Best Smart Locks & Keyless Entry Systems

Whether you're rekeying after a move, upgrading an aging deadbolt, or going fully keyless for the first time, choosing the right smart lock can feel overwhelming. This category brings together in-depth reviews and buying guides covering every major format — including deadbolts, lever locks, padlocks, and smart cylinders — so you can compare options with confidence, avoid common pitfalls, and find a lock that genuinely fits your door, your lifestyle, and your security needs.

What to Expect from a Smart Lock Review

A price tag and a star rating won't tell you whether a lock will survive your climate, work with your door thickness, or hold up when the app goes offline. Every review in this category digs into the details that actually matter:

Keypad & app reliability — how the lock behaves when Bluetooth or Wi-Fi drops
Encryption standards & vulnerability disclosures for connected models
Installation difficulty, including compatibility with standard & non-standard door preps
Battery life under real-world use, plus low-battery warning systems
Voice assistant support for Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit
Auto-lock, access scheduling, & activity log features
Mechanical backup options — physical keys, key override cylinders, & emergency power ports

Deadbolts, Padlocks & Everything In Between

Smart locks aren't one-size-fits-all, and the right choice depends heavily on where and how you're installing it. Renters in apartments often need retrofit models that attach over an existing deadbolt — brands like August and Wyze are popular here because they leave the exterior hardware untouched. Homeowners with more flexibility can opt for full deadbolt replacements from Schlage, Yale, or Kwikset, which offer tighter integration and a cleaner look. For sheds, gates, and storage units, smart padlocks from Master Lock and ABUS bring keyless convenience to outdoor use cases where traditional door hardware doesn't apply.

Guides in this category also cover multi-point locking systems for French doors, smart lever handles suited to commercial-style interiors, and Z-Wave & Zigbee models built for deeper smart home integration. If you're building out a full home automation setup or simply want a single upgrade that makes daily life easier, there's a review here that speaks directly to your situation.

Understanding Smart Lock Security

Connectivity adds convenience — but it also adds attack surface. The reviews here assess each lock's encryption implementation, cloud dependency, and track record with firmware updates, so you're not trading physical security for digital risk. Locks that rely solely on a vendor's cloud service get flagged for the downtime and discontinuation risks that come with that dependency.

Browse the guides below to find the smart lock that matches your door, your budget, and your peace of mind.