Smart Door Locks: The Complete Buying Guide

On this page (14 sections)

1. Which type of smart door lock should you choose?
2. How do smart door locks let you enter?
3. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a hub: which connection is best?
4. What should you measure before smart lock installation?
5. How should you choose the access method?
6. What features matter for daily use?
7. Smart lock versus keypad lock: what is the difference?
8. Which smart lock style fits a renter?
9. Can a smart lock work on an interior door?
10. Should you choose a keyless smart lock for a door with no keypad?
11. How do you rekey or maintain a smart door lock?
12. What should you avoid when buying smart door locks?
13. Explore smart locks by topic
14. Final smart door lock buying rule

Smart door locks let you control entry with a code, app, fingerprint, card, voice command or physical key. The right choice depends on how you want to enter, how much remote control you need, whether your door fits, and how you will get in when batteries run low.

A smart lock for a door can be a full deadbolt replacement or an interior device that turns an existing deadbolt. Some models work only at the door, while others connect to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a smart-home hub.

This guide explains the main lock types, access methods, installation checks, battery plans and privacy trade-offs. For a shorter list of code-based options, compare our best keypad door locks.

Which type of smart door lock should you choose?

Choose a connected deadbolt for remote access, a keypad lock for simple code entry, a fingerprint lock for fast local access, or a smart lever for doors that do not use a deadbolt. The lock body and your door hardware matter as much as the electronic features.

Smart deadbolts

Smart deadbolts replace the existing deadbolt hardware. They are common on front and back doors because the handle or knob remains separate from the locking mechanism.

A deadbolt can suit you if you want an app, automatic locking, temporary codes or a physical-key backup. Check the bolt length, backset, door thickness and interior clearance before ordering.

See our guide to best smart deadbolt locks if you want to compare this format. If you prefer a less visible exterior, review best smart deadbolts without keypads.

Keypad locks

Keypad locks use numbers, buttons or a touchscreen instead of requiring a key for normal entry. They can be simple electronic locks with local codes or connected locks with app control.

A keypad is useful when several people need access. You can give family members separate codes, remove codes when access ends and avoid hiding a spare key.

The Schlage Electronic Keypad Lock with Lever Handle, Camelot Trim and Matte Black finish uses 2 pre-programmed codes out of the box and supports up to 19 codes. Its Flex-Lock design switches between unprotected and automatic re-locking modes, and its illuminated silicone-coated numbers help with entry in the dark.

For a model that automatically re-locks after entry, compare best keyless entry door locks with auto lock. A keypad lock is not always a smart lock, so check whether it offers an app or connected control.

Fingerprint locks

Fingerprint locks use a stored fingerprint for local entry. They can be convenient when you do not want to remember a code or carry a phone.

Fingerprint access depends on the reader, finger position and the lock's stored-user setup. Keep another method available because wet, dirty or injured fingers may not read consistently.

See our best fingerprint door locks guide for this access method. If you want a door handle and lock together, compare best smart front door lock and handle sets.

Smart levers and handles

A smart lever replaces a lever or knob, rather than a separate deadbolt. This can work well for an interior office, side door, garage entry door or another door that uses a latch.

Do not assume a lever lock provides the same physical security as a deadbolt. Match the lock to the door's purpose, frame strength and existing hardware.

For rooms inside the home, see best smart locks for interior doors. For heavier use, our guide to best commercial keypad door locks covers another set of requirements.

How do smart door locks let you enter?

Smart door locks can use PIN codes, mobile apps, fingerprints, cards, voice commands or keys. Choose at least one primary method and one dependable backup method before you focus on design or smart-home support.

PIN codes

PINs are easy to share with family, guests, cleaners or service workers. A connected lock may let you create, change, schedule or remove codes through an app.

Use separate codes when the lock supports them. That makes it easier to remove one person's access without changing every other code.

Some locks have touchscreen keypads, while others use physical buttons. Touchscreens can look clean, but physical buttons may be easier to feel without looking.

Mobile apps

An app can let you lock or open the door, manage codes, view history and receive notifications. Remote access normally requires the lock to reach your home network through built-in Wi-Fi or a hub.

App access adds account security to the physical lock. Use a strong unique password, enable available account protections and keep your phone secured.

