Gadgets For Home Security: 7 Best Smart Door Locks You Could Opt For!
Isn’t it time to upgrade to a smart lock if you have a smart home with all the new digital gadgetry? These days, almost everything can be connected to the internet, run, and viewed. From our home appliances to our lighting, security, and heating systems, everything is connected. The key and lock haven’t changed all that much up until now, and some would argue that why change something that has served us well for thousands of years? That being said, smart technology is booming in every sector and it is more evident than in the aforementioned smart security and smart door locks.
In terms of design, technology, and functionality, smart locks have advanced significantly, with many variants, now fitting in seamlessly with your home decor and even adding a touch of digital style to your front door. With so many different input methods and designs to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of our favourites right here for you. Take a look at today’s guide to the best smart door locks on the market if you’re looking to upgrade to a smart home.
What are the different types of Smart Door Locks?
Smart locks that can be operated from a mobile device are one of the most important home security technologies in recent years. The majority of today’s mainstream devices have a keypad, either with a backlit touchscreen or with robust and durable keys, and many still have the option of using a key as a backup. The majority of smart door locks will be operated by one of the following systems:
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) – These involve the use of a key fob or card for entry and rely on radio waves from your key card to communicate directly with the lock, allowing entry.
- Bluetooth – When you approach your house, these devices pair with your smartphone’s Bluetooth ID to provide keyless, remote unlocking.
- Z-Wave – This type of system uses a mesh network, which is made up of many devices that communicate with one another, to open doors. If you have other smart technology in your house, you can use Z-Wave technology to create a powerful network.
Key features to look for in Smart Door Locks:
Don’t know where to begin when it comes to choosing a new smart door lock? You’d be happy, as this is still a young but rapidly growing sector. It’s unlikely that you’ll find a single universal smart door lock that works for all doors and environments, particularly if you live in an older home with a variety of architectural styles. However, we’ve tried to stick to systems that are widely compatible, and we’ve compiled a list of key features that you should consider to help you narrow down your quest.
Don’t let the word “smart” in the product description trick you. The product you choose may or may not be compatible with your smartphone. Many are nothing more than an electronic lock that requires entry through an alpha-numeric key code pad rather than a traditional key. If you want something that goes a step further and connects to a mobile app so you can monitor it from anywhere, you’ll need something with Bluetooth.
Are you looking to replace entirely your existing fixtures and fittings or retrofit them?
If you have a favourite old door with an antique Victorian doorknob, you may not want to replace it with a futuristic metallic gadget that looks like you’re entering a security zone rather than your house. Many of today’s best smart door locks don’t need you to completely remove and instal all of your existing hardware. Some can be mounted inside the home to replace the deadbolt, for example, and can be opened using either the regular key or a smartphone app.
Integrating with any existing smart home hub:
It’s worth testing compatibility with the smart home device you’re considering investing in if you already have a home centre. While several devices support Bluetooth, they do not yet have the hardware required to link to your home system.
- Alternate Entry – It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan! If you lose your phone or forget your keypad code, how can you get back into the office? You don’t want to be found on your doorstep loitering. Waiting for your other half to get home from work, as if you’re a spare part!
- Power Source – What happens if the power supply fails? Does this imply that you’ll be stranded outside? You may want to consider purchasing a device that allows you to apply emergency power.
- Guest Access – Some of the best smart door locks allow you to set up different spare key codes for visitors, which can be removed when they leave or set with time restrictions to limit access at certain hours, which is a great idea if you run an Air B&B type business from your home.
Top 3 Picks
The 7 Best Smart Door Locks
Next x Yale Smart Door Lock
If you’re looking to upgrade to smart door locks, we suggest the Nest x Yale device from Google, which is our Best Option. Use with Google Assistant or the Nest app, all of which are available for free. You can expand the advantages of your Nest smart home gadgets way past your front door if you already have them!
