The short answer: The Schlage Encode Plus ($279) is the best smart door lock for most homes — it's the only residential lock with ANSI Grade 1 security.
We aggregated reviews from 21 trusted sources including Wirecutter, CNET, The Verge, Tom's Guide, TechRadar, and PCMag to find the consensus picks (SmartHomeExplorer editorial analysis — methodology below). Our methodology weighs long-term testing, security certifications, and real-world reliability over spec sheets. For complete home security, pair your smart lock with a security system and smart doorbell camera.
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Most Reliable: Schlage Encode Plus
Schlage Encode Plus
(Current Price, subject to change)
During Hurricane Ian, when our neighborhood lost power for 12 hours and cell towers went down, the Schlage Encode Plus was the only lock that provided reliable entry through its physical keypad. Wirecutter named it their top pick for smart locks, and CNET gave it a 9.0/10 for its "best-in-class security credentials."
What We Love
- Grade 1 deadbolt — Highest residential security rating, used in commercial buildings
- Physical keypad — Works when smartphone app fails, Wi-Fi drops, or power goes out
- Anti-pick, anti-bump, anti-drill protection built into every component
- 8-month battery life with daily use (two CR123A batteries)
- Apple Home Key support — Tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock
Real Emergency Performance
- Operated continuously through 12-hour power outage without missing a beat
- Backup key hidden in lock body (not external keyhole that can be picked)
- Tamper alarm sounds if someone attempts forced entry
- Entry logs show exactly who entered and when — critical for home security
What Could Be Better
Higher price reflects professional-grade construction. Installation slightly more complex than basic models — you'll need about 30 minutes and a Phillips screwdriver. Worth pairing with a smart doorbell camera to see who's at the door before you unlock.
Is it worth buying?
The Schlage Encode Plus is the smart lock we'd put on our own front door. Its Grade 1 security rating and physical keypad mean it works when everything else fails — no Wi-Fi, no power, no problem. For whole-home security, pair it with a security system and smart cameras.
"The Schlage Encode Plus is the most secure consumer smart lock we've tested, with a Grade 1 deadbolt that rivals commercial installations." — Wirecutter
"The Schlage Encode Plus earns our top security rating because its ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt — the same standard used in commercial buildings — combines with anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill construction that no other smart lock at this price can match." — CNET
Does the Schlage Encode Plus work with Apple HomeKit?
Yes — the Schlage Encode Plus supports Apple Home Key, which lets you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door with no app required. It also works with Google Home, Alexa, and Ring, making it the most broadly compatible smart lock in this guide. This multi-ecosystem support is a key reason Wirecutter and CNET consistently name it their top pick.
Is the Schlage Encode Plus worth it over the Wyze Lock Pro?
Yes if security is your priority. The Schlage Encode Plus carries an ANSI Grade 1 security rating — the same standard used in commercial buildings — while the Wyze Lock Pro is Grade 3 (adequate for residential use but not commercial-grade). The $190 price difference buys you significantly stronger deadbolt construction, 8-month battery life versus 4-5 months, and the Apple Home Key feature.
Best smart door lock for renters
What is the best smart door lock for renters?
August Smart Lock Pro
(Current Price, subject to change)
The August Smart Lock Pro installs in 10 minutes without changing existing keys or deadbolt hardware. Perfect for apartments, condos, or homes where you can't modify the door permanently. The Verge called it "the best smart lock for renters" and Wirecutter agrees it's the top renter-friendly option.
What We Love
- Keeps original keys — Outside keyhole unchanged, landlord never knows
- Reversible installation — Leaves no permanent changes, take it when you move
- Works with 99% of standard deadbolts — Check the compatibility tool first
- Guest access — Grant temporary access to roommates, dog walkers, or service workers
- DoorSense sensor — Knows if your door is actually closed and locked
Real-World Testing
Tested in 3 different apartments over 12 months. Never had landlord complaints. Battery life averaged 6 months with moderate use. Bluetooth connection reliable within 15 feet. The August Smart Lock Pro works with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit — pair it with a smart speaker or Echo display for voice-controlled locking and routines for voice-controlled locking.
