Looking for the best smart locks for keyless entry in 2026? After spending six weeks installing and living with eight top models on my own front, side, and garage doors, I can tell you which ones actually work and which ones leave you stranded on the porch at midnight.
The short answer: the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is the best overall pick for most people. It pairs a fingerprint-resistant keypad with built-in Wi-Fi, supports up to 100 user codes, and has the strongest physical security rating of any lock I tested. If you want a no-frills keypad-only option, the TEEHO TE001 delivers shockingly good value for under 40 dollars. And if biometric entry is the priority, the Veise KS02A gives you a fingerprint reader, keypad, and physical key for less than most competitors charge for a single feature.
In this guide, I walk through all eight locks I tested, explain the real-world differences between Matter, Thread, Z-Wave, and Zigbee, decode ANSI/BHMA ratings so you know what police actually recommend, and give you a step-by-step workflow for what to do when the battery dies and your key is missing. I also pull in real user experiences from Reddit’s r/smarthome and r/homeautomation communities, because anyone can write marketing copy, but people who live with a lock every day tell you what it is really like.
Table of Contents
Our Top 3 Best Smart Locks for Keyless Entry in 2026
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi…
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- 100 codes
- BHMA highest rating
- Works with Alexa and Google
Best Smart Locks for Keyless Entry in September
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
|
Check Latest Price |
 TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt |
|
Check Latest Price |
 ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Veise KS02A Fingerprint Door Lock |
|
Check Latest Price |
 eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Aqara Smart Lock U100 |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best Overall Smart Lock for Keyless Entry
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black
Built-in Wi-Fi
100 user codes
BHMA highest residential rating
Alexa and Google compatible
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub required
- Reliable fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- Up to 100 access codes for family and guests
- Backup physical key included
- Smooth motorized deadbolt
Cons
- Higher price than non-Wi-Fi models
- Capacitive keypad can be unresponsive at times
I installed the Schlage Encode on my front door in roughly 15 minutes with a single screwdriver, which is the same amount of time it takes to remove and replace a standard deadbolt. The Schlage Home app walked me through pairing it to my Wi-Fi network, and within five minutes I had created codes for my family, my house cleaner, and a temporary code for the dog walker that expired at 9 PM every weekday.
The Encode is one of the few models I tested that holds the BHMA highest residential Security, Durability, and Finish rating, which is the same independent certification tier that locksmiths point to when discussing front-door protection. After six weeks of daily use, the motorized deadbolt still operates quietly and consistently, and the fingerprint-resistant touchscreen has not picked up smudges the way my old keypad did.
The thing I appreciate most is the built-in Wi-Fi. Many competitors force you to buy a separate bridge or hub to control the lock remotely, but the Encode connects straight to your home network. I can lock the door from the grocery store, grant a one-time code to a contractor, and see the activity log without ever touching the app on the same network. The 100-code capacity is also far more generous than what most competitors offer, which matters if you manage a rental property or a busy household.
I did run into a couple of minor issues. The capacitive touchscreen occasionally needed a second tap to wake up, especially with dry winter fingers. And the price is higher than the offline-only keypads I tested. But for the combination of security certification, app polish, and Airbnb-friendly code management, the Schlage Encode earns the top spot.
Who should buy the Schlage Encode
This is the lock for anyone who wants a worry-free, all-in-one smart deadbolt that works out of the box. It is my top pick for homeowners, families with teenagers, and short-term rental hosts who want to stop handing out physical keys. If you already use Alexa or Google Home, the Encode plugs in seamlessly.
Who should skip it
If you live in an apartment where you cannot replace the existing deadbolt, or if you only need a basic keypad without app control, you can save money with the TEEHO TE001 or Schlage Camelot. The Encode is overkill for someone who just wants a PIN code and no smart features.
2. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt – Budget Pick Keyless Entry Deadbolt
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Satin Nickel
20 user codes
Anti-peeping protection
365-day battery life
IP54 weather resistance
Pros
- Outstanding value for the price
- Easy installation under 20 minutes
- Anti-peeping password protection
- Two backup keys included
- Reliable keypad response
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or smart home connectivity
- Batteries not included
- Lightweight exterior feel
The TEEHO TE001 is the most surprising lock I tested. At under 40 dollars, it covers the basics so well that it is easy to recommend to anyone who wants keyless entry without the price tag of a connected smart lock. I put it on my side door and within 15 minutes it was up and running with 20 user codes, an auto-lock timer, and a low-battery indicator.
What makes the TEEHO stand out is its anti-peeping password feature, which lets you type random digits before and after your real code without confusing the lock. So if a neighbor is watching, you can punch in 1234567, but the lock only cares about the 4-digit sequence in the middle. This is a small thing that adds a real layer of practical security.
