Smart locks are one of the most practical smart home upgrades you can make. They eliminate the need for physical keys, let you grant temporary access to guests, and give you peace of mind knowing you can check if your door is locked from anywhere. But with so many options available, choosing the right one requires understanding a few key factors.
Key Features to Consider
Lock Type: Deadbolt vs. Lever
Most smart locks are deadbolts designed for exterior doors. They replace your existing deadbolt while keeping your regular door handle. Some models are lever locks that replace the entire handle assembly—these are less common for front doors but useful for interior doors or offices.
Keypad, Fingerprint, or App-Only?
Consider how you want to unlock your door:
- Keypad locks let you enter a code—great for sharing access with guests or service workers
- Fingerprint readers offer the fastest entry but may struggle in extreme cold
- App-only locks rely on your phone via Bluetooth or WiFi—convenient but requires your phone
- Physical key backup is available on most models and recommended for emergencies
Connectivity: WiFi vs. Bluetooth vs. Hub-Based
This determines how you can control and monitor your lock remotely:
- WiFi locks connect directly to your router for remote access without extra hardware
- Bluetooth locks only work when you are nearby unless you add a WiFi bridge
- Zigbee/Z-Wave locks require a hub but offer better battery life and reliability
Ecosystem Compatibility
Make sure the lock works with your smart home platform:
- Apple HomeKit for iPhone users who want Siri control and Home app integration
- Google Home for Android users and Google Assistant voice control
- Amazon Alexa for Echo device integration and Alexa routines
- Samsung SmartThings for advanced automation possibilities
Installation Considerations
Door Compatibility
Before purchasing, measure your door:
- Door thickness: Most locks fit 1-3/8" to 2" thick doors
- Backset: The distance from the edge of the door to the center of the lock hole (usually 2-3/8" or 2-3/4")
- Existing holes: Many smart locks fit standard deadbolt preparations
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Most smart locks are designed for DIY installation and take 15-30 minutes if you are replacing an existing deadbolt. If you need to drill new holes or modify the door frame, consider professional installation.
Battery Life and Power
Smart locks run on batteries, typically lasting 6-12 months depending on usage. Look for:
- Low battery alerts sent to your phone
- Emergency power options like a 9V battery terminal on the exterior
- Standard battery types (AA or CR123A) for easy replacement
Security Features
A smart lock should be at least as secure as a traditional deadbolt:
- ANSI/BHMA Grade: Grade 1 is commercial-grade, Grade 2 is residential (most smart locks)
- Auto-lock: Automatically locks after a set time
- Tamper alerts: Notifications if someone tries to force the lock
- Activity logs: See who locked/unlocked and when
Budget Considerations
Smart locks range from around $100 to $350+:
- $100-150: Basic WiFi or Bluetooth locks with keypad
- $150-250: Mid-range with better build quality and more features
- $250+: Premium locks with fingerprint readers, video doorbells built-in, or commercial-grade security
Our Recommendation
For most homeowners, a WiFi-enabled deadbolt with a keypad in the $150-200 range offers the best balance of convenience, security, and value. Make sure it supports your preferred smart home ecosystem and has a physical key backup.
If you are heavily invested in Apple HomeKit or want the best battery life, consider a Thread/Matter-enabled lock—these are newer but represent the future of smart home connectivity.