If you want a lock for a rental, focus on reversible installation and landlord approval. Our best renter-friendly smart locks guide covers options for this situation.

Fingerprints, cards and tags

Biometric access can make local entry quick, while cards or tags can suit homes where users do not want codes. These methods still need a backup plan for power loss, reader problems or an unrecognized fingerprint.

Store only the users who need access. Remove old fingerprints, cards and codes when people move out or no longer need entry.

Voice control

Voice control can be convenient when paired with a compatible voice assistant. It needs careful account and device settings because opening commands affect physical access.

Treat voice control as an optional method, not the only way into your home. A code, app or physical key should remain available.

Physical keys

Some smart locks retain a traditional key cylinder. A physical key gives you a non-electronic backup, but it also means key management remains part of your routine.

Other locks are keyless and rely on batteries, an emergency power method or an external backup. Know the exact recovery method before installation.

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a hub: which connection is best?

Choose Wi-Fi for direct remote access, Bluetooth for nearby phone control, or a hub-based system for broader smart-home routines. Connection choice affects range, battery use, setup and compatibility.

Wi-Fi smart locks

Built-in Wi-Fi can connect the lock directly to your home network. This can support remote control, notifications, access history and app management without an extra bridge.

The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Camelot Trim, Satin Nickel has built-in Wi-Fi, Schlage Home app control, up to 100 access codes, customizable notifications and lock history. It works with Alexa and Google Home when paired with the Schlage Home app and a voice-enabled device.

The same style of connection can suit a household that needs remote management without buying a separate hub. Compare more options in best Wi-Fi smart door locks.

Wi-Fi can draw more battery power than a local-only lock, depending on use and settings. Check the low-battery warning and keep the replacement battery type available.

If a Kwikset Halo cover is damaged, see Kwikset Halo battery cover replacement.

Bluetooth smart locks

Bluetooth usually connects your phone to the lock when you are nearby. It can reduce the need for a home network, but remote control may require another connection method or hub.

Bluetooth can suit an apartment, interior door or user who mainly wants phone-based local access. It is less useful if you need to open the door for someone while you are away.

See best Bluetooth door locks for nearby phone control options.

Hub-based systems

Some smart locks use Z-Wave or another home automation protocol through a compatible hub. The hub can connect the lock to other devices and may provide remote access through the home's internet connection.

Hub-based systems can be useful if you already use a compatible controller. They add another device and setup step, so confirm compatibility before buying.

Our best Z-Wave smart locks guide explains this connection type. If you use Apple devices, compare best smart locks for Apple HomeKit.

Ring and other smart-home connections

Smart-home compatibility can link the lock to routines, cameras, alarms or contact sensors. Compatibility may depend on the lock model, app, hub and account setup.

For a model-specific Matter example, see Yale smart locks that support Matter.

Before choosing, decide what you want the lock to do. A notification that the door opened is different from a command that opens it.

If Ring is part of your home setup, see best smart locks compatible with Ring. A contact sensor can also tell you whether a door is physically open, while a lock reports its locked or unprotected state.

Read what a Ring contact sensor is before treating the two devices as interchangeable.

What should you measure before smart lock installation?

Measure the door thickness, backset, bore hole, edge clearance and existing hardware before buying. A lock can have the right electronic features and still fail to fit the door.

Check these points:

• Door thickness, measured from the inside face to the outside face
• Backset, usually measured from the door edge to the center of the bore hole
• Bore hole diameter and the size of the door-edge opening
• Deadbolt or latch shape and length
• Space around the interior thumb turn
• Clearance between the door and nearby trim
• Direction and swing of the door
• Condition of the hinges, strike plate and frame

A door that rubs, sags or fails to close cleanly can prevent a smart lock from working correctly. Fix the mechanical problem before adding electronics.

Most replacement locks are easier to fit when the existing holes match the required pattern. Read how to install a smart lock before removing the old hardware.

Front doors

Front doors often need a strong deadbolt, a clear exterior keypad position and enough interior room for the battery housing. Match the finish and trim if the lock will sit beside a handle or lever.

For front-entry options, see best smart locks for front doors. If you want the lock and handle to match, use the best smart front door lock set guide.

Back doors

Back doors may have different weather exposure, trim and access patterns. You may want remote access for family, deliveries or service workers, but check how the lock handles moisture and temperature according to its instructions.

