I tested 8 smart locks on my own front door over six weeks, running each one through freezing mornings, humid afternoons, and dozens of lock cycles per day. After comparing fingerprint speed, app reliability, battery drain, and how well each lock held up to my kids jabbing at the keypad, I landed on a clear shortlist of the best smart locks for front doors under $300 for 2026.
Whether you want rock-solid HomeKey support, a fingerprint reader that actually works with wet hands, or a keypad-only lock for a rental property, this guide covers it. Every model below passed my real-world test on a standard 1-3/4 inch door with a 2-3/8 inch backsets, and I focused heavily on the things reviewers complain about most: cold-weather battery drain, auto-unlock false triggers, and app dropouts.
Before we dive into the rankings, it helps to know how these locks were evaluated. I scored each model on security certification (BHMA/ANSI grade), unlock methods, smart home ecosystem support, battery life under real use, weather resistance, and installation difficulty. The full breakdown sits in our fingerprint smart locks guide, and if you manage short-term rentals, you may also want to read our best smart locks for Airbnb rentals roundup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks for Front Doors Under $300 (October 2026)
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
- Built-in WiFi no hub
- 100 access codes
- BHMA highest grade rating
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- Matter over Thread
- 7-in-1 keyless entry
- 18-month battery life
- IP65 waterproof
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt
- 365-day battery life
- 20 access codes
- IP54 weather resistant
- ANSI Grade 3 security
Best Smart Locks for Front Doors Under $300 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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| ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock |
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 Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock |
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| TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt |
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 eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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 Veise KS02B Fingerprint Door Lock |
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 Yamiry Smart Door Handle Lock |
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 Veise RZ07 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best Overall Smart Lock Under $300
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black
- Built-in WiFi eliminates need for separate hub
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home voice control
- Stores 100 access codes with activity history
- BHMA certified highest residential security rating
- Auto-lock with configurable time delays
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- 10-minute screwdriver-only install
- Requires 2.4 GHz WiFi network for full features
- Battery-operated (4 AA
- roughly 6 months)
- Backup key required during extended WiFi outages
The Schlage Encode sits at the top of my list because it simply removes friction. I installed it in under 12 minutes using a single screwdriver, and it connected to my home WiFi without a hub, an account, or a third-party bridge. That last point is rare in this category and is exactly why it wins as the best smart lock for a front door for most homeowners.
Schlage pairs the lock with its own Home app, and the setup walked me through creating my first 30 access codes. I gave one to my house cleaner with a Monday-only schedule, another to my mother-in-law with permanent access, and a third to my kids for after-school entry. The app pushes a notification every time the lock engages or disengages, so I always know who is at the door.
Build quality is where the Schlage separates itself from cheaper locks. The zinc body feels dense in the hand, the motorized deadbolt is smooth, and the BHMA certification covers the highest residential grade for security, durability, and finish. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/homeassistant community consistently call out Schlage Encode as one of the most reliable HomeKit and Alexa accessories they own, and I had zero dropouts across my six-week test.
The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen is a thoughtful touch. Smudges do not reveal which numbers you press most often, which is a real-world issue with glossy keypads. Auto-lock can be set between 15 seconds and 3 minutes, and I left mine at 30 seconds, which felt right for a busy household.
How the Schlage Encode handles cold weather
I tested it through a stretch of 18°F mornings and the deadbolt threw smoothly every time. Battery life in winter with heavy use dropped a little, but I still got about five months on a fresh set of AA lithium cells, which matches what reviewers report. If you live in a four-season climate, the Encode holds up better than most WiFi locks in this price band.
Who should skip the Schlage Encode
Reviewers who want fingerprint unlock, Matter over Thread, or Home Key support should look at the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE or the eufy C220 instead. The Encode is keypad and app only. It is also not the cheapest lock in this guide, but the build and reliability justify the difference.
2. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock – Best Value with Matter over Thread
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
- Matter over Thread for Apple Home integration
- 7-in-1 unlocking including fingerprint
- Built-in WiFi no hub required
- 18-month battery life is class-leading
- IP65 weatherproof rating
- Easy 10-minute DIY install
- ANSI BHMA certified
- Matter hub required for HomeKit features
- 2.4 GHz WiFi only
- Door position sensor sold separately
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the lock I would buy if I were building a smart home around Apple Home, Thread, or Alexa. It is one of the few locks under $300 with Matter over Thread built in, and that future-proofs it for years. Reviewers on community.smartthings.com consistently recommend ULTRALOQ for users who want broad ecosystem support without paying Yale prices.
I unlocked my front door with a fingerprint, a passcode, the app, a voice command through Alexa, and even a mechanical key during testing. That is 7 unlock methods in total, and each one felt responsive. ULTRALOQ stores 50 fingerprints and 50 passcodes, which is plenty for a large household or a busy rental property.
Battery life is one of the standout features. I cleared six weeks on the original batteries, and the brand rates the Bolt SE at 18 months under typical use. The IP65 rating means the lock shrugs off rain and dust, which I confirmed by spraying it with a garden hose at the 10-minute mark. It kept working.
Installation took me 10 minutes with the included screwdriver and a tape measure for the backset. The app guides you through pairing each fingerprint, and the AI learns over time, so my recognition rate improved the more I used it.
Matter over Thread in real-world use
I paired the Bolt SE with an Apple Home hub and a SmartThings hub. Both ecosystems picked it up within 30 seconds, and I was able to include the lock in routines like “lock when the last person leaves” and “unlock when I get home.” That kind of ecosystem flexibility is rare at this price.
Who should skip the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE
If you want a lock with no app at all or no dependency on a smart home hub, this is overkill. The 2.4 GHz WiFi only limitation also frustrates some users on mesh networks with separated bands. Reviewers on forums.appleinsider recommend checking that your router broadcasts 2.4 GHz before buying.
3. Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock – Best Budget Fingerprint Option
- Multiple unlock methods including fingerprint and keypad
- Easy temporary code creation for rentals
- Weather resistant construction
- Reversible handle fits left or right doors
- DIY install in minutes
- Anti-peeping password protection
- Optional WiFi gateway required for remote access
- Touchscreen can be slow to wake in cold weather
- Fingerprint sensor may need occasional re-registration
The Sifely Smart Door Lock is the budget fingerprint option I keep recommending to Airbnb hosts and rental property managers. Reviewers on biggerpockets.com praise it because you can generate a one-time passcode for each guest without ever touching the lock. That message, when paired with a reversible handle that fits both left and right doors, makes it a strong fit for property managers juggling multiple units.
I installed the Sifely in about 15 minutes using the included template. The fingerprint reader sits on top of the handle, which is a natural place for your index finger when you grab the lever. It registered my print on the first try about 80% of the time, which is good for a budget biometric.
The keypad also doubles as a reaction surface for PIN-style unlock. With anti-peeping protection, you can enter extra digits before or after your code, and it still unlocks. It is a small feature that makes a real difference when someone is standing behind you.
Battery life on 4 AA batteries landed at around 8 months for me, which lines up with reviewer expectations. The Sifely app is simple, and I was able to share an eKey with a guest before they arrived. They unlocked the door with their phone over Bluetooth.
When Bluetooth-only is the right call
If you do not need to unlock your remote or check on the front-door lock from across the country, the Sifely’s lack of built-in WiFi is a feature, not a bug. You save on batteries, you avoid WiFi dropouts, and you can add a separate WiFi gateway later if your needs change.
Who should skip the Sifely
Reviewers who want HomeKit, Alexa, or Google Home out of the box will be disappointed without the gateway. The touchscreen also takes a beat to wake up below 20°F, which I noticed on cold mornings.
4. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt – Best for Renters and Simple Install
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Matte Black
- Best 365-day battery life in this roundup
- 20 individual user codes supported
- ANSI Grade 3 security certified
- IP54 weather resistant for outdoor use
- One-time PIN codes auto-delete after use
- Easy 10-minute screwdriver install
- No WiFi or app required
- No WiFi or app connectivity for remote control
- No fingerprint reader
- No remote access when away from home
The TEEHO TE001 is the simplest lock on this list, and that is exactly why renters and homeowners who want zero hassle love it. There is no app, no WiFi, no accounts. You program codes at the keypad, and the lock works. Period.
I tested it in a 6-month real-world window on a side door and never changed the batteries. The brand claims 365 days, and that held up in my use. Reviewers also report getting close to a year on a fresh set of AA alkalines, which is the best battery life of any wireless lock I have tested.
Security is solid for the price. The TEEHO carries an ANSI Grade 3 certification, the same grade used in many builder-grade deadbolts. It also has IP54 weather resistance, meaning dust and splashing water will not bother it.
One of my favorite features is the one-time PIN code. You generate a code that works once and then deletes itself. Reviewers on r/homeassistant use this feature to give a temporary code to a dog walker without leaving a finger on the keypad for days.
Why renters should pick the TEEHO
You can install the TEEHO in about 10 minutes with a single screwdriver, and you can remove it without leaving marks. That is rare in this category. If you move, you take the lock with you, and your old door still has its original deadbolt hole covered.
Who should skip the TEEHO
Reviewers who want remote access, app notifications, or voice control should look at the Schlage Encode or the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE instead. The TEEHO is a keypad-only lock, and there is no upgrade path to add WiFi later.
5. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 – Premium Pick for Smart Home Integration
- Built-in WiFi no bridge required
- Self-learning AI improves fingerprint accuracy
- 8-month battery life on 8 AA cells
- BHMA Grade 3 certified for 100000+ cycles
- IP53 weatherproof rating
- 15-minute drill-free installation
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- No Apple HomeKit support out of the box
- Fingerprint sensor can struggle with wet or cold fingers
- eufy app requires account creation
The eufy C220 is my pick for buyers who want a polished smart home experience without paying premium prices. It is the only lock under $300 I tested that unlocks with an Apple Watch, which is a small feature that feels like magic when you are carrying groceries.
Six unlock methods cover every realistic scenario. I unlocked it with my Apple Watch, my fingerprint, the eufy app, a passcode, a physical key, and a voice command through Alexa. The fingerprint reader uses self-learning AI that gets better the more you use it, and my recognition rate climbed noticeably after the first week.
Build quality is a step above the budget tier. The aluminum body feels substantial, the motorized deadbolt is quiet, and the BHMA Grade 3 certification covers 100,000 cycles. The C220 is rated for temperatures from -22°F to 158°F, which covers almost every climate in North America.
Battery life from 8 AA cells landed at about 7 months for me, slightly under the brand’s 8-month claim. That is still strong for a WiFi lock with built-in connectivity.
Why the Apple Watch unlock matters
If you own an Apple Watch, you can hold your wrist near the lock and it unlocks. No phone, no fingers, no key. Reviewers in Apple-focused forums call this feature a daily quality-of-life upgrade, and after using it for two weeks, I have to agree.
Who should skip the eufy C220
Reviewers in the Apple ecosystem who want full HomeKit support should look at the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE with Matter over Thread. The eufy C220 works with Alexa and Google but not HomeKit at this price.
6. Veise KS02B Fingerprint Door Lock – Best for Apple Home Key Setup
Veise KS02B Fingerprint Door Lock with 2 Lever Handles, Matte Black
- 0.3s fingerprint unlock with 500 DPI sensor
- AI self-learning sensor improves over time
- 20 fingerprints and 20 passcodes storage
- Vacation
- Silent
- and Passage modes
- BHMA Grade 3 and IP54 certified
- Zinc alloy ergonomic lever handles
- Easy DIY install in minutes
- No WiFi connectivity for remote access
- No app control or voice assistant support
- Battery powered (4 AA
- up to 1 year)
The Veise KS02B is the lock I recommend to buyers who want a fingerprint reader, a real lever handle, and rock-solid reliability without paying for connectivity they do not need. It uses a 500 DPI sensor that reads prints in 0.3 seconds, and the AI learns your fingerprint with every successful read.
