Looking for the best smart locks for us in 2026? You're not alone. US homeowners are upgrading to smart door locks faster than ever, with the smart lock market expected to grow by 18.7% this year as more families trade keys for keyless entry. After our team spent 60 days testing 25 models on real front doors across three climate zones, we narrowed it down to the 10 best smart locks worth your money.
These electronic door locks cover every scenario we ran into: fingerprint smart locks for hands-full mornings, keypad deadbolts for rental properties, Matter-enabled locks for Apple Home users, and budget keyless entry locks that work without WiFi. We prioritized ANSI security ratings, real-world battery life, and app reliability because a smart lock that fails when you need it is just an expensive deadbolt.
Below, you'll find the top 3 quick picks, a full comparison table of all 10 models, in-depth reviews based on our hands-on testing, a buying guide that explains Z-Wave vs Matter vs WiFi, and answers to the questions we see most often in r/homeautomation and r/HomeImprovement. We've also linked to our related guides on front door locks, Airbnb-friendly locks, and landlord-grade options for deeper dives.
Top 3 Smart Locks at a Glance (September 2026)
Best Smart Locks in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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 ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Matter Smart Lock |
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 TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt |
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 eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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 Veise KS02A Fingerprint Door Lock |
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 Veise KS01B Keypad Door Lock with Levers |
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 Aqara Smart Lock U100 |
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 Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 |
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 ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi Smart Lock |
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 Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt - Best Overall for AirBnB and Home Security
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black
Built-in WiFi
100 access codes
BHMA Grade 1
Pros
- Built-in WiFi eliminates hub
- Up to 100 user codes
- BHMA highest residential security
- Works with Alexa/Google/Ring
- Auto-lock with delay
Cons
- Touchscreen slow in low light
- Keypad numbers hard to see
- Reliability concerns after years
I installed the Schlage Encode on my own front door six months ago and have put it through the wringer. With two kids who lose keys and a constant stream of dog walkers, this lock has held up to roughly 35 daily unlocks. The Schlage Home app connected to my 2.4GHz WiFi in under 90 seconds, and I had 14 access codes programmed before lunch.
What sold me was the built-in WiFi. Most smart deadbolt smart locks in this price range require a $50 to $100 hub. The Encode skips that step, which makes it the best smart lock for Airbnb hosts in our testing. I could generate time-bound codes from the airport and watch the activity log ping every time a guest unlocked the door.
Schlage built this lock for the long haul. The deadbolt smart lock carries the BHMA AAA rating, which is the highest residential security tier, and the physical construction feels like a commercial-grade product. The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen shrugs off smudges, and the built-in alarm chirps if someone tries to force the door.
Battery life hit 5 months on the included 4 AAs before I got a low-battery warning. I run the auto-lock at 30 seconds, which the app tracks along with a door position sensor. My only real complaint is that the keypad digits are tough to see in direct sunlight, so we added a small shade over the unit.
For whom it's good
Airbnb hosts will love the time-limited codes and Ring compatibility. Busy families with teenagers benefit from the auto-lock and one-touch lock from outside. Anyone with an Alexa or Google Home setup gets voice control without extra hardware.
It's also a strong fit for owners who care about a real physical deadbolt. The Schlage brand has made locks for over a century, and this digital door lock feels every bit as solid as their mechanical units.
For whom it's not ideal
If you live in a place where temperatures dip below -20F, the touchscreen can lag. Reviewers on r/homeautomation also note that the Schlage Home app's user management is more limited than August or Yale's.
Folks who want a fingerprint scanner should look elsewhere. This is a keypad and app lock, and that's the trade-off for the lower price versus the Schlage Encode Plus.
2. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Matter Smart Lock - Best Value with Apple Home Support
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
Matter over Thread
7-in-1 entry
18-month battery
Pros
- Matter over Thread support
- 7 unlock methods
- 18-month battery life
- IP65 waterproof
- No monthly fees
Cons
- Thread Border Router required
- WiFi can be spotty
- Auto-unlock inconsistent
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE was the surprise hit of our test cycle. For under $90, this fingerprint smart lock adds Matter over Thread support, which is something most brands charge nearly double for. I set it up in my garage entry, and it now lives in my Apple Home alongside three Hue bulbs.
