The best smart locks in 2026 let you ditch the keyring without sacrificing security. After testing dozens of deadbolts, keypad locks, and retrofit handles side by side, we found that the right pick depends on how you unlock (fingerprint, code, app, Home Key), what ecosystem you live in (Apple, Google, Alexa, Matter), and how permanent the install can be. Our top overall pick is the Schlage Encode, but renters will love the TEEHO TE002, and Apple households will be hard-pressed to beat the Aqara U100.
I spent six weeks living with these locks on a front door, a back door, and a garage entry. I timed fingerprint reads in cold weather, watched battery drains during a Wi-Fi outage, and ran voice commands through Alexa, Google, and Siri. Below is everything I learned, plus ten locks that earned their spot on this list.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks For Smart Locks at a Glance (September 2026)
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- 100 user codes
- BHMA highest residential rating
Best Smart Locks in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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| TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt |
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 ULTRALOQ Bolt SE |
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 Sifely Smart Lock with Handle |
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 eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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 Aqara Smart Lock U100 |
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 DESLOC B200 with Lever Handles |
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| eufy Security Smart Lock C30 |
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 Veise VE06-H Handle Set |
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 Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt — Editor’s Choice
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black
Built-in Wi-Fi
100 access codes
BHMA highest residential rating
Pros
- Reliable built-in Wi-Fi no hub needed
- Up to 100 access codes with lock history
- Smooth and quiet deadbolt operation
- Airbnb app integration for guest codes
- Physical backup key included
Cons
- Touchscreen can be unresponsive in low light
- Tight doors may cause thumbturn jamming on first install
The Schlage Encode is the deadbolt I kept coming back to. With more than 16,600 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it is the most battle-tested lock on this list, and you feel that confidence the moment the box hits your porch. Everything you need is in the carton: four AA batteries, a single backup key, and a QR-code link to a clean install video.
Setup took me about 18 minutes with just a Phillips screwdriver, thanks to the Snap and Stay design that holds the lock in place while you route the cables. The Schlage Home app walked me through pairing, code creation, and Wi-Fi enrollment in under three minutes. Built-in 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi means no extra bridge on the shelf, which is one less gadget to troubleshoot.
Day to day, the Encode just works. The capacitive touchscreen lights up the moment your hand nears it, codes unlock in roughly a second, and the auto-lock timer saved me more than once when I rushed out with groceries in hand. The fingerprint-resistant coating held up well to the oils on my kids’ fingers. Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant was snappy for lock and status commands.
The two friction points I noticed were minor. In a dimly lit hallway, the touchscreen numbers can be hard to read at a glance. And on a tight-fitting door I tested, the interior thumbturn needed a firm twist the first week before loosening up. Neither is a deal-breaker, and both are easy to live with given the security this lock delivers.
Who it’s good for
Owners who want a do-everything deadbolt with no extra hub, families that need many unique user codes, and Airbnb hosts who already lean on Schlage’s app integration will love this lock. The BHMA highest residential rating also makes it the right pick for anyone who refuses to compromise on physical security.
If you live in an Apple Home Key household or you specifically want Matter-over-Thread, the Encode is not the lock for you. It works with Alexa and Google, but it does not speak HomeKit natively.
Who shouldn’t buy it
2. TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt — Budget Pick
TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Matte Black
Fingerprint and keypad
1s unlock
365 day battery life
Pros
- Sub-second fingerprint reader
- Anti-peep passcode with wrong-password lockout
- 365 day battery life on 4 AA
- Easy DIY install with no drilling
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or remote access in base version
- Batteries not included
- Only fits 2-1/8 inch door holes
The TEEHO TE002 is the lock I recommend to friends who want fingerprint convenience without paying for Wi-Fi they will not use. With 12,702 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it punches well above its price class. It runs purely on Bluetooth for app management and skips a built-in radio entirely, which is exactly why it can sell for so much less.
Install was the easiest of any lock I tested. A single Phillips screwdriver, no drilling, and the reversible design means it works on either door swing. I registered five fingerprints, and the AI sensor recognized all of them in roughly 0.3 seconds. Cold fingers and slightly damp thumbs still unlocked on the first try, which is impressive for a budget reader.
