The Best Smart Lock 2022: The Most Secure Smart Locks We've Tested For Your Home

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How to choose the best smart lock for you

When choosing the right smart lock for you, there are many considerations to consider before choosing the perfect model for you.

Some smart locks connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, so you can lock the door only when you're nearby. Suppose you are a forgetful person who has a hard time forgetting to close the door. In this case, the design with built-in Wi-Fi or a bridge to connect to the Internet and transmit commands from the cloud ensures that it can be locked or unlocked even when you are no longer in the property.

It's also worth considering the style of the smart lock and whether it matches your current decor, as there's a wide range to choose from, from traditional devices that hide their smart abilities to futuristic keyboards and touchscreens.

Not all smart locks can integrate with all voice assistants. So if you already use a voice assistant, check if the model is compatible and if it integrates with your other smart home devices, e.g. B. The best home security cameras, video intercoms and smart lights. .

Also consider whether you need to give friends and family short-term access to the lock, and if so, a smart lock will provide activity logs so you can see who entered your home and when.

If you're new to smart locks, we've also created a guide that tells you everything you need to know about smart locks.

How do smart locks work?

Smart locks are keyless devices that connect to your home's WiFi network and can be opened using your smartphone. Some also have a keypad so you can enter a code to unlock them as well. Plus, most smart locks work with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, so you can unlock them with your voice, too.

Some smart locks completely replace your lock, so you need to be safe if you want to install them yourself, while others simply fit over your existing lock and require much less work.

The best smart locks can be used with smart home hubs like the best smart speakers and smart displays to create home automation. For example, you can protect your smart lock and activate your home security cameras with a single command or at a specific time when you leave the house or maybe go to bed. Not all smart locks work with all voice assistants and smart home hubs. So if you already have a smart home installed, make sure your device is compatible before you buy.

What types of smart locks are there?

Before deciding which smart lock to add to your home, it helps to consider different options.

There are two main types of security devices: locks and deadbolts. As you can see from our list, the first is more popular and widely used, but both have their pros and cons. Both terms are borrowed from the world of traditional door locks, but are applied here in the same way.

Mortise locks are the simpler of the two, literally a lock controlled by your smart locking system that protects the door from the inside. On the other hand, multi-point (or "lever") locks include more than one deadbolt and offer a bit more security. You'll usually find this on more modern doors or doors with a handle that you have to lift before locking the door.

Constipation is generally easier to replace with a sensible alternative, and they give you more options.

Do smart locks require batteries?

While most of the best smart locks come with built-in rechargeable batteries that can usually be charged with a USB-C cable, some devices still require AA alkaline batteries or similar that need to be replaced from time to time. However, this is becoming increasingly rare, and smart locks usually don't use a lot of battery power at once.

Can smart locks be hacked?

As with any internet-connected device, there is a risk that someone can hack into smart locks. However, some advanced security practices can help reduce the risk. If your smart lock has a default password, always change it and choose a unique password, avoid duplicating passwords from other accounts, and use a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters. Make sure it doesn't contain any personal information either. Make sure your home WiFi also has a strong and secure password and your smart lock's firmware is up to date.