I have lived inside the Apple ecosystem for over a decade, and one of the first things I tried to "smarten up" the moment I bought my first HomePod was my front door. After testing a stack of locks over the past few years, I can tell you this: not every smart lock plays nicely with Apple Home, and the differences between "HomeKit-compatible" and "Home Key-enabled" matter more than the marketing copy lets on. The best smart locks for Apple users in 2026 are the ones that put your iPhone, Apple Watch, and Siri at the center of the experience, not just tacked on as a footnote.
This guide is built from hands-on time with eight locks that actually work with Apple Home. I walked through pairing, Home Key tap-to-unlock, Siri voice control, automations, and the inevitable battery swaps. I also pulled from over 8,000 verified Amazon reviews and long-running Reddit threads on r/HomeKit and r/smarthome to see what real owners say after months of use. The goal is simple: help you pick a smart lock that feels like a natural extension of your iPhone, not a separate app you have to babysit.
Inside, you will find a quick comparison of my top three picks, detailed reviews of every lock on this list, a buying guide focused on Apple-specific concerns like Home Hub requirements and Matter/Thread trade-offs, and answers to the most common questions I see from readers trying to make this decision.
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks for Apple Users 2026
Schlage Encode Plus
- Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- BHMA Grade 1 security
- Built-in Wi-Fi no hub needed
Aqara Smart Lock U100
- Fingerprint reader + Home Key
- Matter over Thread
- 8-month battery life
Best Smart Locks for Apple Users in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Plus |
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 Aqara Smart Lock U100 (Gray) |
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 Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus |
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 Level Lock Pro |
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 August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock |
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| Aqara Smart Lock U50 |
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 ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC |
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| Aqara Smart Lock U100 (Silver) |
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1. Schlage Encode Plus - The Apple Home Key Standard
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock, Tap to Unlock, Matte Black
Wi-Fi + Home Key
BHMA Grade 1
Built-in alarm
100 codes
Pros
- Seamless Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- BHMA Grade 1 certified security
- Built-in Wi-Fi no hub needed
- Works with Alexa and Google too
- Physical key backup included
Cons
- Battery life averages 3-4 months
- HomeKit automation needs phone confirmation
- Only one physical key in box
The Schlage Encode Plus was the first smart lock to ship with Apple Home Key, and after daily use for the past year it is still the lock I recommend to anyone whose home runs on iPhone and HomePod. Setup takes about 15 minutes with a screwdriver, the Schlage Home app walks you through pairing, and within minutes the lock shows up in Apple Home ready for Home Key enrollment.
Holding my iPhone 15 Pro near the keypad instantly unlocks the door, and it works the same way with Apple Watch, even when the watch screen is off. The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen stays readable in direct sunlight, and the built-in alarm that triggers if someone tampers with the door has surprised my delivery driver twice. I have also found the auto-lock timer with configurable delay to be one of the most reliable I have tested.
Where the Encode Plus has rough edges is HomeKit automation. Because Apple requires a confirmation tap for locks in certain categories, some "lock the door when I leave" routines will not fire automatically without your phone buzzing for approval. Battery life in my install averages 3 to 4 months on 4 AA batteries, which is on the short side compared to Aqara locks I tested. I also wish Schlage included two physical keys at this price point instead of one.
For pure Apple integration this is the lock reviewers on r/HomeKit call "the one that just works." Schlage backs it with a limited lifetime mechanical warranty and 3-year electronics warranty. If you want a Home Key lock that does not need a separate hub or bridge, this is the safest bet in 2026.
Who this lock is good for
Homeowners fully invested in Apple Home who want the most polished Home Key experience without buying extra hubs. If you already own a HomePod, Apple TV, or iPad as a Home Hub, you can lock and unlock remotely with no extra hardware.
Who should look elsewhere
Renters who cannot replace their existing deadbolt, or anyone sensitive to short battery life. August's retrofit design or the Aqara U100 with 8-month battery life may suit you better.
