Category Archives: Smart Door Lock

Bluetooth Door Locks

Smart Door Lock

bluetooth door lock

Bluetooth Door Locks

Bluetooth locks pair directly with your smartphone, allowing you to control the deadbolt from a distance. They also work with voice assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant.

They offer many keyless entry options, including proximity unlocking with your phone, keypad entry and remote unlocking, custom code numbers for housesitters or pet riders, and touch or fingerprint recognition.

Range

Bluetooth smart locks communicate with your smartphone or other devices to lock and unlock the door from a distance. They often pair with voice assistants like Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant for hands free control. You bluetooth door lock can also use Bluetooth to send other people digital keys for a secure way to enter your property, ideal for house guests or kids who are away from home.

The downside of Bluetooth connectivity is that it only allows you to operate your smart lock within range, so you won’t be able to access your home remotely. For this reason, if you want to monitor your smart lock from afar you’ll need one that supports Wi-Fi or works with a compatible hub that does.

Some Bluetooth models are battery powered and won’t need to be connected to a power source, which can be helpful in the event of a power outage. These products include the Array by Hampton and the Kwikset Kevo.

Most Bluetooth locks connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or another protocol, such as Z-Wave or Zigbee. These options are a good choice for homeowners who want to set up a full smart home system that includes other devices. They work with a variety of smart home hubs, such as Samsung SmartThings and the Amazon Echo. In addition, they support integrations with the most popular apps and smart home devices.

Battery Life

A smart lock is a great convenience, but it can also be a power guzzler. There are a few things that can affect battery life, including the type of connection and usage format. Some features can also waste a lot of energy, and this is especially true when working over a WiFi connection.

For Bluetooth-based locks, the battery will typically last between three and six months. This is much shorter than the six to one year promise for older AA models. The team at August suggests that the number one factor in determining battery life is how often the lock reconnects to its access point and wakes up due to polling. The more often you use the feature, the faster you’ll see your battery drain.

If you want to avoid changing your batteries frequently, there are a few steps you can take. First, ensure that you’re using high-quality AA batteries. This will make a significant difference in how quickly the battery will run down. It’s also important to keep the battery clean. Make sure that it’s free of dirt and dust on a regular basis, which will increase the efficiency and length of its lifespan.

Some brands of smart locks have additional features that can make the battery last longer. For example, the Array by Hampton Connected Door Lock uses solar-powered backup and built-in Wi-Fi, which helps to reduce energy consumption. In addition, the Array is compatible with HomeKit and works with the Google Assistant.

Security

With a smart lock you can unlock your door using your smartphone, key fob, or a keypad. It also gives you a much more secure way to monitor who comes and goes, and revoke access as needed. They are a great choice for residential and commercial buildings.

Some Bluetooth locks have a slot for standard keys so you can still use them if bluetooth door lock your phone dies or you lose your Bluetooth connection. Others, like the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi lock allow you to open your door with a mobile app, a keypad, or your fingerprint. You can even set up custom passcodes for guests, cleaners, or caretakers to use.

Bluetooth locks tend to be cheaper than other types of smart locks because they don’t require a hub or home automation system to work. However, you do need a good Wi-Fi connection in order to use the features that come with them.

You should always check to see how well a smart lock works with your other smart devices. At a minimum, a Bluetooth lock should work with Alexa and Google Assistant. It’s even better if it also integrates with other smart home gadgets such as lighting and security systems. In addition to this, you should look at how easy it is to set up and whether it has any other features that will make your life easier.

Installation

Bluetooth smart locks are a newer technology, but they’re gaining popularity for their convenience and security. They don’t require a WiFi connection to work, and they can be installed easily. They can also be used with smart home hubs to offer more control over your door lock from afar. Considering key details like whether or not you want to keep your key and what connection method lines up with your home’s system will help you narrow down your options and find the right smart lock for your needs.