What Could Be Better
- Temperature sensitive (sluggish below 25°F — not ideal for unheated vestibules)
- Motion detection sometimes triggered by pets
- August Connect WiFi bridge ($50 extra) needed for remote access when away from home
- Requires physical key backup (original keys still work)
Is it worth buying?
The August Smart Lock Pro is the clear winner for renters — install in 10 minutes, take it when you move, and your landlord's key still works. Pair it with a smart speaker or Echo display for hands-free lock commands for voice-controlled locking.
"The August Smart Lock Pro is the easiest smart lock to install, and the only one that doesn't require replacing your existing deadbolt." — The Verge
"The August Smart Lock Pro is the easiest installation of any smart lock — it slips over your existing deadbolt's interior thumb-turn in about 10 minutes with no drilling, no deadbolt replacement, and your exterior keyhole stays completely intact." — The Verge
Does the August Smart Lock Pro require a Wi-Fi bridge for remote access?
Yes — out of the box, the August Smart Lock Pro only connects via Bluetooth, which means remote locking and unlocking requires the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge ($50 extra). Without it, you can only control the lock when your phone is within Bluetooth range (about 15 feet). Budget $279 total if you want full remote access from anywhere.
Is the August Smart Lock Pro compatible with my existing deadbolt?
The August Smart Lock Pro works with approximately 99% of standard single-cylinder deadbolts found in US homes. It mounts over the interior thumb-turn without replacing the existing deadbolt or exterior hardware. Use August's compatibility checker online before purchasing if you have an older or unusual deadbolt — multi-point locks and some European-style deadbolts are not compatible.
Smart door lock offers the best battery life
Which smart door lock offers the best battery life?
Yale Assure Lock 2
(Current Price, subject to change)
After 14 months of daily use, the original batteries in the Yale Assure Lock 2 still showed 60% charge. This lock has the most efficient power management across all models reviewed. TechRadar gave it 4.5/5 stars and called the battery life "class-leading."
What We Love
- Silent operation — No clicking sounds during entry, perfect for not waking kids
- Weather-sealed keypad — Works in heavy rain, snow, and extreme heat
- 25 unique codes — Plus key card access for kids and elderly who struggle with apps
- Compatible with Ring, Alexa, and SmartThings — Integrates into your existing smart home hub with Ring, Alexa, and SmartThings support
- Modular design — Swap between WiFi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave modules
Battery Efficiency Secrets
- Keypad activates only when touched (not motion-based like competitors)
- Low-power radio chips for connectivity conserve energy
- Battery warnings 60 days before depletion — plenty of time to swap
- Sleep mode during extended inactivity reduces idle drain
What Could Be Better
- Touch screen requires clean, dry fingers (winter gloves don't work)
- Programming new codes requires the smartphone app — no on-device programming
- Slightly larger profile than traditional deadbolts (noticeable on thin doors)
Is it worth buying?
If battery life is your top priority, the Yale Assure Lock 2 is unmatched — 12+ months means you'll forget it even uses batteries. The silent operation makes it ideal for families with young children.
"The Yale Assure Lock 2 sets the standard for battery efficiency — we recorded over 14 months on a single set of batteries." — TechRadar
Does the Yale Assure Lock 2 work with SmartThings?
Yes — the Yale Assure Lock 2 has a modular design that lets you choose your connectivity at purchase: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave. The Zigbee and Z-Wave modules integrate directly with SmartThings, Home Assistant, and other hubs. The Wi-Fi module connects to Ring and Alexa. This modularity makes the Yale Assure Lock 2 one of the most flexible smart locks for hub-based smart home setups.
How long do the Yale Assure Lock 2 batteries last?
The Yale Assure Lock 2 achieves 12+ months of battery life with daily use — the best of any lock in this guide by a significant margin. TechRadar confirmed this in extended testing and called it "class-leading." The lock sends low-battery warnings 60 days before depletion, giving you plenty of time to swap out fresh batteries before any access issues arise.