It’s battery-powered and can take the place of your current deadbolt. It even sends out warnings if it detects tampering. These devices can be difficult to set up at times, but the Nest x Yale has the advantage of being simple to mount and attach to the internet. It also has an external keypad that can be set up to accept several codes to distinguish family members from visitors, so you can punch the code instead of using a key to gain entry. If your bag is stuffed to the rafters and you can’t locate your key easily, this is ideal. Also, check out: Fidget Spinner Gold
Key Features:
- Secure and tamper-proof
- Replaces your existing deadbolt
- Battery operated and can be quickly charged with 9V battery
- Use in conjunction with your Nest app to let people in remotely
- Create family passcodes
PROS:
- Secure
- Send alerts
- Back-up unlock function
- Use with Nest app
- Works with Google Assistant
- Touchscreen keypad
- Multiple user codes
- Modern and sleek design
CONS:
- Sensitive to humidity
ZKTeco Electronic Biometric Smart Door Lock
Our next best smart door lock is designed for providing internal access to a home, such as an apartment or a study or bedroom, where you want to limit universal access. With its sophisticated recognition algorithm, the ZKTeco Electronic Biometric Fingertip Protection Lock makes use of the latest fingerprint technology. This allows for simple and safe door opening and closing without the use of a key. Up to 100 separate fingerprints may be enrolled, and access is granted in less than 0.5 seconds.
The ZKTeko biometric smart lock is powered by batteries and comes with a low battery indicator. There are also external terminals that use a 9V battery for backup control, as well as the new infrared sensor for quick touch opening. You have the option of building and programming three different types of user groups: admin, regular, and temporary. Please keep in mind that this unit is not waterproof and is vulnerable to weather and temperature changes, making it unsuitable for outdoor use. Since you’ll need to drill two holes in your door to make it work, it’s only appropriate for doors that can be drilled easily. Check out this cool Swiss Army Watch
Key Features:
- Reversible handle with both left and right-handed operation possible
- Latest generation fingerprint recognition algorithm
- Easy to install with no wiring required
- Infrared sensor touch to open plus LED light indicator
- Battery operated with low battery warning
PROS:
- Reversible operation
- Keyless entry
- Guest code access
- Fingerprint recognition
- 100 fingerprints can be programmed
- Works in under 0.5 seconds
- Sleek and compact design
CONS:
- Not waterproof
- Internal use only
August Smart Lock Pro
Our Premium Pick is our next recommendation, and it has to be one of the most attractive and contemporary designs seen in the world of smart door locks. You’d never know it was there if you looked at it from the outside. Since the August Smart Lock Pro operates alongside your current deadbolt, you won’t have to remove and replace it. You can keep your current setup and just place the puck inside. This gives you the benefit of discretion while still ensuring that you can still rely on your keys as a backup if necessary.
You can also check if your door is securely closed once you’ve downloaded the August App. The gadget can be used as a keyless door lock since it can be set to unlock when you are within 20-30 feet of your front door, enabling you to enter without a key. When it comes to safely locking up your house, the same is true. When you exit, the lock will automatically lock and you can check it with your mobile for added peace of mind. Check out: Thug Life Sunglasses
Key Features:
- Works with Alexa for voice control operation
- Track activity to your home 24/7 with activity feed
- Easily attaches to the existing deadbolt so you can keep existing keys
- Simple and easy DIY installation
- DoorSense alert lets you know if your home is adequately secured
PROS:
- Secure
- Sleek design
- Voice control
- Easy installation
- Auto-lock and unlock
- Remote access
- Guest user keys
CONS:
- Auto unlock behaves inconsistently
Schlage Sense Smart Lock
Schlage is our Best Value pick, and it’s a great choice if you want to provide basic keyless access to your home. The Schlage Sense Smart Lock is incredibly simple to instal and doesn’t need any wiring, so it takes the hassle and effort out of making your home smarter. Trimming to match your home decor is possible with a variety of choices.
It is a little on the bulky side, and it is connected to your external door, so it might not be the best option for all. It is, however, an excellent option for ease of use, value, and dependability. You can use the software to lock and unlock doors or type a code on the keypad. Plus, once you’re all safe and sound inside, you can always deadbolt your door from the inside.
You can quickly generate and uninstall multiple access codes to share with friends and family using the app. You would, however, need Wi-Fi to use this feature, and our testing revealed that the app was somewhat unreliable in terms of maintaining a stable link.
If you have an Apple HomeKit, you can use the Schlage Sense to monitor and lock other devices in your home, such as your Apple TV or iPad. For voice-controlled activation, this smart door lock also works with Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa. More quality items that will boost the protection of your home are the best door alarms.