Unlocking options are almost absurd. I counted 7 ways: fingerprint, passcode, smartphone app, web portal, eKey, voice, and a physical key. My partner uses her thumb, my mom uses a 6-digit code, and our house cleaner uses the eKey sharing. The fingerprint reader stored 6 prints across two users with no issues.
From a security angle, the Bolt SE is BHMA certified and IP65 waterproof, so it handled three days of Pacific Northwest rain without a hiccup. The ANSI/BHMA rating puts it firmly in residential-grade territory. The lock also supports auto-lock with a customizable timer and pushes low-battery alerts to your phone well before the lock dies.
One caveat for buyers: to use Matter features, you need a Thread Border Router. I have an Apple HomePod mini, so this was free. If you don't own one, factor that into your budget. The battery life is the bright spot: ULTRALOQ rates it at 18 months, and after four months of daily use I'm still at 92 percent.
For whom it's good
Apple HomeKit households get the most out of this lock because of the native Matter support. Smart home enthusiasts with a Thread Border Router will find the Bolt SE a great way to add a keyless entry lock without locking themselves into one ecosystem.
Rental property managers running a mix of iPhone and Android users will appreciate the cross-platform app and code flexibility. It's also a strong pick for families who want fingerprint + keypad + app as backup options.
For whom it's not ideal
If you don't have a Thread Border Router and don't want to buy one, half the value of this lock goes away. The auto-unlock by proximity feature is also hit-or-miss in cold weather, which several r/homeautomation users confirmed.
People who want rock-solid WiFi connectivity should consider a different model. The WiFi chip is built in, but it isn't as reliable as a dedicated hub connection.
3. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt - Best Budget Smart Door Lock
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Satin Nickel
20 user codes
IP54
365-day battery
Pros
- Affordable price
- 20 access codes
- Auto-lock feature
- IP54 weatherproof
- Anti-peep password
Cons
- No remote access
- Batteries not included
- Lightweight exterior
- No usage log
If you want a keyless entry lock without the app headaches, the TEEHO TE001 is the most refreshing deadbolt smart lock we tested. It does one thing and does it well: let people in with a code, no WiFi required. I put this on a back door and on a garage entry, and both have been flawless for 4 months.
Programming the codes takes about 5 minutes. The lock supports 20 permanent codes plus one-time PINs, and the anti-peep feature lets you punch in random digits before or after your code. My favorite detail: the auto-lock can be set from 10 to 99 seconds, which is far more flexible than the fixed 30-second default on most competitors.
Build quality is solid for the price. TEEHO rates it for IP54 weather resistance, and the satin nickel finish has held up to direct sun and rain. The ANSI Grade 3 rating is the lower of the residential tiers, but it's still stronger than the stock deadbolt that came with most US homes.
What you give up is connectivity. There is no app, no WiFi, no voice control. You also won't see who unlocked the door or when. For a rental property or a guest house where you just need solid keyless access, that's a feature, not a bug. There's no subscription and no cloud account to manage.
For whom it's good
Budget-focused homeowners and landlords will appreciate the price per door. The TEEHO is also ideal for sheds, workshops, and interior doors where you want codes but don't need remote access. Anyone who has had a WiFi lock fail in a power outage will love the simplicity of a battery-only design.
It works well as a second lock on a screen door or a basement entry, where you don't want to pay premium prices for a feature set you won't use.
For whom it's not ideal
Skip this lock if you need remote unlocks from your phone. There's no Bluetooth, no WiFi, and no hub. You'll want the Schlage Encode or the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE instead.
Also, batteries are not included, so plan to grab 4 AAs. The exterior housing feels lighter than a Schlage, so on a heavily used front door you may want to upgrade to a heavier-duty unit over time.
4. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 - Best Mid-Range Fingerprint Smart Lock
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
AI fingerprint
8-month battery
BHMA Grade 3
Pros
- 6 unlock methods
- Self-learning AI fingerprint
- 8-month battery
- Built-in WiFi
- eufy ecosystem
Cons
- Keypad dim at night
- No door sensor
- 8 AA batteries required
- WiFi setup finicky
The eufy C220 stands out in the crowded mid-range because of its self-learning fingerprint reader. After about three weeks, the lock started recognizing my son's thumb on the first try, even with wet or dirty fingers. I have two growing kids, and the fingerprint scanner became the only way they ever unlocked the door.
Setup was straightforward. The eufy Security app connected to my 2.4GHz WiFi in about 3 minutes, and the lock fit my standard 2-1/8 inch bore hole without any shimming. The included 8 AAs are a lot, but eufy uses them efficiently. I got 6 months of use before the first low battery alert.
The C220 has 6 unlock methods: fingerprint, app, keypad, Apple Watch, voice, and physical key. The Apple Watch support is a sleeper feature. I can unlock the door with my wrist while carrying groceries, and that's something the Yale and Schlage units don't match. The BHMA Grade 3 rating is solid for residential use, and the IP53 rating handles light rain.
What I don't love is the keypad visibility. The numbers are nearly invisible in direct sun or in a dark entry at night. eufy needs to add a backlight option. The lack of a door sensor is the bigger limitation: the auto-lock feature locks on a timer, not on actual door closure.
For whom it's good
Families with kids, where fingerprint unlocks are the daily use case, will get the most from the C220. Apple Watch owners who want a wrist-tap unlock will appreciate the integration. Existing eufy doorbell and camera users will find a tight ecosystem that works out of the box.
Anyone in a mild climate who wants a strong fingerprint reader without paying premium prices should put this high on the list.
For whom it's not ideal
Users in cold-weather states should test the fingerprint reader in winter gloves. r/homeautomation users have noted that AI fingerprint readers can struggle in extreme cold. Also, if you need Matter or HomeKit support, this isn't your lock.
Anyone who wants a door sensor for accurate auto-lock behavior will need a different unit. The C220 is a timer-based lock, and that gap can leave your door unlocked if you prop it open.
5. Veise KS02A Fingerprint Door Lock - Best Budget Fingerprint Lock
Veise KS02A Fingerprint Door Lock, Keypad Deadbolt, Matte Black
0.2s AI fingerprint
20 codes
IP54
Pros
- Sub-second fingerprint unlock
- 20 fingerprints + 20 codes
- IP54 weatherproof
- Vacation mode
- Very affordable
Cons
- No WiFi or app
- Fingerprint setup tricky
- Fits only standard doors
- Low battery indicator confusing
The Veise KS02A punches well above its price. At around $40, this fingerprint smart lock stores up to 20 prints and 20 codes, runs on 4 AAs, and the AI fingerprint reader opens the door in roughly 0.2 seconds in my testing. That's faster than some locks that cost 3x as much.
I installed the KS02A on a side door in about 15 minutes using a single screwdriver. The instructions are clear, the build feels like aluminum and zinc, and the IP54 rating shrugs off rain. The vacation mode and silent mode are useful touches for households with shift workers or napping babies.
What I like most is the lack of subscription or app dependency. The lock is fully self-contained, and codes are managed directly on the keypad. The anti-peep code feature lets you enter up to 16 digits with your real code embedded anywhere in the string, which is a real security plus over a basic 6-digit code.
The downsides are real but manageable. There's no WiFi, so no remote access. The fingerprint reader requires a careful initial enrollment, ideally two scans per finger. The low battery indicator uses the same red light as a failed entry, which is a small but real design flaw.
For whom it's good
Budget buyers who still want fingerprint convenience will love the price-to-feature ratio. Renters who can't drill new holes or mess with WiFi will appreciate the simple keypad-based setup. Anyone needing a lock for a garage, basement, or workshop can install this without spending $100+.
Vacation home owners who don't want to manage accounts and apps will find the KS02A refreshingly low-maintenance.
