overall
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
9.5
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You’ve just moved into a new place or upgraded your front door, and now you’re staring at a wall of deadbolts, smart locks, and keypads, each promising security and convenience. But with so many options, picking the right door lock can feel overwhelming, especially when you need to balance safety, budget, and daily usability. This guide cuts through the clutter, comparing the best door locks on the market to help you decide which one fits your home and lifestyle.
| # | Product | Best for | Security Grade | Connectivity | Key Override | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | overall | ANSI Grade 2 | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | No subscription | Check Price |
| 2 | Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt | apple homekit | ANSI Grade 1 | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | No subscription | Check Price |
| 3 | Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi | smart home flexibility | ANSI Grade 2 | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave (module) | No subscription | Check Price |
| 4 | Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi Smart Lock | voice control | ANSI Grade 2 | Wi-Fi | No subscription | Check Price |
| 5 | Schlage B60N Single Cylinder Deadbolt | budget traditional | ANSI Grade 1 | None (mechanical) | No fee | Check Price |
| 6 | Kwikset 909 Juno Keypad Deadbolt | keyless entry | ANSI Grade 2 | None (electronic) | No fee | Check Price |
Why we picked it: The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) offers seamless integration with major smart home platforms. Its auto-unlock feature uses geofencing to unlock as you approach. The DoorSense technology confirms door status. Installation is easy over existing deadbolts.
Homeowners who want a smart lock that works with their existing deadbolt and offers hands-free entry.
Those who need a built-in keypad for guest access without a smartphone.
Key specs: ANSI Grade 2 - Wi-Fi & Bluetooth - Key override included - Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit - Battery life: 6 months - Finish: Matte Black, Silver, Dark Bronze
Why we picked it: The Schlage Encode Plus is the first smart lock with Apple Home Key support, allowing tap-to-unlock with iPhone or Apple Watch. It features a built-in alarm that detects tampering. The ANSI Grade 1 security rating is the highest residential standard. Its fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean.
Apple ecosystem users who want the most secure smart lock with Home Key convenience.
Budget-conscious buyers or those who don't use Apple devices.
Key specs: ANSI Grade 1 - Wi-Fi & Bluetooth - Key override included - Works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant - Built-in alarm - Battery life: 6 months - Finish: Matte Black, Aged Bronze, Satin Nickel
Why we picked it: The Yale Assure Lock 2 offers a modular design that supports Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or Matter connectivity. Its backlit keypad allows keyless entry with unique codes. The auto-lock feature secures the door after a set time. It integrates with all major smart home platforms.
Smart home enthusiasts who want flexibility to choose their connectivity protocol.
Those who want a complete package out of the box without extra purchases.
Key specs: ANSI Grade 2 - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave (module) - Key override included - Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings - Battery life: 6 months - Finish: Satin Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Black Suede
Why we picked it: The Kwikset Halo connects directly to Wi-Fi without a hub, making setup simple. It supports voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. The SmartKey feature allows you to re-key the lock yourself. Its auto-lock function can be scheduled.
Users who want a straightforward Wi-Fi smart lock with reliable voice control and easy re-keying.
Apple HomeKit users or those needing advanced smart home integrations.
Key specs: ANSI Grade 2 - Wi-Fi - Key override included - Works with Alexa, Google Assistant - SmartKey re-key technology - Battery life: 6 months - Finish: Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze, Matte Black
Why we picked it: The Schlage B60N is a top-rated mechanical deadbolt with ANSI Grade 1 security. It features a pick-resistant and drill-resistant design. The adjustable latch fits standard door preparations. It is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Homeowners who want a reliable, high-security traditional deadbolt without smart features.
Those who want keyless entry or smart home integration.
