Best Smart Locks for Home 2026 - Top 5 Compared

The Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt stands out as a premier choice for a full deadbolt replacement, delivering a powerful combination of security, simplicity, and reliability. Its installation process is notably user-friendly, with a thoughtful design that includes a cable management system and a pre-printed setup code, allowing most users to complete the task quickly. Once installed, the lock impresses with its solid construction, earning either ANSI Grade 1 or BHMA AAA ratings—the highest benchmarks for residential and commercial durability. This is bolstered by the inclusion of 3-inch screws and a reinforced strike plate, significantly improving resistance against forced entry. Daily operation is seamless, thanks to the raised rubber keypad that lights up on first touch and automatically unlocks upon correct code entry, eliminating a confusing final button press.

Built-in WiFi enables remote access without the need for an additional hub. However, the lock does omit some advanced features like a door-status sensor or tamper alarm. Furthermore, while functional, the Schlage app is not as polished or quick as those from other brands, and managing user codes requires being within Bluetooth range. For those seeking a no-nonsense, highly secure, and dependable smart lock that prioritizes core functionality over flashy extras, the Schlage Arrive is an excellent and trustworthy selection.

The Yale Assure Lock 2 is a sophisticated and versatile smart deadbolt designed for users deeply invested in a connected home ecosystem. Its standout feature is extensive compatibility, working seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and notably, Apple Home, allowing for centralized control and automation. The lock itself is built with confidence-inspiring, heavy-duty metal housings and a physical button keypad that is easier to use than touchscreen variants. A significant advantage is the inclusion of the DoorSense sensor, a magnetic module that detects whether the door is open or closed. This smart accessory prevents the auto-lock feature from engaging on an ajar door and can send alerts if the door is left open too long, adding a valuable layer of security and convenience.

Performance is fast and quiet, and the lock provides offline notifications to alert users if Wi-Fi connectivity is lost. On the downside, the installation process is less straightforward than some competitors, with specific challenges in getting the interior assembly to sit flush against the door. The system also relies on an internal wireless module that must be installed at a specific point in the setup, a unique requirement that adds complexity. For households that value deep integration with their chosen smart home platform and appreciate the added intelligence of a door-status sensor, the Yale Assure Lock 2 presents a compelling and stylish option.

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a forward-thinking deadbolt replacement that excels in biometric access and Apple ecosystem integration. Its most praised feature is the fingerprint reader, which is notably fast, quiet, and highly accurate, allowing for near-instantaneous entry that feels seamless. For Apple enthusiasts, it is one of the first locks to support Apple Home Key, enabling users to unlock the door by simply holding their iPhone or Apple Watch near the lock—a convenient option for times when fingerprints are not practical. The lock also supports Matter, ensuring future-proof compatibility with major smart home platforms. However, the U100 does not have built-in Wi-Fi. To enable remote access, notifications, or use with platforms like Alexa or Google Home, a separate Aqara hub is required.

For Apple Home users, an Apple TV, HomePod, or HomePod mini can serve as the necessary hub. Some users may find the requirement for six-digit PIN codes, as opposed to four, a minor annoyance. Additionally, while the Apple Home Key feature is innovative, in practice, positioning the phone correctly for the NFC scan can be less reliable and slower than the superb fingerprint scanner. The app setup can also use technical jargon that may confuse first-time users. For those who prioritize cutting-edge biometric access and deep integration with Apple's Home platform, the Aqara Smart Lock U100 delivers a premium and highly functional experience.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the definitive choice for a retrofit smart lock, designed to augment an existing deadbolt rather than replace it. This approach offers significant advantages: installation is straightforward, typically requiring only a screwdriver and a few minutes, and it preserves the existing keyway and keys, making it perfect for rental properties or those who like their current hardware. Despite its add-on nature, it doesn't skimp on features. It provides built-in Wi-Fi for remote access, comprehensive activity logs, and the ability to create and manage temporary guest access passes—a boon for hosts or allowing access to service providers. The included DoorSense module attaches to the door frame to detect whether the door is open or closed, enabling accurate auto-lock schedules and sending alerts if the door is left ajar.

Compatibility is broad, working with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home. The main trade-offs are aesthetic and maintenance-related. The interior unit is bulkier than a standard thumb turn, and its rechargeable battery pack needs to be topped up every few months, unlike locks with multi-year disposable batteries. Some users also report that the auto-unlock feature, which uses geofencing to unlock as you approach, can be inconsistent. For those seeking a non-invasive, feature-rich way to modernize their door security, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock remains a top-tier and highly convenient option.

The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever fills a specific and important niche: providing smart lock functionality for doors that lack a deadbolt, such as interior doors, garage entry doors, or certain apartment doors. It is a full replacement for a traditional doorknob or lever, installing directly into a single bore hole. The lever handle itself is designed for easy operation, benefiting those with mobility concerns. Its standout user-friendly feature is the pair of physical buttons on the interior assembly labeled 'Auto-Lock' and 'Passage Mode.' This allows anyone inside to instantly disable the auto-locking function without needing an app or memorizing a code—a simple yet brilliant solution to a common smart lock frustration.

Like its sibling, the Schlage Arrive, it boasts built-in Wi-Fi for remote management, a tactile rubber keypad, and a physical keyway for backup access. It also demonstrates excellent battery longevity. The primary limitation is its lack of Apple Home compatibility, which may deter users invested in that ecosystem. Installation, while not overly complex, is more involved than installing a retrofit adapter, as it requires removing the old handle and aligning the new hardware. For situations where a deadbolt is not present or desired, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever provides a secure, intuitive, and fully-featured smart locking solution that is particularly well-suited for households and accessibility needs.