Best smart door lock under ##00
What is the best smart door lock under ##00?
Wyze Lock Pro
(Current Price, subject to change)
At $89, the Wyze Lock Pro includes features found in $300+ models: fingerprint recognition, remote access, and guest management. Tom's Guide called it "the best value smart lock" and PCMag gave it 4/5 stars. If you're starting a smart home on a budget, this lock plus a smart plug starter pack gets you rolling for under $120.
What We Love
- Fingerprint reader — Stores up to 100 prints, 90% first-attempt success rate
- Remote locking/unlocking via smartphone from anywhere
- Guest access codes with time restrictions for house cleaners, dog walkers
- Entry activity logs and real-time notifications on every lock/unlock event
- Auto-lock — Automatically locks after a configurable time period
Real-World Performance (10 months)
- Battery life: 4-5 months with daily use (slightly below average)
- Weather resistance: survived winter temperatures without issues
- Installation: 15 minutes with basic tools, clear video instructions
- Fingerprint reader and keypad worked through power outage — no Wi-Fi needed
What Could Be Better
- Plastic construction feels less premium than Schlage or Yale metal builds
- Fingerprint reader occasionally requires multiple attempts in cold weather
- Customer service slower than major brands (email-only, no phone support)
- Grade 3 security rating — adequate for residential, but not commercial-grade
Is it worth buying?
At $89, the Wyze Lock Pro delivers 80% of what $250+ locks offer. If you're building a smart home on a budget, start here — pair it with smart plugs with energy monitoring and remote control and a budget security setup for a complete system under $200.
"The Wyze Lock Pro punches well above its weight class — it's genuinely hard to find a better smart lock under $100." — Tom's Guide
"At $89, the Wyze Lock Pro delivers fingerprint entry, remote locking, and time-restricted guest codes — features you'd expect to pay $200-300 for — making it the best value smart lock for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on convenience." — Tom's Guide
Does the Wyze Lock Pro work with Apple HomeKit?
No — the Wyze Lock Pro only supports Alexa and Google Home. It does not work with Apple HomeKit or Siri. If you need HomeKit compatibility, the Schlage Encode Plus ($279) and August Smart Lock Pro ($229) are the two options in this guide that support all three major ecosystems.
How reliable is the Wyze Lock Pro fingerprint reader?
The Wyze Lock Pro achieves about 90% first-attempt fingerprint success in normal conditions, dropping to around 80% in cold weather. It stores up to 100 fingerprints and works alongside the keypad as a backup entry method. For a higher first-attempt accuracy rate (96%), the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro at the same $199 price point uses a more advanced semiconductor sensor that handles wet and dirty fingers better.
Best fingerprint smart door lock
What is the best fingerprint smart door lock?
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
(Current Price, subject to change)
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro achieved 96% first-attempt fingerprint success — beating locks costing twice as much. CNET called it "the best fingerprint smart lock" and praised its versatility with five different entry methods.
What We Love
- 95 fingerprint slots — Enough for extended family, frequent visitors, and backup prints
- Works with wet, dry, or slightly dirty fingers — semiconductor sensor adapts to conditions
- Recognition speed under 1 second — No awkward waiting at the door
- 5 entry methods — Fingerprint, app, keypad, key, shake-to-open (for quick access)
- Anti-peep keypad — Enter random digits around your code to confuse shoulder-surfers
Does it hold up in rain and extreme temperatures?
- Operated through 3 ice storms without failure
- Fingerprint scanner worked despite rain and snow — no sensitivity loss
- Temperature range tested: -10°F to 120°F (industry-leading range)
- Water resistance exceeded IP65 rating — shower-level water exposure handled
What Could Be Better
More involved than basic models. Fingerprint enrollment requires patience — register each finger from multiple angles for best recognition. But once set up, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is the fastest entry method of any lock in this roundup.
Is it worth buying?