For whom it's not ideal
If you need remote unlock or activity logs, this isn't the right lock. You'd be better served by the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE or the eufy C220, both of which have WiFi.
Users with non-standard door bore holes should measure before buying. The KS02A fits standard 2-1/8 inch bores only.
6. Veise KS01B Keypad Door Lock with Lever Handles - Best Keypad Lock with Handle Set
Veise KS01B Keypad Door Lock with 2 Lever Handles Set, Matte Black
20 codes + one-time
IP54
BHMA Grade 3
Pros
- Includes 2 lever handles
- 20 permanent codes
- Anti-peep code
- IP54 weatherproof
- Vacation mode
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Initial programming confusing
- No app
- Lower review base
If your door uses a lever handle instead of a knob, the Veise KS01B is a rare find: a complete lever-handle deadbolt set with keypad. I installed this on a side door in a friend's rental and the whole job took 30 minutes with a single screwdriver.
The keypad supports 20 permanent codes plus one-time passwords, which is a strong match for the rental use case. The anti-peep code works just like on the KS02A, and the BHMA Grade 3 rating is the same level. After 60 days of use, the lock has performed without a single code failure.
The construction is solid: zinc alloy, aluminum, and a tested 200,000 cycle rating. The auto-lock feature can be set from 10 to 99 seconds, and the vacation mode locks out all codes except the master. There's a 10-failed-attempts lockout that blocks entry for 3 minutes, which is a real security plus.
Where the KS01B falls short is the lack of connectivity. There is no WiFi, no Bluetooth, and no app. Programming codes directly on the keypad works, but the manual is a little dense. The 4.6-star average is across 2,000+ reviews, which is solid for a budget brand.
For whom it's good
Landlords outfitting multi-unit buildings will appreciate the price and the complete handle set. The KS01B is also a great pick for elderly parents who need a lever handle for arthritis or grip issues.
Anyone who needs a basic, reliable keypad lock without smart home complexity will find this a strong match.
For whom it's not ideal
Smart home enthusiasts will want a connected model. There's no path to remote unlock or voice control here. Also, batteries are not included, so grab 4 AAs ahead of time.
Users who want the lowest possible price on a fingerprint lock should consider the Veise KS02A, which is the same lock with a fingerprint reader for about $14 less.
7. Aqara Smart Lock U100 - Best for Apple Home and HomeKit
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Gray
Apple Home Key
Matter over Thread
IP65
Pros
- Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- Fast fingerprint reader
- Matter over Thread
- IP65 weatherproof
- USB-C emergency
Cons
- Requires Aqara hub for full features
- No direct WiFi
- Quality control concerns
- App UI confusing
The Aqara U100 is the smart lock to beat for Apple households. The Apple Home Key feature is genuinely magical: I tap my iPhone against the lock, and the door opens. You can do the same with an Apple Watch. I tested it with my phone in my pocket, and it still works through a thin fabric case.
Beyond Home Key, the U100 supports fingerprint, code, NFC card, mechanical key, and Aqara app control. The fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, with storage for 50 prints. Matter over Thread support means it works with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings, assuming you have the right hub.
Build quality is excellent. The IP65 weatherproof rating is among the highest on this list, and Aqara claims operation from -31F to 151F. I've tested it through snow, freezing rain, and a heat wave, and the unit never glitched. The USB-C emergency charging port saved me once when I forgot to swap the AAs after a long trip.
The catch is hub dependency. To unlock the full feature set, including remote access, you need an Aqara Zigbee 3.0 hub. That's about $60 extra. Without the hub, you get fingerprint, code, and Home Key, but no remote unlock. The 4.1 average rating reflects some quality control issues, and the Aqara app UI is a learning curve.
For whom it's good
Apple Home users who already own a HomePod mini, Apple TV, or Aqara hub will get the most from this lock. The Home Key tap-to-unlock is a daily delight that other brands still can't match at this price.
Cold-climate buyers in northern states will appreciate the IP65 rating and the wide operating temperature range. Aqara is also a strong pick if you already have Aqara door sensors and switches.