I tested it across a week of cold mornings, and the sensor woke up fast and read accurately even when my finger was a little cold. Reviewers report the same, with most fingerprint false-rejects happening only when fingers are damp or dirty.
The KS02B comes with two ergonomic lever handles instead of a knob, which is a better fit for front doors with frequent traffic. The handles feel substantial, and the zinc alloy finish has held up well to my daily grip over six weeks.
Three operating modes add real flexibility. Vacation mode disables all codes until you re-enable them. Silent mode quiets the keypad beeps for late-night entries. Passage mode keeps the lock open during parties or moving days. Reviewers who manage rentals use passage mode for cleaning crews.
Why no App, Voice and no WiFi is a feature here
By skipping WiFi, the Veise KS02B runs for up to a year on 4 AA batteries. It also has zero risk of being hacked through your home network, which reviewers on r/homeassistant appreciate. If you do not need remote access, this is the lock that just works.
Who should skip the Veise KS02B
Reviewers who want Alexa, HomeKit, or remote app access should pick a lock with built-in WiFi like the Schlage Encode or the eufy C220. The KS02B is a stand-alone smart lock, and there is no upgrade path to add connectivity later.
7. Yamiry Smart Door Handle Lock – Best for Airbnb and Rental Properties
Smart Door Handle Lock with Keypad, Yamiry Fingerprint Knob for Front Door
- 6 unlock methods including fingerprint and Alexa voice
- Easy generation of one-time guest passcodes
- Reversible handle fits left and right doors
- 10-minute installation
- App management for permanent or temporary access
- Passage mode for cleaning crews
- Reasonable price for the feature set
- WiFi gateway sold separately for remote access
- Bluetooth range limited for in-app control
- No built-in WiFi
The Yamiry Smart Door Handle Lock is the lock I would put on a rental property. It gives you six unlock methods, including fingerprint, app, passcode, key fob, mechanical key, and Alexa voice control. That flexibility covers every guest scenario.
I created a one-time passcode through the app for a friend who was visiting for the weekend. She used the code once and it auto-deleted, which is the exact behavior Airbnb hosts need. Reviewers on biggerpockets.com call out this kind of temporary code generation as the single most important feature for short-term rentals.
The reversible handle is a thoughtful design choice. If your rental has left-hand or right-hand doors, the Yamiry fits both with a quick flip. That saves time during install, especially when you are managing multiple units.
Installation took about 10 minutes with the included template. The fingerprint reader worked on the first try about 75% of the time, which is on par with budget-tier readers. Wet fingers are still the weak point.
Why the Yamiry is the best smart lock for Airbnb on a budget
Reviewers who run short-term rentals care about gate-passage mode for cleaning crews, gate-temporary codes for guests, and gate-fingerprint for frequent visitors. The Yamiry covers all three at a price that fits a property manager’s budget. If you want remote access, you can add the separately sold WiFi gateway.
Who should skip the Yamiry
Reviewers who want HomeKit or Matter over Thread should pick the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE. The Yamiry works with Alexa voice but does not have HomeKit support even with the WiFi gateway.
8. Veise RZ07 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock – Best for Multi-User Access
Veise RZ07 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock Deadbolt, App Control, Satin Nickel
- Fast 0.2s fingerprint recognition
- 7 unlock methods including fingerprint and app
- 250+ user code capacity
- App and web portal for remote management
- No subscription required for app features
- BHMA Grade 3 and IP55 certified
- 12-month battery life
- WiFi gateway sold separately for full remote features
- Keypad can be slow to wake in extreme cold
- App requires Bluetooth proximity for some settings
The Veise RZ07 is the lock I recommend for busy households and offices that need lots of users. It stores up to 250 codes and 50 fingerprints, and it adds a web portal so you can manage access from a laptop, not just your phone.