Use best smart locks for back doors to compare options for this location. The best smart lock for a back door still needs a sound frame and a door that closes without force.

Sliding glass doors

Sliding glass doors usually need a different locking design from a standard hinged door. A deadbolt replacement may not fit the frame or latch arrangement.

Read how to choose a smart lock for a sliding glass door before looking at standard deadbolts. Measure the track, frame and existing latch instead of assuming a normal door lock will work.

How should you choose the access method?

Choose the method that remains easy for every regular user while keeping a backup available. Keypads suit shared access, apps suit remote management, fingerprints suit fast local entry, and keys suit simple emergency access.

A household with children may prefer individual codes because keys can be lost. A short-term rental host may want scheduled codes and access history.

A person who rarely needs remote control may prefer a local keypad that avoids network setup.

For a rekeyable option, see best smart locks you can rekey. If you already own compatible hardware, a rekeyable cylinder may reduce the need to replace every key.

Brand and trim can also influence the choice. Compare best Yale Assure locks, best Schlage keyless entry door locks, best Kwikset smart deadbolts, best Eufy smart door locks, best Lockly smart locks and best Philips smart locks when you already prefer one ecosystem.

What features matter for daily use?

Focus on automatic locking, access management, alerts, battery warnings and a backup entry method. These features affect everyday reliability more than a decorative finish.

Automatic locking

Auto-lock can relock a door after a chosen delay or after a code is entered. It can help when household members often forget to turn the lock manually.

A short delay may be inconvenient when carrying groceries or moving through the doorway. Test the timing with the door open before relying on it.

Access codes

Look for the number of codes and the way they are managed. A lock that supports separate codes makes it easier to know who has access and remove one person's code later.

Avoid sharing one permanent code with everyone. Use temporary or scheduled access when the lock supports it and when that matches your needs.

Alerts and history

Notifications can tell you about locking, opening, door movement or possible forced entry attempts. History can help you review access, but it does not replace a camera or contact sensor.

The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black supports app control, up to 100 access codes, customizable notifications and lock history when paired with the Schlage Home app and a secure Wi-Fi network. It also has a built-in customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts.

The two Schlage Encode products here share the main Wi-Fi access approach but differ in trim and finish. The Camelot version is Satin Nickel, while the Century version is Matte Black.

Battery warnings

A low-battery warning gives you time to replace batteries before the lock stops responding. Check whether the warning appears on the lock, in the app or both.

The Schlage Encode models above use 4 included AA batteries and provide up to 6 months of battery life with typical use. They also include one physical backup key.

The Schlage Electronic Keypad Lock with Camelot Trim and Satin Chrome finish uses an included 9V battery and can provide up to 2 years of battery life with typical use. Its low-battery indicator and automatic re-lock feature suit buyers who want local code entry without Wi-Fi.

Battery life is not a guarantee for every home. Frequent use, weak signal conditions, app activity and cold temperatures can change how often batteries need replacement.

Read how to replace smart lock batteries and keep the correct replacement batteries where you can reach them.

Backup entry

A backup key, emergency power contact, second code or another approved method can prevent a lockout. Decide which backup you will use before the lock is installed.

Do not leave a spare key in an obvious outdoor location. A trusted person, secure key box or another controlled method may fit your situation better.

For remote key storage, compare best smart lock boxes for keys. A lock box protects access to a key, but it does not replace a sound door lock.

Smart lock versus keypad lock: what is the difference?

A smart lock usually adds connected control, app features or automation, while a keypad lock may only provide local code entry. Some products overlap, so read the exact access and connection features.

A local keypad can be the better choice when you want code entry without an account, Wi-Fi or remote control. A connected smart lock can be better when you need activity history, remote access, notifications or smart-home routines.

Our smart lock versus keypad lock comparison breaks down the differences. The right answer depends on whether you value simple local access or connected management.

Which smart lock style fits a renter?

A renter should look for reversible installation, permission from the property owner and a backup plan that does not damage the door. An interior retrofit can sometimes preserve the exterior cylinder, but fit and lease rules still matter.

Avoid drilling or changing shared building hardware without approval. Check whether the lock can be removed cleanly and whether you can reinstall the original hardware at move-out.