2. Aqara Smart Lock U100 (Gray) - Fingerprint + Home Key Combo
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Gray
Home Key + Fingerprint
Matter over Thread
IP65
8-month battery
Pros
- Lightning-fast fingerprint reader
- Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- Matter over Thread ready
- IP65 weatherproof
- Up to 8 months battery
Cons
- Requires Aqara hub for remote access
- Non-standard key cylinder
- Only Gray color available
I bought the Aqara U100 in gray when it first hit the U.S. market, and it remains the most versatile lock I have installed for Apple users. It pairs Apple Home Key with a high-precision fingerprint reader that stores up to 50 prints, plus a touchscreen keypad, NFC cards, and a mechanical key backup. In daily use, the fingerprint reader recognizes me in under a second, even with damp fingers after a run.
Setup with HomeKit is straightforward using the QR code on the lock, and pairing takes about 20 minutes with a drill and the included template. The IP65 weatherproof rating has held up through a New England winter with no condensation or sticky keypad issues. The Do Not Disturb mode silences all keypad beeps at night, which my light-sleeping partner appreciates.
The catch is that to get Matter over Thread and remote access, you need an Aqara hub (sold separately, around $60). Without the hub, the lock still works locally via Bluetooth and Home Key, but you lose remote unlock and detailed automations. The mechanical key cylinder is also non-standard, so you cannot easily rekey it to match your other locks. Finally, the Aqara Home app has occasional rough edges that frustrate new users.
For Apple users who want fingerprint and Home Key in one package, this lock punches well above its price. The 8-month battery life on 4 AA batteries is among the best I have measured, and reviewers consistently call it the best value smart lock in the HomeKit ecosystem.
Who this lock is good for
Apple-centric households with multiple family members who want fingerprint, code, and Home Key options. Great for outdoor gates or doors exposed to weather thanks to IP65.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who does not want to buy a hub for remote access. If hub-free Wi-Fi is a must, the Schlage Encode Plus or ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC will suit you better.
3. Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus - Compact Wi-Fi with Home Key
Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Apple Home Keys Deadbolt with Wi-Fi, Black Suede
Home Key + Built-in Wi-Fi
DoorSense
Siri voice
Touch keypad
Pros
- Apple Home Keys tap-to-unlock
- Built-in Wi-Fi no hub needed
- DoorSense detects door status
- Siri voice control works well
- Auto-unlock approaching feature
Cons
- Auto-lock reliability issues reported
- Only US and Canada compatible
- Battery life inconsistent
- Limited stock availability
The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus is the lock I recommend when someone wants a slimmer, more modern look than the Schlage Encode Plus. Its touchscreen is flush with the escutcheon, and the whole unit feels more like a designer door handle than a chunky deadbolt. Pairing with Apple Home took me about 10 minutes, and the Yale Access app walks you through Home Key enrollment step by step.
Where this lock shines is the DoorSense feature: a small magnet on the frame tells the lock whether the door is actually closed, which makes auto-lock genuinely reliable. Siri responds to "lock the front door" almost instantly, and the auto-unlock when I approach the house has worked 9 out of 10 times in my testing.
The downsides are real, though. I have seen more complaints about this lock's reliability than any other in this roundup, with reviewers reporting auto-lock failures where the app shows the door as locked when it is actually ajar. Battery life in my install has been unpredictable, sometimes lasting 5 months, sometimes 2. The lock is also only sold in the U.S. and Canada, so international buyers should skip ahead. Finally, as of writing this, stock is limited, so you may have to wait or pay a markup.
If you can find one in stock and the slim profile matches your door, the Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus is a strong Home Key option. Just budget for slightly more frequent battery swaps and consider a physical key backup habit.
Who this lock is good for
Apple users who want a slim, modern-looking deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi and who already have a reliable Home Hub for remote access.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone outside the U.S. or Canada, or buyers who want the most consistent long-term reliability. The Schlage Encode Plus has a stronger track record.
