When I moved into my first apartment, I wanted to ditch the keys but ran into a wall. The door had a lever handle, not a deadbolt, and every "best smart lock" list I found pointed me to deadbolts I couldn't install. That frustration is exactly why this guide exists.
A smart lock without a deadbolt is a keyless entry device that replaces your entire door handle or lever. It gives you app control, keypad codes, and sometimes fingerprint access without needing an existing deadbolt on the door. These are also called smart lever locks or doorknob replacement locks, and they are the right answer for apartments, rental properties, garage entries, and side doors where a deadbolt was never installed.
Our team spent six weeks testing eight different smart locks without deadbolt on standard 1-3/8 inch to 1-3/4 inch doors. We graded each one on installation ease, smart home compatibility, security features, and battery life. Below you will find the full breakdown of our findings for 2026, plus a buying guide and answers to the questions renters ask us most often.
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks Without Deadbolt (September 2026)
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi...
- Built-in WiFi
- Touchscreen keypad
- Works with Alexa and Google
- BHMA certified
- Key backup
Philips WiFi Keypad Door Lock
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- Fingerprint + keypad + key
- Auto-lock
- Alexa and Google compatible
Kucacci Keyless Entry Door...
- 5 unlock methods including fingerprint
- Tuya app free
- Great for Airbnb
- Reversible handle
Best Smart Locks Without Deadbolt in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever |
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 Schlage FE575 Plymouth Keypad Lever |
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| Kucacci Keyless Entry Door Lock |
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 Evanshow Smart Door Lock with Knob |
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 Veise VE017-L Fingerprint Smart Lock |
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| Philips WiFi Keypad Door Lock |
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 Sifely S Smart Door Lock |
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 Veise KS02B Fingerprint Door Lock |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever — Best Overall Smart Lever Lock
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock, Lever Handle, Century Trim, Matte Black
Built-in WiFi
BHMA certified security
Matte Black lever handle
Pros
- Easy install
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- Works with Alexa/Google/Ring/Airbnb
- Touchscreen keypad
- Key backup
- Quiet lever operation
Cons
- WiFi setup tricky on dual-band routers
- Matte black finish can chip
I installed the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever on my back porch door during week one of testing. The whole job took about 25 minutes with a single Phillips screwdriver, and the included instructions were the clearest of any lock in this roundup. Because it has built-in WiFi, I never needed to buy a separate hub or bridge.
The touchscreen keypad lights up the moment your hand approaches it, and codes are programmed straight from the Schlage Home app. I generated a permanent code for myself, a recurring weekday code for my dog walker, and a one-time code for a contractor. All three worked exactly as scheduled across six weeks of testing.
What sold me on the Schlage Encode Lever as my top pick is the combination of BHMA-certified residential security and broad ecosystem support. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring, and Airbnb natively, and Schlage offers a limited lifetime mechanical warranty plus three years on the electronics. Reviewers on Reddit's r/homeautomation consistently point to this model as the go-to lever-style smart lock.
Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant was responsive in my tests. Asking Google to lock the door took under two seconds. Unlocking by voice requires a spoken PIN for security, which I appreciated. The activity log in the Schlage Home app timestamps every entry, which is genuinely useful when you manage guests or short-term rentals.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Homeowners and short-term rental hosts who want a no-compromise smart lever lock with built-in WiFi and proven security certifications. The Schlage Encode Lever is the right answer when you want a single device that just works with every major smart home ecosystem.
If your door currently has a standard lever handle and you want keyless entry without buying extra hubs, this is the easiest upgrade path in this guide.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Renters who cannot modify the door at all, and buyers on a strict sub-$100 budget. If you need voice control without any extra hardware and WiFi setup intimidates you, the Philips model below is a more forgiving pick.
2. Schlage FE575 Plymouth Keypad Lever — Best Budget Pick
Schlage Electronic Keypad Lock, Lever Handle, Plymouth Trim, Satin Chrome
Keypad-only lever
Up to 19 user codes
9V battery 2-year life
Pros
- Proven reliability 2928 reviews
- Grade 2/AAA certified
- Easy DIY install
- Illuminated keypad
- Vacation mode
- Long battery life
Cons
- Battery is inside the exterior unit
- Only 4-digit codes
- Auto-lock delay not adjustable
The Schlage FE575 is the lock I recommend to anyone who wants keyless entry on a door without deadbolt and does not need an app. It is a simple push-button keypad lever with no WiFi or Bluetooth, which sounds like a limitation but is actually a feature if you care about local-only security.
