When you mention having a smart lock at home, you might encounter some skepticism—after all, physical keys have worked just fine for ages. However, the best smart door locks are a game changer, especially for those who frequently have visitors, like babysitters or friends. Instead of needing a spare key, they simply require access to your smart lock, which is quick and convenient.

Smart locks also offer the luxury of locking your door without even getting out of bed, perfect for those moments when you realize you've forgotten to secure the house. Plus, many smart locks come equipped with additional safety features, such as fingerprint readers, touchpad controls, and built-in sensors that alert you if your door is ajar. You can choose between retrofit options, allowing you to keep your existing lock while adding smart technology, or complete replacements for a sleek, new look.

With Black Friday around the corner, it’s the perfect time to invest in a smart lock. Our experts have tested numerous models and access control devices, so keep reading to discover our top picks for smart locks that you can snag at a great deal this holiday season!

Best Overall Smart Lock

Our top choice for the best smart lock for most users is the “Aqara Smart Lock U100”. After testing numerous smart locks, we found the Aqara to be one of the most comprehensive options available. It features fingerprint recognition, code entry, and digital pass options, along with native compatibility with Apple HomeKit. The design is robust and highly responsive. Plus, if you connect it to an Aqara hub, you'll gain full Matter support and remote control capabilities. This lock is an excellent choice for enhancing front-door security, especially if you're looking to integrate a smart doorbell or security camera.

However, in addition to this, we also tested...

Best budget smart lock

Best smart lock handle replacement

Best retrofit smart lock

Best smart lock for apartments

Best keyless smart lock

Best smart lock for a tight fit

Best overall home smart lock

Aqara Smart Lock U100

Aqara seamlessly combines cutting-edge smart lock technology with a stylish design featuring a deadbolt and sleek entry pad. It offers Apple compatibility right out of the box, and when paired with a compatible Zigbee hub, you also gain full Matter support, as well as compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, along with remote control locking for gate. It's one of the best Siri-friendly locks available and supports Apple’s latest Home Key passes. If you're focused on hardware, the IP65-rated lock is not only durable and efficient but also relatively easy to install, all while looking and feeling fantastic.

The feature set of Aqara's smart lock is extensive, with key highlights including a keypad for entry, a fingerprint reader, and emergency key access. The accompanying app allows you to create one-time passes—an essential feature for any modern smart lock—and a built-in gyroscope ensures the door locks automatically if left unlocked for too long. You can customize these settings along with options for guest passes and geofencing within the Aqara app.

After several weeks of consistent testing, the Aqara lock showed minimal battery depletion, losing barely 1% of its charge, which speaks to its longevity. There's also an emergency USB-C port for immediate power needs. Overall, it provides a comprehensive replacement package. Its advantages far outweigh its drawbacks, making it one of the best smart door locks available.

Pros

Durable design

Matter standard support

Fingerprint option

Apple Home Key compatibility

High weather resistance

Autolocking

Multiple battery charging options

Reasonable pricing

Cons

No retrofit, so get ready for some deadbolt work

Needs a hub to add some great features

Best budget smart lock

Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro with Wi-Fi

Smart locks aren't typically known for budget-friendly options, often starting above $100 for the best features. However, this wifi door lock of the Ultraloq strikes an impressive balance between affordability and functionality, featuring a durable keypad and built-in fingerprint sensor. Our tests showed that the Ultraloq has excellent Wi-Fi range for a smart lock, making it a great choice for subleases, granny pods, Airbnb rentals, and similar situations.

The lock includes features like eKey sharing and management, which simplify the process of granting digital passes to friends and family while allowing you to control their usage. With an IP65 rating, it can withstand harsh weather conditions without issue. Additionally, it offers compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, though we wish it also supported Apple.

Pros

One of the most affordable smart lock brands

Keypad and fingerprint scanner door lock

Easy "eKey" pass options

High weather resistance

Cons

No Apple or Siri support

The entry pad design isn't for everyone

Best smart lock handle replacement

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Lever

Not everyone has a deadbolt or wants to replace one to enjoy smart lock features. Schlage offers a great alternative with its smart Wi-Fi lever, which can replace your current door handle while providing many similar amenities. This lock features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to set up to 100 entry codes, customize notifications, review activity logs, and schedule autolocking. It's primarily designed for code entry with app management, but it also integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant for added voice control.

