Physical locks are soon being faced out with smart locks. The latter are more convenient, more secure and eliminate the need for carrying bulky keys wherever you go. The smart locks also grant access to your delivery guy, nanny, house cleaners and can even remotely inform you when your kids come home or an intruder tries to tamper with the locking system.
For property owners the benefits start with the fact that you do not need to change locks every time you have new tenants. All you need is to change the door codes. If you are thinking of getting yourself a smart lock it is wise you go for the best. Instead of spending hours in research we have prepared this buying guide for you.
Contents
Best smart locks for apartments – Comparison table
Best smart locks for apartments | Best for | Weight | Check on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
Best for overall smart lock | 2.8 pounds | ||
Best for multiple compatibilities | 3 pounds | ||
Best for property owners | 3.89 pounds | ||
Best value smart lock | 13.9 ounces | ||
Best for latest technologies | 1.2 pounds | ||
Best budget lock | 1.85 pounds |
Reviews for Best smart lock for apartments
Schlage Deadbolt smart lock – Best overall smart lock
The Schlage comes with built-in Wi-Fi so that you can lock and unlock your door from almost anywhere. When paired with the Amazon key app you can grant access to your guests for limited defined periods of time. The key lock system also integrates with dozens of cloud based access control companies like Vanderbilt and Brivo. You can also integrate it with your video intercom so that you can see who comes into your house. The system can be paired with Google Assistant, Siri and Alexa voice commands for keyless entry into your apartment.
The touchscreen is fingerprint resistant so you do not have to worry about burglars having access to your fingerprints once you have opened the door. The door lock also comes with a built-in alarm technology that gives you alerts in case of security breaches. There is also a low battery indicator that gives you warning on the same. The door lock is easy to install with a screwdriver and you do not need to drill holes to your doors. The door lock is capable of holding up to 100 codes.
What we liked:
- Highly versatile lock with multiple features
- With Wi-Fi remote locking/unlocking
- Easy to install
- Integrates with a variety of apps
What we did not like:
- The battery drains very fast
Yale Assure Lock SL – Best for multiple compatibility
Yale doors have a history that goes back some 180 years ago. The company has a number of locks that support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee and Z-wave. The Yale Assure Lock SL is one of their top rated apartment locks. The lock comes in a sleek and stylish glass and metal housing is completely keyless.
You can use the Yale app to lock/unlock from anywhere. You also have a backlit keypad for unlocking with an access code. The door also has system that allows it to automatically lock and unlock as your approach the door. You can share access to the lock with those whom you want to grant entry and monitor who goes in/out.
When it comes to connectivity the Yale Assure lock is equipped with a Wi-Fi bridge that eliminates the need for additional hubs. It is compatible with various voice assistant apps like Google assistant, Siri, and Alexa. In also integrates well with some home platforms like SmartThings and Homekit.
The key lock is easy to install as all you need is a screwdriver – no drilling of holes. You can use your phone or apple watch to wirelessly gain entry into your house. No more hassles for carrying keys. Due to the use of advanced low power Z-wave and Zigbee technologies the Yale lock has a longer battery life.
What we liked:
- Convenient keypad access
- Ability to share codes with guests
- Auto-locks when you leave
- Battery power efficient
What we did not like:
- The locks are completely keyless and there is a chance of you being locked out of your house should you miss out on the codes
Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi smart lock – Best for property managers
The Halo lock uses the kwikset app for Wi-Fi enabled access to your door. You can connect to Alexa for voice commands. The key lock gives you access to 250 customer user codes which you can share with family and friends. You can enable/disable access via the Kwikset app as well schedule authorization times and frequency. Through your smartphone you are also able to view history and receive notifications.
The screen is patented so that you fingerprint do not remain on-screen. The key lock is great for property managers who have a central entry point as you can create codes for your customers with ease. Through the app you no longer need to worry whether you have locked your door or not as you can also do it remotely. You can even grant contractors a onetime user code that expires after the day is over. The only known downside to the lock is that it offers a short battery life of less than six months.