Measure the existing lock and compare the interior clearance before buying. A renter-friendly design is only useful if the door closes correctly and the landlord allows it.

Can a smart lock work on an interior door?

Yes, a smart lock can work on an interior door when the lock body, latch and door thickness match. Interior use may include a home office, storage room, nursery or private bedroom.

You may not need Wi-Fi for an interior door. A local keypad, fingerprint reader or privacy function can be enough, depending on who needs access.

Choose a lock that matches the room's purpose. A bedroom privacy lock has different needs from a home office where family members need scheduled access.

Should you choose a keyless smart lock for a door with no keypad?

A smart lock without an exterior keypad can suit buyers who want app, Bluetooth or physical-key access. It keeps the outside appearance simpler and can reduce visible controls.

The trade-off is that someone without the app or key may not have an easy entry method. Confirm how guests, children and service workers will enter.

A keypad-free deadbolt can also work when you want local app control but do not want exposed buttons. Compare best smart deadbolts without keypads with your backup requirements in mind.

How do you rekey or maintain a smart door lock?

Follow the lock's instructions for rekeying, code removal and battery replacement. Maintenance is mostly mechanical checks, battery care, access cleanup and app security.

Check that the bolt moves freely with the door open. Then close the door and confirm the bolt enters the strike without scraping or pressure.

Remove old user codes, fingerprints and virtual keys. Review app permissions and connected smart-home accounts when someone moves out or no longer needs access.

If the lock supports rekeying, keep the physical key system organized. Our guide explains how to rekey a smart lock.

Do not spray an unapproved lubricant into electronic parts. Use the care method in the lock's instructions and keep the exterior keypad clear of dirt and moisture.

What should you avoid when buying smart door locks?

Avoid choosing from the app features alone. A connected lock cannot compensate for a weak frame, a misaligned door or batteries that you cannot replace in time.

Watch for these common mistakes:

• Buying before measuring door thickness and backset
• Assuming every smart lock works with every deadbolt
• Confusing Bluetooth nearby control with remote Wi-Fi access
• Forgetting to check hub or smart-home compatibility
• Using one shared code for every person
• Relying on auto-lock without testing the delay
• Installing before checking the strike plate and frame
• Leaving no backup entry method
• Ignoring low-battery warnings
• Choosing a lock that blocks the interior handle or trim

For homes that need video and entry control together, compare best smart locks with cameras. A camera can show who is at the door, while the lock controls entry.

Explore smart locks by topic

• Best Ultraloq Smart Locks

Final smart door lock buying rule

Choose Wi-Fi smart door locks when remote access and notifications matter, Bluetooth locks when nearby phone control is enough, and keypad locks when you want simple shared entry without a network. Choose a fingerprint, lever, rekeyable or keypad-free design only after confirming the door fit and backup method.

A dependable smart lock is a complete system: sound door hardware, a suitable connection, controlled user access, fresh batteries and a way back in when electronics fail. Measure first, select the access method your household will actually use, and keep the physical security of the door in view.

Frequently asked questions

What are smart door locks?

Smart door locks are electronic locks that let you open, close or manage a door with a keypad, app, fingerprint, card, voice command or another approved method. Some connect through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a home hub, while simpler electronic locks work locally with codes and batteries.

Are smart door locks safer than regular locks?

A smart door lock can add access control, activity history, alerts and automatic locking, but it is not automatically safer than every traditional lock. Door strength, correct installation, secure account settings, battery care and a reliable backup method all affect the result.

Do smart door locks work without Wi-Fi?

Many smart door locks still allow local keypad, fingerprint or physical-key access without Wi-Fi. Remote control usually needs Wi-Fi or a connected hub, while Bluetooth locks often need your phone nearby.

Check the lock's exact access methods before choosing a model.

How long do smart lock batteries last?

Battery life depends on the lock, connection type, usage and settings. Wi-Fi features can use more power than local keypad access.

Look for a low-battery warning, keep replacement batteries available and confirm the lock has a backup entry method.

Can I install a smart lock myself?

Many deadbolt replacements can be installed with a screwdriver if your door, bore holes, backset and thickness match the lock. Lever replacements and unusual doors may need different steps.

Measure first, follow the installation guide and test the door before closing it fully.