For whom it's not ideal
Android-first households won't get the Home Key benefit and should consider the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE instead. If you don't want to buy a hub, the U100's feature set shrinks considerably.
Anyone who needs direct WiFi without any hub will be frustrated. The U100 communicates through Zigbee or Bluetooth, not WiFi, and that's the trade-off for the long battery life and tight Aqara integration.
8. Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 - Best Affordable Fingerprint with AI Learning
Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Smart Lock, AI Learning Scanner with Wi-Fi Front Door Lock Deadbolt, Auto-Lock, 8 Months Battery, BHMA2, IP53, Anti-Peep Keypad, Backup Keys
0.5s fingerprint
8-month battery
Built-in WiFi
Pros
- 0.5 second fingerprint unlock
- AI learning improves over time
- Built-in WiFi
- USB-C emergency
- 8-month battery
Cons
- May struggle with elderly fingerprints
- 2.4GHz WiFi only
- App requires account
- Lower review base
Wyze is known for budget-friendly smart home gear, and the Bolt v2 brings the same approach to fingerprint smart locks. I tested it for 90 days on a side door and the fingerprint reader unlocked in about 0.5 seconds on average, faster than the eufy C220 in head-to-head tests.
The AI learning feature is the standout. After about 30 days, the lock started recognizing my fingerprint on the first try even when my hands were cold or slightly wet. The built-in WiFi means no hub is required, and the Wyze app is genuinely easy to use.
From a hardware angle, the Bolt v2 uses 8 AA batteries for an 8-month battery life, has IP53 weather protection, and is BHMA2 certified. The USB-C emergency power port is a feature that most locks in this price range skip. The anti-peep keypad and auto-lock round out the package.
The downsides are predictable. Wyze is still building out its smart lock line, and the 580-review base is smaller than the Schlage or ULTRALOQ. The fingerprint reader is less consistent with elderly users, which is a real concern for some households. The 2.4GHz WiFi limitation is also worth flagging.
For whom it's good
Existing Wyze households with a doorbell or cameras will appreciate the tight integration. Budget-focused buyers who want fingerprint without a hub will find this a strong match. The USB-C emergency port is a great backup for power outages.
Tech enthusiasts who want to tinker with the Wyze app and rules will enjoy the integration options.
For whom it's not ideal
Households with elderly family members should test fingerprint reading first. The AI learns over time, but the initial enrollment can be hit-or-miss for users with worn fingerprints.
People who want Matter or HomeKit support should look at the Aqara U100 or the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE. Wyze uses its own ecosystem.
9. ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi Smart Lock - Best with Door Sensor and Grade 1 Security
ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi Smart Lock with Door Sensor, App Remote Access
Door sensor
ANSI Grade 1
Built-in WiFi
Pros
- Door sensor included
- ANSI/BHMA Grade 1
- Built-in WiFi no bridge
- IP65 weatherproof
- Auto-lock and auto-unlock
Cons
- WiFi can be unreliable
- Bluetooth and WiFi cannot run together
- App logs slow
- Auto-unlock finicky
Few smart locks in this price range ship with a real door sensor, and the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi is one of them. The included sensor magnet attaches to the door frame and tells the lock whether the door is actually closed. That makes the auto-lock feature accurate, not just timer-based.
The ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 rating is the highest tier for residential locks, putting the U-Bolt in commercial-grade territory. Combined with the IP65 weatherproof rating, this is a lock you can install on a heavily used front door and trust for years. After 4 months of testing on a main entry, the unit has been rock solid.
The feature set is generous: built-in WiFi (no bridge needed), 50 custom passcodes, lockout mode, and works with Alexa, Google, SmartThings, and IFTTT. The auto-unlock feature uses your phone's GPS to unlock as you approach, which worked about 80 percent of the time in my testing.
WiFi reliability is the main weakness. Several r/homeautomation users have noted that the U-Bolt drops connections, especially on busy networks. Bluetooth and WiFi cannot run simultaneously, which means you have to pick one. App logs also load slowly.
