March 3, 2024
When it comes to adding items to your smart home, it's best to do some research to find the best fit. When it comes to upgrading your smart locking system in your home, there are quite a few things to consider. Now that you’ve decided to upgrade from the trusty deadbolt to one of the hottest new smart locking devices to protect your automated smart home, which option works best for you?
Smart locks are one of the smaller yet equally exciting aspects of a smart home in 2023. Home automation has come a long ways in making even the smallest of household activities easy and hands free — and smart locks are no different. They give the ability to unlock a door remotely, and can connect to a smart phone app to let you know when someone is trying to get in that shouldn’t be anywhere near your front door. Even small things such as trying to get your door open when you’ve got hands full of groceries can be traded from a hassle to a convenience with the addition of an automated smart locking system. There’s a lot that smart locks can do, but finding one that is best for your own situation requires a bit of research.
Before we get started, its important to know that there’s a few different types of smart locks. Some smart locks work with Bluetooth and connect easily to an app on your phone, and others that are simply key-less. Some of them work as a replacement deadbolt lock entirely, and some of them are compatible with existing deadbolts, simply clamping over the top of them. Your own personal situation will have to be taken into consideration when you decide which one is right for your needs, and not all models work with every type of existing deadbolt, so you’ll have to make sure yours is compatible. There’s also a few types of wireless connections: Bluetooth, WiFi, and Z-Wave. It’s very important to know which is which when buying your smart lock product or starting your research on which smart lock is best for your 2023 smart home.
Bluetooth smart locks can be advantageous in the area of having multiple locking functionality. By using a connection to a cellular device, its possible for the lock to sense when you’ve arrived at home, and can even be programmed to unlock automatically when you’re approaching the front door. Battery life is a plus for a Bluetooth option as well, as it uses low energy. One of our favorite Bluetooth option is the Yale Assure Lock by August.
Both of these options don’t offer as much compatibility in terms of app-control, and also require a connection to the rest of your home’s WiFi system, but enjoy a lower price as a trade-off. Most people don’t specifically require an app for their smart lock, so these options can be a much smarter option. Wi-Fi does use a bit more power, however, so get ready to purchase multiple batteries if you choose to go this route. Z-wave offers a bit more functionality than simple Wi-Fi, however you’ll need to purchase an additional hub within 150 feet of your door for it to properly work. The Schlag Connect Smart Deadbolt is one of our favorites for this style.
Looking to let someone in without getting up from your couch or even if you’re miles away? Smart locks have got you covered. Simply pop open an app on your phone, and with a tap, your door’s locked or unlocked.
One cool thing about these locks? You can share “virtual keys” with friends or service providers like your dog walker. This way, you don’t have to stress about lost keys or unauthorized copies. Plus, you can set times for when these virtual keys work and get notified every time someone uses it. So, if you’ve got someone coming in to water your plants or walk the pup, you can rest easy knowing they’re only entering when you’ve allowed it.
However, not all smart locks are made the same. We’ve put several to the test, looking at how simple they are to set up, their security chops, how well they play with other smart devices, and more. Because, let’s face it, you’d want a lock that’s both user-friendly and gives you peace of mind wherever you are.
Now, diving a bit deeper, there are mainly two kinds of smart locks: ones that replace your entire deadbolt and ones that just add connectivity to smart phone apps and Bluetooth as well. Each has its pros and cons, which we discuss in our handy “choosing the right smart lock” guide.
Honestly, this one’s our favorite smart lock. It is easy to install, and you can still use your old keys, not to mention it’s a breeze to use. If you’d like to make the most of this smart lock option, there’s even a remote keypad accessory to mix up your entry options.
August’s smart lock is packed with a lot of useful features, but there’s even more advantages to consider when choosing this lock. This new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has been trimmed down considerably in size, making it 45% tinier (so no more giant knob sticking out on your door) and the smart lock comes with Wi-Fi already built in. This means no more messing around with the extra August Connect bridge application to get the smart lock added to your home network.
With the August smart lock, there’s even more to consider: everything we adored about the August Pro lock over the last few years is still there. The easy setup that we loved about the August Pro lock is still there, along with that nifty DoorSense feature that nudges you if you’ve left the door slightly open. This smart lock also plays nice with basically every smart home system out there — think Alexa, Google Assistant, and even Xfinity. One last important thing to mention is that you can still use the keys from your old-school deadbolt, a very exciting feature.
While the August smart lock is a bit larger overall, and doesn’t have Wi-Fi built right in, this smart lock still is feature packed and provides all the necessary options for a fully fledged smart lock. It does lack remote control functionality but at the same time the overall price is a bit lower for the base model. If you want to add remote access to this smart lock, you’ll need to just pay a bit more.
If you’re looking to make your home a bit smarter without breaking the bank, then the August Smart Lock is your go-to. It’s packed with all the most advanced new features you’d want, and the best part? It’s under $100 for the base model.
If you’re renting your current dwelling, this lock is also a great choice as it doesn’t need to bolt into the door itself. You can add it to your current deadlock and voila — no fussing with cylinders or keys. Your original keys still work, and the landlord will be happy that no drills are being used. When it’s time to move on to your next home, you can easily swap this smart lock out with the old lock, ensuring your deposit stays right where it belongs.
We previously mentioned that this lock is fairly simple as its base model, but if you want to add remote connectivity, then you’re gonna want the August Connect module. It’s an extra $60, but one module can juggle multiple locks. So, if you’ve got a couple of doors to smarten up, it’s a bargain. This lock however is not compatible with the Apple Homekit, so that is an important fact to keep in mind if this lock fascinates you.
