Best Smart Lock 2026 — Keypad, Fingerprint & App
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Last updated: May 13, 2026 • 10 models tested
- Schlage Encode Plus — Best overall (4.7/5)
- August WiFi Smart Lock — Best retrofit — keeps existing keys (4.4/5)
- Yale Assure Lock 2 — Best touchscreen deadbolt (4.4/5)
Smart locks let you unlock your door with your phone, a code, fingerprint or auto-unlock when you arrive home. We tested 10 models for security certification, installation ease, battery life and daily reliability across US and European door standards.
Quick Overview
| Model | Best for | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Plus | Best overall Best Pick | ★★★★½ 4.7 |
| August WiFi Smart Lock | Best retrofit — keeps existing keys Runner-up | ★★★★½ 4.4 |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best touchscreen deadbolt Premium | ★★★★½ 4.4 |
| Aqara Smart Lock U200 | Best for HomeKit + fingerprint | ★★★★½ 4.3 |
| Nuki Smart Lock 4 Pro | Best for UK/EU doors Best Budget | ★★★★☆ 4.2 |
1. Schlage Encode Plus — Best Overall
Built-in WiFi, keypad entry, Apple Home Key and no hub required. ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 — the highest residential security rating. Supports 100 access codes and auto-locks after a configurable delay. The benchmark for US smart deadbolts.
- ANSI Grade 1 — highest security rating
- Apple Home Key + Alexa, no hub
- 100 access codes with scheduling
- Built-in WiFi, no bridge needed
- US single-cylinder deadbolt standard only
- Premium price
2. August WiFi Smart Lock — Best Retrofit
Fits over your existing deadbolt interior — keep your existing keys, add app control, auto-lock/unlock and guest access. WiFi built-in means no hub needed. Geofencing auto-unlocks as you approach and re-locks when you leave. Works with Alexa, Google and HomeKit.
- Fits existing deadbolt — keep your keys
- Built-in WiFi — no hub required
- Geofence auto-unlock and auto-lock
- Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit
- Battery lasts ~3 months
- Single-cylinder deadbolts only
3. Yale Assure Lock 2 — Best Touchscreen Deadbolt
Touchscreen keypad with no physical keys — access via code, app or Z-Wave/Zigbee/WiFi (module sold separately). ANSI Grade 2 certified. The backlit touchscreen is easy to use in the dark. Up to 250 access codes, auto-lock and do-not-disturb mode.
- Backlit touchscreen — easy in the dark
- Up to 250 access codes
- Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit via module
- Trusted Yale brand — 175 years of lock history
- WiFi/Z-Wave module sold separately
- ANSI Grade 2 (not Grade 1)
4. Aqara Smart Lock U200 — Best for HomeKit + Fingerprint
Matter, Zigbee and fingerprint in one lock. Supports Apple HomeKit Secure Video for automated unlock-and-record. Apple Watch tap-to-unlock, NFC card and PIN code — the most versatile biometric option for Apple households.
- Fingerprint + PIN + NFC + Apple Watch
- Matter + Zigbee + Z-Wave
- HomeKit Secure Video integration
- Local processing — no cloud required
- Requires mortice-style door prep
- More complex installation than retrofits
5. Nuki Smart Lock 4 Pro — Best for UK/EU Doors
Designed for European and UK cylinder locks — fits over your existing lock interior in under 3 minutes, no drilling, keep all your existing keys. Matter-certified, WiFi and Thread built-in. Up to 6 months battery life. Core auto-lock and unlock works without internet.
- Fits EU/UK cylinder locks — no drilling
- Matter certified — all platforms
- 6 months battery life
- Works offline for core functions
- No fingerprint reader
- Advanced features need subscription (Auto Unlock)
Deadbolt vs Retrofit
Deadbolt replacements (Schlage, Yale) replace the entire lock cylinder — the most secure option but requires drilling if no deadbolt exists. Retrofit locks (August, Nuki) fit over your existing interior thumb-turn — no drilling, and your existing keys still work. Ideal for renters or anyone who wants to keep physical key backup.
US vs European door standards
Schlage and Yale use ANSI/BHMA standards common in North America. UK and European doors use euro-cylinder locks — the Nuki and Aqara U200 are designed for these. August and Schlage are US-standard only.
Verdict
The Schlage Encode Plus is the most secure US smart lock tested — Grade 1 certified, no hub, Apple Home Key. For UK/EU homes, the Nuki Smart Lock 4 Pro fits any cylinder lock in minutes and supports every platform via Matter. Renters wanting to keep their keys should choose the August WiFi Smart Lock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are smart locks safe?
Modern smart locks (Schlage Encode Plus, Yale Assure Lock 2) are AS SECURE AS traditional deadbolts — they use the same lock mechanism. Smart features add: keyless entry codes (don't lose/copy physical keys), remote access (let in visitors when away), and access logs (see who came in when). Physical security risks are no greater than traditional locks; the digital risks (hacked codes, app vulnerabilities) are mitigated by reputable brands.
Will a smart lock work with my existing door?
Most replace standard cylindrical or mortise deadbolts (1.5-1.75 inch backset). The Schlage Encode Plus and August WiFi Smart Lock both fit standard residential doors. The August installs OVER existing deadbolt (interior side only) — easiest install, no exterior changes. Schlage requires fully replacing the deadbolt. Measure your door before purchase.
Can someone hack a smart lock?
Reputable brands (Schlage, Yale, August) have multiple security layers: AES encryption, secure cloud connections, regular firmware updates, biometric or 2FA verification. Lock-picking the physical deadbolt remains easier than hacking. Avoid cheap unbranded smart locks — they often have unpatched vulnerabilities. The Schlage Encode Plus has bank-level security certifications.
What happens if my smart lock battery dies?
Smart locks have backup access methods. Schlage Encode Plus: keypad with manual key backup (physical key as last resort). August WiFi Smart Lock: physical key from outside still works. Yale Assure Lock 2: emergency 9V battery jumpstart on the bottom of the unit. Battery life is typically 6-12 months. Most send low-battery alerts well before they die.