it has functioned almost flawlessly in that time. Seriously, I've recharged the USB-C battery only once in that time.
Fair warning: The instructions are complicated. You may be able to do it yourself, but I could not. The Connected Shop's technician had to cut a part of the strike plate on my existing hardware to get it to latch. He also had to drill new holes into my sliding door frame, and in the process he accidentally shattered the glass in the door. Welp! A representative says if it happened to a customer, the company would take care of it and replace the glass, as it did mine. I highly recommend contacting the company and sending a picture of your lock if you have concerns about door compatibility.
Once it’s installed, you may find yourself, as I did, riffling through the manual to initially set up users, codes, fingerprints, and the app connectivity. (The manual is needlessly complicated.) That process involves inputting a code, then pressing the right numbers to get to the settings you need. There’s no real need to connect it to the third-party Tuya Smart app (Android, iOS), because, annoyingly, you can’t set up codes, fingerprints, or users in the app. It’s mostly for deleting members, creating temporary passwords, and seeing unlock or doorbell notifications. It’s also where you can view battery life. (The company says you can remotely unlock over Wi-Fi in the app, but this works only when someone rings the doorbell, which is a little bizarre.)
There’s a lock and unlock button on the inside of the door, along with a manual knob, and a removable battery with a USB-C port for charging (again, I roughly have nine months on a single charge), though this will depend on how frequently you use your sliding glass door. It's how I get to my backyard, so I do not use it as often as my front door. There is no handle, so I slide my door by pushing the side of the lock, which juts out from the door frame.
On the other end, you tap anywhere in the middle to have the number pad light up. There’s a doorbell function, though it’s hard to hear if you’re not in the lock's vicinity. Just type in the code and press the unlock button, and that’s it. I predominantly use the fingerprint unlock, which works reliably once you get used to placing your finger on the sensor in a particular way. The Connected Shop also throws in two NFC tags—I leave one on my keychain—as a backup unlocking method, and there are two physical keys just in case (I have never used them). The only thing that has not worked is the company’s so-called Face Unlock. I’ve tried to set it up multiple times, and it always fails when it tries to scan my face. Honestly, I don’t care for this feature.
My only main concern is with the company itself. It’s fairly new (founded in 2021), so it’s not well established, and I can’t vouch for its customer service. (The people I interacted with were nice, but I’m also reviewing the company, so of course they were nice.) Its product pages could stand to use more information like encryption standards and water resistance ratings, and I didn’t find the company’s manuals very helpful. I'm not sure why the company doesn't have its own app yet, and it claims support for Alexa and Google Home, but when I tried connecting the Tuya app to the latter, it didn't bring over the lock.
That said, the Next Gen Smart Lock’s build quality is exceptional and far nicer than I was expecting, and it's operating better than I expected. —Julian Chokkattu
Photograph: AmazonSave to wishlistSave to wishlistChamberlain
WIREDHas both an DIY and professional installation option, depending on your needs and budgetEasy to use, and has alerts to let you know you left your garage openCan add on a video keypad to pair with the garage like a smart lockTIREDCamera feed doesn't always connect with weaker Wi-Fi signalsYou're probably thinking, this must be for the door to get into the garage. You're wrong. I mean the actual garage. My garage is controlled by a MyQ Smart Garage Opener, and it's been a huge life improvement for the anxiously minded couple like myself and my husband. Worried whether the garage door is open after the scramble to play The Wiggles for our son while navigating the neighborhood? No problem, check the MyQ app. I've even set up the MyQ app to alert me if my garage stays open for more than 10 minutes. It's a peace of mind, especially if your garage is a more frequently used access point to your home than the front door.
I wish I could tell you about the installation, but my house came with the MyQ Garage Door Opener (starting at $200, depending on the model) professionally installed (along with some other smart tech, with mixed results). It's the best feature my house came with. My opener was professionally installed, and you can either DIY the installation or contact a local technician to get one. But you can also DIY the much cheaper MyQ Smart Garage Controller ($30) to add onto any garage, turning an existing opener into a smart one.
If you wish you had a keypad for your garage, you can add that with the MyQ Video Keypad ($80). It acts as both a keypad to open your garage (a great option if you tend to forget your phone) and a video doorbell feed that goes straight to your phone. The only issues I had with it were that it was heavy—command strips won't work, you'll need to drill it into your home's exterior. The video feed also wasn't always reliable, thanks to the lackluster Wi-Fi in my driveway. Test it with a laptop beforehand if that's a feature you want (or perhaps add a Wi-Fi extender to your garage).