What we liked:
- Access to over 250 user codes
- Connects to various voice commands
- View check-in history from your app
- Remote locking/unlocking
What we did not like:
- Short battery life
August Wi-Fi smart lock – Best value smart lock
This is a small, stylish and discreet smart lock that is Wi-Fi enabled for easy access. The lock integrates well with various voice assistant apps like Google Assistant, Alexa, home away, Airbnb, Simplisafe among others. The lock allows for keyless entry of the house while allowing you to track who comes in and out. It works with most door locks including the single-cylinder deadbolt.
Since it easily attaches to your existing deadbolt you still can retain your keys. You can send guest keys from your app and even control their access based on hourly, weekly or monthly schedules. With the Door sense feature you are able to tell when your door is closed. The locks also automatically close themselves when you leave. The lock is very easy to install with the process taking less than 15 minutes.
August is a reputable brand owned by ASSA ABLOY. The company has over the years being recognized for producing smart locks that easily attach to existing deadbolts. The locks are protected through TLS data encryption and AES 128 bit. The locks come with a lost phone feature that allows you to use physical keys to gain entry to the locking system. The locks use CR123A lithium batteries. The average battery life is slated for 3 to 6 months.
What we liked:
- Stylish design
- Integrates with various voice assistant apps
- Schedule guests codes
- Automatically shuts door as you leave
- Easy to install
What we did not like:
- Wi-Fi bridge sold separately
Danalock V3 Bluetooth & Z-wave smart lock – Best for latest technologies
Danalock is a company with origins from Denmark. It offers smart locks that leverage of some of the latest technologies like Z-wave and Bluetooth. The locks are made from anodized aluminum and ABS; this makes them quite sturdy enough.
The Danalock V3 uses Bluetooth 4.2 and Z-wave technology for wireless smart lock access. This means you can control your lock functions like lock/unlock and check who gained entry through your mobile phone. To protect data flow between your phone and lock, it uses special advanced security protocol TLS 1.2. This security feature authenticates the digital keys while ensuring that private information does not leave the chip.
The door locks are quite elegant and offer a scratch free surface area. The lock also features a motorized locking assistance with simple twist assist. With this feature you only need to turn the lock with your thumb a few degrees and the motor takes over. The Danalock retrofits with US deadbolts, Euro cylinders and Scandi cylinders. You can share digital keys with your guests so that they can access your apartment when you are not there. The user of S-wave, Bluetooth 4.2 and Zigbee technologies ensures that you get extended battery life of up to one year. The lock is compatible with Alarm.com, Apple Homekit, Zigbee/Z-wave plus and can work with Zigbee Hub, Siri voice commands and Amazon Alexa. The Danalock is ideal for tenants and property managers.
What we liked:
- Sleek design
- Compatible with a variety of voice assistants
- Extended battery life
- Advanced encryption security features
What we did not like:
- Some functions are not compatible with Amazon Alexa or Apple Homekit
WYZE Lock Wi-Fi & Bluetooth enabled smart lock – Best budget smart lock
You can use the WYZE lock app to unlock/lock your door from anywhere. By enabling auto-lock you do not need to worry anymore about forgetting to lock your door. The app allows you to share door codes with guests and view a history of lock events.
The WYZE lock comes with a built-in gyroscope that allows you to know if a door is closed or open. Keyless entry to your door means it will automatically open the moment you approach the door. You can also purchase the WYZE cam for added security and surveillance.
The WYZE lock is ideal for those who are looking for a budget smart lock for their apartments. This means you may not find some of the high tech features you see in other smart locks.
What we liked:
- Supports two-factor authentication
- Auto-lock feature
- Ability to share codes with guests
- Door position detection with built-in gyroscope
What we did not like:
- Lacks the bells and whistles of other top brands
Buying Guide for Best smart locks for apartments
Factors to consider when buying smart lock for apartment
Installation
Smart locks are a great addition to apartment locks. They eliminate the hassle of replacing existing locks whenever a tenant leaves. The locks can also be placed in central places and the property owner shares the access codes with the tenants. Since you are going to be changing tenants frequently it makes sense to choose a smart lock that is easy to install. If you are searching for the best smart locks look for those that come in either latch and lever construction or deadbolt. This are the easiest to install as you do not need to drill holes during installation. The locks can also easily retrofit with your existing door locks.