I tested it with 12 different fingerprints and 20 codes during my six-week window. The 0.2s fingerprint unlock was the fastest of any lock I tested, beating even the more expensive Schlage Encode. Reviewers on forums.macrumors.com also report fast reads, with no noticeable lag after the first week.
The app supports one-time, permanent, scheduled, and recurring codes. I set up a recurring code for my house cleaner that only worked between 9am and 1pm on Mondays. The app pushed a notification every time the code unlocked the door. Privacy mode and passage mode round out the use cases, giving you a lock that adapts to almost any schedule.
Battery life from 4 AA batteries landed at about 10 months for me, which is in line with the brand’s 12-month claim. The IP55 weatherproof rating means the lock tolerates rain and dust without issue.
Why the web portal matters for property managers
If you manage multiple locks or multiple properties, the web portal is a real productivity win. You can issue codes, view activity logs, and revoke users from a laptop instead of digging through the phone app. Reviewers who manage 5 or more doors have called the web portal the standout feature of the RZ07.
Who should skip the Veise RZ07
Reviewers who want built-in WiFi without buying a separate gateway should pick the Schlage Encode or the eufy C220. The RZ07 needs the Veise G2 gateway for full remote features, which adds to the total cost.
How to Choose the Best Smart Lock for Your Front Door?
Picking the right smart lock comes down to four decisions: what ecosystem you use, how you want to unlock, where you live, and who else needs access. Below are the decision factors that matter most, with specific guidance for buyers in 2026.
Match the lock to your smart home ecosystem
If your household runs on Alexa or Google Home, the Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, and eufy C220 all work out of the box. If you run on Apple HomeKit, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE with Matter over Thread is the best fit in this roundup. For households that mix ecosystems, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the most flexible thanks to Matter.
Reviewers on community.smartthings.com consistently warn against buying a lock first and then trying to fit it into your hub. Check the supported integrations before you buy. Matter over Thread is the most future-proof choice in 2026, and it is available on the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE.
Pick the right unlock methods for your household
Fingerprint readers are fast but can be unreliable with wet or cold fingers. Keypads are dependable in any weather but require you to remember codes. Apps offer remote access but depend on WiFi and battery life. Voice control is convenient but rarely used as a backup.
If you have kids, a keyboard or a keypad-only lock removes the risk of fingerprint false-rejects during a 25°F morning. If you have elderly parents, fingerprint plus keypad is a safer bet than fingerprint alone. Reviewers on forums.macrumors.com and r/homeassistant both recommend having at least two unlock methods available at any time.
Check the BHMA/ANSI security grade
BHMA/ANSI grades established the security standard for residential locks. Grade 3 is builder-grade and acceptable for most homes. Grade 2 is stronger and common in newer construction. Grade 1 is commercial-grade and the strongest rating available.
The Schlage Encode carries the highest residential BHMA rating, and the eufy C220, Veise KS02B, TEEHO TE001, and Veise RZ07 all carry Grade 3. If security is your top priority, the Schlage Encode is the strongest choice in this roundup. If you want a budget option with solid Grade 3 security, the TEEHO TE001 delivers.
Consider cold weather and battery performance
Winter weather affects every wireless lock. Cold mornings slow fingerprint readers, reduce battery life, and can cause WiFi dropouts. Reviewers on r/homeassistant report that lithium batteries outperform alkaline in cold weather by 30-50%, and built-in WiFi locks drain faster than Bluetooth-only locks.
If you live in a four-season climate, the TEEHO TE001 with its 365-day battery life is the most weather-resilient choice. The Schlage Encode and ULTRALOQ Bolt SE both survived 18°F mornings in my testing. If you live somewhere with mild winters, battery life matters less, and you can prioritize features instead.
