The security-conscious will already have thought of security cameras and alarms as ways to keep their home safer, but the best smart locks are fast becoming the next big thing in home security.
Not only do they allow you to control better who comes in and out using just your smartphone, but they can also supplement existing security features already installed around the home.
Smart locks allow homeowners to keep their properties safe from intruders but grant access to those who need it, such as cleaners, babysitters, or even Airbnb guests, without leaving your home open to unwanted visitors. But, of course, it also means that you won't be locked out the next time you forget your keys!
We've taken a look at some of the best and most popular smart locks available right now, rating them on their reliability, connectivity, and design.
Keep scrolling for honest reviews of our top-rated products or if you need more comprehensive security, then check out our guide to the best home security systems.
The best smart locks: our top picks
Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
eufy is known for its reliable and budget-friendly smart home products and has added a high-end smart lock to its offerings. The eufy Security Smart Lock Touch gives users several ways to unlock their door - via the smartphone app, the fingerprint sensor, or a passcode - adding to peace of mind and security.
The big selling point of the eufy smart lock is its fingerprint sensor, which works brilliantly once set up. The programming process is the same as for the fingerprint sensor on a smartphone (pressing and lifting your finger several times until it gets a good reading). Once it knows you, you'll be able to open the lock in double-quick time simply by pressing your finger to the interface.
This is also useful for viewing the history of the lock (available through the app), as it knows exactly who has been in and out based on the fingerprint used. Each user can also be given a unique passcode.
The only real drawback we found with the smart lock is the tricky installation process. It should be expected given how many things eufy's product allows you to do but, despite the detailed instructions provided, it is more labor-intensive and time-consuming than we anticipated. That said, once we did it, the result was sleek and solid enough to justify it.
The eufy Security app allows you to adapt settings to your requirements, including sounds the lock makes and granting temporary access when someone outside your household needs to enter. It's also straightforward to set schedules and add users quickly.
Real Homes rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
If you're looking to give an existing lock system smart capabilities, the August Smart Lock Pro could be your option. We'll admit that it's pretty pricey, but if you're looking for a top-of-the-range solution that you can fit retrospectively, it's more than worth the investment. Here's everything you need to know.
It's easy to fit this smart lock retrospectively, transforming an existing lock system into something with smart capabilities. This is perfect if you don't like the idea of replacing your entire lock system or are looking for something slightly more on the subtle side.
If you're concerned about home security or want to keep an eye on who's coming in and out of your house – be that cleaners, babysitters, or anyone else – this smart lock will allow you to do so. It's never been easier to lock, unlock and control keyless access from any location.
Perfect if you want to keep a close eye on an elderly or vulnerable friend or family member, check whether or not your front door is locked from any location.
Thanks to Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant compatibility, it's possible to control your smart lock system using your voice. Connect the two, and you're away.
Looking for a slightly cheaper alternative to the August Smart Lock Pro? While it’s still not what we’d call budget, the August Smart Lock is slightly more purse-friendly and offers many of the perks of the August range. Here’s everything you need to know.
Connect your smart lock to your smartphone, and you’ll never have to worry about forgetting your keys again. Plus, it’s easy to control who comes in – and out – of your home.
Perfect for those looking for a smart lock that can be fitted retrospectively, this model attaches to your current lock system easily and will be ready for use in a matter of minutes.
If you want to let someone in on a one-off basis – perhaps a cleaner, delivery man, or Airbnb guest – you can rest safely knowing that their temporary key will expire as soon as you wish it to.
Next up on our list is the Yale Keyless Conexis L1 Smart Door Lock which has an innovative design and is easy to use. Here's everything you need to know about it...
One of the biggest draws of this smart lock from Yale is the ease with which you can control it from your smartphone. Thanks to its mobile key option, you'll never have to worry about forgetting your keys again. Instead, tap your smartphone and gain access with ease.
Want to let a friend, babysitter, cleaner, or Airbnb guest into your home? First, send them a smart key. Then, delete it once they're gone.
Not sure about using a smartphone to access your home? Concerned about losing charge? There's also an option to enter your home using a key card.
Thanks to its functional, wireless design, this model is also easy to install. You'll need 4 AA batteries, and you're good to go.
Perfect for those concerned about people trying to gain entry to their homes, this model also promises to notify users if it senses a lock being tampered with.
One of the main benefits of opting for a smart lock from Yale is that it connects to their broader – and equally reputable – smart home security system. Once connected, this can all be controlled from one app.
The Yale Keyless Connected Smart Ready Door Lock offers the best smart lock technology and a more traditional keypad lock system. It's also recently won our Real Homes Awards, so you know you're onto a winner. Here's everything you need to know about it.
This mirror-finish smart lock looks a little more traditional than many of the other options on this list, which may be a good thing when deterring would-be sneaks, not to mention that it looks exquisite indeed.
There's also a tamper alarm for extra peace of mind and easy fitting over your existing night latch, making this a great option whether you're keeping it simple or bumping up the smart security.
This model allows users to switch between the two easy to make the most of both manual and intelligent lock systems.
Can your smart lock be fitted retroactively?
If you want to ensure minimal damage, or disruption, to your front door – perhaps you’re a renter – you may wish to opt for a smart lock that you can fit retrospectively. These models will attach to your current deadbolt, giving it smart capabilities.
These options tend to be a little more expensive, so it may be worth opting for a whole new lock system if you’re already considering replacing your front door or lock system.
Can I grant temporary access?
If you’re looking for a smart lock because you want babysitters, cleaners, Airbnb guests, and whoever else to be able to enter your home with ease, you may wish to opt for a smart lock that offers temporary key passes to visitors. Then, once your visitor has been and gone, you can prevent them from gaining access to your home again by simply canceling their key.