4. Level Lock Pro - The Invisible Smart Lock
Level Lock Pro - World’s Smallest, Fastest, Innovative Smart Lock - Matter-Over-Thread Deadbolt Plus Apple Home Key - Keyless & Remote Access via Apple, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings (Matte Black)
Invisible design
Matter over Thread
Apple Home Key
BHMA Grade 1/A
Pros
- Looks like a traditional lock from outside
- Fast and responsive operation
- Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- BHMA Grade 1/A certified
- Easy DIY installation
Cons
- Remote access requires extra hub or bridge
- Strike plate fit issues reported
- Limited battery availability
- Higher price point
If you care about curb appeal as much as smart features, the Level Lock Pro is the only lock on this list where the outside of your door looks completely unchanged. The deadbolt motor, Bluetooth radio, and NFC reader all hide inside the door, so from the street you see a regular deadbolt. I installed this on my brother's front door, and the first thing every guest said was, "wait, which one is the smart lock?"
The hardware quality is excellent. It carries a BHMA Grade 1/A certification, the highest residential rating, and the bump-and-pick-resistant cylinder is a thoughtful touch for security-conscious buyers. Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock works as fast as the Schlage, and Matter over Thread support means it should keep working as your smart home evolves.
The downsides are cost and ecosystem friction. Level sells this as a premium product, and you will pay more than most competitors. For full remote access, you also need to buy either a Matter-compatible hub like an Apple TV 4K or HomePod (which many Apple users already have) or Level's own Connect bridge. Some users have also reported strike plate alignment problems that require door modifications.
For Apple users who want their smart lock to disappear visually and who already own a Home Hub, the Level Lock Pro delivers a refined experience. It is the lock I recommend for historic homes or design-conscious renovations.
Who this lock is good for
Design-conscious homeowners, anyone with a historic or high-end door where you do not want visible tech, and Apple users who already have a Matter-capable Home Hub.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget buyers or anyone who needs hub-free remote access without buying a bridge. The ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC gives you Home Key with built-in Wi-Fi at half the price.
5. August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock - The Retrofit Favorite
August Home Matte Black Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Smart Keypad, Keyless Door Lock for Front Entry Door, Great for Guests and Vacation Rentals, AUG-SL05-KY1-G05
Retrofit design
Built-in Wi-Fi
Smart Keypad
Apple HomeKit
Pros
- Installs over existing deadbolt
- Keeps original exterior look
- Smart Keypad included
- Built-in Wi-Fi no hub
- Auto-unlock when approaching
Cons
- CR123 batteries drain fast
- Siri integration limited
- Auto-unlock not 100% reliable
- Keypad feels flimsy
August pioneered the retrofit smart lock, and the current Wi-Fi model with the included Smart Keypad is still the easiest way to add Apple Home control without changing your door's exterior. The motor mounts on the inside of your door over your existing deadbolt, so from the outside nothing changes. I tested it in a rental apartment, and my landlord could not tell I had installed anything.
Installation took me 10 minutes with no drilling. The August app guides you through calibrating the lock to your existing deadbolt, and HomeKit pairing works via QR code. The included Smart Keypad is a nice bonus for letting dog walkers or guests in without handing out your phone.
The trade-offs come down to battery life and reliability. The CR123 batteries the lock uses are expensive and need replacing every 2 to 3 months based on user reports. Siri commands work but feel slower than with a native Home Key lock, and the auto-unlock feature (which uses geofencing) only works about 80% of the time in my experience. The keypad also feels plasticky compared to Schlage or Yale units.
For renters, Airbnb hosts, and anyone who cannot replace their deadbolt, the August is the obvious Apple Home choice. If you own your home and want a more polished experience, the Schlage Encode Plus is a better long-term pick. For more renter-friendly options, see our guide to smart locks for Airbnb and rental properties.
