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The Ultimate Buying Guide to Choosing a Premium Smart Lock
Thanks to the rapid development of technology, we currently find ourselves in the era of smart devices. These devices can be controlled through our smartphones and tell us what’s happening on their screens, which is why they’re such a popular choice. One such product that is quickly gaining popularity is the smart lock.A smart lock is an advanced digital locking mechanism that provides increased security and safety to your home or building. Smart locks can replace the traditional locks we’re familiar with, and their easy-to-use digital locking systems are relatively flexible and packed with various features and benefits. With the help of these locks, you can unlock your door from a smartphone or key fob with a simple finger touch — you won’t have to search for your keys in your bag anymore. We’ve listed some of the highest-rated smart locks of 2023 that you can check out below:
ULTRALOQ Smart Lock
Best Overall
HOTATA Smart Lock
Most Features
Yale Security Smart Lock
Voiceover Connection
Sifely Smart Lock
Multi-Locking System
Eufy Security Smart Lock
Fastest Unlocking
SMONET Smart Lock
Easy to Use
Factors to Consider
Smart locks are designed to meet your digital needs. This new technology can save you time and energy, and buying one won’t be a hassle if you keep the following points in mind:Security features
The most important thing to compare and consider before buying a smart lock is its security features. If a lock can be opened with just a standard key, then it means a stranger can enter your home without your permission. A smart lock should have a high-end encryption system so that only you can open the door.Performance
Make sure to look for a smart lock with excellent performance and numerous positive reviews. You can go through various smart lock reviews online to check out what other people are saying about a particular smart lock and make a solid decision.Versatility
Make sure the smart lock you buy is compatible with the devices you’ll be connecting it to. You can save yourself a lot of trouble — and money — by taking this simple measure.Control protocol
There are numerous control protocols for smart locks, and each of them comes with unique features. WiFi is by far the most common way of controlling your lock system, although some systems use a Bluetooth low-energy protocol as well. Many smart locks also use Z-Wave to communicate with your phone.Types of Smart Locks
A smart lock is a high-tech device that secures entry to a building and prevents unauthorized access. This can be achieved by a lock and key, a biometric fingerprint reader, or a fob-enabled smart lock.Keypad combination
A keypad combination smart lock requires you to enter a code to gain access, and this is usually an extended code that’s made up of four to six digits. They typically resemble a square, pentagon, octagon, or similar shape, with a keypad on it to enter your code.Biometric
A biometric smart lock does a whole lot more than your standard lock. A biometric smart lock uses a fingerprint, an iris, facial recognition, or a combination of these things to unlock your door.Fob-enabled
Fob-enabled smart locks are systems that use an access card or a fob to open the lock. You’ll receive a fob when you purchase the device, so you won’t have to worry about someone without one gaining access to your home — simply swipe the card and enter your humble abode.Perks of Using a Smart Lock
Smart locks can have several benefits that shouldn’t be taken for granted:- Smart locks can be more secure than traditional keys and aren’t too expensive
- Forget about fumbling with keys — you can give digital keys to family members and guests for easy access
- You can see who opens the door and at what time with a smart lock’s mobile app and notifications. This can be a huge help when you’re not at home
- You also won’t have to worry about losing your keys or having to replace damaged locks. If it does get damaged, you can replace its battery rather than having to replace the lock itself
ULTRALOQ Smart Lock
Best Overall
Everyone wants to protect their house, and with the help of the ULTRALOQ Smart Lock, you can now conveniently secure your home. Its 6-in-1 keyless entry system enables you to lock and enter your house however you want, making access easier for you and your guests but more difficult for potential intruders.This smart lock offers everything from 360° fingerprint ID to automatic unlocking features, from smartphone capabilities to using a good old-fashioned mechanical key. The app that comes with this smart lock lets you give access to others and check who’s opened the door no matter where you are, and its heavy-duty build makes it tougher to crack open. We’ve chosen this smart lock as our top pick thanks to its impressive access features and high-quality, user-friendly design.