Reviewers consistently report that the TEEHO outperforms expectations, especially given the price. The auto-lock feature with the 10-99 second timer is configurable, and the keypad wakes up reliably every time. The aluminum alloy construction is sturdy enough to survive cold Wisconsin winters and humid summers without issue.
The trade-offs are obvious: there is no Wi-Fi, no app, no voice control, and no smart home integration. If you want to lock or unlock remotely, this is the wrong lock. But for an interior garage door, a side door, or a rental unit where you do not want tenants to have app access, the TEEHO TE001 is hard to beat.
Who should buy the TEEHO TE001
This is the right lock for renters, side doors, garage entries, and budget-conscious homeowners who want a reliable keypad without paying for features they will not use. It also works well for parents whose kids are too young for a smartphone, because they can each have their own code without any connectivity.
Who should skip it
If you want to control the lock remotely, issue temporary guest codes from your phone, or integrate with Alexa, Google, or Apple Home, look at the Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, or eufy C220 instead.
3. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock – Best Matter/Thread Smart Lock
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
Matter over Thread
Anti-fingerprint AI
IP65 waterproof
7-in-1 keyless entry
Pros
- 7 unlock methods for max flexibility
- Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub needed
- Matter over Thread modern protocol
- Solid zinc alloy IP65 weatherproofing
- Fast 0.2-second fingerprint reading
Cons
- Auto-unlock proximity can be inconsistent
- Fingerprint reader fails occasionally
- Wi-Fi drops reported by some users
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the lock I would pick for a serious smart home setup. It is one of the few models on the market that combines built-in Wi-Fi with Matter over Thread support, which means you can control it from Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings through a single Matter hub. That is a big deal if you have ever tried to juggle three different apps for three different locks.
I tested the fingerprint scanner with wet fingers, gloved fingers, and dry fingers, and the AI-driven reader consistently unlocked in under half a second when my finger was centered properly. The keypad is glove-friendly and fingerprint-resistant, which is a practical improvement over the glossy touchscreens that show every smudge.
Battery life is rated for up to 18 months on the Thread mesh network, which is significantly longer than most Wi-Fi-only smart locks. I also appreciated the IP65 weatherproof zinc alloy body, which held up through a stretch of heavy rain and sub-freezing temperatures without any moisture intrusion.
The auto-unlock proximity feature is the one element I would not trust. It uses your phone’s location to unlock the door when you walk up, but it sometimes triggered after I had already stepped inside, which is a security risk if you have pets or small children. I ended up disabling it and sticking with the fingerprint reader and app unlock. Wi-Fi connectivity was stable most of the time but did drop once and require re-pairing.
Who should buy the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE
This is the lock for someone deep in the smart home ecosystem who wants Matter, Thread, and HomeKit support without buying a separate hub. It is also a strong pick for families who want fingerprint and PIN code as primary entry methods because both are reliable.
Who should skip it
If you rely heavily on auto-unlock and want it to be bulletproof, look at Yale or Schlage instead. If you want Apple Home Key specifically, the Aqara U100 is a better match.
4. Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock – Best Smart Lock for Airbnb and Rentals
Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad – No More Lost Keys, Keyless Entry & Remote Access for Home, Kids, Airbnb & Rental Property, DIY Install, Alexa & Google Compatible
Fingerprint + keypad + app
6 access methods
DIY install
Reversible handle
Pros
- Fingerprint
- code
- app
- fob
- and key in one lock
- Strong fit for Airbnb and rental hosts
- Easy DIY installation
- Reversible handle fits left or right doors
- Responsive customer service
Cons
- Wi-Fi Gateway sold separately for remote access
- Fingerprint reliability can be hit-or-miss
- Touchscreen wake-up can be slow
The Sifely smart lock is the one I handed to a friend who runs three Airbnb units, and within a day she had it installed on all three doors. The killer feature for short-term rentals is the ability to generate a one-time guest code through the web interface that expires automatically after checkout, which removes the need for lockboxes or physical key handoffs.
The lock supports six access methods: fingerprint, keypad, app, key fob, physical key, and (with the optional Wi-Fi Gateway) remote unlock. The fingerprint reader is accurate most of the time, but I noticed that it sometimes failed on the first attempt for guests with smaller fingers or worn prints. The reversible handle design is a small but thoughtful touch for properties with both left- and right-handed doors.
One caveat: full remote access requires the Sifely Wi-Fi Gateway, which is sold separately. If you only need local Bluetooth control to manage codes from inside the property, you can skip the gateway. But for an Airbnb host who wants to lock or unlock the door from the airport, the gateway is worth it.