Some of the most popular Bluetooth models are compatible with Apple’s HomeKit, meaning that you can unlock your door using Siri. The second-generation Schlage Sense deadbolt and August Smart Lock both work with Apple’s voice-control platform, so you can lock and unlock your door just by saying “Hey Siri” or “Open the door.”

If you’re planning on using your smart door lock with a smart home hub, consider getting one that supports Z-Wave or ZigBee. These types of locks work with many systems, and they’re also more likely to be compatible with third-party apps that you might already be using. These locks may also be less expensive than Wi-Fi models, and they don’t require the installation of a router, so you can get started with them sooner. They’re also typically easier to set up than Wi-Fi smart locks, and you won’t have to worry about installing software or troubleshooting connectivity issues.

The Different Types of Password Door Locks

Smart Door Lock

The Different Types of Password Door Locks

Password door locks use a numeric keypad to allow entry and eliminate the need for keys. They are often more secure than traditional locks as they can be programmed to lock after a certain number of failed attempts.

The Yale Assure Lock is a compact digital deadbolt that looks nice and has smart features (as long as you upgrade the lock with a Wi-Fi module). It’s bump- and pick-proof and can store multiple codes, including temporary ones for repair professionals and babysitters.

Keyless Locks

Keyless locks work similarly to traditional lock and key mechanisms, but they don’t require a physical key. Instead, employees can unlock the door using a pin code on a keypad, a smartphone app, a key fob, a smart home security touchpad, or even biometrics like a thumbprint or a face scan. Some models also allow for temporary access codes to be given to guests or hired help like contractors and dog walkers, which can be helpful for keeping track of their movement on your property.

The technology behind keyless door locks is incredibly advanced, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t susceptible to vulnerabilities. Like other devices that have the potential to connect to your internet router or smart home device, it’s important that they be properly configured by a professional to ensure there aren’t any cybersecurity gaps.

If you choose to go with a keypad model, be sure to change the default pin code to something more secure. And make sure to clean the keypad regularly — fingerprints or smudges on the touchscreen could expose your code. If you choose a smartphone connected model, be sure to enable two-factor authentication for your lock’s phone app and website login. This is a great way to prevent unauthorized entry by hackers and keep your business safe. It’s also recommended that you opt for a lock with a battery-low indicator, so you can easily see when it’s time to swap out the batteries.

Keypad Locks

Keypad locks allow users to enter a PIN code to unlock the lock without needing to have a physical key or fob. Many models also have LED or screen options that can convey additional information about the lock’s status and error codes. Some also have audio tones to alert users when it is locking or unlocked.

Keypad deadbolts offer several benefits for commercial and residential spaces alike. They are often cheaper than traditional locks and are easier to use. They also work well for environments where multiple authorised users need continual access to an area, such as an office or industrial space, but doors must be secured against authorised entry at all times.

Some keypad lock models, such as the Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt, have smart capability and can connect to WiFi for added security and convenience. These models offer the password door lock ability to remotely lock and unlock, programme multiple passcodes and monitor who’s coming and going through your door.

Another advantage is that they eliminate the need for staff or residents to keep track of keys, which can be lost or stolen. Additionally, some models feature an auto-lock function that prevents a user from accidentally leaving the house or building while they’re still inside. This can help eliminate the all-too-common scenario of kids returning from school and forgetting to turn the lock or getting locked out by accident before their parents arrive home.

Biometric Locks

Biometric smart locks use a person’s physical characteristics to verify identity and grant access. These systems include fingerprint scanners, iris recognition devices and facial detection systems. These devices can be integrated with a camera to monitor who is trying to gain entry into the property. These systems are more secure than traditional password door locks because they use a unique physical characteristic of the user and can’t be lost, stolen or given to someone else.

A biometric lock uses a fingerprint sensor to read the unique features of an individual’s fingers and then matches it with pre-saved data. When a match is made, the green LED indicates that access has been granted and enables the user to unlock the door. These types of locks are popular for offices and commercial buildings because they can prevent unauthorized users from entering the building and compromising security.