Low battery consumption
One key limitation for smart locks is that they are powered by batteries. This possess challenges when you run out of battery power as you can’t access your apartment unless the smart lock also allows for physical keys. When searching for a smart lock identify those that you use low energy zigbee or Z-wave IoT protocols. It has being noted that this locks use very little battery power unlike the rest. The locks also use Bluetooth technology and this allows for seamless communication between your lock and phone. The locks should also have ways to inform you of low battery power. This can be via alerts on your mobile app or through a LED light on the door lock.
Remote lock/unlock feature
This is a feature that allows you to remotely unlock/lock your door from anywhere via the provided app. Higher priced models will come with auto-detect abilities that unlock the door for you when you are approaching. Some will even automatically lock the door after you have left.
Guest access
A key benefit of using smart locks is that you can grant remote access to your guests even though you are not there. The locks allow you to customize codes so that you can set limits as to times guests can use the code. You should get a one that allows for temporary and permanent access.
Security
You should consider the locks security in two ways – physical and digital. For physical security ensure that your lock is made from durable and sturdy materials that make it harder to break in. For digital security you should have a lock with the latest encryption software to safeguard your data. Higher end locks come with alarm systems that are immediately activated the moment someone tries to tamper with the locking system. Some have fingerprints protected keypads that do not allow for one to collect fingerprints from them. If you want added security get some two-factor authentication. The locks can also be part of the larger building security and can be connected to webcams so that you can see who is having access to your house.
Integration
It is equally important that your lock integrates with other voice assistant apps like Google Assistant or Alexa. When paired with other systems like Z-wave and Zigbee you can connect them to your cameras or built-in video intercom.
Ratings
Like most products locks come are certified by certain bodies to ensure they offer security to the buyers. For locks this is done by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA). The bodies will check the locks preparedness for breakages, physical attacks and quality. The ANSI designates the locks based on three grades with Grade 1 being the best quality and ideal for commercial purposes and Grade 2 being for locks mostly used for apartments. The last grade 3 is for inexpensive locks with the least amount of security features. The BHMA designates its locks from A to C, with A being for the highest quality lock.
If you are a property owner you should note that having smart locks is key to unlocking value for your apartment. This is because an increasing number of apartment seekers look for houses with the latest technological gadgets with the smart lock being key.
Customer reviews
Before purchasing your smart lock you may want to know what other verified purchasers are saying in regard to the locks. This allows you to get a general feel on the quality and effectiveness of the locks. You should be on the lookout for locks breaking or malfunctioning. Too many negative reviews should act a deterrent against purchasing it. When purchasing the smart lock be on the lookout for the materials used for construction. Ask whether the lock has being field tested and what kind of certifications it has received.
Search for all-in-one locks
Locks that have all their features in one place are better as they prevent you from wasting time purchasing extra items. The all in one system is simpler to install than purchasing separate items like the Wi-Fi bridge extender.
Frequency of use
You should also put into consideration the frequency of use for your lock. Are you going to be using it in a high traffic area or is it for a single apartment. If you are going to be inviting your friends over then you need a lock that allows you to generate codes and share the same with your guests. The lock system should also be simple to operate. The codes can be sent via email or text and is some smart locks one does not need a cellular network to use them.
Conclusion
Having a smart lock is a secure way to gain access to your apartment and eliminates the need to constantly change locks whenever you have a new tenant. In our review our top choice for Best smart lock for apartment is the Schlage Deadbolt smart lock. We found the lock to be sturdy while being armed with the latest technologies.
FAQ
How do I allow guests to apartment with smart lock?
You give them special guest codes that they can use for specific times
Can I monitor who goes into my apartment remotely?
Yes, you can do so via your mobile app
Robinson Wright
Robinson Wright is a home automation specialist and has helped many modern home developers pick the right gadgets for home automation. According to Wright, most people struggle with particular areas in their home, some would want improved security especially when away from home for a couple of days and others will want to improve power consumption. Homeowner's needs can be fulfilled by investing in smart home gadgets but most importantly is that one must know the functionality that they desire to achieve and then choose a product and technology that would fulfill the need. Robinson Wright runs an appliance enterprise and when not in the field working with his clients, he loves spending time in his workshop testing out the new technologies.