Smart locks are changing the way that people approach home security because they are more effective than traditional means. Whereas conventional doors & locks only let you lock your door from inside your house or with a key, the best smart locks offer you other features such as keyless entry, remote control, and compatibility with your smart home hardware.
Their nice features include the ability to set alerts when there is an attempt to gain entry when the lock is tampered with, and the ability to lock the door automatically among other features of the smart lock systems which are very advantageous for any home.
The best smart locks do more than provide security; they make your life easier and more convenient. You can easily lock or unlock your door with a push of buttons on your phone or just by telling your house.
In this post, we will discuss the best smart locks in 2024 to make it easier for you to decide which is appropriate for your house. Starting from a basic keyless access mechanism and going up to an advanced smart security system, the article will help you familiarize with the top options.
What Are Smart Locks?
Smart locks are a higher form of door locking systems that operate through digital interfaces that cannot require a key for access or opening. The best smart locks have the ability to open by several ways unlike the traditional locks that function by means of keys which are several and include; keypad, fingerprints, smartphone, and voice. This makes them more convenient as it has many benefits like remote access as well as remote control.
They include specifications such as lid stray locking, real time notifications and compatibility with other smart home gadgets.
The top smart locks are fully integrated with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, and enable users to unlock doors through command words or mobile apps.
With application of firm security discoveries like encryption, any small tries at alteration or attracting or even breaking will be identified by these smart locks than the normal locks. In general, this type of equipment is perfect for everyone who wants to have reliable and modern means of home security.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Smart Lock
Just like any other smart device, you need to consider some factors when choosing a smart lock to get the right one for use at home. Some of them include security, compatibility, ease of installation and much more.
Security Features
First consideration when selecting the best smart lock is security. There should be features such as encryption, alerts that notify the user if the device has been tampered with and features of automatic locking of the device.
What’s more, smart locks have features that let you know when someone is trying to pry open the door with an alert feature.
Integrating with other Smart Home Systems
Make sure that the best smart locks you are to purchase will integrate with the other smart devices you are using. Compatibility with other smart devices and VoiP, such as Amazon Alexa, Google homeowner, and Apple Home Kit will let you control the lock by voice and link it with other home automation hardware.
Ease of Installation
Smart locks can be easily installed but certain models may need professional help. First, it is important to know if the lock will fit your door and second, whether you will have to drill holes or make significant adjustments.
Battery Life
Smart locks are battery-operated, so look up the battery capacity on each model. A good smart lock will be able to have a battery which will take a long time before it gets depleted and the lock will as well be able to alert you when the battery is low.
Design and Durability
Lastly, the best smart locks need to be robust and constructed to be used outdoors, if the need arises. In this case, it will be wise to look for models that are sold as weather resistant in case the lock is to be installed on the exterior.
Top 7 Best Smart Locks in 2024
Once again, deciding on which smart locks are good depending on the various types of smart locks available currently in the market. I found out that each of the Locks has its particular attributes from having no physical key to compatibility with smart home systems. Below are the top 7 smart locks in 2024 for your convenience.
Yale Assure Lock 2
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is among the best smart locks found in the market due to the user-friendly button and security touch. In addition to having a keypad with a screen for a main door lock, this lock is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The lock also has the voice command option where the user does not have to use their hand to operate it.
However, one can integrate the device with a Wi-Fi module for outside control with the help of the Yale application. Still with the well-developed design and the availability of the backup keys, this is one of the best options for home security.
Schlage Encode
Schlage Encode is one of the best smart locks that does not require a hub for remote access, as it is equipped with a Wi-Fi module. This model has a keypad for no-key entry along with providing users a chance for generating and controlling the code by means of the Schlage Home application.
It is highly recommended for it is secure and uses certain encryption that would not let in any misuse. Being resistant to water, dust and can be mounted easily, this product fits well those users who need convenient and safe bulbs.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is one of the best smart locks mainly because of the unit’s compact size and ease of installation. Compared with many smart locks, August can be installed on the interior side of your door and is good for renters. There is no need for a router since it installs directly to your Wi-Fi.
