The best smart locks we tested
Best smart lock: Yale Assure Lock 2
Best value smart lock: Wyze Lock Bolt
If you’ve ever had trouble finding your key in your bag while managing groceries and kids, worried about letting the pet sitter in during your vacation, or rushed home from work to let in guests, you’ll see how smart locks can make life easier. These smart devices work not only for houses but also for apartments, condos, sheds, or outbuildings.
We tested 14 new smart locks over several months to find the best ones. Whether you need a simple, budget-friendly smart lock or a high-end model, we have options for you. Here are the top two smart locks for your home.
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is a smart lock with a modern design. Buy only what you need and upgrade when you want. It’s user-friendly, and sharing home access is simple. It works well with HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home.
The Wyze Lock Bolt is easy to install with clear instructions. It’s user-friendly, whether you want to access your home or share codes with guests. We also find it more attractive than other budget smart locks.
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is a highly adaptable and user-friendly smart lock that excels in several key areas:
- Versatility: Its modular design allows for customization with various keypad/touchscreen and key/keyless options, catering to diverse needs.
- Easy Installation and Setup: The intuitive installation process, guided by a QR code-linked tutorial, makes setup straightforward and hassle-free.
- Comprehensive Access Management: The Yale Access app enables easy management of user access through geofencing, codes, and remote control, providing flexibility and convenience.
- Enhanced Security: Features like auto-locking, Door Sense, and Smart Alerts enhance security and provide peace of mind.
- Smart Home Integration: Compatibility with major smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Home, along with upcoming Z-Wave and Matter support, ensures seamless integration into existing ecosystems.
- Convenience: Keyless models offer the added convenience of 9V battery recharge for emergency access.
The Yale Assure Lock 2 has a few minor drawbacks:
- No Fingerprint Scanner: Unlike some competitors, it lacks a fingerprint scanner, which could be a preferred alternative for some users.
- Touchscreen Usability: While responsive, the touchscreen keypad can be slightly finicky, requiring multiple attempts to activate the backlight.
- Connectivity Issues: Initial Wi-Fi module setup with Alexa can be challenging, and voice command responses through smart speakers may be inconsistent.
- Door Sense Limitations: The Door Sense feature, while useful in theory, can be frustrating in practice as it locks the door even when it’s still open.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the Yale Assure Lock 2 remains a strong contender in the smart lock market, offering a compelling combination of features, flexibility, and ease of use.
Overall, the Yale Assure Lock 2 stands out as a top-tier smart lock option, prioritizing user-friendliness, versatility, and robust security features.
The Wyze Lock Bolt is a budget-friendly smart lock that offers excellent value. Key features include:
- Multiple Unlock Methods: Fingerprint reader, backlit keypad, and app control provide convenient access options.
- Essential Features: Includes guest access, temporary codes, auto-lock, and lock history for added security and convenience.
- Easy Installation: Simple installation process can be completed within 15 minutes.
- Reliable Performance: Functions smoothly with reliable fingerprint scanning and responsive keypad.
- User-Friendly App: The Wyze app allows for easy management of user access and lock settings.
- Battery Backup: Includes a USB-C port for emergency charging in case of battery depletion.
The Wyze Lock Bolt, while budget-friendly and feature-rich, has some limitations:
- Lack of Wi-Fi Connectivity: This significantly limits its functionality, preventing remote access, voice control with smart home assistants (like Alexa or Google Assistant), and integration with other Wyze smart home devices.
- No Geofencing: Auto-unlocking based on location is unavailable, requiring manual interaction.
- Door Sense Inaccuracy: The lack of a door sensor can lead to accidental locking while the door is still open.
- Limited Smart Home Integration: No integration with other smart home platforms.
Despite these limitations, the Wyze Lock Bolt offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a basic, yet functional smart lock with key features like fingerprint scanning and a keypad at an affordable price.