Smart locks let you open your door remotely or with a simple voice command, but they also add a layer of security by letting you track who comes and goes. They can use your home Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave technology, keypads and more. Many even have gyroscopes built into them that can tell you if someone tries to jimmy the lock or force the deadbolt open. And some have an emergency power port so you can plug in a battery pack to keep them working during a power outage.
In our tests we’ve looked for features like ease of setup, whether you can use your smartphone as a key, the ability to create access codes and how well the locks integrate into other smart products. The bästa smarta lås work with a wide range of systems, including Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, so you can lock your doors with a simple voice command or automatically unlock them when you arrive at home. They’re also designed to be durable and reliable, with some models being rated for use in freezing temperatures or harsh weather conditions.
Our favorite smart lock for traditionalists is the Lockly Flex Touch, which looks a lot like a standard deadbolt from the outside (aside from a small external fingerprint reader). It installs securely within minutes and is easy to operate, with one-touch locking that’s ideal for those who can’t open their hands to type a PIN or if they’re carrying heavy packages or children. It also allows you to give virtual keys to family members, dog walkers or babysitters and gives you the option to lock the door remotely after 30 seconds, a minute or three minutes.
It works with HomeKit, so you can connect it to your Apple TV or iPad and unlock your door with an Apple Watch (Series 4 or later) or iPhone using “Apple home keys.” Those keys are encrypted in Apple Wallet so you don’t need to share the key code with anyone else. It’s not cheap, but its trim appearance and multiple ways to unlock make it worth the price.
The Defiant Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is another affordable option that’s easy to set up and operates with your phone or voice. It’s not as feature-rich as the best options, but it offers a solid value and works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It’s also compatible with Nest, so you can pair it with a Nest Cam to get a video notification in your app whenever someone uses it. You can also add up to 11 key codes and give virtual keys to friends or dog walker. The lack of a physical key or support for other HomeKit-based smart home devices might make this a better choice for those who already have a large system in place. And it’s backed by a two-year warranty.