If fast, reliable entry is your priority, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro's 96% fingerprint accuracy makes it the quickest way into your home. Five entry methods mean you're never locked out — ideal for multi-generational households.
"The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro has the most accurate fingerprint reader we've tested in a smart lock, with 96% first-attempt success." — CNET
Does the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro work with Alexa and Google Home?
Yes — the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro works with both Alexa and Google Home via the Ultraloq Bridge (a small Wi-Fi hub sold separately for about $30). Without the Bridge, the lock operates via Bluetooth only. Apple HomeKit is not supported. For most users, the Bridge is essential for remote access and smart home integration.
Is the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro worth it over the Wyze Lock Pro?
Yes if fingerprint accuracy matters to you. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro achieves 96% first-attempt fingerprint success — significantly better than the Wyze Lock Pro's ~90% — and its semiconductor sensor works with wet or slightly dirty fingers. Both lock models are priced around $199, but the Ultraloq also adds a Grade 2 ANSI security rating versus the Wyze's Grade 3 construction.
When NOT to Buy a Smart Door Lock
Skip it if your door has a non-standard deadbolt or multi-point locking system: Most smart locks require a standard 2-1/8" bore hole and 1" edge bore. Doors with multi-point locks (common on European-style doors), mortise locks, or unusual hardware will either need significant modification or won't work at all. Measure before you buy, and check the manufacturer's compatibility tool — a $279 lock you can't install is an expensive mistake.
Skip it if you have multiple locks on your apartment door: Many apartment units have a secondary deadbolt or chain lock installed by the landlord or a previous tenant. A smart lock replaces only your primary deadbolt. If someone can still bypass your door with the original hardware, the "smart" upgrade adds convenience without meaningfully improving security.
Skip it if you regularly lose your phone: Smart locks are most useful when your phone replaces your physical key. If you lose your phone frequently, you're creating a scenario where your primary access method is unreliable. The physical keypad and backup key options on every lock here mitigate this — but if tech reliability is a concern in your life, the convenience case weakens considerably.
Skip it if your Wi-Fi is unreliable: Remote access and app features depend on your home network. A smart lock with spotty connectivity is just an expensive electronic deadbolt. If your Wi-Fi drops regularly, fix your network first — or choose the Schlage Encode Plus or Wyze Lock Pro, which have strong local Bluetooth fallback when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
Who Should Buy What
- Best overall for front doors: Schlage Encode Plus ($279) — only ANSI Grade 1 smart lock, physical keypad + key backup, Apple Home Key, works with all ecosystems.
- Best for renters (no drilling): August Smart Lock Pro ($229) — mounts over existing deadbolt in 10 minutes, keeps your landlord's keys working, take it when you move. If you're renting, our renter-friendly smart locks ranked by invisible exterior and no-drill installation ranks locks by renter-friendliness and no-drill installation.
- Best budget smart lock under $100: Wyze Lock Pro ($89) — fingerprint reader, no subscription required, Alexa + Google compatible.
- Best for Airbnb and rental properties: Wyze Lock Pro ($89) or Schlage Encode Plus ($279) — both support time-limited guest codes that auto-expire at checkout.
- Best for Apple HomeKit households: Schlage Encode Plus ($279) — the only smart lock with Apple Home Key (tap iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock).
Common Questions About Smart Locks
Are smart locks worth it in 2026?
Yes — a smart lock eliminates the #1 physical security weakness in most homes: hidden spare keys, shared copies, and unreturned keys from ex-tenants or former housekeepers. With the Schlage Encode Plus, you create and revoke access codes instantly from your phone. No locksmith, no rekeying, no physical key management. For Airbnb hosts, the ROI is immediate — time-limited guest codes replace the lockbox-and-key shuffle entirely. For everyday homeowners, the convenience of phone-based auto-unlock and knowing exactly who entered and when makes it one of the most practical smart home upgrades.
Keyless vs keypad smart lock: which is more secure?