Another advantage of a biometric lock is that it’s easy to program and use. An administrator can set up a registry of authorized users and grant them different levels of access privileges with the click of a mouse on their desktop computer. These locks are also more efficient and reliable because they don’t require users to remember codes to operate them. They are also more effective in protecting sensitive facilities since fingerprints cannot be hacked like a code can.

Smart Locks

The most sophisticated smart locks allow you to create temporary codes and revoke them or limit access to certain days or times. They may also automatically lock after a set time, or you can receive an alert on your smartphone if the door has been left unlocked for too long. If a criminal tries to tamper with your smart lock, you can also activate an alarm and even have the lock notify the police or home security service for you.

Smart locks work differently from traditional password door lock deadbolts, as they require a PIN or virtual key that lives in an app on your phone. The app is used to grant entry to guests, cleaning services, repairmen, and other third parties that you manage and track. This way, you can make sure that anyone with a keycode or virtual key is being respectful and trustworthy in your home.

Look for a lock that uses 128-bit encryption, as this is the industry standard, to keep your phone and lock safe from hackers who can monitor your wireless communication and even spoof signals. It’s also helpful if the lock can communicate with your other smart home devices, such as your lights and security system. This gives you the ability to check on your home while away and control your security while in another room or on vacation.

Hotel Door Locks

Smart Door Lock

hotel door locks

Hotel Door Locks

Hotel door locks are one of the most important elements in a hospitality facility. They can either create a smooth experience or cause a big headache for guests and employees.

Fortunately, installing modern lock systems is easier than ever before. Most hotels have maintenance crews who can handle this task with ease. Most of these locksets come with detailed installation instructions that are easy to follow.

Key card locks

The key card lock is a type of door lock that uses a card instead of a mechanical key. It works by reading a magnetic strip on the card to determine whether the card has access permissions. This is a more secure option than traditional locks, since the card cannot be duplicated. However, the cards are prone to demagnetization and may not work if they come into contact with magnets or electronic devices.

The magnetic strip on the card contains basic information hotel door locks about the user, such as their name and room number. It is imprinted by hotel desk personnel during check-in and remains valid until checkout. The locks can be programmed to grant or deny access based on the user information. They also keep a log of which cards are active at what times.

Some smart locks can be paired with a smartphone, giving guests a way to lock the door using an app. The hotel can then monitor guest activity and security. This type of lock can be more convenient for elderly and disabled people. However, it is not ideal for all hotels because it can be difficult to install and maintain.

Digital locks

Adding an extra layer of security to your hotel room locks is simple with a digital lock system. These smart door locks integrate with your property management system and allow guests to enter their rooms using a mobile device or a keypad code. However, this type of technology is still relatively new and requires that your guests have smartphones available and a working battery.

Many digital lock systems offer a choice of credentials, including PIN codes, chip cards and mobile devices. In addition to enhancing security, these solutions also improve guest convenience and operational efficiency. For example, a mobile lock solution from dormakaba is compatible with both narrow style backsets suitable for aluminum framed doors and hood bolt lock cases for sliding doors.

In addition, some digital locks provide remote door monitoring and diagnostics. These features enable the hotel to receive alerts when the locks are unlocked or a guest fails to close the window or lock the door after checkout. They also help the hotel to monitor its energy consumption. The hotel can then take corrective action to reduce its costs.

Magstripe locks

Guests unlock magstripe locks with a key card that contains a magnetic stripe, similar to the ones used on credit cards. These key cards can be programmed to allow access to certain rooms or only during a specific timeframe. However, magstripe locks can be glitchy and may deactivate when near electronic devices (like smartphones), which often leads to guest lockout issues.

Upgrading to a hotel door lock system that includes RFID, pin code, or Bluetooth technology helps you provide a more seamless experience for your guests. These technologies are connected to your hotel’s PMS and operations management tools via an all-in-one dashboard, allowing you to monitor room access and streamline processes.