The August app lets you manage and keep track of access, and the lock also works with Alexa and Google Assistant commands. The product’s design is all in line with this smart lock, and if you prefer something that is simple, this is a good one to go for.
Kwikset Halo
The most significant feature that I found about the Kwikset Halo is that it supports home automation brilliantly. The option is equipped with a backlight digital keypad with a touchpad and can have up to 250 individual remote codes.
The lock also directly connects to the Internet, so there are no other hubs or devices necessary to add.
The latter also proves convenient in that managing codes and monitoring the lock in general is possible from your fingertips, all thanks to the Kwikset application.
Besides, the Halo has additional safety measures such as secure encryption, which means that anyone with a desire of increasing residential security should consider integrating the Halo.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
This smart lock has been ranked high and deserves its spot on this list due to its multi-functional design. It offers five different access methods: finger scanning, touch tone pad, mobile telephone, button and Bluetooth.
This lock is stout with military-grade encryption, narrow-minded design to prevent kick-ins, and waterproof to boot, as with the heavy duty models meant for outside doors as with inside doors.
It also has one swipe fingerprint recognition and also the capability of creating one-time access codes to be used by visitors. For something that offers both flexibility and tight security, the U-Bolt Pro is a great buy.
Level Lock
The Level Lock is another best smart lock in the market that offers conventional looks but has various smart features. Unlike most smart locks, the Level mechanism is built directly into the door, which does not change the appearance of the lock compared to conventional models, but is stuffed with contemporary security systems.
It can be set using the Level app and is compatible with Apple HomeKit for voice commands. A very strong aspect about this smart lock is that it is stylish and blends well with other smart technologies hence can be recommended to homeowners who want to incorporate smart technology in their homes.
Danalock V3
For people who want to have the best-of-the-best smart lock which has got all the fictional elements embedded in V3 then nothing like the Danalock V3. It has the Bluetooth and Z-Wave smart options for enabling it to connect to a host of home automation devices.
Lock also has features that do not require a key and an associated remote that can connect to the lock via smartphone or smart hub.
Then, Danalock V3 is perfect for those who want to get a safe and durable lock with a number of helpful functions that can integrate into smart homes.
Common Issues with Smart Locks
In general, there is a set of common problems characteristic of best smart locks, which people should learn about. They can mean inconvenience, insecurity or dissatisfaction but knowing them can save frustrations.
Connectivity Issues
Another common complaint about the best smart locks is about the connectivity of the lock. Smart locks are connected using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave to the devices that you have. Interference such as a weak signal may cause the lock not to connect with your smartphone or smart home system, in this case, locking or unlocking the door becomes impossible remotely.
Battery Drain
Smart locks are powered by batteries, and some make batteries drain much faster than others do, especially if they include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Low-battery alerts are abrupt and can be annoying; in every regular use of the devices, the batteries often have to be changed before they are fully drained.
Compatibility Problems
Smart locks can only work with a select number of smart home ecosystems and systems. Some of the best smart locks may only be compatible with certain platforms such as Amazon Alexa or Google assistant and the users need to make sure the lock is compatible with their system fully to gain such benefits.
Conclusion
Altogether, best smart locks are beneficial to increase the safety of homes and make them more comfortable. These are convenient to operate through key-less, remotely accessible doors and additional features that conventional locks cannot provide.
If you decide on a smart-looking lock that connects to your other smart home devices or a lock with features for biometric security, they are highly customizable, and users can feel very secure with them.
Of course, as with any technological device, smart locks have their downsides, some of which include connectivity problems and battery performance. These are challenges you should know to enable you to choose the correct best smart lock.
Regardless of the type of the lock chosen and the necessary criteria it has to meet, it is very important to choose a good lock and take proper care of it in order to have a safe and comfortable home.
Giving you the possibility of controlling the lock from a distance, having stronger security measures which are an ideal for numerous people and fitting perfectly into the system of smart homes, the best smart locks are one of the best investments that every homeowner should seriously consider.