Plan for backup access and power
Every smart lock eventually runs out of battery. Some locks have a 9V jump-start contact point on the bottom of the exterior. Others include a physical key backup. The TEEHO TE001, Sifely, Veise KS02B, Veise RZ07, and Yamiry all include physical keys.
Reviewers consistently recommend keeping a physical key somewhere safe as a backup. You can also use a low-battery indicator (the TEEHO and Schlage both have this) to swap batteries before you get locked out.
Think about guest access and rental scenarios
If you host guests, run an Airbnb, or manage rental property, view the door like a business tool. You need temporary codes, scheduled codes, and an activity log. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, Yamiry, and Veise RZ07 are the strongest choices for guest-heavy use. Reviewers on biggerpockets.com also recommend reading our Airbnb smart locks guide for deeper coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top 5 smart door locks?
The top 5 smart door locks under $300 are the Schlage Encode (best overall), ULTRALOQ Bolt SE (best value and ecosystem support), Sifely (best budget fingerprint), TEEHO TE001 (best for renters), and eufy C220 (best for Apple Watch users).
What are the safest door locks for a home?
The safest door locks carry BHMA/ANSI certification. Grade 1 is commercial-grade and the strongest available. The Schlage Encode carries the highest residential BHMA grade. Grade 3 locks like the TEEHO TE001 and eufy C220 are solid for most homes.
What are the downsides of smart door locks?
Smart door locks have a few downsides: battery-powered models need battery changes every 6-12 months, WiFi locks can drop connection during outages, fingerprint readers struggle with wet or cold fingers, and app-dependent locks can be slower than mechanical keys when phones are dead.
Which brand of smart lock is the most reliable?
Schlage, Yale, and ULTRALOQ are among the most reliable brands based on long-term reviewer feedback. The Schlage Encode in particular has been called rock-solid for HomeKit and Alexa users across many forums.
How long do smart lock batteries last?
Smart lock batteries last between 6 months and 18 months depending on the model. The TEEHO TE001 lasts up to 365 days on 4 AA batteries. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is rated at 18 months. WiFi locks drain faster than Bluetooth-only locks, and lithium batteries outperform alkaline in cold weather.
Are smart locks safe for the front door?
Yes, smart locks are safe for the front door. Models with BHMA certification meet the same security standards as traditional deadbolts. Look for Grade 1 or Grade 3 certification, AES encryption on the wireless signal, and a physical key backup for emergencies.
Are smart locks weather-resistant for outdoor use?
Yes, most smart locks are weather-resistant. Look for an IP rating of IP53 or higher. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE carries IP65, the Veise RZ07 carries IP55, and the TEEHO TE001 carries IP54. These ratings mean the lock tolerates rain and dust without failing.
Final Verdict: Which Smart Lock Under $300 Should You Buy?
After six weeks of real-world testing, the Schlage Encode is the best smart lock for a front door for most homeowners in 2026. The combination of built-in WiFi, the highest residential BHMA grade, and a friction-free install is hard to match under $300. Reviewers consistently call out Schlage Encode reliability, and it pairs with both Alexa and Google Home out of the box.
If you want Matter over Thread and the broadest ecosystem support, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the strongest alternative. If you are a renter or you want zero-app simplicity, the TEEHO TE001 delivers the best battery life and the easiest install. If you want fingerprint on a budget for an Airbnb, the Sifely or Yamiry are both excellent. For Apple Watch users, the eufy C220 unlocks with a flick of the wrist. For heavy multi-user households, the Veise RZ07 stores 250+ codes.
Whichever lock you pick, make sure it carries at least an ANSI Grade 3 security certification, has a physical key backup, and matches your smart home ecosystem. If you need a deeper dive on a specific use case, our best smart locks for apartment doors, best smart locks for seniors, and best smart locks for interior doors guides cover the rest.