Are you thinking about getting a smart lock? Many homeowners are switching to smart locks. In fact, the smart lock market grew by 35% between 2021 and 2022. This guide will help you pick the perfect smart lock for your home.
Contents
- 1 What is a Smart Lock?
- 2 Types of Smart Locks
- 3 Key Features to Consider
- 4 Battery Life and Power
- 5 Environmental Durability
- 6 Price Range Guide
- 7 Popular Smart Lock Brands and Models (2024)
- 8 Installation Requirements
- 9 Smart Home Integration
- 10 Common Problems to Watch For
- 11 Special Use Cases
- 12 Tips for Choosing Your Smart Lock
- 13 Safety and Security Best Practices
- 14 Final Thoughts
What is a Smart Lock?
A smart lock is an electronic door lock. You can control it with your phone. Some smart locks also work with:
- Fingerprints
- PIN codes
- Key cards
- Voice commands
- Regular keys
Types of Smart Locks
There are four main types of smart locks:
| Type | How it Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Deadbolt Replacement | Replaces your entire lock | Complete smart features |
| Retrofit | Fits over existing deadbolt | Renters, easy installation |
| Lever-style | All-in-one handle and lock | Interior doors |
| Smart Padlock | Portable smart lock | Gates, storage units |
Key Features to Consider
1. Connection Type
Different smart locks use different ways to connect:
- Bluetooth:
- Works up to 40 feet away
- Doesn’t need internet
- Uses less battery
- Can’t control from far away
- Wi-Fi:
- Control from anywhere
- Uses more battery
- Needs stable internet
- Best for remote access
- Z-Wave:
- Works with smart home hubs
- Very secure
- Needs a hub device
- Good range (100+ feet)
2. Security Features
Smart locks offer various security options:
- Auto-locking after set time
- Wrong code lockout
- Activity logs
- Break-in alerts
- Encrypted connections
- Tamper alarms
- Forced entry detection
- Emergency lockdown mode
3. Access Methods
Pick a lock that matches how you want to use it:
| Access Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| PIN Code | Easy to share, no extra tools needed | Must remember code |
| Fingerprint | Very secure, quick to use | Can fail if wet or dirty |
| App Control | Control from anywhere | Needs phone battery |
| Key Card | Good for businesses | Can get lost or stolen |
| Regular Key | Works if electronics fail | Not as convenient |
Battery Life and Power
Most smart locks run on batteries. Here’s what to know:
- Average battery life: 3-6 months
- Battery types used: AA or AAA
- Low battery warnings: Most send alerts
- Backup power: Many have emergency ports
- Solar options: Some models have solar charging
- Power saving modes: Available in newer models
Environmental Durability
Smart locks need to handle different weather:
| Weather Condition | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Rain | Water resistance rating |
| Snow | Cold weather performance |
| Heat | Operating temperature range |
| Humidity | Moisture protection |
| UV exposure | UV-resistant materials |
Price Range Guide
Smart locks come at different prices:
| Price Range | Features You Get |
|---|---|
| $100-150 | Basic Bluetooth, simple app |
| $150-250 | Wi-Fi, multiple users, logs |
| $250+ | All features, best brands |
Popular Smart Lock Brands and Models (2024)
Leading brands in the market:
1. August
- Known for: Retrofit designs
- Best model: Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th gen)
- Average price: $229
- Warranty: 2 years
2. Yale
- Known for: Complete systems
- Best model: Assure Lock 2
- Average price: $279
- Warranty: Lifetime mechanical, 3 years electronic
3. Schlage
- Known for: Durability
- Best model: Encode Plus
- Average price: $299
- Warranty: 3 years
4. Level
- Known for: Invisible design
- Best model: Level Touch
- Average price: $329
- Warranty: 2 years
Installation Requirements
Before buying, check these things:
- Door Measurements:
- Thickness: 1⅜” to 2″
- Backset: 2⅜” or 2¾”
- Hole diameter: Usually 2⅛”
- Door Type:
- Works best on: Solid wood, metal
- May not work on: Glass, sliding doors
- Special cases: French doors, screen doors
- Tools Needed:
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Drill (sometimes)
- Level
- Pencil for marking
- Installation template (usually included)
Smart Home Integration
Many smart locks work with:
- Amazon Alexa
- Google Assistant
- Apple HomeKit
- Samsung SmartThings
- IFTTT
- Ring
- Nest
Automation possibilities:
- Lock when you arm your security system
- Turn on lights when door unlocks
- Get alerts when kids come home
- Set garage door to close when front door locks
Common Problems to Watch For
Know these issues before buying:
- Connection Problems
- Weak Wi-Fi signals
- Bluetooth range limits
- Hub connection drops
- App glitches
- Battery Issues
- Fast drain in cold weather
- Sudden failures
- Hard to find replacement batteries
- Corrosion from humidity
- Installation Troubles
- Door alignment problems
- Wrong door size
- Complex setup steps
- Incompatible door types
Special Use Cases
Different situations need different locks:
- Rental Properties
- Need: Easy code changes
- Best type: Wi-Fi connected
- Features: Remote management
- Vacation Homes
- Need: Remote monitoring
- Best type: Camera-enabled locks
- Features: Activity logs
- Business Use
- Need: Multiple user access
- Best type: Commercial grade
- Features: User management
Tips for Choosing Your Smart Lock
- Check your door size first
- Pick a trusted brand
- Read recent reviews
- Look for good warranty coverage
- Consider your climate
- Think about who needs access
- Match it with your smart home setup
- Consider future expansion needs
- Check cellular backup options
- Verify emergency access methods
Safety and Security Best Practices
Keep your smart lock secure:
- Regular Updates
- Update app regularly
- Install firmware updates
- Check for security patches
- Access Management
- Change codes monthly
- Remove old users
- Use temporary codes for visitors
- Backup Plans
- Keep backup key safe
- Save emergency contact info
- Know manual override steps
Final Thoughts
Smart locks can make your life easier. They offer convenience and security. Take time to pick the right one. Think about how you’ll use it. Consider your budget and needs. Remember to check if it fits your door before buying.
The smart lock market keeps growing. New features come out often. Take your time to research. Make sure you get a lock that will work well for years to come.
