Smart Home Pick Pro

Best Smart Locks

By the Smart Home Pick Pro Editorial Team · How we test & rank

As an Amazon Associate, Smart Home Pick Pro earns from qualifying purchases.

Smart locks split into two camps: retrofit locks that attach over your existing deadbolt, and full-replacement locks that swap in a new keypad deadbolt entirely. We picked strong options in both categories, since the right choice depends heavily on whether you're a renter or a homeowner.

We also weighed remote-access requirements, since some locks need an extra bridge accessory to unlock over the internet rather than just Bluetooth range.

New to this category? Start with our smart lock buying guide before diving into the picks below.

How we picked: We prioritized locks with a strong reliability reputation, physical key backups (no lock with zero fallback entry method made the list), and clear documentation of whether remote access requires extra hardware.

At a glance

#PickWhy it stands outPrice
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)Top Pickrenter-friendly retrofit lock - Installs over your existing deadbolt, keeping your original keys as backupCheck Amazon
Schlage Encode PlusRunner-upfull-replacement keypad lock - Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access with no bridge requiredCheck Amazon
Schlage Encode WiFi DeadboltBest Valuevalue full-replacement lock - Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access without a separate bridgeCheck Amazon
Yale Assure Lock 2Also greatmodular connectivity options - Swappable Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or Matter modules let you choose your connectivity laterCheck Amazon
Level Lock+Also greata lock that doesn't look 'smart' - Fits inside the deadbolt itself — looks like a normal lock from outsideCheck Amazon
Kwikset Halo TouchAlso greatfingerprint unlock option - Fingerprint sensor for quick keyless entry without a codeCheck Amazon

The picks in detail

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Top Pick

9.6/10Editor’s score

Best renter-friendly retrofit lock

  • Installs over your existing deadbolt, keeping your original keys as backup
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for remote lock/unlock with no separate bridge needed
  • Auto-lock and auto-unlock based on your phone's location

Watch out Doesn't add a keypad by itself — you'll need the optional August Keypad accessory for code-based entry.

Check price on Amazon

Schlage Encode Plus

Runner-up

9.3/10Editor’s score

Best full-replacement keypad lock

  • Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access with no bridge required
  • Supports Apple Home Key for tap-to-unlock with an iPhone or Apple Watch
  • Sturdy, well-reviewed build quality from an established lock brand

Watch out More expensive than the standard Schlage Encode, and full-replacement installation is a bigger job than a retrofit lock.

Check price on Amazon

Schlage Encode WiFi Deadbolt

Best Value

9.0/10Editor’s score

Best value full-replacement lock

  • Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access without a separate bridge
  • Keypad supports up to 30 user codes
  • Reliable brand reputation for deadbolt hardware and durability

Watch out No Apple Home Key support — you'll need the pricier Encode Plus for that feature.

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Yale Assure Lock 2

Also great

8.7/10Editor’s score

Best modular connectivity options

  • Swappable Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or Matter modules let you choose your connectivity later
  • Clean, minimal keypad design available in several finishes
  • Solid app with straightforward guest code management

Watch out Base model doesn't include Wi-Fi — you need to buy the correct connectivity module separately.

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Level Lock+

Also great

8.4/10Editor’s score

Best for a lock that doesn't look 'smart'

  • Fits inside the deadbolt itself — looks like a normal lock from outside
  • Supports Apple Home Key for tap-to-unlock
  • Works with a standard physical key alongside app and Bluetooth unlock

Watch out No built-in keypad, and remote access requires the separate Level Connect Wi-Fi Bridge.

Check price on Amazon

Kwikset Halo Touch

Also great

8.3/10Editor’s score

Best fingerprint unlock option

  • Fingerprint sensor for quick keyless entry without a code
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access with no bridge required
  • Backup keypad and physical key in case the fingerprint sensor fails

Watch out Fingerprint sensors can struggle in extreme cold or when fingers are wet or dirty.

Check price on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a smart lock's battery dies?
Nearly all smart locks warn you well before the battery dies and support a physical key backup, external battery jump-start (a 9V battery touched to contacts on the keypad), or USB backup power, so you're not locked out. Avoid any lock without one of these fallbacks.
Can I install a smart lock myself?
Most retrofit and full-replacement smart locks are designed for DIY installation with a screwdriver in 20-30 minutes, similar to swapping a standard deadbolt. Measure your door thickness and backset first to confirm compatibility.
Do smart locks work during a power or internet outage?
Yes, for local operation — battery-powered locks operate independently of your home's power and don't need internet for keypad or physical key access. Only remote unlock (via app, away from home) requires an internet connection.

Keep reading

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