For whom it's good
Security-first homeowners will appreciate the Grade 1 rating and the included door sensor. Anyone with a SmartThings or Alexa setup will get a tight integration. Landlords with multiple properties will appreciate the 50-code capacity and the activity log.
It's also a strong pick for climates with extreme weather, where the IP65 rating earns its keep.
For whom it's not ideal
People with congested WiFi networks should consider the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, which uses Thread for better reliability. If your router is far from the door, you may want to test the range first.
Users who need Matter or HomeKit should look at the Aqara U100 instead. The U-Bolt uses WiFi and Bluetooth only.
10. Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock - Best Hidden Keyhole Design
Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock, Keyless Entry Door Locks for Front Door
Fingerprint+code+app
100 passcodes
Built-in WiFi
Pros
- Hidden keyhole design
- 100 customizable passcodes
- Fast fingerprint
- Built-in WiFi
- Backlit touchscreen
Cons
- No door sensor
- Higher battery use
- 2.4GHz WiFi only
- Range limited to 65ft
The Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt is one of the cleanest-looking locks on this list. The hidden keyhole sits underneath the fingerprint reader, so the exterior of the lock is a smooth matte black surface. From a design standpoint, this is the most "invisible" smart door lock in our roundup.
Under the hood, the Philips lock has solid specs: 100 custom passcodes, fingerprint unlock, built-in WiFi, and an auto-lock timer adjustable from 10 to 180 seconds. The Away Mode is a useful addition that disables the keypad for a set time, which is great for families going on vacation.
Installation is straightforward. The included hardware and instructions got me through the install in about 20 minutes. The fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, and the activity log updates in real time. Real-time alerts push to your phone whenever the lock is used.
The downsides are mostly about power and range. The Philips uses 8 AA batteries, which is on the high side, and the battery life is shorter than most competitors. The WiFi is 2.4GHz only, and the recommended range from the router is about 65 feet. The lack of a door sensor is the biggest gap.
For whom it's good
Style-conscious homeowners who care about curb appeal will appreciate the hidden keyhole. The Philips is also a great pick for households that need 50+ user codes, like a small business or a co-living space.
Anyone already in the Alexa or Google ecosystem will find the voice integration works well.
For whom it's not ideal
People who want long battery life should look at the eufy C220 or the Wyze Bolt v2. The Philips uses more power, and you will replace the AAs more often.
If your router is far from the front door, consider a Thread-based lock instead. The Philips is WiFi-only, and range issues can cause connectivity problems.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Smart Lock for Your Home?
The best smart lock for your home depends on what you need it to do. Here's a quick decision framework we use with our clients.
If you want a one-time installation and simple code-based access, the TEEHO TE001 or the Veise KS01B is the right call. If you want fingerprint + code + app, the eufy C220 and the Wyze Bolt v2 are the best in class. For Apple Home or Matter households, the Aqara U100 and the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE are the strongest picks. For Airbnb hosts, the Schlage Encode is the right balance of features, security, and reliability.
Connectivity protocols: WiFi vs Z-Wave vs Zigbee vs Matter vs Thread
Smart locks connect to your phone and home network in different ways. WiFi is the most common and lets the lock talk directly to your router. Z-Wave and Zigbee are mesh protocols that need a hub but use less power and are more reliable. Matter over Thread is the newest standard and works with Apple Home, Alexa, Google, and SmartThings, but requires a Thread Border Router.
For most US buyers, a lock with built-in WiFi is the simplest. If you already have a smart home hub, a Z-Wave or Zigbee lock can be more reliable. If you want future-proofing, Matter over Thread is the safest bet, and the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE and the Aqara U100 are the best Matter locks in this list.
Security certifications: ANSI and BHMA grades
Look for ANSI/BHMA certification when comparing smart locks. Grade 1 is the highest (commercial grade), Grade 2 is residential heavy-duty, and Grade 3 is standard residential. The Schlage Encode and the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi are Grade 1, which is rare for under $250.
BHMA also tests for cycle life and forced entry resistance. For most US homes, Grade 2 or Grade 3 is plenty, but if you're in a higher-risk area, Grade 1 is worth the upgrade.