Key specs: ANSI Grade 1 - Mechanical - Keyed entry - Adjustable latch 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" - Strike box included - Finish: Satin Nickel, Bright Brass, Aged Bronze
Why we picked it: The Kwikset 909 Juno offers keyless entry with a backlit keypad and auto-lock timer. SmartKey technology allows you to re-key the lock yourself. It provides up to 50 unique user codes. The low battery alert ensures you never get locked out.
Renters or homeowners who want keyless entry without smart home features.
Tech enthusiasts who want Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
Key specs: ANSI Grade 2 - Electronic keypad - Key override included - SmartKey re-key - Auto-lock timer - Battery life: 1 year - Finish: Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze, Matte Black
ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts offer the highest residential security, with features like pick resistance, drill resistance, and reinforced strike plates. Smart locks typically meet Grade 2 or Grade 3 standards, but Grade 1 mechanical locks like the Schlage B60N are the most secure.
Most smart locks do not require a subscription for basic features like remote access via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Some brands offer optional cloud recording or advanced features for a fee, but the locks listed here have no mandatory subscription.
Yes, most smart locks are designed for DIY installation and fit standard door preparations. They typically replace your existing deadbolt with just a screwdriver. Always check compatibility with your door thickness and backset.
Traditional locks are purely mechanical and require a key. Smart locks offer keyless entry via keypad, fingerprint, or smartphone app, and can integrate with smart home systems for remote control and automation. Both provide security, but smart locks add convenience.
Look for ANSI Grade 1 for maximum security, especially for exterior doors. Grade 2 is suitable for most residential applications, while Grade 3 is basic. Smart locks often have Grade 2, which is adequate when combined with other security measures.
If you use smart home platforms like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, or Google Assistant, choose a lock that natively supports them. Some locks require a hub for remote access, while others have built-in Wi-Fi. Consider future compatibility with Matter.
Smart locks run on batteries, typically lasting 6-12 months. Look for low battery alerts and backup key override. Some models offer battery packs or solar options. Avoid locks that lock you out if batteries die without a key override.
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock | Auto-lock automatically secures the door after a set time, preventing accidental lockouts. Auto-unlock uses geofencing to unlock as you approach. These features enhance convenience and security, but ensure they work reliably with your daily routine. |
| Key Override | A physical key override is essential for emergencies or dead batteries. Most smart locks include one, but some keyless models omit it. Always choose a lock with a backup key to avoid being locked out. |
| Guest Access and Codes | Smart locks allow you to create temporary or permanent codes for guests, service providers, or family. Look for locks that support multiple codes and scheduling. This feature is invaluable for Airbnb rentals or frequent visitors. |
| Tamper Alerts and Activity Log | Some smart locks send alerts if someone tries to tamper with the lock or if the door is forced open. Activity logs track who entered and when. These features provide peace of mind and are useful for monitoring home access. |
Every product above was scored out of 10 on the same six-part rubric, then sorted into an S to C tier. We do not accept free units or payment for placement, and price or affiliate commission never factors into the score.
| Criterion | What we check | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Core performance | The numbers that define the category: capacity, power, resolution, battery life, speed or output, taken from manufacturer specs and cross-checked against independent test data where it exists. | High |
| Build & reliability | Materials, warranty length, brand track record, and how often the model shows up in long-term failure or return complaints. | High |
| Real-world usability | Weight, dimensions, noise level, setup difficulty and day-to-day friction, drawn from owner reviews and published measurements. | Medium |
| Running cost | Ongoing costs beyond the purchase: subscriptions, consumables, energy use or maintenance, where they apply to the category. | Medium |
| Owner feedback | Patterns across aggregated verified owner reviews: recurring praise, recurring complaints, and whether the experience matches the marketing. | Medium |
| Value | What you get relative to the rest of the field at a similar price band, not an absolute price judgment. | Medium |
Sources: manufacturer spec sheets and manuals, retailer listing data, aggregated verified owner reviews, and published independent test results where available for the category.
Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, its ranking is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review. Hands-on impressions, when included in a product entry above, are clearly written from direct use.
We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.