MyQ compatibility with other ecosystems focuses more on vehicles and security devices than it does on classic smart home assistants, which makes sense since you're usually controlling it from outside of the home. It works with Amazon Key and Walmart+ InHome to get deliveries in your garage, with Ring, plus several cars, and IFTTT.
Matter changed how smart home devices communicated with one another, and now there's something similar coming for smart locks. Aliro is a new communication standard intended to make it easier for smart locks to communicate with your smartphone, allowing your phone's built-in wallet to store your credential no matter what kind of phone you have. This new standard was created by the Connectivity Standards Alliance, the same group that created the Matter protocol that's now standard in new smart home devices. How is it different? Matter lets devices with individual IP addresses easily talk to each other, while Aliro uses short-wave radio communications like Bluetooth to communicate with the lock and confirm the device is authorized to unlock it. The result for both is a more connected, cohesive experience across devices, but it requires different communication.
Aliro is a concept similar to Apple Home Key but one that will let smart locks have a consistent unlocking experience across Apple and Android devices, and wearables like smart watches. Android doesn't have an equivalent option to Apple Key on smart locks, so Aliro will now add that option and make it consistent across smartphone operating systems. Your device of choice would store the credential similar to a credit card or concert ticket in your device's built-in wallet, and you'd be able to tap to unlock with it.
I'm starting to see this roll out to more and more locks; Ultraloq just announced yesterday it will have Aliro-certified locks coming out, and big names like Apple, Google, and Samsung have all said they’re on board. I'm excited to see more locks with this feature, and it'll be a focus as I test new smart locks going forward.
Abode Lock for $135: The Abode Lock is a retrofit option like the Yale Approach. I really liked it, but you do need a subscription with Abode to get detailed notifications and lock history, and to connect to smart home ecosystems. You'll also need an Abode hub to use all possible automations and to pair it with Apple, which is one of Abode's big selling points. While it worked fine on my apartment door and lock in 2024, WIRED reviewer Martin Cizmar is currently testing and is finding the motor isn't strong enough for his door's design. Unless you want to go all in on Abode's security system, you're better off with one of our picks.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock for $200: I haven't tested a model from August in a few years, but with Yale and August now both owned by Fortune Brands (previously they were both owned by Assa Abloy, and Assa Abloy still owns the brands outside of the US), there's a lot of overlap in accessories and physical design of newer August pieces. The round design of the primary August Wi-Fi Smart Lock hasn't changed much since it launched back in 2013. This lock is a retrofit design that will let your existing key still work and keep the fact that your lock is smart a secret, similar to the Yale Approach design. This design has Wi-Fi built in, so you won't need the bridge accessory like the Approach does. You can get it bundled with the same Yale keypad I tested for an additional entry point.
Aqara U300 for $200: If you want to add smart locking to a doorknob (such as an interior or side door of your home), my previous pick for this was the Aqara U300. I still really like this lock, but it's currently unavailable. The lock feels well-built and isn't difficult to install, similar to the Aqara U50 (see below). The included measuring tools help you set the door jamb to the right length, and you can follow along with a video on YouTube or within the Aqara app. It came with four AA batteries, plus two physical keys, and you'll use the app to set up both a code for the keypad and load fingerprints for the fingerprint reader on the door handle. If you find it available, it's worth buying.