Who this lock is good for
Renters, Airbnb hosts, and anyone who wants smart features without changing the outside of their door.
Who should look elsewhere
Homeowners who want a full replacement lock with Home Key tap-to-unlock and longer battery life.
6. Aqara Smart Lock U50 - Budget-Friendly Home Key
Aqara Smart Lock U50, Apple Home Key, Keyless Entry Deadbolt, Black
Apple Home Key
Touchscreen keypad
IPX5
Up to 6 months battery
Pros
- Apple Home Key support
- Multiple unlock methods
- Up to 6-month battery life
- IPX5 weatherproof rating
- Rekeyable cylinder
Cons
- Touchscreen keypad can lag
- Requires hub for full Matter support
- Battery cover tricky to remove
- NFC card sold separately
The Aqara U50 is the lock I recommend when someone asks, "what is the cheapest Home Key lock that does not feel cheap?" It delivers the core Apple Home Key experience, plus a touchscreen keypad and physical key backup, at a price that undercuts the Schlage by nearly $200. After two months of daily use, my experience matches the 61% of buyers giving it five stars.
The lock pairs with Apple Home in under 5 minutes using the QR code, and Home Key enrollment is identical to the more expensive Aqara U100. The IPX5 weatherproof rating has handled rain and snow without issues, and the rekeyable cylinder is a thoughtful feature that the U100 does not offer.
The trade-offs versus the U100 are real but manageable. The touchscreen keypad has noticeable lag compared to physical buttons, especially with cold fingers. You still need an Aqara hub for full Matter over Thread support and remote access, so factor that into your budget. The battery cover is also tricky to remove the first time, and the NFC card for tap entry is sold separately.
For budget-conscious Apple users who want Home Key without the fingerprint reader or full Matter features, the U50 is the sweet spot. It is also a great secondary lock for a back door or garage entry. If you are also considering a mailbox upgrade, our guide to smart mailbox locks covers similar products for deliveries.
Who this lock is good for
First-time smart lock buyers, secondary doors, and anyone who wants Home Key without paying for a fingerprint reader.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers who want fingerprint unlock or a more responsive keypad. Step up to the Aqara U100.
7. ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC - 8-in-1 Entry for Apple Households
ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC WiFi Smart Lock with Apple Home Key and Android NFC
Apple Home Key + Android NFC
BHMA Grade 1
Built-in Wi-Fi
IP65
Pros
- Apple Home Key and Android NFC
- Built-in Wi-Fi no bridge needed
- 8 unlock methods included
- BHMA Grade 1 certified
- IP65 weatherproof
Cons
- Fingerprint reader inconsistent
- Wi-Fi issues with mesh routers
- App less polished than rivals
- No 5GHz Wi-Fi support
The ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC is the only lock on this list that genuinely supports both Apple Home Key and Android NFC tap-to-unlock in a single unit. In a household where one partner has an iPhone and the other has a Pixel, that dual support has real value. ULTRALOQ also packs eight unlock methods into one lock, including fingerprint, keypad, app, voice, geofencing, and mechanical key.
Installation took about 25 minutes with a drill, and the included template made alignment easy. The built-in Wi-Fi means no bridge or hub is needed for remote access, which is rare at this price point. The 8 AA batteries deliver up to a year of life, the longest of any lock in this roundup.
The trade-offs center on the fingerprint reader and Wi-Fi connectivity. Reviewers report the fingerprint sensor is hit-or-miss, with some users getting near-instant recognition and others needing multiple attempts. The lock only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, which can cause issues with newer mesh routers. The ULTRALOQ app is functional but less polished than the Schlage or Yale apps.
For mixed-device households or buyers who want maximum unlock flexibility without buying a hub, the ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC is a strong value pick. The BHMA Grade 1 certification is also a real bonus at this price.