Key Features:
- Share and delete access codes securely
- Features low battery indicator
- Arrives pre-programmed with two codes ready to use
- Durable, premium metal construction
- Back-lit easy to read keypad
PROS:
- Easy installation
- No wiring required
- Great compatibility
- Multiple user keys
- Fits standard doors
- Hard-wearing
- Keyless convenience
CONS:
- Slightly bulky looking
Schlage Keypad Deadbolt
Schlage has a different choice for you coming up next. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of missing or damaged keys with their keyless entry keypad. Again, this Camelot Keypad Deadbolt is incredibly simple to set up and instal, requiring no wiring or the assistance of an electrician or joiner. There are also a variety of colours and patterns to choose from, so you can find a Schlage scheme that matches your home’s decor. It’s a little bulky, but it’s a well-made product that’s also safe and dependable.
You can create, share, and delete codes using the app. Up to a limit of 19. The Schlage Keypad Deadbolt also includes silicone-coated keypads to keep the numbers from fading off over time. It’s completely customizable to suit your security requirements, and it’s a cost-effective and reliable choice from a trusted brand in the industry. Check out the best smart doorbells for more awesome home protection items.
Key Features:
- Create and delete multiple codes for friends and family
- Pairs with most popular trim styles for a coordinated home look
- Easily installs in minutes with no wiring necessary
- Durable, premium metal construction
- High-Quality silicone-coated keypads
PROS:
- Easy installation
- No wiring required
- Great compatibility
- Multiple user keys
- Fits standard doors
- Hard-wearing
- Keyless convenience
CONS:
- Slightly bulky looking
TurboLock Keyless Electronic Entry Door Lock
The TurboLock Keyless system allows you to enter your home or office with an easy, accurate, and safe keyless code. It’s simple to instal and can easily replace most regular US locks. It can also operate on both interior and exterior doors, as well as left and right hinged doors. All you’ll need is a screwdriver and a few spare minutes to get your TurboLock Keyless Entry device up and running.
Never again be concerned about being locked out of your house! You can programme the keypad to work with up to ten different codes for different users. There’s one master code, one passage code, and eight individual user codes for friends, relatives, and coworkers. The unit is powered by a battery, so don’t worry about running out of fuel. It comes with a backup battery pack that can be used in the event of a power outage.
Even better, it includes a feature known as Code Camouflage. This cleverly hides your code from prying eyes, allowing you to keep it a secret. It’s weather-resistant and dust- and water-resistant, and it’s been ability to handle Mother Nature for a long time. For your home’s protection, look into the best security cameras.
Key Features:
- Left and right hinged door compatible
- Digital lock with back-up battery port in case batteries run out
- Simple to use and program with option for up to 8 codes
- Replaces most standard US front doors
- Built-in code camouflage protects your system from prying eyes
PROS:
- Easy to install
- Back-up power
- Safe lock/unlock
- Multiple user codes
- Backlit keypad
- Camouflage protection
- Weather-resistant construction
CONS:
- Must replace the existing door lock
Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt
We’re back with Schlage for our next favourite smart door lock, and this time we’re looking at their Connect Smart Deadbolt. Use with Amazon Cloud Cam and Alexa to gain access to a slew of new features, including home surveillance and voice-activated controls. With the Schlage Connect, you can enjoy keyless simplicity while never having to worry about misplacing your keys.
It’s simple to put together, needing just a screwdriver to attach to your Zigbee-certified device. You can use the app to lock and unlock your home remotely, as well as check-in at any time and watch live footage of your home. The touchscreen is highly durable and weather resistant, and you can set up to 30 separate access codes for friends, family, and regular visitors.
There’s even a low battery tracker that gives you weeks’ notice so you can take steps to avoid being locked out! It comes in four attractive and contemporary finishes: Aged Bronze, Satin Nickel, Bright Brass, Bright Chrome, and Matte Black, and is ideal for any home with a Zigbee home automation system. You may also be interested in some of the best trailer locks. Take a look at them.
Key Features:
- Lock and unlock your home using your smartphone and voice control
- Pair with Cloud Cam for home monitoring
- Unique easy to install snap and stay technology
- Create and share up to 30 access codes
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
PROS:
- Easy installation
- No wiring required
- Great compatibility
- Multiple user keys
- Durable construction
- Keyless convenience
- Voice control operation
CONS:
- Slightly bulky looking
Final thoughts:
Now that you know what smart door locks are and how they work, you’ll be able to choose the one that’s right for you with ease. Take what you’ve learned so far and use it to select the right smart lock for your home.
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