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Smart Locks

Keyless entry that is actually more secure than the key it replaces.

A smart lock removes the most common home security failure: the hidden spare key and the lock that never gets rekeyed. In 2027 the category has split into three clear designs: full deadbolt replacements with keypads, fingerprint models that unlock in under a second, and retrofit units that keep your existing key and deadbolt. All three can exceed the security of a standard keyed deadbolt when installed correctly.

We compared leading models on the factors that determine real-world satisfaction: ANSI security grade, unlock methods, battery life and low-battery behavior, auto-lock reliability, and how deeply each lock integrates with Apple Home, Google Home, and Alexa. A lock that dies without warning or will not talk to your platform is a bad lock regardless of its feature list.

Smart Locks featured graphic

Every guide on smart locks

14 guides

Best of

The Best Smart Locks (2027)

The best smart locks for 2027, ranked on security grade, unlock methods, battery behavior, and ecosystem fit. Schlage, Yale, August, and Kwikset picks.

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Renter friendly

The Best Smart Locks for Renters (2027)

Renter-friendly smart locks for 2027: no permanent changes, keep your existing key, take it when you move.

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Fingerprint unlock

The Best Fingerprint Smart Locks (2027)

Fingerprint smart locks for 2027: one-touch entry compared on speed, capacity, and backup methods.

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Apple HomeKey

The Best Smart Locks with Apple HomeKey (2027)

Apple HomeKey smart locks for 2027: tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock, even with a dead battery.

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Review

Schlage Encode Plus Review (2027)

Schlage Encode Plus · Apple HomeKey plus WiFi, in a Grade 1 deadbolt.

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Review

Yale Assure Lock 2 Review (2027)

Yale Assure Lock 2 · The flexible keypad lock that fits every smart home.

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Review

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) Review (2027)

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) · Keep your key and deadbolt; add brains inside.

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Review

eufy Smart Lock C220 Review (2027)

eufy Smart Lock C220 · A fingerprint deadbolt with self-learning AI recognition and built-in Wi-Fi.

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Review

Level Lock+ WiFi Review (2027)

Level Lock+ WiFi · A Home Key deadbolt that hides its electronics inside a standard-looking lock.

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Review

Yale Approach Smart Lock Review (2027)

Yale Approach Smart Lock · A retrofit lock that keeps your deadbolt and keys, adding app control and auto-lock inside.

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Head to head

Schlage Encode Plus vs Yale Assure Lock 2 (2027)

Schlage Encode Plus vs Yale Assure Lock 2 for 2027: Grade 1 security and HomeKey against modular radios and DoorSense.

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Head to head

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock vs Kwikset Halo Touch (2027)

August retrofit vs Kwikset Halo Touch fingerprint lock for 2027: invisible install against one-touch biometrics.

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Buying guide

Smart Locks Buying Guide (2027)

How to choose a smart lock in 2027: security grades, unlock methods, batteries, and platform fit explained.

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Fix it

Smart Lock Not Connecting or Locking (2027 Fix Guide)

Fix a smart lock that will not connect, will not lock, or drains batteries: the checks that solve most failures.

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