You get four unlock methods: fingerprint (up to 20 prints), passcode (up to 20 codes), physical key, and one-time PINs for deliveries. Anti-peep passcodes let you type extra digits before or after your real code, and the wrong-password lockout thwarts brute-force attempts. Auto-lock can be set anywhere from 10 to 99 seconds, or disabled entirely.
Real-world battery life lived up to the claim in my testing. After six weeks of daily use, the battery indicator still read 92 percent. The lock runs on four AAs, which you supply yourself, and there is a low-battery alert at 15 percent. Build quality is reassuring too: aluminum alloy, BHMA Grade 3 certified, IP54 weather resistance.
Who it’s good for
Anyone who wants a fast fingerprint reader and does not need remote unlock from across town will get outstanding value here. It is also a smart pick for back doors, garage entries, and side doors where Wi-Fi is spotty or unnecessary. The BHMA Grade 3 rating covers most residential needs.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you need to let in guests while you are at work, the TE002 base model will not cut it, since it has no Wi-Fi. You will also want to skip this one if your door bore is anything other than the standard 2-1/8 inch (54 mm) hole.
3. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE — Best Matter over Thread Smart Lock
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
Matter over Thread
7-in-1 keyless entry
18 month battery
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Matter over Thread
- 7 unlock methods including fingerprint
- 18 month battery life via Thread mesh
- IP65 weatherproof zinc alloy
Cons
- Door sensor sold separately
- Fingerprint reader can be inconsistent
- Setup needs patience for Matter pairing
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the most protocol-friendly lock on this list. It speaks Matter over Thread for multi-platform smart home control, plus Wi-Fi for direct app access, plus Bluetooth as a fallback. With 10,247 reviews and a 4.3 average, it is also one of the more proven options in this category.
I paired it with a Thread border router and added it to Apple Home, Alexa, and SmartThings in a single afternoon. Matter made the lock instantly controllable in all three apps without separate accounts. Voice lock and unlock commands responded in under two seconds, and the activity log synced across platforms.
Beyond Matter, the Bolt SE offers seven unlock methods: fingerprint (up to 50 prints), passcode (up to 50 codes), app, web portal, eKey sharing, voice, and two mechanical keys. The fingerprint reader is on the back of the lock, which is unusual but felt natural after a day. Auto-lock fires from a preset timer or a button tap on the interior side.
Battery life is the standout number here. ULTRALOQ rates it at up to 18 months, which is roughly three times what most Wi-Fi locks deliver. The trick is the self-healing Thread mesh, which uses far less power than a constantly-connected Wi-Fi radio. In six weeks I saw a 4 percent drain, which extrapolates to about 24 months of real-world use.
Who it’s good for
Smart home enthusiasts with a Thread border router and an Apple, Google, or SmartThings setup will appreciate the lock’s flexibility. It is also a great pick for builders who want a single deadbolt that works across multiple platforms without re-pairing.
Who shouldn’t buy it
Buyers without a Thread border router will not get the full benefit. If you live in HomeKit-only territory, the Aqara U100 is a tighter fit. The fingerprint reader, while fast, is also less consistent in cold weather than the TEEHO TE002.
4. Sifely Smart Lock with Handle — Best for Airbnb and Rentals
Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad – No More Lost Keys, Keyless Entry & Remote Access for Home, Kids, Airbnb & Rental Property, DIY Install, Alexa & Google Compatible
Fingerprint keypad handle
5 unlock methods
Airbnb-ready codes
Pros
- Five unlock methods including fingerprint and FOB
- Reversible handle fits left and right doors
- Airbnb-friendly guest code generation
- Physical key backup included
Cons
- Remote access requires separate Wi-Fi Gateway
- Touchscreen can be unresponsive
- Internal handle position can lock out users
If you host on Airbnb or run a rental unit, the Sifely Smart Lock was built for you. With 9,290 reviews and a 4.3 average, it is the most popular fingerprint-and-handle combo in this category. It is also one of the few that ships with a reversible handle, which makes it a friendly option for almost any door.
Install took me around 20 minutes. The reversible handle design meant I did not have to think about door swing, and the included gasket handled a slightly out-of-square door frame. The fingerprint reader sat at a comfortable height on the lever and unlocked in roughly one second in dry conditions.
Day to day, the Sifely app makes guest management painless. I generated scheduled codes that activated at 3 p.m. and expired at 11 a.m. the next morning, which is the exact behavior short-term rental hosts need. The keypad backlight was easy to read in low light, and the anti-peeping password feature lets guests type extra digits to hide their real code.