SimpliSafe Series 2 Smart Lock for $120: This smart single-cylinder dead bolt with an exterior keypad requires integration with a SimpliSafe Gen 3 security system, but if you already have SimpliSafe, it’s one of the most worthwhile accessories the brand offers. Like most SimpliSafe electronics, the lock is simple to install—directions are clearly written, and the lock comes with all the necessary batteries and hardware. Even someone who has never installed a smart lock will probably be able to handle this. Because the lock is dead-bolt-only, you can use your existing doorknob and key configuration. Or not—a keypad sticks to the outside and uses the same PIN that disarms the security system (it will disable after five failed attempts), or you can control it through the SimpliSafe app. When you arm your alarm, the lock will automatically lock itself. It also sends an alert to your phone whenever it’s locked or unlocked, which is great for keeping an eye on kids, and you can opt for monitoring to have the call center contact you if the lock is tampered with, though this is optional. I've overall found the lock exceedingly easy to use and the Wi-Fi connectivity to be reliable—until the batteries ran out after six months, preventing a system-requested recalibration. However, SimpliSafe's customer service is, and has always been, exemplary, so I was up and running again 10 minutes after a phone call, though the batteries never indicated they were low. I still love this lock, though. —Kat Merck
Ultraloq Bolt Fingerprint for $200: I have now tested three different Ultraloq smart locks over a year and a half, and while I think the company offers excellent hardware for the money, there are just a few too many software quirks that put these locks a rung below our top picks. I first began with the Bolt Fingerprint, which has been the most reliable of all the Ultraloq smart locks. If you have a standard door with a borehole for the dead bolt, it'll be quick to install (Ultraloq has a Thick Door Kit ($10)). I initially had several issues getting the lock to connect to my Wi-Fi, but after multiple attempts and a few choice words, it connected. I’ve had no connectivity problems since. The app isn’t the prettiest, but it’s functional. You can add multiple user profiles, remotely unlock, get notifications when the doors are unlocked, share codes, and register fingerprints. There’s even an auto-unlock function for when you walk up to the door, but I found it a little inconsistent and left it turned off. The fingerprint sensor is the highlight after all. You have to get used to placing your finger on the sensor a specific way, and after doing this a few times, I’ve got it down so that I almost always unlock on the first try. It comes with a door sensor, so when the door closes, it will automatically lock (you can disable this). The next lock I tested was the Ultraloq Bolt Fingerprint with Wi-Fi and HomeKit ($170). This one did a better job connecting to my home's Wi-Fi network through the U-Home app and was quick to add to my Google Home. Unfortunately, after several months of flawless performance, one day it decided to start rejecting my fingerprint. The problem? When I put my fingerprint on the scanner, it denied it and then blocked all other methods of unlocking except the app (or the physical key that's included). This was so annoying that I just stuck to using a numerical code with the keypad. Finally, I recently switched to the Bolt Fingerprint With Matter ($170), and let's just say I'm still diagnosing issues with the company. The lock decides to stop working after a few hours, forcing me to remove one of the batteries and put it back in to “reactivate” it. I might just have a defective unit, so we'll see. —Julian Chokkattu
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro for $130: WIRED reviewer Julian Chokkattu also tested the U-Bolt Pro from Ultraloq, which uses the same app that the Fingerprint models do. He says it took a few attempts to connect to Wi-Fi, but once connected it worked well with no Wi-Fi issues during the year he tested it. It has built-in Wi-Fi, uses four AA batteries that last around two months (less in super cold weather), and has a hidden mechanical keyhole as a backup in case the battery dies when you’re not home, and you get two spare keys. There’s a charging port underneath so you can give it some juice during emergencies if the lock is dead and you don’t have the key, but we wish it were USB-C instead of Micro USB. It's a good lock, but he prefers the Fingerprint models since it has a nicer build quality and it has eight batteries, so the lock lasts twice as long.
Photograph: Nena FarrellYale Assure Lock 2 Touch for $300: I've been testing this lock for a few weeks in tandem with ADT's security system and Google Home. Unlike the other locks in this guide, I didn't install it—an ADT tech did, and installation can be included in an ADT security package like the one I've been testing. For the lock itself, it's worked well. It's a full dead-bolt replacement, and came with a single key, and has both a keypad and fingerprint reader for entry options. The fingerprint reader is speedy and efficient, and my husband says the keypad has been easy to use (you activate the keypad by touching the Yale button, but if your finger is registered to the app, that's also the fingerprint reader button). Instead of using the Yale app, I primarily control this app with the ADT+ app, but there are versions of this lock that don't use or require ADT's service. I do wish I could set it to lock after every 10 minutes, rather than three, but that's the longest option the ADT+ app gives me to set it. I can also partially control it in the Google Home app, but only to lock and unlock it, not to dive into detailed settings like passcodes and auto-lock times.
Yale Assure Touchscreen Lever Lock for $249: I’ve been testing this no-dead-bolt lever door handle with its sleek-looking keypad for about seven months on the door to my house from inside my garage. Unlike Yale's Approach Lock, it won’t sense you coming, but it awakens with even a light touch to the keypad. It’s easy to lock and unlock and view the activity log on the Yale Access app, or you can use a pin code to unlock. You can also create different codes for different people to know exactly who’s been coming and going and when. It works with Google Home, Apple Home, and Alexa, and has also got two physical keys for backup in case of battery failure. Setup wasn’t exactly a breeze, requiring the Bilt app to install and then the Yale app to configure, and online reviews are quite voluminous in their complaints of both battery life and the handle becoming loose over time. Neither of these issues has arisen during our test period; however, we will update this review with further observations as time goes on. —Kat Merck
We haven't loved every smart lock we've tried. These are the ones to skip.
