Smart locks are one of the easiest home security devices to start with, offering important upgrades on something everyone depends on. These locks offer app controls, guest passes, auto-locking, fingerprint scanners and many other tricks that can turn your home into a high-tech, secured spot.

Why I like it: 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.

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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: Smart locks are not 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 have 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.

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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 is not for everyone

Why I like it: 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 do not 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 (August continues to slim down its hardware) but extremely convenient option.

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 is still bulky
No full Matter compatibility yet

Why I like it: Not everyone has a deadbolt or wants a deadbolt replacement to get smart lock features. We are 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.

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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: 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.

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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

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We have tested smart locks for over a decade to find which work best, which offer the most value for their cost and which have the most convenient apps. Here are our most recent results.

What's the best overall smart lock?

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.

Best smart locks of 2026

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

Note that not every version of the Yale Assure 2 has fingerprint access so if that is important to you, make sure you choose a model that includes this feature which will add to the price. Check out my ADT Plus review to see how this lock can integrate with home security, too. I found the lock easy to use and install, although the Z-wave connections can get more complicated if you want to connect the lock to multiple hubs.

Who is this for: First-time lock buyers, those tired of bulky retrofits, Apple Siri and Home users, ADT Plus users and people who are all right skipping a fingerprint sensor.

Who should not buy it: Users who do not care much about integrations but want high-tech fingerprint sensing and flashy touchscreens.

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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 is not for everyone

Options like eKey sharing and management make it easy to offer digital passes to friends and family and control how they are used, while the IP65 rating ensures that weather is no problem, no matter how harsh your seasons get. Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility round off this lock nicely but we miss Apple support. The round keypad may also be a little strange for first-time customers.

Who is this for: Those who want to save a little money without sacrificing quality, people with a rental or additional deadbolt door on their property to protect and fans of compact locks

Who should not buy it: Users who prefer a more traditionally designed lock, as well as Apple fans.

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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 is still bulky
No full Matter compatibility yet

August's locking features cover all the bases, including auto-locking, DoorSense open/close notifications and a log of all activity. As with many locks on our list, you can also send guest access passes with customized deadlines (very convenient for managing anyone from a house cleaner to vacationing friends).

Although August's latest lock does not have Matter yet, it is still fully compatible with Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home. Remember, you must manage the rechargeable lithium battery when using this lock, and retrofits like this go through battery life quickly.

Who is this for: Buyers who like their current deadbolt but want some smart features, people looking to save money on a door lock upgrade, those who do not mind sacrificing a bit of space and buyers who want to save money.

Who should not buy it: Anyone who wants a full deadbolt installation instead and people who really dislike bulky retrofits.

Pros

Excellent handle design alternative to deadbolts
Customizable notifications
Up to 100 entry codes
Alexa and Google Assistant support

Cons

Expensive
No biometrics

One downside: The smart handle is one of our priciest picks so it may not be within everyone's budget range. This Schlage lock is available in a variety of colors and styles, and some cost less than others depending on supply, so it is worth looking at different designs and finding what matches your home while saving some money.

Who is this for: People willing to pay more for an excellent lock design, buyers with a door (like a garage side door) that does not have a deadbolt but still needs smart protection and customers who like code-based door entry.

Who should not buy it: Those specifically looking for a deadbolt upgrade.

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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