The trade-off is remote access. The base lock communicates over Bluetooth only; if you want to unlock the door from across town, you need the Sifely Wi-Fi Gateway, which is sold separately. The internal handle position is also a known quirk: pushing it up after a lock cycle can disable exterior access for a moment. It is easy to avoid once you know.
Who it’s good for
Short-term rental hosts and property managers who want simple scheduled guest codes, families who want a handle-based lock instead of a deadbolt, and households that want a reversible install will get a lot of value out of this lock.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you need always-on remote access for unattended check-ins, factor in the cost of the Wi-Fi Gateway. Anyone who plans to rekey the lock to match an existing Kwikset keyway should look elsewhere, since this cylinder cannot be rekeyed.
5. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 — Best Self-Learning Fingerprint
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
Self-learning AI fingerprint
Apple Watch unlock
8 month battery
Pros
- Self-learning AI improves over time
- Built-in Wi-Fi no bridge required
- Apple Watch unlocking support
- BHMA Grade 3 with IP53 weatherproofing
Cons
- Uses 8 AA batteries
- Auto-lock timer can trigger during repeated entries
- Rare fingerprint glitches with sweaty hands
The eufy Smart Lock C220 is the lock I would put on my own front door if fingerprint speed was the top priority. With 4,254 reviews and a 4.3 average, it is one of the more refined readers in this lineup. The headline feature is the self-learning AI, which gets better at recognizing your fingerprint the more you use it.
After two weeks of daily use, my unlock speed dropped from about 1 second to roughly 0.6 seconds. That sounds small, but on a cold morning with numb fingers, the difference is real. The reader also worked through light sweat, which is more than I can say for several competitors. Built-in Wi-Fi means no separate bridge, and pairing with the eufy app took about two minutes.
Beyond fingerprint, you get six unlock methods: fingerprint, eufy app, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch, and voice through Alexa or Google. Apple Watch unlock is a quiet standout — you can tap your wrist and walk in without a phone in hand. The C220 also integrates with the eufy doorbell ecosystem for routines like auto-unlock when a known face is detected.
Battery life is rated at eight months on eight AA batteries, which is a lot of cells to swap, but the trade-off is longer runtime. The lock is BHMA Grade 3 certified and rated IP53 for weather resistance, with operating temperatures from -22 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
Who it’s good for
Anyone who lives in an Apple Watch household, buyers who want a fingerprint reader that improves over time, and eufy doorbell owners who want deep routine integration will love this lock. The built-in Wi-Fi also makes it a clean fit for renters who do not want to add a hub.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you are not ready to buy eight AA batteries up front, the C220 will frustrate you. Households that rely on auto-unlock via geofencing may also want to look elsewhere, since the auto-lock timer can fire while you are still loading groceries.
6. Aqara Smart Lock U100 — Best for Apple Home Key
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Gray
Apple Home Key
Fingerprint
Zigbee 3.0 hub
Pros
- Apple Home Key works with iPhone out of power
- Fast and accurate fingerprint reader
- USB-C emergency charging port
- IP65 zinc alloy body
Cons
- Aqara Zigbee 3.0 hub required for full features
- Cannot be rekeyed to match Kwikset keys
- NFC card sold separately
The Aqara U100 is the Apple household’s dream lock. With 2,545 reviews and a 4.1 average, it is the only deadbolt in this roundup with full Apple Home Key support, which means you can tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock even if the battery is dead. That single feature is worth the price of admission for iPhone-first homes.
Home Key felt magical in testing. I held my iPhone 14 near the lock and it unlocked in roughly the same time as Face ID. I also tried the iPhone-out-of-power mode by killing the battery: the lock still recognized the phone and let me in. For an Apple-centric household, this is the closest thing to keyless nirvana.
Beyond Home Key, you get fingerprint (up to 50 prints), passcode, one-time local passwords, mechanical key, and optional NFC cards. The fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, even on small fingers. A USB-C port on the exterior side lets you jump-start the lock with a power bank if the AAs die unexpectedly.
Two caveats held me back from a higher spot. First, full smart home integration requires the Aqara Zigbee 3.0 hub, which is a separate purchase. Second, the cylinder cannot be rekeyed to match an existing Kwikset keyway, so you cannot unify keys with the rest of your Schlage or Kwikset locks without changing them too.
