The Best Smart Home Lock 2023
By Linus Tan
Published Feb 2023
Remember those times when you arrived at your front door and spent the next few minutes searching your pockets or bag for your keys? We have the perfect solution for you if you're looking for an easier way to get in and out of your house. Say goodbye to your regular key and hello to smart locks!
Best Overall: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
✓ Compact size
✓ Compatible with Alexa, Google & Siri
✓ Direct Wi-Fi connection
✓ Easy installation
Best for Apple Users: Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
✓ Apple HomeKit compatibility
✓ Physical keypad
✓ Direct Wi-Fi connection
✓ Easy installation
Best for Convenience: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
✓ Multiple smart access
✓ Wi-Fi enabled
✓ Modern design
✓ Easy installation
Best for Nest Users: Nest x Yale Smart Lock
✓ Nest ecosystem
✓ Voice assistant
✓ Emergency battery unlock
✓ Easy installation
Best for Budget: Wyze Lock
✓ Wyze ecosystem
✓ Intuitive app
✓ Easy installation
✓ Budget-friendly
#1 Best Overall: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has earned rave reviews for good reason. It's easy to install, has a great app, and integrates seamlessly with smart home systems - making it a top favourite.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is 45% smaller than its predecessors. It is cylindrical in shape and has a ridged pattern that rotates to lock and unlock your deadbolt. Removing a chunk of metal from the interior of your door may not make a huge difference, but the size and shape of your smart lock can make or break the look of your home.
Installing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a breeze because all you need is a screwdriver and 10 minutes of your time. Once you've removed the thumb latch on your door's interior, fit on the August plate and the lock's adapter, before clipping on the Wi-Fi Smart Lock with locking wings attached. And you’re done.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is aptly named, as it comes with Wi-Fi built-in, unlike earlier models which require the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge for remote operation. This lock also features a DoorSense sensor, so you can know if your door is open or closed.
Smart Alerts notify you when someone locks or unlocks the door, or even if it's left ajar. Auto-lock can be set to automatically lock the door when it shuts, and you can choose to have it chime when it locks or unlocks. Auto-unlock uses Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to switch your lock to "Away" mode and back to "Home" mode, automatically unlocking your door when you're close by.
You can also grant family members or friends access to your home with Guest Access. Create temporary or recurring keys via the August app to give them access for a limited period of time.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri for voice control and smart home integration.
For something pretty techy, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock runs on two CR123 batteries. Though August estimates the batteries to last over three to six months, the battery life also depends on how often you lock or unlock your door over Wi-Fi connections.
Overall, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is more compact while maintaining a traditional look on the outside. Additionally, there is no need to purchase a separate connection module to enjoy the benefits of remote access.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Best Overall
✓ Compact size
✓ Compatible with Alexa, Google & Siri
✓ Direct Wi-Fi connection
✓ Easy installation
#2 Best for Apple Users: Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt may be a mouthful to pronounce (it's "sch-layg", by the way) but it also pays homage to "less is more". With this smart lock, there's no need for a plug-in adapter.
This smart lock features an age-old design concept and is available in two styles: the Century Trim, which is more square-shaped, and the Camelot, with scalloped edges. Both styles come in two finishes: Satin Nickel and Aged Bronze.
The Schlage Encode Plus is a no-brainer to install. It has a feature that snaps the face of the lock onto your deadbolt which is a pretty big deal as it frees your hand to attach the back half of the lock without worrying about the front falling off. You'll also need a screwdriver and about 15 minutes to set up this smart lock.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
The Schlage Encode Plus makes it a breeze to lock and unlock your door and especially so for Apple users. All you need is an iPhone or Apple Watch and with HomeKit, you can just touch your device to lock or unlock your door seamlessly. If not, the deadbolt can also be unlocked via the keypad or a physical key for emergencies.
The Schlage Encode Plus can also connect directly to Wi-Fi without having to get an additional bridge for the job. You can also store up to 100 codes, albeit many, but it still falls short compared to other smart locks in this list.
The Schlage operates on 4 AA batteries, yet it lacks a way to provide emergency power in the event that the batteries die, unlike other locks. This is quite unfortunate as it would be convenient to have a backup power source for when the batteries are dead. As a contingency, it will always be ideal to bring the physical key for such cases.
The Schlage Encode Plus is an excellent smart lock for Apple users, as it is compatible with Apple HomeKit. However, if you don't have an iPhone, this may not be the ideal choice for you.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
Best for Apple Users
✓ Apple HomeKit compatibility
✓ Physical keypad
✓ Direct Wi-Fi connection
✓ Easy installation
#3 Best for Convenience: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi is an innovative, state-of-the-art access control solution that combines the convenience of a keyless entry system with the security of a biometric lock.
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi has a modern, sophisticated design that enhances the aesthetic of any home or office. It has a squarish shape with a circular protrusion in the middle for fingerprint access and buttons around it that make up the keypad.