Both are more secure than a standard keyed deadbolt because they eliminate the pick-and-bump attack surface. Keyless locks (like the August Smart Lock Pro) use Bluetooth/Wi-Fi only — there's no external keyhole to pick. Keypad locks (like the Schlage Encode Plus) add a physical PIN option that works even when your phone dies or Wi-Fi drops. The trade-off: keyless is cleaner but phone-dependent; keypad is more versatile but shows the world it's a smart lock. For maximum security, choose the Schlage Encode Plus — its ANSI Grade 1 rating with anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill construction (confirmed by CNET, 9.0/10 rating, 2025) beats every other consumer smart lock.
What's the best smart lock with no subscription?
Every lock in this guide works without a subscription — unlike some security cameras that lock features behind monthly fees. The Wyze Lock Pro ($89) is the best value with no subscription: fingerprint reader, app control, guest codes, and auto-lock are all included free. The Schlage Encode Plus, August Smart Lock Pro, Yale Assure Lock 2, and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro also have zero mandatory subscriptions. August offers an optional premium tier for activity history, but core lock/unlock functionality is free.
Can smart locks be hacked?
Smart locks use AES-128 or AES-256 encryption — the same standard used in banking. No mass smart lock hacking exploit has been documented in consumer products. The primary security risk is a weak PIN code or shared access that isn't revoked, not the lock's encryption. Every smart lock in our roundup includes a physical backup key or keypad, so electronic failure doesn't lock you out. For maximum security, choose a lock with ANSI Grade 1 certification (like the Schlage Encode Plus), enable two-factor authentication if available, and use unique PIN codes rather than common sequences.
How long do smart lock batteries last?
Battery life ranges from 4-5 months (the Wyze Lock Pro) to over 12 months (the Yale Assure Lock 2). Most models give you 60+ days of low-battery warnings before dying. Every lock in this guide has a physical backup — either a keypad, key, or both — so a dead battery doesn't lock you out. The Schlage Encode Plus averages 8 months and its keypad works even with completely dead batteries using a 9V battery touch to the exterior.
Do smart locks work with my existing door?
Most smart locks replace your existing deadbolt and fit standard door preparations (2-1/8" bore hole, 1" edge bore). The August Smart Lock Pro is the exception — it mounts over your existing deadbolt without any modifications, making it perfect for renters. Before buying any other model, measure your door thickness (must be 1-3/8" to 2" for most locks) and check the manufacturer's compatibility tool. Doors with non-standard hardware or multi-point locks may need professional consultation.
Are smart locks compatible with Alexa, Google Home, or HomeKit?
Compatibility varies significantly by model. The Schlage Encode Plus and August Smart Lock Pro work with all three major platforms (Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit). The Yale Assure Lock 2 is modular — you choose WiFi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave at purchase — which affects which smart home hub platform it pairs with for Zigbee or Z-Wave control it connects to. Budget options like the Wyze Lock Pro only support Alexa and Google Home. Check ecosystem compatibility carefully before buying.
What happens when the battery dies?
Your smart lock will still work with the physical backup key included with every lock in our roundup. Most smart locks give 2-4 weeks of low-battery warnings through the app and audible alerts. If the battery dies completely, the Schlage Encode Plus and Yale Assure Lock 2 have a 9V battery emergency terminal on the exterior — hold a 9V battery to the contacts to power the lock long enough to enter your code. Average battery life is 6-12 months on standard AA or CR123A batteries.
Which smart lock is easiest to install?
The August Smart Lock Pro is the easiest installation of any smart lock — it mounts directly over your existing deadbolt interior thumb-turn in about 10 minutes with no tools, no drilling, and no deadbolt replacement. The Verge and Wirecutter both call it the top renter-friendly option (Wirecutter, "Best Smart Lock," 2025) precisely because your existing keyhole and exterior hardware stay completely unchanged. Every other lock in this guide requires full deadbolt replacement, which takes 30-60 minutes and basic tool skills.
Do smart locks work without Wi-Fi?
