Why I like it:
Pros
- Stylish design
- Voice assistant support for Alexa, Google and Siri
- Options for codes, fingerprints and more
- Works with Airbnb app and ADT Plus
Cons
- Can be pricey
- Not all models have fingerprint access
Why I like it:
Pros
- Sharp design
- Massive amount of unlock options
- Face recognition
- Apple Home and Home Key compatibility
Cons
- Expensive
- Annoying wired door sensor add-on
Why I like it: Not everyone has a deadbolt or wants a deadbolt replacement to get smart lock features. We're impressed with Schlage's alternative, a smart Wi-Fi lever to replace your current door handle and still provide many of the same amenities. The built-in Wi-Fi lets you set up to 100 entry codes, customize notifications, review activity logs and schedule autolocking. The lock primarily focuses on code entry with app management, but it works with Alexa and Google Assistant for additional voice control options.
Pros
- Excellent handle design alternative to deadbolts
- Customizable notifications
- Up to 100 entry codes
- Alexa and Google Assistant support
Cons
- Expensive
- No biometrics
Why I like it:
Pros
- Easy retrofit design for existing deadbolts
- Comprehensive locking and monitoring options
- Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home compatibility
- Slimmer and more affordable than ever
Cons
- While more compact than previous models, it's still bulky
- No full Matter compatibility yet
Why I like it:
Pros
- One of the more affordable smart lock brands at $150 or lower
- Keypad and fingerprint
- Easy "eKey" passcodes
- High IP65 weather resistance
Cons
- No Apple or Siri support
- The entry pad design isn't for everyone
Why I like it:
Pros
- Compact design includes many smart features
- Updated Matter support
- Included contactless fob for keychains
Cons
- Misses out on certain access options like fingerprint readers
- Expensive
Why I like it:
Pros
- Video with object recognition
- Free onboard video storage
Cons
- No two-way audio
- Lock needs a good place for clear video
- Video doorbells make features repetitive
Why I like it:
Pros
- Compact retrofit
- Adhesive keypad
- Easy auto lock/unlock options
Cons
- May be too expensive for some renters
A simple way to upgrade your security system or add to your smart gadgets in the home is to invest in a smart lock. It allows you to keep track of who is locking and unlocking your doors, give temporary access to visiting family and friends or petsitters over the upcoming holiday season and adds a great deal of security to your home, especially if you don't already have a home security system set up.
Other CNET experts and I have tested nearly 30 popular smart lock options to narrow them down to the latest and greatest models we can happily recommend for your home. See what's the right for your door below.
Yale's super-compact keypad keeps the tech behind in the locking mechanism.
While my list is filled with excellent locks, including the Schlage Encode Plus and Lockly Visage, my top pick is the Yale Assure 2 lock. Although not every version of this lock has fingerprint reading, this mode does nearly everything in a highly compact design, including Apple support and easy digital passes, plus several options for appearance and compatibility with home security systems. I found it had the most focused, valuable performance with an extra-solid appearance.
What's new with the smart lock industry right now
If you've been on the fence about whether or not to upgrade your home security to smart technology, now might be the time to finally make the jump. With the imposed tariffs, the price of tech is going to gradually get more and more expensive. A recent CNET survey shows 87% of shoppers are concerned about buying tech because of the price hikes and tariffs.
Like
- Stylish design
- Voice assistant support for Alexa, Google and Siri
- Options for codes, fingerprints and more
- Works with Airbnb app and ADT Plus
Don't like
- Can be pricey
- Not all models have fingerprint access
Yale’s lock is compact, sturdy, has an excellent app and works with multiple smart home platforms, including Apple Home/HomeKit, Alexa and Google Assistant. It offers nearly everything a modern smart lock should, without the bulky design some locks can suffer from, ideal for those who want form and function. In addition to the keypad and app control, it also supports Apple Home Keys and digital passes. There are several different styles depending on the look you want for your lock.
