Best Smart Locks for 2019

If you’ve ever stood outside your door fumbling for your keys, or hoped no one finds the spare key hidden for the pet sitter because you didn’t have time for a key handoff before vacation, you’ll appreciate the conveniences smart locks offer. Different brands let you automatically unlock your door as you approach, create codes to allow visitors access and remotely trigger your lock while you’re miles away. Here are three of our favorite smart locks, based on professional and customer reviews. For more information, check out best smart home security systems for 2019.

Not sure if a smart lock is right for you? Learn more about smart locks here in our guide.

Best for Renters: August Smart Lock, 3rd Generation, $149

This entry-level smart lock attaches to your existing deadbolt, making installation easy and letting you keep the same physical key. Bluetooth technology lets you unlock the door via a smartphone app or set it to automatically unlock when it senses your phone approaching. The lock includes August’s DoorSense technology to tell when your door is closed and can be set to automatically lock. You can issue visitors temporary access if they download the app.

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This lock is cheaper than most, retailing for $149 through August and often less at on Amazon. You’ll need to buy a Wi-Fi Connect Bridge separately for $79 (less when bundled with the lock), to add remote access outside Bluetooth range and the ability to connect to Alexa or Google Assistant. This lock doesn’t come with Z-Wave Plus and won’t integrate with Apple HomeKit.

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Variety of Features: Yale Assure SL, $299

The Yale Assure SL Connected, by August, incorporates August Home technology into a Yale lock. You can set your phone to automatically unlock the door within Bluetooth range or use the integrated keypad to get into your house. There’s a version of the lock with a keyway, too. Guests can get unique passcodes or a virtual key to enter, and access can automatically expire.

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An included Connect Bridge gives you remote access and lets the lock connect to Apple HomeKit, Alexa or Google Assistant. Included August DoorSense technology can tell you if the door is ajar and set the door to automatically lock.

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Wi-Fi Included: Schlage Encode, $249

The Schlage Encode lets you set up to 100 unique passcodes that are either permanent, set to expire or offer recurring access according to a schedule. A built-in alarm will sound if the lock senses an attempted break-in, and you can set the door to automatically lock when you leave.

Built-in Wi-Fi means no hub is needed to connect the Schlage Encode to other devices, although you’ll probably need to change batteries more often than locks that rely on Bluetooth. (Schlage estimates batteries will last six months.)

Need more choices? Here are 15 smart locks to consider.

Once you’ve bought a new smart lock, learn how to install your deadbolt.

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