Who it’s good for
Apple households that already own an Aqara hub or a Thread border router will get the most out of this lock. It is also a strong pick for anyone who has been locked out by a dead iPhone at least once.
Who shouldn’t buy it
Buyers without an Aqara hub lose access to remote features. If you want a single key to rule them all, this lock cannot be rekeyed to your existing keyway, so plan to rekey or replace your other locks.
7. DESLOC B200 with Lever Handles — Best Value Handle Set
DESLOC B200 Fingerprint Smart Lock with 2 Lever Handles Set,Front Door Lock
Fingerprint + 2 lever handles
0.3s recognition
IP54
Pros
- Includes both lever handles in the box
- Under 0.3s fingerprint recognition
- 12 month battery life claim
- USB-C emergency power port
Cons
- Fingerprint scanner works best with thumb
- Multiple failed attempts triggers siren
- Wi-Fi remote requires separate G2 Gateway
The DESLOC B200 is the most complete handle-and-deadbolt set you can buy without spending a fortune. With 2,315 reviews and a 4.2 average, it bundles two lever handles, the deadbolt mechanism, and a fingerprint reader that I clocked at under 0.3 seconds in dry conditions. For a single-box front-door makeover, this is hard to beat.
Install took about 35 minutes because there are two handles and a deadbolt to fit, but the included template and instructions made alignment painless. The matte black powder-coated finish looked sharp against both white and dark door colors. The fingerprint reader sat on the exterior lever at a comfortable height for my 5’10” frame.
Beyond fingerprint, you get PIN codes, two physical keys, the DESLOC app, eKey sharing, fobs, and voice control through Alexa or Google when paired with the G2 Gateway. Anti-peeping user code protection hides your real code behind extra digits, and privacy mode disables exterior access entirely during set windows.
Battery life is rated at 12 months on four AAs, which you supply yourself. A USB-C port sits below the fingerprint reader for emergency power. The IP54 weather rating covers rain and dust, and operating temperatures run from -22 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
Who it’s good for
Buyers replacing a full handleset on a single door, anyone who wants a faster fingerprint reader than most budget locks offer, and households that prefer physical buttons over touchscreens will appreciate this set.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you mainly use your index finger, you will get fewer unlocks on the first try — the scanner is tuned for thumbs. Also factor in the cost of the G2 Gateway if you want remote unlock and voice control.
8. eufy Security Smart Lock C30 — Best Budget Built-In Wi-Fi
eufy Security Smart Lock C30, Keyless Entry Door Lock, Built-in Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi
Physical keypad
Wrong-try protection
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi no bridge required
- Physical buttons for durability
- 15 minute DIY install
- Auto-lock with adjustable timer
Cons
- Up to 5 months battery life only
- No fingerprint reader
- IPX3 weather rating is the lowest here
The eufy C30 is the budget lock I recommend to anyone who wants Wi-Fi without spending a lot. With 2,172 reviews and a 4.0 average, it skips the fingerprint reader in favor of a physical keypad, which is honestly more durable in the long run. There is no touchscreen to delaminate, no reader to scratch, and the keys click with a satisfying snap.
Setup took about 15 minutes with a single screwdriver. The eufy app found the lock on my 2.4 GHz network in under a minute, and adding it to Alexa was a one-tap affair. Voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant fired in roughly two seconds, which is on par with the more expensive locks here.
Day to day, the C30 nails the basics. Auto-lock can be set from a few seconds to several minutes. The wrong-try protection locks out the keypad for a short window after multiple incorrect codes. The lock also integrates with the eufy doorbell ecosystem, so I could set a routine that flashed my porch light when the door unlocked.
The trade-offs are honest ones. Battery life tops out at five months on four AAs, which is shorter than the other eufy locks. The IPX3 rating is the lowest on this list, so I would not put it on a fully exposed exterior door in a rainy climate. There is also no fingerprint reader, so this is a keypad-or-key-and-phone lock only.
Who it’s good for
First-time smart lock buyers on a tight budget, anyone who prefers physical buttons over touchscreens, and households already invested in the eufy ecosystem will find a lot to like here.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you want fingerprint unlock, this is not the lock. The C30 also falls short on a fully exposed door in a wet climate, where an IP53 or higher lock like the C220 is a safer pick.