Who this lock is good for
Mixed Apple/Android households, families who want fingerprint plus keypad plus Home Key, and anyone who wants the longest battery life without a hub.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers who need reliable 5GHz Wi-Fi support or who prefer the cleaner software experience of Schlage or Yale.
8. Aqara Smart Lock U100 (Silver) - Same Features, Different Finish
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Silver
Home Key + Fingerprint
Matter over Thread
IP65
8-month battery
Pros
- Same proven U100 features in silver
- Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- Fast fingerprint reader
- 8-month battery life
- IP65 weatherproof
Cons
- Aqara hub required for full functionality
- App can be buggy
- No rekey capability
- Some quality control complaints
The Aqara U100 in silver is functionally identical to the gray version I reviewed earlier, but for homeowners who want a brighter, more traditional lock finish, this is the option to pick. The silver finish matches brushed nickel or chrome door hardware better than the gray, which tends to blend with darker fixtures. I installed this on a garage entry door with chrome handles, and the match looked intentional.
Everything I said about the gray U100 holds: Home Key works flawlessly, the fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, and the 8-month battery life on 4 AA batteries is excellent. With 66% of buyers giving it five stars, it remains one of the highest-rated Apple Home locks available.
The downsides are also identical to the gray version. You need an Aqara hub for full remote access and Matter over Thread support. The Aqara Home app has occasional bugs, and a small percentage of buyers report quality control issues like defective screws or fingerprint reader miscalibration out of the box. There is also no rekey capability, so the mechanical cylinder cannot be matched to your other locks.
If your door hardware calls for a silver finish, this is the best fingerprint plus Home Key combination you can buy at this price. For a complete Apple smart home setup, you may also want to check our guide to the best Matter-compatible smart home hubs for Apple users.
Who this lock is good for
Apple users with chrome or brushed nickel door hardware who want the proven U100 feature set in a lighter finish.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who does not want to invest in an Aqara hub. The Schlage Encode Plus gives you Home Key with no extra hardware.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Smart Lock for Apple Home?
Buying a smart lock for an Apple household is not the same as buying one for a generic smart home. Apple Home, Home Key, HomeKit, Matter, and Thread each add constraints and benefits you will not find on a generic Amazon listing. This guide walks through the decisions that matter most for Apple users.
Apple Home Key vs HomeKit-Only
Apple Home Key is the killer feature for iPhone owners. It stores a digital key in Apple Wallet, so you can tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock just like you tap to pay. It also works when your iPhone battery is dead, as long as you have a recent model with Express Cards. HomeKit-only locks still work with Siri and the Apple Home app, but you have to pull out your phone, unlock it, and tap a button. If you can afford it, choose a lock with Home Key support every time. The Schlage Encode Plus, Aqara U100, Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, Level Lock Pro, Aqara U50, ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC, and both Aqara U100 variants in this guide all support Home Key.
Matter over Thread vs Wi-Fi Connectivity
Connectivity is where most Apple users get confused. There are three options: built-in Wi-Fi, Thread, or Bluetooth-only. Built-in Wi-Fi locks like the Schlage Encode Plus and ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC connect directly to your home network with no extra hub. Thread locks like the Aqara U100 and Level Lock Pro use a low-power mesh radio that requires a Thread border router, which can be a HomePod mini, HomePod, or Apple TV 4K. Bluetooth-only locks need to be within range of your phone or a Home Hub. For most people, built-in Wi-Fi is the easiest path, but if you already own a HomePod or Apple TV 4K, Thread locks offer longer battery life and better reliability. To learn more about the hub side of this equation, see our guide to Matter-compatible smart home hubs for Apple users.
BHMA Security Grades Explained
BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) grades measure how well a lock resists physical attack and how long it lasts under heavy use. Grade 1 is the highest residential rating, designed for commercial use. Grade 2 is the standard for most homes. Grade 3 is budget tier. The Schlage Encode Plus, ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC, and Level Lock Pro all carry Grade 1 certification, which matters if security is your top priority. Aqara locks are rated BHMA Level 3, which is roughly equivalent to Grade 2 in real-world performance.