Like
- Compact design includes many smart features
- Updated Matter support
- Included contactless fob for keychains
Don't like
- Misses out on certain access options like fingerprint readers
- Expensive
Why I like it:
At a glance, no one would know that this Level lock has tech features, but the standard-looking lock includes app support, a contactless card-like fob (included) and Apple Home/Home Key support, among other hidden tricks. I found it easy to install without the bulky attachments of many locks, making it more suitable as a one-person job.
Like
- Sharp design
- Massive amount of unlock options
- Face recognition
- Apple Home and Home Key compatibility
Don't like
- Expensive
- Annoying wired door sensor add-on
Why I like it:
Lockly’s Visage lock has the most expansive unlock options I’ve seen, from face recognition to fingerprints and codes in an ever-shifting Genie keypad touchscreen, so you can’t memorize finger placement, only numbers. It also works innately with the Apple Home app and Home Keys (plus Google and Amazon), making this an excellent choice for Apple fans of all kinds. The lock operates on rechargeable batteries and comes with an extra battery, so you don’t need to worry about losing power -- although we found that we did have to charge and replace packs fairly regularly.
Like
- Excellent handle design alternative to deadbolts
- Customizable notifications
- Up to 100 entry codes
- Alexa and Google Assistant support
Don't like
- Expensive
- No biometrics
Why I like it:
Not everyone has a deadbolt or wants a deadbolt replacement to get smart lock features. We're impressed with Schlage's alternative, a smart Wi-Fi lever to replace your current door handle and still provide many of the same amenities. The built-in Wi-Fi lets you set up to 100 entry codes, customize notifications, review activity logs and schedule autolocking. The lock primarily focuses on code entry with app management, but it works with Alexa and Google Assistant for additional voice control options.
Like
- Easy retrofit design for existing deadbolts
- Comprehensive locking and monitoring options
- Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home compatibility
- Slimmer and more affordable than ever
Don't like
- While more compact than previous models, it's still bulky
- No full Matter compatibility yet
This August lock has been on our list for some time now, has frequently starred as an Editor's Choice selection and continues to impress as a retrofit model. That means you don't have to replace your existing deadbolt to use it: The August lock fits over the bolt to control via an app or voice assistant, a somewhat bulky but extremely convenient option.
August's locking features auto-locking, DoorSense open/close notifications and a log of all activity.
Like
- Compact retrofit
- Adhesive keypad
- Easy auto lock/unlock options
Don't like
- May be too expensive for some renters
Yale’s Approach lock is a top-shelf choice for renters or others who need to leave their current locks intact and we found it very easy to install and dismantle as needed. The retrofit is more compact than the August lock and includes Bluetooth access for contactless operation. You can also use the included keypad in this bundle, which offers an adhesive alternative for mounting so you don’t need to worry about screw holes or other rental no-nos. The lock can tell you if the door is unlocked at any time and lets you set an auto-lock for improved safety. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant but not Apple.
Like
- One of the more affordable smart lock brands at $150 or lower
- Keypad and fingerprint
- Easy "eKey" passcodes
- High IP65 weather resistance
Don't like
- No Apple or Siri support
- The entry pad design isn't for everyone
Smart locks aren't famous for their budget options, which still tend to go well above $100 if you want the best features. This Ultraloq model is one of the best matches we've found between affordability and features, including a durable keypad and built-in fingerprint sensor. Our tests also found that the Ultraloq's Wi-Fi range was particularly excellent for a smart lock, making this a good choice for a sublease, granny pod, Airbnb apartment or similar situations.
Like
- Video with object recognition
- Free onboard video storage
Don't like
- No two-way audio
- Lock needs a good place for clear video
- Video doorbells make features repetitive
Why I like it:
Video locks are one of the big new home security trends in 2025, combining video doorbells and smart locks into one rather large do-it-all device for the front door. Eufy has released one of the first lines available to consumers, a powerful model with a rechargeable battery, 2K camera and Eufy’s object recognition for noticing humans, animals, etc.
The E330 has a keypad, a fingerprint reader for access and a doorbell chime. We found it's a fascinating option for those who don't have a video doorbell or security camera yet.