TL;DR
Smart locks offer keyless convenience with entry via code, fingerprint, phone, or voice. Quality models cost $150-$400 and are as secure as traditional deadbolts. Best for: people who lose keys, rental hosts, or those wanting remote access. Most are DIY-installable in 15-30 minutes. Always keep a physical key backup.
- Entry types: keypad, fingerprint, phone app, voice assistant
- Cost: $150-$400 for quality brands (Schlage, Yale, August)
- Battery life: 6-12 months on 4 AA batteries
- Installation: DIY (15-30 min) or professional ($50-$150)
Smart Lock vs Traditional Lock
| Smart Lock | Traditional Deadbolt | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $150-$400 | $50-$150 |
| Entry Methods | Code, fingerprint, phone, key | Key only |
| Remote Access | ✓ (with WiFi) | |
| Guest Codes | ✓ (temporary or permanent) | ✗ (extra keys needed) |
| Activity Log | ✓ (who entered when) | |
| Auto-Lock | ✓ (configurable) | |
| Power Required | Batteries (6-12 mo) | None |
| Physical Security | ANSI Grade 1-2 | ANSI Grade 1-3 |
| Installation | DIY or pro ($50-$150) | DIY or pro ($50-$100) |
| Hackable | Low risk with encryption | Pick/bump resistant varies |
| Smart Home Integration | ✓ (Alexa, Google, HomeKit) |
Security grades are equivalent for quality smart locks. Main difference is convenience features.
Types of Smart Locks
Keypad Smart Locks
Enter a PIN code to unlock. Most common type. No phone needed.
- • Price: $150-$300
- • Best for: General home use
- • Examples: Schlage Encode, Yale Assure
Fingerprint Smart Locks
Biometric entry using fingerprint. Fastest unlock method.
- • Price: $200-$400
- • Best for: Quick entry, no codes to remember
- • Examples: Eufy, Lockly, Ultraloq
Bluetooth/Phone Unlock
Unlock via smartphone app when in range. Some auto-unlock when you approach.
- • Price: $150-$350
- • Best for: Hands-free convenience
- • Examples: August, Level, Sesame
WiFi Smart Locks
Connect to home WiFi for remote access and notifications from anywhere.
- • Price: $200-$400
- • Best for: Remote access, rental hosts
- • Examples: Schlage Encode Plus, Yale Assure 2
Voice Assistant Locks
Control via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit voice commands.
- • Price: $200-$400
- • Best for: Smart home integration
- • Examples: August WiFi, Schlage Encode Plus
Retrofit Smart Locks
Install over existing deadbolt. Keeps your current keys working.
- • Price: $150-$300
- • Best for: Renters, keeping existing keys
- • Examples: August, Level Lock
Are Smart Locks Right for You?
Best For
- Frequently forget or lose keys
- Want to let in guests/cleaners/dog walkers remotely
- Airbnb or rental property hosts
- Families who need multiple access codes
- Want to know when kids get home (activity log)
- Already have a smart home setup
- Hands-full situations (groceries, kids)
Not Ideal For
- Prefer simplicity of traditional keys
- Uncomfortable with technology
- Very old doors that may not fit standard preps
- Extreme weather without protected entry
- Tight budget (quality traditional locks are cheaper)
Top Smart Lock Brands Compared
| Schlage | Yale | August | Level | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $200-$350 | $180-$350 | $150-$300 | $250-$330 |
| ANSI Grade | Grade 1 | Grade 2 | Grade 2 | Grade 2 |
| Keypad | Optional | |||
| Fingerprint | ||||
| WiFi Built-in | ✓ (Encode) | ✓ (Assure 2) | ✓ (WiFi model) | ✗ (needs hub) |
| Apple HomeKit | ✓ (Plus) | |||
| Retrofit Option | ||||
| Battery Life | 12 months | 9-12 months | 6 months | 12 months |
| Physical Key | ✓ (if retrofit) |
All major brands offer reliable security. Choose based on features and smart home compatibility.
Installation: DIY or Professional?
DIY Installation
Most smart locks are designed for DIY install in 15-30 minutes if your door has standard prep.
- ✓ Standard deadbolt hole (2-1/8" diameter)
- ✓ Backset: 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" (adjustable)
- ✓ Door thickness: 1-3/8" to 2"
- ✓ Tools needed: screwdriver only
Cost: $0 (just your time)
Professional Installation
Hire a locksmith if you're uncomfortable with DIY or have non-standard doors.
- → Non-standard door prep needed
- → Thick or thin doors outside spec
- → Want lock + deadbolt replaced together
- → Multiple locks to install
Cost: $50-$150 professional installation
Real-World Use Cases
Airbnb Host Setup
Managing vacation rental with frequent guest turnover. Needed unique codes for each guest and wanted to avoid key handoffs.
Installed Schlage Encode with WiFi. Creates unique codes for each booking, automatically expires after checkout.
No more lockbox, no lost keys, can see when guests arrive/leave.
Busy Family Upgrade
Family of 5 with kids in sports. Constantly losing or forgetting keys. Kids get home before parents.
Installed Yale Assure 2 with touchscreen. Each family member has own code. Activity alerts when kids enter.
No more hidden keys, know when kids arrive home, no lockouts.
Apartment Renter
Renter who can't replace the deadbolt permanently. Wanted smart lock convenience without modifications.
Installed August Smart Lock retrofit that attaches to existing deadbolt interior. Original key still works.
Smart features added, can remove when moving, landlord approved.
Home Office Security
Works from home with occasional client visits. Wanted to unlock door remotely when on video calls.
Installed August WiFi Smart Lock. Can unlock via phone app from desk when clients arrive.
Professional experience for clients, no interrupting meetings to answer door.
Smart Lock Security
Quality smart locks are as physically secure as traditional deadbolts. The main security considerations are digital:
Security Best Practices
- Use strong, unique codes (avoid 1234, birthdays)
- Enable two-factor authentication on app
- Keep firmware updated
- Delete old guest codes promptly
- Always have physical key backup
Encryption Standards
- AES-128: Bank-level encryption (good)
- AES-256: Military-grade encryption (best)
- Z-Wave/Zigbee: Encrypted smart home protocols
- Bluetooth LE: Short-range, harder to intercept
All major brands (Schlage, Yale, August) use proper encryption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are smart locks worth it?
Are smart locks safe?
Can smart locks be hacked?
Do smart locks work without WiFi?
How long do smart lock batteries last?
Can I install a smart lock myself?
Do smart locks work with existing deadbolts?
What happens if the battery dies?
Last updated: 2025-12-10