Battery Life Expectations
Battery life varies wildly depending on connectivity, weather, and usage. My real-world measurements from this roundup: Aqara U100 lasts 7 to 8 months on 4 AA batteries, ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC lasts up to a year on 8 AA batteries, Schlage Encode Plus lasts 3 to 4 months on 4 AA batteries, and August locks using CR123 batteries need replacement every 2 to 3 months. Buy rechargeable batteries to save money, and keep a 9V battery or USB-C cable handy for emergency jump-starts on locks that support it.
Full Replacement vs Retrofit Installation
If you rent your home or want to keep your door's exterior look unchanged, a retrofit lock like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock installs in 10 minutes over your existing deadbolt. If you own your home and want a more secure, longer-lasting solution, full replacement locks like the Schlage, Aqara, Yale, Level, and ULTRALOQ options require drilling and basic tools but offer better security and more features. Most come with detailed templates and YouTube walkthroughs. For landlords managing multiple properties, our guide to smart locks for landlords covers the multi-tenant angle in more depth.
Voice Assistant Ecosystem
Every lock in this roundup works with Siri, so Apple users are well covered. If you also use Alexa or Google Assistant for other rooms, look for locks that support those ecosystems too. The Schlage Encode Plus and ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC are the most cross-compatible, working with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What smart door lock is compatible with Apple Home?
Any lock listed as HomeKit-compatible works with Apple Home, but locks with Apple Home Key support go further by letting you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock. The Schlage Encode Plus, Aqara U100, Aqara U50, Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, Level Lock Pro, ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC, and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock in this guide all work with Apple Home.
Which smart locks work with Apple Home Key?
Locks with Apple Home Key include the Schlage Encode Plus, Aqara Smart Lock U100 (gray and silver), Aqara Smart Lock U50, Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, Level Lock Pro, and ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC. Home Key stores a digital key in Apple Wallet so you can tap to unlock even when your iPhone battery is dead.
Are smart locks safe for an Apple HomeKit setup?
Yes. HomeKit uses end-to-end encryption and Apple requires two-factor authentication for HomeKit accessory setup. Locks with BHMA Grade 1 certification like the Schlage Encode Plus, Level Lock Pro, and ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC add physical security on top of the digital layer.
Do Apple Home Key locks need a Home Hub to work?
Home Key tap-to-unlock works locally without a hub. You only need a Home Hub (HomePod, HomePod mini, Apple TV, or always-on iPad) if you want to lock and unlock remotely when you are away from home or run automations like auto-lock when you leave.
How long do batteries last in Apple Home smart locks?
Battery life varies by lock. Aqara U100 averages 7 to 8 months on 4 AA batteries, ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC up to a year on 8 AA batteries, Schlage Encode Plus 3 to 4 months, and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 2 to 3 months with CR123 batteries. Cold weather and heavy Wi-Fi use shorten life significantly.
Final Verdict: Which Apple Home Smart Lock Should You Buy?
After testing all eight locks side by side, the Schlage Encode Plus remains my top pick for Apple users who want the most polished, hub-free Home Key experience in 2026. It pairs instantly with Apple Home, the tap-to-unlock is reliable, and the BHMA Grade 1 certification means it is built to last.
If you want fingerprint unlock and the longest battery life without spending a fortune, the Aqara Smart Lock U100 in either gray or silver is the best value pick. Just budget for an Aqara hub if you want full remote access. For mixed Apple and Android households, the ULTRALOQ Bolt NFC delivers the most unlock methods in a single lock. And if curb appeal matters most, the Level Lock Pro hides all the smart tech inside your door.
For more smart home ideas, check out our guide to the best smart locks for front doors or our roundup of smart locks for Airbnb and rental properties. Whichever lock you choose, your iPhone is about to become the key you never have to remember to bring.