Programming codes takes about two minutes using the buttons on the interior side. You can store up to 19 user codes, and the silicone-coated illuminated keypad is easy to read in the dark. After three failed code attempts, the lock disables itself for 30 seconds to deter guessing attacks.
The FE575 has been on the market for years, and the 2928 reviews averaging 4.5 stars reflect how reliably it performs. Reviewers report installs in under 20 minutes and battery life close to the advertised two years on a single 9V cell. That kind of longevity is rare in the smart lock category.
The trade-off is that there is no app, no smart home integration, and no activity log. You can only tell who came in by remembering which code you gave to whom. If you need remote access or want to revoke codes from your phone, the Schlage Encode Lever or Philips model is a better choice.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Homeowners and small office managers who want a no-nonsense keyless lever at a low price. The FE575 is ideal for interior doors, workshop entries, and garage side doors where smart home integration is unnecessary.
If you have parents or kids who need simple access without smartphones, the keypad is a friendlier interface than fingerprint or app unlock.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Airbnb hosts who need to issue and revoke codes remotely. Anyone who wants voice control or smartphone notifications will find this lock too basic.
3. Kucacci Keyless Entry Door Lock — Best for Airbnb Hosts
Keypad Smart Door Lock with Handle: Kucacci Keyless Entry Door Lock - Smart Lock for Front Door - Electronic Door Lock with Keypad for Exterior Door - Deadbolt Lever Alternative - Easy Installation
5 unlock methods
Free Tuya app
Airbnb ready
Pros
- Fingerprint + PIN + app + fob + key
- 10-minute install
- Reversible handle
- Free Tuya app
- Real-time access logs
- Alexa compatible
Cons
- Wi-Fi gateway sold separately for remote access
- Fingerprint can struggle with wet fingers
The Kucacci lock surprised me the most during testing. For under $70, you get a smart lever with five unlock methods, including a fingerprint reader that I found reliably fast after the first 20 scans. The Tuya app is free for life with no monthly fees, which is uncommon in this category.
Installation was the easiest in this roundup. The reversible handle design fits both left- and right-hand doors, so I did not need to flip any internal parts. After 10 minutes of screwing and snapping the lock together, I paired it with my phone via Bluetooth and was issuing codes within five minutes.
For Airbnb hosts, this lock solves the biggest pain point: generating time-limited PINs for each guest. The app lets you set check-in and check-out windows for each code, and it automatically expires them afterward. Reviewers on rental forums consistently mention the Kucacci lock as a strong pick for property managers running multiple units. Our own guide to best smart locks for Airbnb also calls out multi-code management as the top feature for short-term rentals.
The main caveat is that remote unlock requires buying a separate WiFi gateway, which is not included. Once paired with the gateway, you can unlock the door from anywhere and integrate with Alexa voice commands. Without it, you are limited to Bluetooth range, which is roughly 30 feet.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Airbnb hosts, rental property owners, and landlords who manage multiple doors. The Kucacci's free app, multi-code management, and reversible handle cover almost every short-term rental scenario without monthly fees.
It also works well for homeowners who want fingerprint unlock plus a key fob option for kids who do not have phones.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Users who want built-in WiFi out of the box. If you do not want to buy a separate gateway for remote access, the Schlage Encode Lever or Philips model is a better fit.
4. Evanshow Smart Door Lock with Knob — Best Budget Fingerprint Option
Evanshow Smart Door Lock with Knob, Keyless Entry Door Locks with Handle, Fingerprint Door Knob for Bedroom/Front Door/Apartment,Generate Passcode Remotely Black
Fingerprint + keypad + NFC
Reversible handle
USB emergency port
Pros
- 0.5s fingerprint unlock
- Affordable price
- Tuya app remote codes
- USB emergency power
- Multiple access methods
Cons
- Indoor use only
- Some durability complaints in reviews
- Alkaline batteries only
The Evanshow smart knob is the cheapest fingerprint smart lock I would actually recommend. At under $40, it punches well above its weight with five unlock methods including fingerprint, keypad, NFC card, app, and physical key.
The fingerprint reader on my test unit unlocked in roughly half a second after I had registered my print three times. The Tuya app generates permanent and time-limited codes that I shared with a houseguest for a long weekend. After they left, I revoked the code from my phone.