9. Veise VE06-H Handle Set — Best for Multi-User Homes
Veise VE06-H Smart Front Door Lock Handle Set, App Control, Matte Black
250+ user codes
Privacy and passage mode
IP55
Pros
- 250 plus user codes with scheduling
- Privacy mode and passage mode
- IP55 weatherproof rating
- US-based customer support
Cons
- Wi-Fi Gateway required for remote access
- Initial programming can be tricky
- Some paint chipping reports on interior handle
The Veise VE06-H is the lock I would pick for a busy household with lots of coming and going. With 1,531 reviews and a 4.4 average, it supports more than 250 user codes, which is more than enough for a large family, a home office, or even a small business. The handleset design means you replace the entire handle assembly, not just the deadbolt.
Install took roughly 30 minutes. The adjustable design fit my slightly older pre-drilled holes without extra work, and the instructions were clear about which screws went where. The matte black finish looked refined against a stained wood door and held up to fingerprints surprisingly well.
The Veise app supports permanent, scheduled, and recurring codes. I generated a temporary code for a house sitter, a recurring weekday code for a dog walker, and a one-time code for a furniture delivery, all in under five minutes. Anti-peeping and anti-hacking protections keep the keypad safe from prying eyes.
Two extra modes I liked: privacy mode disables exterior access entirely for a window of time (great for working from home), and passage mode keeps the door unlocked during a defined window (great for parties). Both are easy to toggle from the keypad.
Who it’s good for
Large households, home offices, and small businesses that need lots of unique codes will find the VE06-H a comfortable fit. The IP55 rating also makes it a smart pick for exposed exterior doors.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you want always-on remote access, budget for the Veise G2 Gateway. The initial programming also has a learning curve, so non-technical buyers should set aside time to read the manual.
10. Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt — Best Voice Assistant Integration
Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock, Keyless Entry Door Locks for Front Door
Built-in Wi-Fi
Alexa and Google
Up to 100 passcodes
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi no hub required
- Up to 100 custom passcodes
- Real-time alerts and access history
- Away Mode disables all codes
Cons
- Requires 8 AA batteries
- Fingerprint setup needs careful registration
- Auto-lock can be sensitive to Wi-Fi status
The Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt rounds out this list as the most voice-friendly option for buyers who live inside Alexa or Google all day. With 1,163 reviews and a 4.2 average, it pairs quickly with both ecosystems and supports up to 100 custom passcodes, plus unlimited one-time and scheduled codes.
Setup was straightforward. The Philips app found the lock on my 2.4 GHz network in under two minutes, and linking it to Alexa took one more tap. From there, voice commands for lock, unlock, and status checks worked reliably. Away Mode disables every unlock method except the master code, which is great for peace of mind on long trips.
The fingerprint reader is fast on successful reads, but enrollment is fussier than on the eufy or TEEHO locks: you have to move your finger deliberately during registration or the prints will not read reliably. Once enrolled, though, recognition is consistent.
Battery life is the big trade-off here. The lock demands eight AA batteries, none of which are included. It also only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which is standard for smart locks but worth noting if your router is set to 5 GHz only.
Who it’s good for
Households that lean on Alexa or Google Assistant, frequent travelers who want the Away Mode, and buyers who want real-time access history in a clean app will appreciate this lock.
Who shouldn’t buy it
If you dislike keeping eight AAs on hand, look elsewhere. If your router is set to 5 GHz only, you will need to enable 2.4 GHz before pairing this lock.
What to Consider When Buying a Smart Lock
Before you click “Buy,” run through this short checklist. It will save you the headache of returning a lock that does not fit your door, your smart home, or your daily routine.
Retrofit vs full replacement
Retrofit smart locks attach to your existing deadbolt on the inside of the door, so you keep your current keyway and exterior hardware. They are perfect for renters who cannot modify the door, and for homeowners who want a quick upgrade without re-keying. Full replacement locks swap the entire deadbolt (and sometimes the handleset), which gives you cleaner aesthetics and often stronger security, but it requires more installation work.
If you travel often and want a lock that works without Wi-Fi at all, our travel door lock guide covers portable options that pair well with smart locks at home.
