Best Smart Locks
Smart locks eliminate the frustration of fumbling for keys, give you remote access control, and create a detailed log of who enters your home and when. Modern smart locks support multiple unlock methods including fingerprint, keypad code, smartphone app, and physical key backup. We compared locks across security grade, smart home ecosystem compatibility, battery life, and installation difficulty. The smart lock market has matured significantly, and most models now support Matter, the universal smart home standard that works across Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus leads our picks with its Wi-Fi connectivity and Apple Home Key support, eliminating the need for a separate hub. The eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330 stands out by combining a smart lock with a built-in camera. Installation is straightforward for most smart locks if your door already has a standard deadbolt. Most models replace only the interior assembly, keeping your existing exterior keyhole. Budget 30-45 minutes for a first installation with basic tools. Battery life ranges from 6 months to over a year depending on usage and connectivity features.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Key Pros | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330 | Smart-Lock | Built-in 2K camera | Amazon |
| Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) Wired | Doorbell | Affordable video doorbell | Amazon |
| Ring Video Doorbell 4 (Battery) | Doorbell | Pre-Roll video captures | Amazon |
| Ring Battery Doorbell Plus with Head-to-Toe Video | Doorbell | Head-to-toe 150x150 degree field of view captures packages at ground level | Amazon |
| Ring Video Doorbell 4 | Video-Doorbell | Color Pre-Roll captures activity before the event triggers | Amazon |
| Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) Smart Speaker | Smart-Speaker | Very affordable smart speaker | Amazon |
Detailed Look at Each Product
eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330
Smart deadbolt lock with built-in 2K camera and fingerprint sensor. Unlocks via fingerprint in 0.3 seconds, plus app, code, and key options. BHMA Grade 2 security certified. No monthly fee for video storage.
- Built-in 2K camera
- Fast fingerprint unlock
- No monthly subscription
- Multiple unlock methods
- Complex installation
- Battery life shorter with camera use
Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) Wired
1080p HD video doorbell with two-way audio and night vision. Motion detection with customizable zones. Real-time notifications. Works with Alexa for announcements and live view on Echo Show. Hardwired installation for continuous power.
- Affordable video doorbell
- Easy Alexa integration
- Customizable motion zones
- 1080p video quality
- Requires Ring subscription for video history
- Wired installation only
Ring Video Doorbell 4 (Battery)
1080p HD video doorbell with color Pre-Roll captures four seconds before motion triggers. Quick Reply lets you send pre-recorded messages when you cannot answer in real time. Removable rechargeable battery eliminates the need for doorbell wiring.
- Pre-Roll video captures
- No wiring needed
- Quick Reply messages
- Night vision
- Ring Protect subscription for video history
- Battery needs recharging every few months
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus with Head-to-Toe Video
Ring's Battery Doorbell Plus captures a tall, head-to-toe field of view so you can see packages on the ground and visitors' faces in the same frame. The improved battery life and quick-release mount make installation and maintenance straightforward without any wiring.
- Head-to-toe 150x150 degree field of view captures packages at ground level
- Quick-release battery pack charges in about 4 hours
- Works with Alexa for announcements on Echo devices
- Ring Protect subscription required for video history
- Wi-Fi signal strength is critical for consistent performance
Ring Video Doorbell 4
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 captures 1080p HD video with color Pre-Roll, which records four seconds of video before motion is detected so you see the full approach. Advanced motion zones let you define exactly which areas trigger alerts. Works wire-free with the included rechargeable battery or can be hardwired.
- Color Pre-Roll captures activity before the event triggers
- Flexible installation as battery or hardwired
- Deep integration with Alexa and Ring ecosystem
- Ring Protect subscription required for video history
- Battery requires periodic recharging depending on traffic
Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) Smart Speaker
Compact smart speaker with Alexa voice assistant. Improved audio with clearer vocals and deeper bass. Control smart home devices, play music, get news, set timers. Built-in temperature sensor and eero mesh Wi-Fi support.
- Very affordable smart speaker
- Improved sound quality
- Built-in temperature sensor
- Massive Alexa skill ecosystem
- Privacy concerns with always-on microphone
- Bass limited by small size
Frequently Asked Questions
Are smart locks secure enough for a front door?
Yes. Top smart locks like the Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus carry ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 security ratings, which is the same grade as quality traditional deadbolts. The digital components add security features like auto-lock, tamper alerts, and access logging that traditional locks lack.
Do smart locks work if the power or internet goes out?
Smart locks run on batteries (typically lasting 6-12 months) so they work during power outages. Without internet, you lose remote access but can still unlock via fingerprint, keypad code, or physical key. The lock itself never depends on your Wi-Fi to function locally.
Which smart lock works with Apple HomeKit?
The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus and the Aqara Smart Lock U200 both support Apple HomeKit natively. The Yale also supports Apple Home Key, letting you unlock with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch, just like using a transit card.
Can I install a smart lock myself without a locksmith?
Most smart locks are designed for DIY installation in 30-45 minutes with just a screwdriver. They replace the interior portion of a standard deadbolt. If your door has a non-standard lock or you need to drill new holes, consider hiring a locksmith for the initial install.