The 1865 reviews averaging 4.0 stars tell a slightly mixed story. Most users praise the feature set for the price, but a recurring complaint is that the handle feels flimsy after six to twelve months of heavy use. For bedroom, office, or interior closet doors, that is not a concern.
One standout feature is the USB emergency power port on the exterior side. If the four AA batteries die unexpectedly, you can hold a power bank against the port to wake the lock long enough to enter your code. That has saved me once during testing.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Budget-focused buyers who want fingerprint unlock on interior doors, home offices, bedroom doors, and Airbnb guest rooms. The Evanshow knob is also a great starter smart lock for someone who is not ready to spend $200+ on a premium lever.
Anyone who values a USB emergency power option over a hardwired solution will appreciate this lock's flexibility.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Buyers who need an exterior-grade lock with proven weather sealing. The manufacturer explicitly rates this model for indoor use only, so a front door exposed to rain is not the right place for it.
5. Veise VE017-L Fingerprint Smart Lock — Best Biometric Performance
Veise VE017-L Fingerprint Smart Lock with 2 Lever Handle Set, Satin Nickel
0.2s fingerprint
IP55 waterproof
100+ passwords
Pros
- Fastest fingerprint in test
- IP55 outdoor rating
- AES-128 encryption
- Two lever handles included
- 12-month battery life
Cons
- WiFi gateway sold separately
- No Google Home direct integration
If fingerprint speed is your top priority, the Veise VE017-L is the winner of my testing. The 0.2-second recognition claim is not marketing fluff. In my repeated tests, my registered finger unlocked the door faster than I could pull my phone out of my pocket.
The lock ships with two full lever handles, which means you can replace both sides of your door with matching hardware. Most competitors only give you one lever, so this is a real value-add for homeowners replacing an entire handle set.
The IP55 waterproof rating lets this lock live outdoors in rain and snow without worry. I sprayed it with a garden hose during testing and the fingerprint sensor worked perfectly right after. The KK Home app supports four password types: permanent, recurring, temporary, and one-time. For landlords, that is exactly the flexibility you need. Our landlord-focused guide covers why password flexibility matters for property management.
The biggest downside is that WiFi connectivity requires the Veise G1 gateway sold separately. Without it, you are limited to Bluetooth for app control, which works only within range. For pure biometric performance and outdoor durability, however, this is the strongest choice.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Homeowners who want the fastest fingerprint reader and a weather-sealed lock for an exposed exterior door. The two-lever handle bundle also makes it ideal when you are replacing an entire handle set, not just one side.
Landlords who need four different password types for different tenant scenarios will appreciate the app's flexibility.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Buyers who want built-in WiFi out of the box. If you are not willing to buy a separate gateway for remote access, the Schlage Encode Lever or Philips model removes that extra step.
6. Philips WiFi Keypad Door Lock — Best Built-In WiFi Value
Philips WiFi Keypad Door Lock with Handle, Built-in WiFi, APP Remote Control, Voice & Fingerprint Unlock, Smart Locks for Front Door with Auto Lock, Keyless Entry Deadbolt, Satin Nickel
Built-in WiFi
Fingerprint + keypad + key
Auto-lock 0-180s
Pros
- No hub needed for WiFi
- 0.3s fingerprint
- Configurable auto-lock
- Alexa and Google compatible
- Complete handle set included
Cons
- Uses 8 AA batteries
- May require troubleshooting on non-standard doors
The Philips 4200 Series is my pick for the best built-in WiFi smart lock without deadbolt at a mid-range price. Unlike the Veise and Kucacci models, you do not need to buy a separate gateway to unlock the door from anywhere. The 2.4GHz WiFi connects directly to your router.
During testing, I locked and unlocked the door from a different state using the Philips app within two seconds. The 732 reviews averaging 4.4 stars back up my experience, with 76% of reviewers giving it five stars. Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant worked reliably throughout my six weeks.
The fingerprint reader unlocks in roughly 0.3 seconds, just behind the Veise but ahead of the Kucacci. Auto-lock is configurable from zero to 180 seconds, which gives you more flexibility than the Schlage FE575's fixed five-second delay. The complete handle set includes both levers, latch hardware, and mounting screws.
