The top smart locks of 2023 are brought to you by well-known brands like Yale, Wyze, August, and Schlage, and they offer an array of impressive features that traditional deadbolts lack. These innovative smart home gadgets are gaining popularity for good reason. From the convenience of remotely checking your lock’s status to the ability to create temporary profiles for guests, smart locks are revolutionizing home security. However, choosing the right smart Lock can be challenging, as not all are created equal. A poorly installed or low-quality smart lock can lead to headaches. Luckily, there’s a smart lock for every need. Whether you’re managing a rental property, need a robust lock for a large family, or want to eliminate keys altogether, there’s a smart lock that’s perfect for you. Let’s take a look at the best smart locks of 2023, including full deadbolt replacements and deadbolt adapters. Our recommendations cover a wide range of price points, ensuring you can find a fantastic smart lock for your front door that also fits your budget.
1. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock by August
Pros: No bridge required, easy installation, auto unlock and lock feature, sturdy build
Cons: Non-rechargeable batteries, protrudes from the door
The fourth-generation August Smart Lock liberates itself from the need for a bridge to operate remotely. With its built-in Wi-Fi connection, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock effortlessly connects to your home’s wireless network, eliminating the need for additional hardware. Installing and setting up this smart lock is a breeze, and it can even retain your old lock, sparing you the need for new keys. Despite its small size, the lock still manages to include impressive features like integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into any smart home platform. Moreover, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock offers advanced features such as virtual keys on a schedule and automatic lock/unlock as you approach or leave your home.
2. Level Lock Touch by Level
Pros: Minimalist design, simple installation, convenient touch unlock, programmable NFC keycards as backup
Cons: High cost, touch unlock only works outside the home boundary
There are few smart locks that support Apple’s HomeKit, but the Level Lock Touch is the best option for Apple’s smart home platform. This innovative lock features a sleek, unconventional design that retains the appearance of a traditional lock. Interacting with the Level Lock Touch is a breeze – simply tap on the keyhole housing or use the included NFC-equipped keycards to open and lock the door. Once connected to HomeKit, you can use Siri on your iOS device or HomePod speaker to unlock the door. The lock also has an automatic unlock feature enabled by your iPhone’s GPS, creating a geofence around your home. All these features make the Level Lock Touch the top choice for HomeKit users.
3. Schlage Encode Plus by Schlage
Pros: Works with Apple Home Key, easy installation, reliable
Cons: Some features not accessible via HomeKit
Schlage has been a trusted name in locks for years, and they have now become one of the best smart lock manufacturers. The Schlage Encode Plus is not only aesthetically pleasing but also works seamlessly with Alexa and a variety of third-party applications such as Amazon’s Cloud Cam, Key by Amazon, and Ring security products. It can also be controlled using the Schlage Home app, offering versatility. With its compatibility with Apple Home Key, the Schlage Encode Plus provides a reliable and convenient smart lock solution.
4. Lockly Vision Elite by Lockly
Pros: Fingerprint sensor, robust battery life supported by a solar panel, wide-angle camera
Cons: Expensive, limited night vision capabilities
Lockly builds on its excellent Vision model with the Vision Elite, which offers everything Airbnb hosts could desire. With its fingerprint, pin code, or smartphone unlocking capabilities, this lock provides multiple options for guests. Temporary key codes can be provided to guests, and these codes can be time-sensitive for added security. The lock keeps track of entries and exits, and you can easily manage guest access through the app. Additionally, the Vision Elite features an integrated video camera, making it function like a video doorbell camera. The lock also incorporates a solar panel for extended battery life. With its outstanding features, the Lockly Vision Elite is the best smart lock for Airbnb hosts.
5. Wyze Lock by Wyze
Pros: Affordable, intuitive app, easy installation and use
Cons: Limited ability to restrict digital key access, slightly slow app
Wyze is known for its user-friendly, affordable smart home products, and the Wyze Lock is no exception. Installation is straightforward, involving retrofitting your existing deadbolt. With the Wyze app, you can lock and unlock your door from anywhere. The Auto Lock/Unlock feature detects your phone when you approach the door, unlocking it as you arrive and locking it behind you after you enter. The app also allows you to grant guests access to your home and keep a log of their entries and exits. The Wyze Lock is now compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling you to control your door lock from the comfort of your couch. Assistant control also offers convenience for on-the-go unlocking through the Alexa or Google Home app.
6. Level Lock by Level
Pros: Exceptional design, straightforward installation, great value within Level’s lineup
Cons: Geofencing settings cannot be adjusted
Level continues to impress with its sleek and contemporary locks. The Level Lock maintains the minimalist design of its siblings while delivering essential smart lock features. It lacks the bulky keypads that are commonly seen on smart locks, offering a cleaner and more traditional look. Installation is simple, and the lock seamlessly fits with your door’s decor. It includes features like geofencing for auto-unlock, temporary passes for granting guest access, and an auto-lock function for added security in case you forget to lock the door.
When choosing the best smart lock for your needs, consider the features that are important to you, such as compatibility with your smart home ecosystem, ease of installation and use, design preference, and price range. With the variety of options available, you can find a smart lock that suits your requirements and enhances the security and convenience of your home.
The post 2023’s Top Smart Lock Picks: Brand Model Name first appeared on TECH FY.