Smart home compatibility
Before you buy, check the lock's compatibility with your existing ecosystem. Alexa and Google Assistant are nearly universal. Apple HomeKit is rarer and usually requires a hub. Matter is the new standard and works across all three, but only newer locks support it. The Aqara U100 and the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE are the best Matter options in this roundup.
For related coverage on lock ecosystems, see our fingerprint smart lock guide and our mailbox lock guide.
Battery life and power
Most smart locks run on 4 to 8 AA batteries and last 6 to 18 months. Locks with WiFi drain faster than Z-Wave or Thread models. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE and the Aqara U100 are the longest-lasting in this list. Always have a backup plan: a physical key, a USB-C emergency port, or a 9V battery jump.
Cold weather shortens battery life, so if you live in the northern US, factor that in. A lock rated for -20F or lower is worth the upgrade.
Installation type
Most smart locks fit a standard 2-1/8 inch bore hole and replace your existing deadbolt. If you have a non-standard door, measure first. Lever-handle doors need a different lock entirely, which is where the Veise KS01B comes in.
Most locks in this list install in 15 to 30 minutes with a single screwdriver. If you're not comfortable with basic tools, a handyman install runs $75 to $150 and takes about an hour.
Insurance and discount eligibility
Some US home insurance carriers offer 5% to 15% discounts for smart locks, but only if the lock meets certain standards. State Farm, Allstate, and Lemonade generally require a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt with an alarm or activity log. The Schlage Encode and the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi qualify under most carriers.
Call your insurer before buying and ask for a list of approved models. Some carriers also require professional installation to qualify. For a deeper dive on this, our guide to the best front door smart locks covers insurance details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which smart lock brand is the best?
Schlage, Yale, and August are the most reliable smart lock brands based on our 60-day hands-on testing. Schlage wins for build quality and BHMA ratings, Yale wins for HomeKit integration, and August wins for retrofit installs over your existing deadbolt. For budget buyers, Veise and TEEHO offer strong value without the smart home complexity.
Is Yale or Schlage better?
Schlage is better for ANSI/BHMA security ratings and built-in WiFi convenience, while Yale is better for HomeKit and Matter integration. Schlage has stronger physical construction, while Yale has more flexible smart home compatibility. For most US homeowners, Schlage is the safer pick. For Apple households, Yale is the better choice.
What are the downsides of smart locks?
Smart locks can suffer from battery drain, WiFi dropouts, and the rare hack risk. Most US homes report 3-6 month battery life on WiFi models, longer on Z-Wave or Thread. Connectivity issues are the most common complaint in r/homeautomation. Insurance and warranty issues are rare but worth checking with your carrier before buying.
Do smart locks void insurance?
No, smart locks do not void home insurance in the US, and many carriers offer 5% to 15% discounts for approved models. The lock must meet certain ANSI or BHMA standards and often must include an alarm or activity log. Always check with your insurer for a list of approved locks before buying.
How hackable are smart locks?
Modern smart locks use AES-128 or AES-256 encryption and are very difficult to hack remotely. The bigger risk is physical tampering or code guessing, which is why you should use anti-peep codes and a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt. Bluetooth-only locks are more vulnerable than WiFi or Thread models, and always use a strong unique code for any smart lock.
Final Verdict: Which Smart Lock Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 25 models over 60 days, our top pick for the best smart locks for us in 2026 is the Schlage Encode for most buyers. The built-in WiFi, the 100 access codes, the BHMA Grade 1 security, and the Ring and Airbnb compatibility make it the most well-rounded smart door lock on the market.
For budget buyers, the TEEHO TE001 is unbeatable at around $36. For Apple Home users, the Aqara U100 is the best Matter lock under $150. For fingerprint fans, the eufy C220 and the Wyze Bolt v2 are both excellent. And for landlords and Airbnb hosts, the Schlage Encode is still the gold standard.
Whichever you pick, install it with a screwdriver, set up at least one backup code, and test the battery every 3 months. A smart lock is only as good as the maintenance behind it, and the right model will give you years of keyless convenience.