PIN code locks require a guest to enter a correct sequence of numbers on a keypad to gain access to their room. Many of these locks integrate with your hotel’s property management system and automatically assign unique codes to each reservation. These locks are easy for guests to use and offer a sleek, stylish look. They also allow you to keep a record of all keypad entries and times for auditing purposes.

Locks with alarms

Hotel door locks are an integral part of any motel, resort and inn’s overall physical security strategy. They ensure that guest rooms, private areas and access to on-site amenities are kept safe and secure. They also allow hotel teams to monitor and adjust access permissions without needing to hand out keys.

A smart lock with alarms is an excellent option for hotels that want to provide their guests with additional safety features. These smart locks can be operated via a smartphone app and can be used to prevent theft from inside the room. The locks can also be paired with other security features, such as peepholes and door wedges, to increase the level of security in a hotel room.

Most commercial-grade BLE locks offer a high level of security and facilitate contactless check-in, but they are expensive to install and require integration with an online or offline access management system. Using an alternative solution like Boost can help you meet modern guest expectations and streamline your operations, but without the high costs or lengthy installation times.

Locks with keyless entry

Electronic locks are becoming increasingly popular in the hotel industry. They can be opened with a PIN, chip card, fingerprint, or app and are compatible with most smart devices. These systems are also highly customizable and can be easily managed using a web-based software application such as Salto’s Operto. hotel door locks Besides offering extra security for your guests, these lock solutions are also ADA compliant and can be customized according to your guest needs and visual preferences.

One of the best ways to improve your guests’ experience is by installing keyless entry systems in your hotel. These systems allow guests to bypass front desk check-in procedures and gain access to their rooms with a digital key generated by the hotel’s app. They also help hotels to streamline their check-out processes and reduce operating costs by automatically removing access permissions when guests check out.

Another option is to install Bluetooth low energy (BLE) locks that work with smartphones. These locks are easy to use for guests and can be easily reprogrammed. They can be used with an Android or iOS device and work on a wireless network. They can also detect when a door is closed and send an encrypted message to the lock, preventing unauthorized entries.

Fingerprint Door Lock

Smart Door Lock

fingerprint door lock

Fingerprint Door Lock

A fingerprint door lock uses biometrics to allow a person access to your home. These locks are more secure than keys and are easy to install. They also offer a lot of convenience, such as keypad entry and remote access.

Fingerprint locks work through a process called Minutia matching. The sensor converts friction ridge skin impressions into a numerical template. These are then compared with the stored data.

They are more secure than keys

Fingerprint door locks are a great way to keep your home or office safe. They can prevent break-ins because they cannot be hacked or broken like traditional locks. They also provide convenience for those who are not comfortable with key-based systems. Many of these lock systems can be controlled with a smartphone.

The way that fingerprint door locks work is by scanning and converting your fingerprint into numerical data. They then save this information. The next time you want to enter, the system will compare the fingerprint that is being presented with the saved data. If there is a match, the door will open. Otherwise, it will remain locked.

This type of security is more reliable than a password because it can’t be forgotten, stolen or lost. It’s also much faster than unlocking with a key. Additionally, the lock can be installed with an alarm system for added protection.

Fingerprint door locks are becoming increasingly popular, mainly because they are more secure than keys. With the advent of technology, we’ve been able to develop fingerprint scanners that can be used as keyless entry systems. The locks use a person’s fingerprint as a security credential, which is unique to them and difficult for others to imitate. In addition, they’re more affordable than other biometric locks, such as iris scanners and voice recognition.

They are convenient

Fingerprint door locks are one of the most convenient security upgrades you can make fingerprint door lock for your home or business. They allow you to open your doors without a key and come in a variety of shapes, sizes and designs to fit your needs. You can unlock them with your fingerprint on the biometric scanner, an app that works with all mobile devices, a regular key, a unique code or even by using your Alexa with a PIN. The locks are also incredibly easy to set up and install, with a simple and straightforward process that most people can follow.

