The best smart lock transforms your front door from a single-key vulnerability into a flexible, app-controlled access point. In 2026, smart locks support fingerprints, PIN codes, voice commands, and auto-lock schedules — all while looking great and fitting standard door prep.
We tested and researched the top keyless entry deadbolts to find the right fit for every home, budget, and smart home ecosystem.
Why Upgrade to a Smart Lock?
- No more lost keys: Assign PIN codes to family members, contractors, or dog walkers.
- Audit trail: See exactly who unlocked the door and when.
- Remote access: Lock or unlock from anywhere via app.
- Auto-lock: Never wonder if you left the door unlocked again.
- Smart home integration: Trigger routines (lights on, thermostat adjust) when you arrive home.
What to Look for in a Smart Lock
- Lock type: Deadbolt replacement (most secure) vs. deadbolt retrofit (adds smart function to existing deadbolt)
- Entry methods: PIN, fingerprint, app, key card, voice, physical key backup
- Connectivity: Bluetooth only vs. Wi-Fi built-in vs. Z-Wave/Zigbee hub required
- Battery life: Most last 6 to 12 months on AA batteries
- ANSI/BHMA grade: Grade 1 is commercial-grade, the highest security rating
- Smart home compatibility: Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings
Top 8 Best Smart Locks (2026)
1. Schlage Encode Plus — Best Overall
The Schlage Encode Plus is the gold standard for residential smart deadbolts. Built-in Wi-Fi and Apple Home Key support let you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock — no app required. The ANSI Grade 1 rating makes it one of the most secure options available.
Key specs:
- Entry methods: PIN, Apple Home Key (NFC), app, physical key
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi (no hub required)
- Smart home: Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Security rating: ANSI/BHMA Grade 1
- Battery life: Up to 1 year
What we love: Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock is seamless. No hub needed.
Watch out for: No fingerprint option. Android users miss out on Home Key.
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2. Yale Assure Lock 2 — Best for Multiple Entry Methods
The Yale Assure Lock 2 covers every entry method: fingerprint, PIN, app, key card, and physical key. Modular connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or Zigbee) future-proof the investment.
Key specs:
- Entry methods: Fingerprint, PIN, app, key card, physical key
- Connectivity: Modular (Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or Zigbee)
- Smart home: Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings
- Security rating: ANSI/BHMA Grade 2
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3. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) — Best Retrofit Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock installs over your existing deadbolt interior in minutes, keeping your exterior hardware unchanged. Auto-unlock via geofencing is its standout feature.
Key specs:
- Entry methods: App, physical key (outside), auto-unlock
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
- Smart home: Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit
- Battery life: Up to 6 months
What we love: Invisible exterior — no one knows you have a smart lock.
Watch out for: No keypad included (sold separately as accessory).
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4. Kwikset Halo Touch — Best Fingerprint Smart Lock
The Kwikset Halo Touch stores up to 100 fingerprints with built-in Wi-Fi. For households that want truly keyless operation, fingerprint entry is faster than punching in a PIN.
Key specs:
- Entry methods: Fingerprint, app, physical key
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi
- Smart home: Alexa, Google Home
- Security rating: ANSI/BHMA Grade 2
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5. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi — Best Value Fingerprint Lock
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi packs in 6 entry methods (fingerprint, PIN, app, key, shake-to-open, knock) at a mid-range price. Built-in Wi-Fi, anti-peep PIN, and IP65 weather resistance.
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6. Lockly Secure Pro — Best PIN Pad Design
The Lockly Secure Pro features a patented PIN Genie keypad where digits randomize position on every use — eliminating smudge attacks that reveal your code.
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7. Eufy Security Smart Lock C220 — Best Budget Smart Lock
At under $100, the Eufy C220 offers fingerprint, PIN, and app access with no hub and no subscription required.
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8. Schlage BE489WB — Best for Z-Wave Smart Home
For SmartThings or Hubitat homes, the Schlage BE489WB is the ANSI Grade 1 Z-Wave lock that professionals recommend.
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Smart Lock Comparison Table
| Lock | Entry Methods | Connectivity | ANSI Grade | Price Range |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Schlage Encode Plus | PIN, Home Key, App | Wi-Fi built-in | Grade 1 | $$$ |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Fingerprint, PIN, App, Card | Modular | Grade 2 | $$ |
| August Wi-Fi 4th Gen | App, Auto-unlock | Wi-Fi built-in | Existing deadbolt | $$ |
| Kwikset Halo Touch | Fingerprint, App | Wi-Fi built-in | Grade 2 | $$ |
| Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro | 6 methods | Wi-Fi built-in | N/A | $$ |
| Lockly Secure Pro | Fingerprint, PIN Genie, App | BT + Hub | Grade 3 | $$ |
| Eufy C220 | Fingerprint, PIN, App | Wi-Fi built-in | N/A | $ |
| Schlage BE489WB | PIN, App | Z-Wave | Grade 1 | $$ |
Smart Lock Installation: What You Need to Know
Most smart locks replace a standard single-cylinder deadbolt. Before purchasing:
- Measure your door thickness: Most locks fit 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inch doors.
- Check your backset: Typically 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches from door edge to lock center.
- Retrofit vs. full replacement: August-style retrofit keeps exterior hardware; full replacement requires removing the existing deadbolt.
Installation takes 15 to 30 minutes with a screwdriver. No electrician needed.
Smart Home Ecosystem Compatibility Guide
- Apple HomeKit users: Schlage Encode Plus (with Home Key), August Wi-Fi, Yale Assure Lock 2
- Amazon Alexa users: Any Wi-Fi smart lock; voice commands to lock/unlock
- Google Home users: August, Schlage, Yale, Ultraloq
- SmartThings / Hubitat users: Z-Wave locks (Schlage BE489WB, Yale YRD226)
- No hub preference: Schlage Encode Plus, Kwikset Halo Touch, August Wi-Fi all have built-in Wi-Fi
Frequently Asked Questions
Are smart locks actually secure?
Grade 1 smart locks (Schlage Encode Plus) meet or exceed the physical security of standard deadbolts. Physical attacks remain the bigger risk over cyber attacks.
Can smart locks be hacked?
Modern smart locks use encrypted Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Use strong app passwords and keep firmware updated.
What happens when the battery dies?
Most locks give low-battery warnings weeks in advance. A 9V battery on the terminals of most locks gives emergency access while replacing batteries.
Do smart locks work with Ring and home security systems?
Yes. Most Wi-Fi smart locks integrate with Ring, ADT, and others. For deeper integration, check our Home Security System Cost Guide.
Final Verdict
The best smart lock in 2026 overall is the Schlage Encode Plus — ANSI Grade 1 security, Apple Home Key, and built-in Wi-Fi in a premium package. Budget buyers should look at the Eufy C220 or Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi for strong features at lower cost.
Pair your smart lock with one of our Best Outdoor Security Cameras and see how much a full system costs in our Home Security System Cost Guide.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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