One drawback is that this smart handle is one of the more expensive options, which may not fit everyone's budget. However, Schlage offers a variety of colors and styles, with some models available at lower prices depending on supply. It's worth exploring different designs to find one that complements your home while saving you some money.

Pros

Excellent handle design alternative to deadbolts

Customizable notifications

Up to 100 entry codes

Alexa and Google Assistant support

Cons

Expensive

No biometrics

Best retrofit smart lock

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock

The August lock has been a popular choice, frequently featured as an Editor's Choice. As a retrofit model, it fits over your existing deadbolt, allowing control via an app or voice assistant. While it may be slightly bulky, its convenience is undeniable. Key features include auto-locking, DoorSense notifications, and an activity log. You can also send guest access passes with specific deadlines, which is great for managing visitors. Although it lacks Matter support, it works well with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home. Currently, the fourth-gen August lock is available for under $150, making it a fantastic deal. Just remember to keep an eye on the rechargeable lithium battery.

Pros

Easy retrofit design for existing deadbolts

Comprehensive locking and monitoring options

Broad voice assistant compatibility

Slimmer and more affordable than ever

Cons

Retrofits are still a little bulky

No full Matter compatibility yet

Best smart lock for apartments

August Smart Lock and Connect

The August third-gen Smart Lock and Connect bundle includes a DoorSense open-close sensor and the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge. Its low-profile retrofit design means you can keep your existing deadbolt, and installation is straightforward. However, users will need to replace the thumbturn on the inside of the door. If you’re renting, be sure to check with your landlord and lease first, as they often prefer to manage home security tech themselves.

Once installed, you’ll enjoy the full range of August features, including virtual key passes, an activity feed, auto-unlock, and auto-lock, plus access through your Apple Watch. The August Connect bridge connects the lock to your home network, enabling compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control. The August mobile app also offers great remote access features, though it’s worth noting that this model isn’t compatible with Apple HomeKit.

Available in silver or dark gray, this smart lock is an excellent choice for apartment dwellers who want to upgrade their security without replacing their existing lock.

Pros

Slim design enabled by separate Connect unit

Virtual key passes

Easy auto locking and unlocking

Apple Watch compatibility

Cons

No Siri support

You'll definitely need your landlord's permission

Best keyless smart lock

Yale Assure Lock 2

Yale takes keyless entry to the next level with a sleek smart lock that combines style and functionality. Once installed, it features a keypad, thumbprint door locking, and app control for easy locking and unlocking. You can also enable autounlock for added convenience and share unlimited passes with family and friends, tracking their access.

Yale excels in smart home compatibility, supporting the major voice assistants, and comes in various finishes to match your decor. While it’s pricier than our Ultraloq pick, this Yale model is ideal for Airbnb hosts, as it integrates directly with the Airbnb app, simplifying scheduling and guest access.

Pros

Stylish design

Plenty of voice assistant support

Options for codes, fingerprints and more

Works with Airbnb app to send guests codes

Cons

A more expensive model

Not the best choice if you want to avoid keypads

Best smart lock for a tight fit

Lockly Flex Touch Pro

If you're interested in biometrics and want to upgrade your door with a fingerprint sensor, Lockly's retrofit model is an excellent choice. Its minimal design fits seamlessly on your existing door, both inside and out. This smart lock comes with a separate Wi-Fi hub, allowing you to manage your internet connection from a convenient location, like a nearby nook or entryway table.

In addition to fingerprint scanning, you can access the lock via the app or a scannable QR code. It also offers digital keys and badges for short-term access without needing to collect everyone's fingerprints.

With a battery life rated for nine months—on the higher end of options available—and a backup battery for emergencies, Lockly is a reliable choice. If you’ve been hesitant about adding electronic door lock system for home, this lock is here to change your mind.

Pros

Minimalist design

Easy short-term passes

Includes scannable QR code options

Good battery life

Cons

No Siri

Need to find a spot for the Wi-Fi hub