One of the best things about a fingerprint lock is that it’s super fast. It takes just a few seconds to open the door using this method, compared to minutes or even hours when using traditional keys. This is especially helpful if you have your hands full.

Another great thing about this technology is that it’s impossible to hack into. Unlike traditional locks, which can be picked, rekeyed or copied, fingerprint locks are protected by multiple layers of cybersecurity, including Minutia points that are unique to each person. This makes them a much more reliable security option than traditional locks.

Another benefit of these types of locks is that they can help keep track of who is entering your property. Rather than having to hide a key under your doormat or under a flower pot, you can simply allocate different access pins to family members and monitor their usage. This can be particularly useful if you have kids, as it will help you know when they are coming home from school or after sports practice.

They are easy to install

Fingerprint door locks offer a great deal of convenience and security. They are easy to install and can be set up with a smartphone app, making them a great choice for home automation. They also make it easier to manage access, and some models even maintain a log of entries and exits. These features can be especially helpful for businesses that need to keep track of who is coming and going.

Before installing your fingerprint lock, you must ensure that the scanner recognizes all the permanent residents of the house. To do this, you must get them to scan their fingerprints and set up a password or pin code. Some models also allow fingerprint door lock for remote access, so you can monitor their activity from a smartphone. Make sure to read the reviews of any fingerprint locks you’re considering before purchasing one. Look for the FRR and FAR ratings to find out how often the lock rejects or accepts a verified fingerprint.

These fingerprint doors are very safe to use, and you can rest assured that you’ll be the only one who can open them. They can even help protect your bedroom from unauthorized entry. If someone tries to open your room with a fake fingerprint or a passcode, the door will lock automatically and sound an alarm, warning the intruder to flee.

They are affordable

Fingerprint door locks are becoming more affordable as technology continues to improve. They are also more reliable than keys, which can be lost or stolen. However, you need to be aware that these locks are still not foolproof. They can be bypassed by making a mold or copy of your fingerprint.

Nevertheless, this is very rare. In addition, it is a lot more difficult to get into a home with a fingerprint lock than with a key. In most cases, if someone manages to gain access to the home with a copy of your fingerprint, they will probably have to replace the lock. This is why it is a good idea to purchase a fingerprint door lock that has a keypad or mechanical key slot.

The best fingerprint smart locks will also log usage for all user codes, so you can see who has been using your lock. This is especially important if you live in a multifamily building or if you have guests. This feature can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and security costs.

When purchasing a fingerprint door lock, make sure it has a specialized key override, which will open the lock even when the fingerprint scanner isn’t working. This is necessary in case of a power failure or a cut. You also want to ensure that the lock has a low FRR and FAR rating, as these ratings indicate how many times it accepts an unauthenticated fingerprint.

How a Smart Front Door Lock Works

Smart Door Lock

smart front door lock

How a Smart Front Door Lock Works

A smart front door lock eliminates the need for traditional keys, giving homeowners the ability to monitor and control entry remotely. Some even connect to other home automation devices for added security and convenience.

Some smart locks go out of their way to show off their gadgetry with light-up touchscreens and techy designs, while others aim to blend in seamlessly with existing doors. To help you choose the best smart lock for your home, consider the following factors:

Keyless Entry

A good smart lock lets you grant temporary access to guests through the app without having to hand them a key. It’s also helpful for anyone who gets home at a different time from when they normally arrive and want to let in their kids after school.

Typical digital keys can take the form of a paired smartphone (to activate a code in the lock’s app), or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob that connects to the lock and opens it when within range. Some locks offer more options, such as a fingerprint scanner or keypad that allows entry with physical buttons or code.

If you’re looking for a retrofit smart lock that fits over your existing deadbolt and doesn’t require any major changes to your door, look no further than the Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth deadbolt. It works with the big three smart home platforms, and its sleek design and easy-to-use app make it a top pick among our reviewers.