Pros
- Can store around 100 fingerprints
- Durable weatherproof design
- Easy to install
Cons
- Can be complicated to understand
HOTATA Smart Lock
Most Features
The HOTATA Smart Lock is a feature-packed, convenient keyless entry door lock for any home. It offers an impressive 6-in-1 unlocking capability, providing users with options, such as fingerprint, Bluetooth, code, IC card, key and remote control to gain access. The fingerprint response time of this lock is ultra-fast with an impressive 99.99% biometric recognition rate. It makes life easier for those who offer homes for rental purposes; the smart lock supports remote Ekey/passcode sharing, allowing them to generate and share it with guests, giving them more freedom and flexibility in their schedules.Installation of the HOTATA Smart Lock is also easy and trouble-free, requiring no extra drills and no locksmith being necessary – installation can be done by watching the instructional video provided on this page. The HOTATA Smart Lock also offers excellent customer service with a one-year warranty and free lifetime technical support for owners of this lock.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Wide range of unlocking options
- Can add up to 350 fingerprints
Cons
- No manual unlocking from the inside
Yale Security Smart Lock
Voiceover Connection
We all know how frustrating it can be to come home after a long day and not be able to find your keys in your bulky bag, but you can eliminate this headache with the help of the Yale Security Smart Lock. You can unlock this smart lock with the help of a simple code or its mobile app, and you can use the app to grant guests temporary access that expires after a set amount of time for increased home security and peace of mind. You can connect this smart lock with your preferred voice-over assistant, including Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. The device comes with a WiFi connect bridge included, and it can replace your door’s standard deadbolt lock so you can secure your home in no time at all.
Pros
- Includes an auto-unlocking feature
- Easily fits standard doors
- Share digital access with friends and family
Cons
- Installation can be difficult
Sifely Smart Lock
Multi-Locking System
What more can you want than a lock that lets you open your door without a key? This Sifely Smart Lock offers you and your guests access to your home by entering a code or sliding a fob, and you can even use your fingerprint, smartphone, or a traditional key to get into the comfort of your home. This smart lock can be a great choice for anyone living in a rental apartment as it isn’t that expensive but still does a high-quality job. It’s easy to install, and it can store hundreds of passcodes, key fobs, and fingerprints to provide you with the ultimate security you desire. This smart lock has an impressive battery life and features, and you can even connect it to various smart home assistants as well for more convenient use.
Pros
- Simple installation process
- Its app is free to use
- Various unlocking options
Cons
- Not a deadbolt lock
Eufy Security Smart Lock
Fastest Unlocking
Want a locking system that’s faster and more convenient than twisting your keys? With the help of the Eufy Security Smart Lock, you can save precious time when trying to enter your home. This smart lock can recognize your fingerprint in less than a second and unlock your door nearly as fast, and once you enter, the door will already be closed and locked. You can also use this smart lock’s app or keypad to unlock it, and its weather-resistant design makes it a great choice for all climates, both indoors and outdoors. For added security, all saved fingerprints and data will be stored on the smart lock itself, meaning that this device isn’t susceptible to cloud-system hacks.
Pros
- Automatic locking system
- Can withstand various weather conditions and temperatures
- Data is saved locally
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a WiFi bridge
SMONET Smart Lock
Easy to Use
For multiple ways to unlock your door, check out the SMONET Smart Lock. Its 7-in-1 design makes it easier than ever to unlock your door, and you can use a passcode, fob, fingerprint, smartphone app, or a standard key to gain entry as you see fit.This smart lock even lets you share a digital key with guests, and its mobile app will let you see door activity to stay up to date with all the comings and goings in your home. Its fingerprint recognition system is pretty fast and can save you precious time while trying to get in the house, and even better is that its detailed instruction guide can help you set this smart lock up without requiring professional help.
Pros
- Can be installed on various doors
- Long battery life
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- Gateway for Alexa connectivity isn’t included
People Also Asked
Are smart locks weatherproof?
No, not all smart locks are weatherproof, although many are. Some smart locks can be left outside in all sorts of weather, while others can only be used in dry conditions.
What’s the difference between a waterproof smart lock and a water-resistant one?
A waterproof smart lock cannot be penetrated by water, whereas water resistance means a smart lock is protected against some water but can still be penetrated by it.
How long can a smart lock last?
With proper maintenance, a smart lock can last for more than a year before its battery needs to be replaced. Your smart lock’s manufacturer may suggest how often you need to change the battery to keep it working so your home stays safe and secure.
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