Eufy FamiLock S3 Max for $280: This lock is cool because it includes a camera, letting the device double as a digital peephole (convenient for smaller family members!) and has a super interesting biometric option that uses the veins in your palm for authentication. Unfortunately, once installed, the lock didn't work on my door, even though it was the correct size and placement.
Schlage Encode Lever for $274: This lock was easy enough to install, but wouldn't sync with my phone or with my Wi-Fi. It did retain the codes I was able to quickly type in during my incomplete setup, but after that point, the app didn't acknowledge I had set up the lock, nor would it re-sync even after restarting.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Smart Lock?
Here are a few things to check before you purchase a smart lock.
How thick is your door? Yes, you need to measure the thickness of your front door. If it's close to or more than 2 inches, you might need some kind of expansion kit, like the Ultraloq Thick Door Kit for the company's smart locks, designed for doors between 1.75 and 2.5 inches. My door is on the thicker side, and while I could install most locks like the Lockly Visage and Aqara U50 no problem, a lock from Kwikset needed an expansion kit. Once you know your door size, you can check it against your lock of choice to see if it'll fit and if you need any expansion tools. You don't want to get started only to find out you need to order something extra.
Will you need a bridge or a hub? Some locks, like those from Yale, have a separate Wi-Fi bridge that needs to be plugged in nearby. Companies like Aqara and Abode have hubs you'll need to set up to get more features. But some models don't require a hub or bridge at all. Check if there's anything extra you need and if it has to be plugged in close to your door. Do you have an outlet readily available?
Can you switch out your whole lock? If you're a homeowner, then you can (probably) buy any of these locks without having to worry. But renters or folks with a strict set of homeowners association rules might find that they can't change their lock as freely. Depending on your freedom, there are both full lock replacements, which will replace your entire front door lock, and retrofit locks, which only replace the backing. Retrofit is a great option if you don't want new keys or don’t want to tip off your landlord that you changed out the backing.
What Tools Do You Need to Install a Smart Lock?
Your specific lock of choice might have more requirements, but for each lock I installed, I found myself using:
Most lock brands do not recommend using a power drill due to risk of damaging the lock. The precision tool kit might sound silly if you've already got a screwdriver, but many of these locks use tiny screws that are much easier to control with a precision tool kit.
Check whether batteries are included so that you're ready to pop them in after the installation.
I wouldn't say there's a singular best brand, but you're best off investing in locks from companies that have good encryption and security ratings. If you're cautious, I'd say stick to locks made by major lock companies like Yale, Schlage, and Kwikset, since those companies are unlikely to go away and cause a loss of software support. But there are a lot of great, interesting locks out there if you're willing to bet on a smaller lock company.
Smart locks usually last anywhere from two to six months on a single charge or set of batteries. This varies based on lock design and extra features like biometric scanning and NFC or Bluetooth-powered entry options. Most locks use AA batteries that you can just replace, but we do like the eco-conscious approach of rechargeable batteries if you have the time to wait for your lock to recharge.
If you're curious how long the device itself will last on your door, they should work for plenty of years to come. One lock brand executive told me he's had the same locks for the better part of a decade. You can expect the hardware to last for years, the way a normal lock would. The only variable worth worrying about is the technology itself, and if there are new upgrades you want on newer models.
Most smart locks have some kind of manual key option so that if the battery runs out or an automation fails, you can still get the door open. Some locks have a hidden keyhole, so you'll have to work to find it. There are some locks that don't have a keyhole at all, though, so you'll have to make sure you keep the batteries charged so you aren't locked out. Some do have emergency power ports, but you'll have to check individual locks to see where that port is; if it's on the interior side of the lock, it won't help you if you're locked out.
All smart locks should alert you in advance when the battery is running low. You can check our comparison chart and the specs for any lock you want to buy to find out the entry options and how long you can expect the batteries to last.
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Profesyonel kurumsal teknoloji çözümleri çözümleri için [teknoloji çözümleri](https://sheltron.com.tr) sayfasını ziyaret edin.