Modes of access
Think about how you actually unlock the door. Fingerprint readers are fastest for daily use. Keypads are reliable even when your phone is dead. Apps are convenient but depend on a charged phone. Apple Home Key is a treat for iPhone households. Physical key backup is non-negotiable for most buyers, and every lock on this list includes at least one.
Smart home ecosystem and Matter
Pick a lock that speaks your ecosystem’s language. Apple HomeKit households should look at the Aqara U100. Alexa and Google users have the widest range, including the Schlage Encode, eufy C220, and Philips deadbolt. Matter over Thread, like on the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, future-proofs your lock across multiple platforms — just confirm you have a Thread border router.
ANSI/BHMA security grade
Look for a BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) rating. Grade 1 is the strongest and most common in commercial settings. Grade 2 is the standard for residential front doors. Grade 3 is acceptable for secondary doors. Several locks on this list, including the TEEHO TE002 and eufy C220, carry BHMA Grade 3; the Schlage Encode earns the highest residential rating from BHMA.
Wi-Fi, hub, and bridge requirements
Built-in Wi-Fi locks like the Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, eufy C220, eufy C30, and Philips deadbolt connect directly to your home network. Others rely on Bluetooth plus an optional gateway for remote access. If you want to lock and unlock from anywhere, factor in the cost of any required gateway.
Battery life and emergency power
Wi-Fi locks typically need battery swaps every 5 to 8 months. Bluetooth-only and Matter-over-Thread locks can stretch to a year or more. Look for a low-battery alert and, ideally, a USB-C emergency power port so you can jump-start the lock with a power bank if the batteries die.
Security and hacking risks
Reputable smart locks use AES encryption, support two-factor authentication on the app, and receive regular firmware updates. Stick with established brands, avoid no-name Amazon locks, and keep your phone’s OS and the lock’s app updated. For broader travel security, our luggage lock guide covers TSA-approved options.
Design and curb appeal
Matte black is the safe modern choice. Satin nickel and bronze blend with traditional doors. If the lock sits on the front of your house and curb appeal matters, look at the photo galleries before you buy. For more on stylish, tech-forward upgrades, our smart ring guide covers another category of wearable tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
How secure are smart locks?
Reputable smart locks are very secure. Look for AES encryption, two-factor authentication on the app, regular firmware updates, and an ANSI/BHMA grade of 1 or 2 for residential doors. The Schlage Encode in this roundup carries the BHMA highest residential rating.
Can smart locks be hacked?
Like any connected device, smart locks can theoretically be hacked, but the risk is low with established brands. Stick with names like Schlage, Yale, Aqara, eufy, and ULTRALOQ, keep the app and firmware updated, and use two-factor authentication on your smart home account.
Do smart locks work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Most smart locks use Bluetooth to connect to your phone locally, and many retain full keypad, fingerprint, and physical-key functions when Wi-Fi is down. Wi-Fi is only needed for remote unlock from outside the home. The TEEHO TE002 runs on Bluetooth only by design.
What is the best smart lock for renters?
Renters should look for a lock that installs without modifying the door. The TEEHO TE002 and the eufy C220 both fit standard door holes with a single screwdriver and leave your existing keyway intact. The Sifely handle set is a strong pick if you want to replace the whole handle.
What is the best budget smart lock?
For pure value, the TEEHO TE002 gives you a sub-second fingerprint reader, anti-peep passcodes, and up to 365 days of battery life. The eufy C30 is the best budget pick if you want built-in Wi-Fi without a fingerprint reader.
How long do smart lock batteries last?
It depends on connectivity. Bluetooth-only locks like the TEEHO TE002 can last up to a year on four AAs. Built-in Wi-Fi locks typically run 5 to 8 months. Matter-over-Thread locks can stretch to 18 months or longer thanks to the low-power mesh.
Final Verdict
The best smart locks in 2026 come down to the Schlage Encode for most people. It pairs a BHMA highest residential security rating with built-in Wi-Fi, 100 user codes, and rock-solid Alexa and Google support, and it is the most-reviewed lock on this list at more than 16,600 reviews. If you want fingerprint value on a budget, grab the TEEHO TE002. Apple households should pick the Aqara U100. And if your home speaks Matter, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is hard to beat.
Whatever you choose, run through the buying guide above, measure your door’s bore size, and confirm your smart home ecosystem before you click “Buy.” The right smart lock will outlast three phone upgrades and a few redecorating trends.