The Ultimate Guide to the Best Smart Locks for Home
Discover the ultimate guide to the best smart locks for home security, featuring top picks, key features, and expert tips for easy and safe access.
Smart locks are becoming more common in homes around the world. These electronic locks let you open your door without using a key. Instead, you can use your phone, fingerprint, a code, or even your voice. If you're thinking about upgrading your home security, smart locks are a smart place to start.
In this guide, we’ll explain what smart locks are, what to look for, and review the best smart locks available in 2025. Whether you're looking for something simple or advanced, this guide will help you find the right lock for your home.
1. What is a Smart Lock?
A smart lock is a type of door lock that doesn’t need a traditional key. Instead, you can unlock it using:
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A smartphone app
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A PIN code
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Your fingerprint or face
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A voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant
Smart locks usually connect to your home Wi-Fi or use Bluetooth. Some even connect to your smart home system, letting you control them from anywhere.
Benefits of Smart Locks:
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You don’t have to carry a key.
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You can lock or unlock your door from your phone.
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You can give friends, family, or service people temporary access.
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You can get alerts when someone enters your home.
Things to Be Aware Of:
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Smart locks need batteries and may stop working if they die.
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They can be more expensive than regular locks.
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If not set up properly, they can be less secure.
2. Top Smart Locks to Consider in 2025
Here are some of the best smart locks you can buy in 2025, based on features, ease of use, and value for money.
✅ August Wi-Fi Smart Lock – Best Overall
This lock fits over your existing deadbolt, so you don’t have to replace the whole lock. It connects directly to Wi-Fi, so you can control it from anywhere. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Why it's great:
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Easy to install
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Doesn’t replace your keys
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Excellent app support
✅ Schlage Encode Plus – Best for Apple Users
This lock works perfectly with Apple devices. You can unlock your door using your iPhone or Apple Watch. It also works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Why it's great:
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Supports Apple Home Key
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Strong and secure design
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Has a built-in alarm
✅ Yale Approach Lock with Touchpad – Best Retrofit Option
This smart lock lets you keep your existing lock while adding smart features. It includes a touchpad for easy PIN access and works with various smart home systems.
Why it's great:
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Great for renters
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No need to replace the full lock
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Simple and sleek
✅ Aqara U50 – Best Budget Lock
Looking for a smart lock that won’t break the bank? The Aqara U50 is affordable and still offers great features like fingerprint unlocking and support for Matter (a new smart home standard).
Why it's great:
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Great value
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Works with many devices
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Modern design
✅ Lockly Visage Zeno – Best for Face & Fingerprint Unlocking
This lock uses facial recognition and fingerprints to unlock. It’s very high-tech and adds extra protection for your home.
Why it's great:
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Face and fingerprint access
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Touchscreen keypad
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Strong and stylish design
✅ Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch – Best for Fingerprint Entry
This lock is known for being reliable and easy to use. It unlocks with your fingerprint and also works with your phone or a code.
Why it's great:
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Fingerprint sensor is fast
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Easy to install
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Stylish look
✅ Level Bolt – Best Hidden Smart Lock
The Level Bolt is unique, it hides inside your existing lock. From the outside, it looks like a regular lock, but you can control it with your phone.
Why it's great:
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Invisible from the outside
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Keeps your door looking the same
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Works with voice assistants
3. What Features Should You Look For?
Before buying a smart lock, here are a few important features to consider:
Security Level
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Look for locks with strong encryption (AES-256 is best).
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Choose locks from trusted brands that update their software regularly.
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Some locks even have built-in alarms.
Connection Type
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Wi-Fi lets you control the lock from anywhere.
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Bluetooth is good for close-range use.
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Some use Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Matter, which are common in smart homes.
Smart Home Compatibility
Make sure your lock works with the system you already have. For example:
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Alexa
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Google Assistant
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Apple HomeKit
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SmartThings or Ring
Access Methods
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App Control lets you unlock your door from your phone.
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PIN Codes can be shared with family or guests.
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Fingerprints or Face Unlocking adds extra security.
Installation Type
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Some locks fit over your existing deadbolt.
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Others require replacing the whole lock.
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If you're renting, a retrofit option is usually best.
4. Common Questions About Smart Locks
✅ Are Smart Locks Safe?
Yes, if you choose a high-quality lock from a trusted brand. Make sure to keep the app updated and use strong passwords.
✅ What Happens If the Battery Dies?
Most smart locks give low battery warnings. Many also allow key access or emergency charging via USB.
✅ Can I Still Use a Key?
Some locks allow both smart and key access. Others are 100% keyless. Pick what you’re most comfortable with.
5. How to Choose the Right Smart Lock
Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the right one:
|
Your Need |
Best Lock |
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Want to keep current key |
August Wi-Fi or Yale Approach |
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Apple device user |
Schlage Encode Plus |
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Need fingerprint access |
Yale Assure 2 Touch or Lockly Visage |
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On a budget |
Aqara U50 |
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Want hidden design |
Level Bolt |
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Want facial recognition |
Lockly Visage Zeno |
Also, think about where the lock will be used, main door, back door, apartment, etc.
6. Tips for Setup and Maintenance
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Follow Instructions Carefully: Use the manual or video guides.
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Check Battery Regularly: Replace when needed.
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Use Strong Passwords: Protect your account and Wi-Fi.
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Update Software: Keep the app and lock firmware updated.
7. Things to Avoid
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Buying from unknown brands: They may not offer proper security.
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Skipping updates: Your lock needs updates to fix bugs or improve safety.
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Weak passwords: Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
8. Summary of the Best Smart Locks
|
Lock Name |
Best For |
Price Range |
|
August Wi-Fi |
Overall Use |
$$$ |
|
Schlage Encode Plus |
Apple Users |
$$$ |
|
Yale Approach |
Easy Install |
$$ |
|
Aqara U50 |
Budget Buyers |
$ |
|
Lockly Visage |
Biometric Access |
$$$ |
|
Yale Assure 2 Touch |
Fingerprint Use |
$$ |
|
Level Bolt |
Hidden Design |
$$$ |
9. Final Thoughts
Smart locks are more than just a cool gadget, they make your home safer and your life easier. Whether you want something simple or full of features, there’s a smart lock for you.
Before you buy, think about your needs:
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Do you want fingerprint access?
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Do you use Alexa or Siri?
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Do you want to keep your existing lock?
Answering these questions will help you choose the best smart lock for your home.
✅ Where to Get Help With Installation
Installing a smart lock can be tricky. If you’re not sure how to do it, it’s best to call a professional. A skilled technician can make sure the lock is installed properly and working with your smart home devices.
Need help installing a smart lock?
Check out BlocksmithPro – a trusted service provider that specializes in smart locks and home security systems. They offer:
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Installation of smart locks and keyless entry systems
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Smart home setup and support
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Reliable service with years of experience
Visit their website to learn more: https://blocksmithpro.com
Now that you know what to look for, choosing the right smart lock should be much easier. Smart locks bring safety and comfort together, and with the right choice, you can feel confident your home is secure.
Let us know if you'd like help comparing models, checking compatibility, or finding deals!


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