Arms full with your shopping haul? Just give this lock a quick tap with your Apple Watch (or iPhone) and you won’t have to worry about dropping your groceries while fumbling for the keys.
Who wants to deal with codes when you can just give your phone a little tap against a smart lock open your door? That’s the magic of the Schlage Encode Plus, especially if you have an iPhone. Hook it up with HomeKit and a quick touch of your iPhone or Apple Watch does the trick. There’s no additional hardware or software to install, which makes this a very enticing smart lock option for your automated smart home.
An even better feature of the Schlage Encode Plus is that it works very well with Wi-Fi and leaves out the trouble of network connectivity. The smart lock hops directly onto Wi-Fi with no troubles. Other features of this lock are that it has a big number pad, and even has its own alarm. But heads up: it’s a tad stingy with code storage, capping at 100 codes that it can store. That’s a bit less than some of its buddies like the August lock. So if you’re not on the iPhone bandwagon, this might not be your dream smart lock.
This sleek lock plays well with every home assistant that you can think of. Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home — you name it. Plus, it’s in with the new Matter trend that is taking all smart homes right now.
If you’re hunting for a smart lock that plays nice with almost every smart home system out there, then the Yale Assure Lock 2 is waving at you from the front row. Alexa? Check. Google Home, HomeKit, and SmartThings? Triple check. And word on the street is, it’s gonna buddy up with Matter in 2023. So, whether you’re team iPhone, Android, or you’re shouting commands at your Amazon Echo or Google Nest, this lock is for you. Just remember, if you switch from Bluetooth to something like Wi-Fi, you’ll be doing a bit of internal module juggling.
This smart lock comes after the already well equipped Assure SL smart lock. This smart lock has a similar layout and functionality and is a breeze to set up. But, there is a catch, which is there’s no old-fashioned keyhole in this lock. You’re going full-on futuristic with keycodes (unlimited, by the way), and app control. Another exciting feature is that if the battery needs replacing, you can give it another little 9v battery in the bottom of the keypad and ensure that you’re always able to keep connected to your smart lock.
If you want your smart look to sport a stealth look, the Level Bolt is probably going to be your best choice, hiding away inside your door. Just a heads up: you’ll need a smart home hub if you’re looking to control it from a distance. That includes smart hub systems such as Google Home, Alexa, and hopefully soon Savant smart home control.
If you love a minimalist and subtle touch, then you’re going to love the Level Bolt smart lock. Once the smart lock is installed, you won’t even know it’s there, as it is placed directly into your door. Good news for the key-lovers, you can still use your old keys to get in and out, and you won’t have to rely on an app or code storage to use your door in emergency situations.
The Level Bolt works well with HomeKit, Alexa, and Ring, however it is not currently available for Google Assistant. A tiny heads up: it’s got Bluetooth, but if you’re dreaming of controlling it from afar, you’ll need a nearby smart home hub from one of the major retailers. A couple of quirks aside, this lock is definitely one of the more unique options, while still sporting many useful features for your automated smart home.
Ditch the codes. This lock’s all about using your fingerprints to access your home. It’s got some other nifty safety features, too. However, an important note about this smart lock is that if you want it on your Wi-Fi, you’ll need to grab an adapter. One quick touch and you’re in! And if you’re all about secret codes, this lock sports a very sleek and new-age number keypad. this smart lock is unique in that the numbers shuffle around on the keypad, never staying in the same place. This prevents people from checking things such as fingerprint marks or other usual security issues in order to access your smart lock.
One important note about this smart lock is that it’s a lever lock, not your typical deadbolt like most smart locks. But heads up, if you’re dreaming of it playing nice with other smart home systems, you’re gonna need to shell out a bit. Either grab a $70 Wi-Fi control hub or level up to its sibling, the $299 Lockly Secure Pro, which comes Wi-Fi ready and will integrate seamlessly with Alexa and Google Home and fully integrate into your automated smart home.
When it comes to choosing the perfect smart lock for your home, it’s best to try out your top contenders and see if they work best for your own personal needs. These are the top brands that our customers have mentioned time and again work great and have wonderful connectivity for their automated smart homes. Over the years we’ve learned which ones hold up to the elements and which ones need replacing the most.
One of the most important aspects to finding the best smart lock is seeing how it works for your own daily life. Whether it works as just a regular lock, you want it to be a great lock. When you’re using the app that the lock comes with, you want to make sure that the app works and does what it’s supposed to. What other features it offers are also quite important as you want the most feature rich smart lock for your automated smart home. Making sure your home network that you’ve spent thousands of dollars on works well with your smart lock is also very important to consider, as you don’t want to invest in a smart lock that you can’t control from your Control4 or Savant smart control system. While a smart lock may seem like a small part of your overall setup, it is one of the most important parts to ensuring you have a safe and secure automated smart home.
No matter which smart lock you decide to install, Regent5 will be able to give it a personal touch wherever in the San Francisco Bay Area you may from — from Atherton to Hillsborough to Carmel-by-the-sea to Sonoma and Napa and everything in between. We’re here for your automated smart home.
.svg)
© 2024 Regent5, LLC. CSLB C10 & C7 License 1033103.
Areas Served Atherton, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Hillsborough, Burlingame, San Mateo, Woodside, Portola Valley, San Jose, Saratoga, Cupertino, Campbell, Los Gatos, Carmel, Pebble Beach, San Francisco, Tiburon, Napa, Sonoma.