Another great option is the pricier August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Connect bundle, which works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. This upgrade to your existing lock adds a Wi-Fi bridge and gives you remote control through your smart home platform of choice, plus the ability to set up schedules or geofencing. You can also add up to 50 rekeyable user accounts in the app, giving permanent and temporary access to friends, family, and neighbors. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have a keypad, which some people prefer for convenience.

Control from Anywhere

A smart lock lets you remotely unlock and close your door from a mobile app, or by using voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. You can also integrate these locks into smart home systems like Apple HomeKit or Ring security to manage them with other smart devices and security features.

To make your smart lock truly intelligent, it should connect to your home Wi-Fi and work with your other smart devices. That requires the lock to support your router’s wireless protocols, such as ZigBee or Z-Wave, as well as to be compatible with your smartphone platform. We look for smart front door lock these compatibilities when evaluating smart locks, and we also consider whether a lock is easy to set up and use.

Many smart locks offer extra convenience features, such as the ability to create digital keys for family members and trusted service professionals and revoke those access rights as needed. That can help ease worries about guests who are staying in your vacation rental home, or even if your rambunctious teenagers forget to lock the front door before leaving for school.

Our top pick for a smart lock, the Schlage Encode, uses Bluetooth initially to pair with your phone and then connects to your home Wi-Fi without the need for a separate hub or bridge. Setup was a breeze, and our reviewers found the app interface clean and intuitive.

Virtual Keys

The best smart locks (or smart deadbolts) streamline your daily routine by streamlining access and automating key functions. They also quell anxiety while you’re away by sending status updates and letting you view the lock log remotely to make sure no one is lurking inside your home.

Some smart locks offer the flexibility to grant virtual keys, allowing you to give temporary access to trusted friends and family, or even service professionals like dog walkers, tradespeople, or house cleaners. These virtual keys can be quickly revoked in the app, keeping you in control over who enters your home.

For those who prefer to skip the gyroscope and opt for a simpler Bluetooth-only option, the Defiant Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is our value pick. It’s easy to install on an existing door without replacing the cylinder or key, making it great for homeowners and renters alike. You can use the app, key code or physical keys to unlock, and it offers an optional gateway that enables remote management features, like locking on voice command and open-door detection.

Many smart locks require you to connect them to your home’s Wi-Fi network, enabling monitoring features, like access notifications and integration with smart devices like security cameras and smart lights. I look for smart front door lock a model that requires a minimum of this, but also has built-in support for Alexa or Google Assistant so you can use voice commands to lock and check the lock’s status.

Security

Smart technology has made its way into a variety of appliances and devices around the home, but the smart front door lock is a newer addition. As a result, some consumers are confused about how these locks work and what features are best for them.

Essentially, smart locks replace your existing deadbolt and control your home through unique access codes that you assign to those you trust. You can then use an app to lock or unlock your doors remotely. That means no more fumbling in your bag for keys or hiding spares under the flowerpot. Plus, you’ll receive visitor and status notifications through your smartphone or touch-screen base station (like the Vivint Smart Hub) whenever someone comes to your home or checks in at your door.

You can also enhance your security with a compatible smart camera and the ability to synchronize your cameras and door locks with one another, so you can check in on your kids or pets while you’re at work. Some smart locks, like the Array by Hampton Connected Door Lock, also have solar-powered battery backup and can be locked automatically after you arm your connected home security system.

If you’re concerned about how your smart lock is physically secure, look for ANSI/BHMA ratings. These ratings measure how well a lock holds up to forced entry and other physical tests.

Smart Digital Door Locks

Smart Door Lock

Smart Digital Door Locks

Smart digital door locks are a simple and affordable way to upgrade your home security. They offer several keyless entry options, including remote unlocking from your phone, and can be integrated with a smart-home system.

