Verdict
The Best 5Aggregated review·20 sources·updated April 29, 2026·checked July 24, 2026

Best Smart Locks

Top 5 smart locks ranked by aggregate score from 20 published reviews.

This guide aggregates 20 published reviews across 5 products; the thinnest-sourced pick rests on 2. How we rank.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
Quick answer

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) is our top pick for smart locks — an averaged 4.4/5 across 4 published reviews at about $230. Runner-up: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi (~$159.99).

At a glance5 products
4 sources
$230Best for: Apple HomeKit users prioritizing easy installation over keypad access
$230 · Buy at lowes.com
3 sources
$159.99Best for: Users needing maximum unlock options like fingerprint scanning without a bridge
$159.99 · Check Price on Amazon
2 sources
$345.99Best for: Apple-centric users valuing a hidden motor and seamless Home Key over remote access
$345.99 · Check Price on Amazon
5 sources
$319Best for: Homeowners seeking broad ecosystem compatibility and Apple Home Key without a bridge
$319 · Check Price on Amazon
6 sources
$279.99Best for: Buyers needing a built-in keypad and Thread support despite potential connectivity hiccups
$279.99 · Check Price on Amazon

The full ranking

How we rank →
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
#1 · Top Score
Best for: Apple HomeKit users prioritizing easy installation over keypad access
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
4 sources$230as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

Installation is where the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) shines, and its smart home integration is reliable enough to trust with door security. The limits: no 5GHz Wi-Fi support and no built-in keypad, which becomes a problem the day you are locked out without your phone. Auto-lock works well. The standard retail price is high and the design bulky, so many buyers will want to wait for a sale.

Strengths
  • Super-simple setup that can be completed in minutes using a screwdriver
  • Seamless integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit
Watch-outs
  • Does not support 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Lacks an alternate unlock method if both keys and phone are left inside
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
#2
Best for: Users needing maximum unlock options like fingerprint scanning without a bridge
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
3 sources$159.99as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

Six unlock methods and built-in Wi-Fi make the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi one of the more capable keyless entry options around. Working against it: no Apple HomeKit support, a 2.4GHz-only Wi-Fi radio, and mediocre battery performance. The compact design and reliable fingerprint sensor still make it a strong addition to most smart homes.

Strengths
  • Supports six unlock methods including fingerprint, keypad, key, app, geofence, and Bluetooth
  • Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity eliminates the need for a separate bridge or hub
Watch-outs
  • Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only and does not support dual-band networks
  • Battery life is described as so-so, requiring 4 AA batteries
Level Lock+
#3
Best for: Apple-centric users valuing a hidden motor and seamless Home Key over remote access
Level Lock+
2 sources$345.99as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

Apple users widely consider the Level Lock+ the best smart lock available, thanks to tight HomeKit integration, Home Key support, and a discreet design that hides the motor inside the door. Remote control requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge, and compatibility with non-Apple ecosystems like Google Assistant is limited for now. Installation is straightforward, but the included security cylinder is a weak point that may need a locksmith to upgrade for maximum protection.

Strengths
  • Understated industrial design that hides the smart mechanism inside the door frame
  • Supremely easy to install and set up using only a Phillips screwdriver
Watch-outs
  • Limited to local operation without purchasing a separate Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge for remote access
  • Essentially incompatible with Google Assistant until the Thread radio is activated
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
#4
Best for: Homeowners seeking broad ecosystem compatibility and Apple Home Key without a bridge
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
5 sources$319as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

Broad ecosystem support is the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt's advantage, Apple Home Key included, and built-in Wi-Fi means no bridge to buy. Physical installation is straightforward and there is a physical key backup, though managing it through Google or Alexa still requires the Schlage Home app, and the unit is somewhat bulky. Worth it if broad platform support and remote monitoring matter more to you than the higher price and the missing biometric sensors.

Strengths
  • Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit including Apple Home Key NFC technology
  • Integrated Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate bridge or hub
Watch-outs
  • Google Home and Alexa apps require the Schlage Home app to function properly
  • Construction is relatively bulky compared to some other smart locks
Yale Assure Lock 2
#5
Best for: Buyers needing a built-in keypad and Thread support despite potential connectivity hiccups
Yale Assure Lock 2
6 sources$279.99as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread support give the Yale Assure Lock 2 enough connectivity options to fit almost any modern home. Users report inconsistent Wi-Fi performance, though, and shorter battery life when it runs wirelessly, which can mean more frequent maintenance.

Strengths
  • Supports multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread for flexible smart home integration
  • Features a sleek, modern keypad design with a backlit interface for easy nighttime entry
Watch-outs
  • Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent and sometimes requires a separate bridge or hub for stable connection
  • Battery life is shorter than expected when using Wi-Fi features, requiring frequent replacements
Reviews aggregated from
Tom's GuidePCMagPCWorldAndroidpoliceRatedgadgetsOptimummindsetArtoflockpickingTechGearLab

Spec comparison

5 products
vs
SpecAugust Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
ConnectivityWi-Fi2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Smart Home SupportAlexa, Google Assistant, HomeKitAlexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, SmartThings
Unlock MethodsApp, Auto-unlock, KeyFingerprint, Keypad, Key, App, Geofence, Bluetooth
Power SourceTwo 3V CR123 lithium batteries4 AA batteries
Fingerprint CapacityNoneUp to 100 fingerprints (2 per user)
Door CompatibilityStandard deadbolts2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm)
MaterialZinc

Frequently asked questions

What is the best smart lock?
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) holds the top score for smart locks — 4.4/5 averaged from 4 published reviews. Installation is where the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) shines, and its smart home integration is reliable enough to trust with door security. The limits: no 5GHz Wi-Fi support and no built-in keypad, which becomes a problem the day you are locked out without your phone. Auto-lock works well. The standard retail price is high and the design bulky, so many buyers will want to wait for a sale.
Is this smart lock guide up to date?
This guide was last re-checked in April 2026. Prices, links, and source ratings are re-verified on a rolling basis, and the ranking updates when the underlying scores change.

Related guides

Browse all →