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi is incredibly easy to install, making it a great option for those who are looking for a way to secure their home without having to call in a professional. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few simple steps, and the instructions provided by Ultraloq are clear and easy to follow. Plus, the U-Bolt Pro WiFi comes with a mounting plate and all of the necessary hardware for a quick and easy installation.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
With its advanced features, such as its fingerprint scanner, voice control, and multiple-point locking system, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WIFi offers users an unparalleled level of security and reliability. The fingerprint scanner allows for quick, easy, and secure access, while the voice control feature allows users to unlock their doors with just a few words. It also features a keypad and a discreet keyed lock for emergency access. The multiple-point locking system provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your door is securely locked at all times.
Furthermore, the lock is Wi-Fi enabled, which makes it perfect for those who need to manage access to their property from virtually anywhere. Not only does this enable people to control and monitor access to their home or business remotely, but it also allows for greater flexibility and convenience. With this feature, users can keep up to date with any changes in the security of their property from far away, allowing them to feel secure even when they are away. It is an ideal solution for those who are often away from home and need to have control over their property at all times.
With all of these features combined, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WIFi provides users with a secure and reliable access control experience that is second to none.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
Best for Convenience
✓ Multiple smart access
✓ Wi-Fi enabled
✓ Modern design
✓ Easy installation
#4 Best for Nest Users: Nest x Yale Smart Lock
Next x Yale Smart Lock
With over 180 years of history-making locks, Yale has come so far from its humble beginnings in a small lock shop in the US. The Nest x Yale Smart Lock may be a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the security and convenience it provides.
The Nest x Yale Smart Lock is designed to be sleek and classy. It consists of a small front panel, a keypad that lights up, and a large black component that attaches to the back of your door. It comes in three finishes: black, satin nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze, all with a smooth, organic feel.
Next x Yale Smart Lock
If you already own other Nest products, the Nest x Yale Smart Lock will appear in the bottom row of devices in the Nest app. With a single tap, you'll be taken straight to the lock's controls, where you can set up new codes, check its history, and switch it to "privacy mode," which disables the keypad and requires users to unlock their door using the app.
The "one-touch locking" feature makes locking or unlocking your door a breeze. To lock the door, simply press the Yale logo. To unlock, press the logo, enter your code, and press the “√” button.
The Nest x Yale Smart Lock runs on batteries, but if they run out, you can temporarily power the lock with a 9-volt battery located at the bottom of the front panel. Just make sure you have access to a battery so you won't get locked out!
Alas, Nest doesn't integrate well with other smart home systems except if you're a Google or Nest household.
While the keypad is easy to use, there isn't much feedback once you've pressed a button. The keypad will prove even more difficult to operate if sounds are disabled.
The Nest x Yale Smart Lock is an ideal choice if you frequently use Google Assistant or have multiple Nest products. It offers a great combination of convenience and security.
Next x Yale Smart Lock
Best for Nest Users
✓ Nest ecosystem
✓ Voice assistant
✓ Emergency battery unlock
✓ Easy installation
#5 Best for Budget: Wyze Lock
Wyze Lock
People who like the idea of smart locks but don't want to invest too much in one will enjoy the Wyze Lock.
The Wyze Lock, about the size of a regular iPhone, fits on the back of your door and replaces the thumb-latch handle on the back of your existing lock. Batteries are hidden on the back panel which is held in place by magnets.
Setting the Wyze Lock requires only 15 minutes and a screwdriver. After taking off the backplate of your deadbolt, attach the Wyze installation plate using two screws, pop on the Wyze Lock and tighten that with two more screws. Then, the lock has to calibrate (let the app do the work) and you're done!
Wyze Lock
The app is pretty fantastic. Not only does it supports two-factor authentication, adding an extra level of security, but you can also open or close the door with a tap on your smartphone, and be notified when a lock is open. Additionally, the app has an auto-lock feature and a setting to schedule automatic unlocking when you come home. Plus, the Simple Sharing function allows you to grant guests access to your home. Lastly, you can view the lock history to check entries and exits.
The Wyze Lock is designed to make your life easier and more secure, providing compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant so that you can control your door easily with you voice.
The Wyze Lock does not connect directly to Wi-Fi. Instead, you must plug the Wyze Lock Gateway into an outlet and pair it with the lock. Additionally, you cannot unlock the Wyze Lock using your fingerprint, nor can you set usage limits for who has access to the lock.
Overall, the Wyze Lock is a great choice for those on a budget; however, it has some drawbacks that may limit its usefulness. Additionally, its features may not be as comprehensive as more expensive models.
Wyze Lock
Best for Budget
✓ Wyze ecosystem
✓ Intuitive app
✓ Easy installation
✓ Budget-friendly
Compare Smart Locks
Final Thoughts
No matter who you are, investing in smart locks is always a wise decision. Beyond the convenience of never having to fumble around for a key again, you are also adding an extra layer of security to your home, which is of the utmost importance when protecting your family and valuables.
If you like to read more about Smart Home Locks, check out our other relevant guides here:
Yale Assure Lock 2 vs SL
Yale Assure Lock 2 vs Nest x Yale Lock
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro vs Yale Assure Lock 2
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro vs Schlage Encode Plus
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