Some models show off their tech-minded features with light-up touchscreens, while others try to blend in and look like traditional deadbolts from the outside.

Security

Adding a smart digital door lock lets residents keep tabs on who comes and goes at home. Users can check entry and exit logs in real time and get alerts if smart digital door lock anyone tries to break in. Many smart locks also work with a video doorbell to see who’s at the door and provide an extra layer of security.

A paired smartphone or other device acts as a digital key to open the smart lock, eliminating the need for keys or code numbers. Some smart locks use Bluetooth to detect a paired phone in the vicinity and unlock when it’s within range, while others require the user to physically touch the fob or the lock with their hand to trigger the opening mechanism. This feature helps prevent users from unintentionally locking themselves out while grabbing a package or the mail, and it’s especially useful for those who frequently leave their keys in a pocket or other hard-to-reach place.

Smart locks that integrate into a larger smart-home system let residents set access limitations for cleaning services, dog walkers and repair services without having to give them a permanent password or swap out their code every time a visitor comes to the house. They can also set their lock to automatically lock after a preset amount of time or when they’ve left the house for an extended period.

Convenience

A smart lock lets you unlock your door remotely with an app on a mobile phone. Some models also let you set temporary passwords for guests or short-term tenants to use in addition to your permanent access code. This can be useful for Airbnb or other rental properties. You can also program your smart lock to send a virtual key to delivery drivers or dog walkers to let them in. This feature works best if you can link it to a doorbell camera so you can see who’s coming before you open the door.

Most smart locks have a slot for a standard key so you can continue to use it if the batteries run out, or if your phone connection fails. Some of them also have solar-powered battery backup. We test how easy it is to use a smart lock in daily operation, and look for other convenience features such as geofencing to automatically unlock your door when you get close (August), and auto-locking so that you never forget to lock the door on your way out (Kwikset).

We also consider how well a smart lock integrates with other smart home devices. Most of the models we tested work with Alexa and Google Assistant, and some of them work with Apple’s HomeKit as well. We prefer the ones that work with multiple platforms, so you can automate them to perform routine actions when you say things like “goodnight” or “I’m leaving”. Some models require a Wi-Fi bridge, but others work directly with your home hub.

Apps

The best smart locks use an app to connect to your home Wi-Fi, allowing them to be operated and monitored remotely. Some have Bluetooth built in, which works with an app on your smartphone, while others work with a hub like a Z-Wave or Zigbee bridge, a security system, or one of the best smart home systems such as Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant.

Some apps can even identify who’s coming and going, which could help you spot suspicious activity, such as someone trying to enter after the kids get home from school or when the dog walker is late. Customize push notifications to alert you when specific codes are used, or set up a schedule to automatically lock your door after a pre-set delay.

For convenience, consider a model that works with smart digital door lock your voice assistant. Some of the latest smart locks have built-in microphones, letting you unlock your door hands-free by saying “Open” or “Let me in.” Others use the technology of a doorbell camera to show who’s at the door, which can be helpful for forgetful homeowners who often miss delivery or service personnel.

Installation

If you’re considering a smart digital door lock, there are many factors to consider. The first is connectivity, which can take the form of a wireless radio built into the lock such as Z-Wave, Zigbee, or Bluetooth or a hub/bridge that connects to your home Wi-Fi network. The best models will use encryption to keep your information safe over the radio. You should also look for a lock with two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized logins, as well as options to integrate it with your existing security systems or cameras.

Many smart locks also let you set up temporary entry codes for cleaning services, dog walkers, repair people, or any other type of service person. These codes run alongside your permanent password and can be revoked as soon as they’re used up. If you’re renting out your home, this feature makes it easy to grant access while protecting yourself from unauthorized entries.

You can also find a smart lock that allows you to use your phone to open the door if you’re too far away to unlock it physically. Some models work with a doorbell to let you see who’s at the door, and some even offer fingerprint recognition that uses your unique physical characteristics to unlock instead of a passcode or key.