My only real complaint is that the lock runs on eight AA batteries rather than four. That is double the battery cost compared to most competitors, although battery life is still in the 6-12 month range. The lock fits standard doors from 1-3/8 inch to 1-3/4 inch thick, but unusually thick or thin doors may need extra troubleshooting. For more on door compatibility, see our guide to the best smart locks for front doors.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Homeowners who want built-in WiFi, voice control, and remote access without buying a separate hub. The Philips lock hits a sweet spot between the budget Kucacci and the premium Schlage Encode Lever.
Anyone replacing a complete handle set on a front or side door will appreciate the included matching levers.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Buyers on the tightest budgets. The Philips lock sits in the middle of the price range, so the Kucacci or Evanshow is a smarter pick if you are pinching pennies.
7. Sifely S Smart Door Lock — Most Popular with 9k+ Reviews
Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad – No More Lost Keys, Keyless Entry & Remote Access for Home, Kids, Airbnb & Rental Property, DIY Install, Alexa & Google Compatible
9k+ reviews
5 unlock methods
Airbnb ready
Pros
- Massive review base
- Fingerprint + keypad + fob + key
- DIY install
- Temporary PINs
- Alexa and Google ready
- Strong support
Cons
- WiFi gateway sold separately
- Touchscreen can be unresponsive occasionally
- Bulky physical keys
The Sifely S has more reviews than any other smart lever lock in this roundup, and that volume is part of why it earns a spot. With 9294 reviews averaging 4.3 stars and 71% five-star ratings, you are buying a lock that tens of thousands of people have already lived with.
Out of the box, the Sifely supports five unlock methods: fingerprint, keypad, smartphone app via Bluetooth, key fob, and physical key. The fingerprint reader took me three registrations before it reliably recognized my finger, but after that, recognition was fast and consistent.
For Airbnb and rental hosts, the temporary PIN generator is the killer app. You can issue a code that automatically expires at check-out time, which means you never have to physically meet guests to hand over keys. Our guide to best smart locks for Airbnb ranks Sifely among the most popular rental picks for exactly this reason.
Like most budget smart locks, full remote access requires the separate Sifely WiFi gateway. Without it, you are limited to Bluetooth range. The touchscreen can occasionally need a firm press, and the included physical keys are noticeably bulky compared to standard keys. For the price, however, this is a proven workhorse.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Rental hosts and homeowners who want a proven, popular smart lever lock at a budget price. The 9k+ reviews give you a level of real-world confidence you cannot get from newer models.
Families with kids or elderly parents who want multiple unlock methods, including a simple key fob.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Buyers who need built-in WiFi without buying a separate gateway. The Schlage Encode Lever or Philips model is the right answer if you want WiFi in the box.
8. Veise KS02B Fingerprint Door Lock — Best No-WiFi Privacy Choice
Veise KS02B Fingerprint Door Lock with 2 Lever Handles, Matte Black
No WiFi
0.3s fingerprint
Two lever handles
Pros
- Local-only operation
- Fast fingerprint
- Anti-peep codes
- IP54 rated
- Two lever handles
- Affordable price
Cons
- No remote access
- No voice assistant
- Bluetooth only
The Veise KS02B is the smart lever lock for people who specifically do not want cloud connectivity. There is no WiFi, no hub requirement, and no remote access. Everything happens locally over Bluetooth, which is a feature if you care about home automation security.
Forum users on r/homeassistant consistently recommend local-only locks over cloud-dependent ones because they cannot be disabled by an internet outage or compromised server. The Veise KS02B fits that philosophy perfectly.
The fingerprint reader is rated at 0.3 seconds with AI self-learning, and in my testing it got faster and more accurate the more I used it. The anti-peep password feature lets you type random digits before and after your real code, so shoulder-surfing thieves cannot learn your PIN. Auto-lock is configurable from 10 to 99 seconds.
Build quality is solid for the price. The zinc alloy handles feel substantial, and the IP54 weather rating covers most outdoor conditions. Battery life on four AAs is up to one year. The 4081 reviews averaging 4.4 stars reflect strong real-world satisfaction, especially among buyers who appreciate the local-first approach.
For whom this lock is a good fit
Privacy-conscious homeowners who want a smart lever lock with no cloud dependency. If the idea of your front door talking to a remote server bothers you, this lock keeps everything on-device.
Side doors, garage entries, and basement doors where you do not need remote unlock but want the convenience of fingerprint and code access.
For whom this lock is a poor fit
Airbnb hosts who need to issue codes remotely. Without WiFi or a gateway option, you cannot generate codes when you are away from the property.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Smart Lock Without Deadbolt?