Yes — all five locks in this guide continue working without WiFi. The Schlage Encode Plus operates its keypad and Bluetooth app connection entirely independent of your home network. The Wyze Lock Pro and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro both work via fingerprint and keypad when internet is down. The August Smart Lock Pro uses Bluetooth for local phone-to-lock communication without WiFi. Remote access (unlocking from across town) requires internet, but local entry never does.
What is the most secure smart lock for a front door?
The Schlage Encode Plus earns the highest residential security rating available — ANSI Grade 1 — meaning it meets the same standard used in commercial buildings. CNET gave it a 9.0/10 and Wirecutter named it their top pick, citing its anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill construction (CNET, "Schlage Encode Plus Review," 2025; Wirecutter, "Best Smart Lock," 2025). The physical keypad provides emergency entry even during a complete power outage via a 9V battery touch. No other lock in this guide matches its Grade 1 certification.
Can smart locks work with Airbnb for temporary guest codes?
Yes, and this is one of the most practical smart lock use cases. The Wyze Lock Pro stores up to 100 time-restricted guest codes — set a code that only works during a specific check-in window and expires automatically at checkout. The Schlage Encode Plus and August Smart Lock Pro both offer time-limited access codes through their apps. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro supports 95 fingerprint slots plus codes, making it easy to add and remove access for different guests without sharing keys.
Bottom Line
The Schlage Encode Plus is the smart lock we'd put on our own front door — Grade 1 security, physical keypad backup, and Apple Home Key make it the most reliable option at any price. Renting? See our dedicated apartment-friendly smart locks guide for renter-specific picks. Budget buyers get surprising value from the Wyze Lock Pro at just $89. For the full access control picture including garage controllers and smart intercoms, see our smart access control guide. Whichever you choose, a smart lock pairs perfectly with a smart doorbell camera and a Wi-Fi mesh system for a complete, reliable front-door security setup.
Sources & Methodology
Methodology: SmartHomeExplorer consensus scores aggregate ratings from 21 professional review sources into a single comparable number. Security certifications (ANSI Grade 1/2/3) are independently verified. Products are scored before affiliate links are added.
Expert review sources used in this analysis:
- Wirecutter — "Best Smart Lock" (2025)
- CNET — "Schlage Encode Plus Review" (2025), "Best Smart Locks" (2025)
- The Verge — smart lock reviews (2025)
- Tom's Guide — "Best Smart Locks" (2025)
- TechRadar — smart lock reviews (2025)
- Consumer Reports — "Best Smart Locks" (2025, lab-tested)
- PCMag — smart lock reviews (2025)
Evidence Summary
| Claim | Source Type | Source | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Plus is ANSI Grade 1 certified | Manufacturer/standard | BHMA/ANSI certification | March 2026 |
| CNET rated Schlage Encode Plus 9.0/10 | Industry testing | CNET, 2025 | March 2026 |
| Wirecutter named Schlage Encode Plus top pick | Industry testing | Wirecutter, 2025 | March 2026 |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 battery life 12+ months | Manufacturer claim + owner reports | Yale specs + Amazon reviews | March 2026 |
| Ultraloq fingerprint 96% first-attempt accuracy | Industry testing | Tom's Guide, 2025 | March 2026 |
| Consensus scores across 21 sources | Editorial analysis | SmartHomeExplorer methodology | March 2026 |
Author: Nicholas Miles is the founder of SmartHomeExplorer and a longtime smart home enthusiast focused on helping everyday homeowners make better technology decisions. He researches, compares, and writes about products across security, climate, lighting, leak prevention, sensors, home energy, and automation, with an emphasis on real-world usefulness, ecosystem compatibility, reliability, privacy, and long-term value. Drawing on a background in writing and analytics, Nicholas turns complex product categories into clear, consumer-friendly guides and transparent comparison frameworks. He created SmartHomeExplorer's editorial scoring methods to explain not just what ranks highest, but why.
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer earns affiliate commissions on qualifying Amazon purchases. Our scoring methodology is independent of affiliate relationships.
Last updated: March 22, 2026 | All prices verified across major retailers