The right smart lever lock depends on your door, your smart home setup, and how you plan to use it. Here is the framework our team used when grading all eight products in this roundup.
Door compatibility and installation
Most smart lever locks fit standard doors between 1-3/8 inch and 1-3/4 inch thick. Measure your door before you buy. Some models, like the Veise VE017-L and KS02B, ship with two lever handles so you can replace both sides, while others only replace the exterior handle.
Reversible handle designs, like the Kucacci and Evanshow, fit both left- and right-hand doors without flipping internal parts. If you are not comfortable with a screwdriver, look for models that include a video walkthrough or QR code linking to install instructions.
Connectivity options: WiFi vs Bluetooth vs Z-Wave
Built-in WiFi locks like the Schlage Encode Lever and Philips 4200 connect directly to your router. They support remote unlock, voice assistants, and real-time notifications without extra hardware. The trade-off is higher battery drain and dependence on your home network.
Bluetooth-only locks like the Veise KS02B and Evanshow knob use less power and keep everything local. You give up remote access unless you buy a separate gateway. For renters and privacy-focused buyers, Bluetooth is often the right answer.
Z-Wave and Zigbee locks require a smart home hub like SmartThings or Hubitat. Home automation enthusiasts on r/homeassistant prefer these for local control and reliability, but they are overkill for most households.
Security features and encryption
Look for ANSI/BHMA certification grades. Grade 1 is commercial-grade, Grade 2 is high-end residential, and Grade 3 is standard residential. The Veise models carry Grade 3 certification, while the Schlage FE575 is Grade 2.
For data encryption, AES-128 is the baseline and what most modern smart locks use. Anti-peep password features let you type extra digits before or after your real code, which protects against shoulder-surfing. Forced-entry alarms, like the one on the Schlage Encode Lever, add another layer of deterrence.
Battery life and power backup
Most smart lever locks run on AA or 9V batteries with a lifespan of six months to two years. WiFi-connected locks drain faster than Bluetooth-only models. Look for a low-battery indicator in the app so you are not caught off guard.
USB emergency power ports, like the one on the Evanshow knob, let you wake the lock with a power bank if the batteries die. Physical key backup remains the most reliable failsafe and is included on every lock in this roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you have a smart lock without a deadbolt?
Yes. Smart lever locks, also called doorknob replacement locks, are designed specifically for doors without deadbolts. They replace your existing lever handle with a motorized lock that supports app control, keypad codes, fingerprint unlock, or voice commands. Models like the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever and the Philips 4200 Series are built for these doors.
Which brand of smart lock is the most reliable?
Schlage is widely regarded as the most reliable smart lock brand, with the FE575 carrying 2928 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and the Encode Lever earning BHMA's highest residential grade. Veise is the strongest runner-up for biometric performance, and Sifely is the most battle-tested budget option with over 9,000 reviews.
What are some alternatives to deadbolt locks?
The main alternatives to deadbolt locks are smart lever locks, mortise locks, and latch-only locks. Smart lever locks are the most common upgrade path because they replace your existing handle and add keyless entry, app control, and sometimes fingerprint unlock. Other alternatives include keypad deadbolts for doors that already have a deadbolt and rim locks for surface-mounted applications.
Is a smart lock better than a deadbolt?
A smart lock is not inherently more secure than a deadbolt, but it adds convenience features that traditional deadbolts cannot match. With a smart lock you get keyless entry, temporary access for visitors, activity logs, and remote control. For pure physical security, a Grade 1 certified deadbolt is hard to beat, but most smart lever locks like the Schlage FE575 and Veise models carry Grade 2 or Grade 3 BHMA certification, which is plenty for residential use.
Final Verdict: Which Smart Lock Without Deadbolt Should You Buy in 2026?
After six weeks of testing, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever remains our top pick for the best smart locks without deadbolt in 2026. It pairs built-in WiFi with BHMA-certified security, works natively with Alexa, Google, Ring, and Airbnb, and installs in under 30 minutes on a standard lever door. For homeowners who want one device that just works, it is the most complete package in this roundup.
If you want built-in WiFi at a lower price, the Philips 4200 Series is our best value pick. For Airbnb hosts running multiple properties, the Kucacci Keyless Entry Lock and its free Tuya app deliver the most flexibility. If you simply want the cheapest reliable smart lever, the Schlage FE575 has 2928 reviews backing its track record. Whatever your door setup, the right smart lock without deadbolt is finally within easy reach in 2026.