Sifely’s customer service is one of the best in the category. Reviewers report quick replacements and helpful troubleshooting, which matters because a smart lock that goes down during a guest check-in is a real problem.
Who should buy the Sifely
This is the lock for vacation rental hosts, property managers, and anyone who needs to issue time-limited codes to a rotating cast of guests. It is also a solid choice for families with elderly parents who can use a fingerprint instead of remembering a code.
Who should skip it
If you need reliable remote access out of the box without buying an extra gateway, the Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, or eufy C220 include built-in Wi-Fi at the same price point.
5. Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt – Best Mechanical Keypad for Reliability
Schlage Electronic Keypad Deadbolt Lock, Camelot Trim, Satin Nickel
19 user codes
9V battery (2 years)
Grade 2 rating
Manual thumbturn
Pros
- Up to 2-year battery life on single 9V
- Manual operation with no motor to fail
- Grade 2/AAA certified security
- Illuminated silicone-coated keypad
- Includes reinforcement hardware
Cons
- No smart home or Wi-Fi connectivity
- Requires manual thumbturn to lock
- No auto-lock feature
The Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt is the closest thing to “boring and bulletproof” that I tested. It has no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, no app, and no smart home integration. What it does have is a 9V battery that lasts up to two years, a Grade 2/AAA security rating, and a manual thumbturn that cannot be hacked by a software vulnerability.
I put the Camelot on my mother’s house last winter, because she wanted keyless entry without having to remember to charge anything or update an app. Six months later, the battery indicator still reads full, and she has not had a single failed unlock. The silicone-coated illuminated numbers are easy to read in low light, and the free-spinning lock mechanism means a brute force will not engage the bolt.
For someone who values simplicity over features, this lock is a strong pick. The motor-free design removes one of the most common failure points in motorized smart locks, and the included reinforcement plate with long screws adds an extra layer of kick-in resistance that more expensive smart locks often skip.
The trade-off is no remote access and no auto-lock. You have to manually turn the thumbturn from the inside to lock the door. If you forget, the keypad beeps at you but will not auto-engage. For someone with a strict habit of turning the thumbturn, this is not a problem. For someone who relies on auto-lock, look at the TEEHO TE001 instead.
Who should buy the Schlage Camelot
This is the right lock for seniors, second homes, and anyone who wants a simple, no-fuss keypad that does not depend on Wi-Fi. It is also a great choice for rental properties where the landlord does not want tenants to have app access.
Who should skip it
If you want remote control, voice activation, or smart home integration, the Camelot is the wrong tool. Look at the Schlage Encode, which adds Wi-Fi to the same Schlage reliability.
6. Veise KS02A Fingerprint Door Lock – Best Budget Fingerprint Smart Lock
Veise KS02A Fingerprint Door Lock, Keypad Deadbolt, Matte Black
AI self-learning fingerprint
20 codes
Anti-peeping
IP54 weatherproof
Pros
- Self-learning AI fingerprint reader
- Excellent value for the price
- 15-minute installation with no drilling
- Auto-lock with customizable timing
- One-time codes for guests and contractors
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Fingerprint reader can be picky about finger angle
- Low-battery indicator could be clearer
The Veise KS02A is the fingerprint reader I would recommend to anyone on a budget. At under 50 dollars, it offers a self-learning AI reader that improves over time, a keypad that handles 20 passwords, and an IP54 weatherproof body that holds up to rain and snow.
I tested the fingerprint reader with my entire household, including a teenager and an elderly parent. The recognition rate is excellent after the first few uses, because the AI learns the subtle variations in your fingerprint from each scan. The 0.2-second recognition time is in line with much more expensive locks.
The anti-peeping feature works the same way as the TEEHO: you can add random digits before and after your real code. The Passage Mode disables auto-lock when you are expecting guests, and Vacation Mode restricts access to the master password only, which is a thoughtful touch for someone who travels frequently.
The biggest annoyance is that batteries are not included, so you need to buy four AAs separately. The low-battery indicator is also a small red light that is easy to miss, so I recommend replacing batteries on a calendar reminder rather than waiting for the warning. But for the price, these are minor complaints.
Who should buy the Veise KS02A
This is the lock for first-time smart lock buyers who want fingerprint entry without paying a premium. It is also great for small offices, side doors, and rental units where a biometric option adds convenience at a low cost.
Who should skip it
If you need built-in Wi-Fi or smart home integration, the Veise KS02A is offline only. Look at the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE or eufy C220 instead.
7. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 – Best All-in-One Smart Home Deadbolt
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
6 unlock methods
Built-in Wi-Fi
BHMA Grade 3
8-month battery
Pros
- 6 unlock methods including Apple Watch and voice
- Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub needed
- Self-learning AI fingerprint reader
- BHMA Grade 3 certified after 100
- 000 cycles
- Seamless eufy ecosystem integration
Cons
- Requires 8 AA batteries
- Auto-lock timer not based on door position
- Keypad harder to see at night without porch light
The eufy Smart Lock C220 is the lock I would buy if I were building a smart home around the eufy ecosystem. It pairs a self-learning fingerprint reader with built-in Wi-Fi, six different ways to unlock, and an aluminum body that survived my winter testing without any condensation or freezing issues.
The C220 unlocks via fingerprint, app, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch, and voice. The Apple Watch support is a quiet but useful feature if you wear one regularly, because you can unlock it from your wrist without pulling out your phone. The eufy Security app is one of the cleanest I tested, with real-time notifications, a detailed activity log, and granular user management.
Installation took me 20 minutes with no drilling required, and the lock fits most standard deadbolts. The BHMA Grade 3 certification after 100,000 lock cycles is reassuring for a front-door application. The IP53 waterproof rating is enough for most climates, though I would prefer IP65 for full weather sealing.
The downsides are the eight-battery requirement (yes, eight AAs), and the auto-lock timer is based on the time since the last unlock rather than door position. So if you prop the door open and walk away, it will lock itself thinking the door is closed. If you want door-position-based auto-lock, the Schlage Encode with DoorSense is a better pick.
Who should buy the eufy C220
This is the lock for someone already invested in eufy cameras, doorbells, or the HomeBase 3. It is also a strong pick for Apple Watch owners who want tap-to-unlock from the wrist. The all-in-one nature of the C220 makes it a great choice for homeowners who want fingerprint, keypad, and app control without buying extra hubs.
Who should skip it
If you have an existing Zigbee or Z-Wave hub setup, the Aqara U100 is a better fit. If you do not need Wi-Fi, the TEEHO TE001 is a cheaper option.
8. Aqara Smart Lock U100 – Best Smart Lock for Apple Home Key
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Gray
Apple Home Key
Fingerprint
IP65
USB-C emergency charging
Pros
- Native Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- Fast and accurate fingerprint reader
- Works with HomeKit
- Alexa
- IFTTT
- Solid zinc alloy with IP65 weatherproofing
- USB-C emergency charging port
Cons
- Requires Zigbee hub for full functionality
- Some quality control variability reported
- Non-Kwikset tumbler (not easily rekeyable)
- Aqara native app can be buggy
The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is the lock I would recommend to anyone deep in the Apple ecosystem. It supports Apple Home Key, which means you can tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door even when your phone is out of battery. After spending a month with it, that feature alone is a reason to pick the U100 over every other option.
The fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, and the keypad supports multiple passwords including one-time visitor codes. The USB-C emergency charging port is a lifesaver if the batteries die unexpectedly, because you can power the lock from any USB-C cable and a portable charger to get inside.
Build-wise, the U100 has a solid zinc alloy body with IP65 weatherproofing, which is the highest rating I tested. The operating temperature range of -31F to 151F means it will survive any climate in North America. I also appreciated the Do Not Disturb mode, which mutes lock sounds during nighttime entries.
The downside is the Zigbee hub requirement. To get full remote functionality and HomeKit integration, you need an Aqara hub, which is sold separately. Without it, the lock works locally with Bluetooth, but you lose the remote unlock and Apple Home Key features that justify the price. Some users also report quality control variability, including one in my own test where the fingerprint reader occasionally failed to register on the first try.
Who should buy the Aqara U100
This is the lock for Apple Home users who want tap-to-unlock with iPhone or Apple Watch. It is also a strong pick for HomeKit households, Google Home users, and anyone who wants USB-C emergency charging as a backup option.
Who should skip it
If you are not in the Apple ecosystem and don’t already own a Zigbee hub, the eufy C220 or ULTRALOQ Bolt SE will save you money. If you want a fully offline lock, the Schlage Camelot or TEEHO TE001 are simpler choices.
What to Look for in the Best Smart Locks for Keyless Entry
After testing eight locks across several weeks, here are the factors that actually mattered in my day-to-day use. I broke each one down so you can match a lock to your situation instead of just buying whatever a Reddit thread recommends.
Smart Lock Type: Retrofit vs. Replacement
A retrofit lock sits on top of your existing deadbolt and only changes the inside thumbturn. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the classic example, and the appeal is that renters can install one without modifying the door. The downside is that you keep your existing (potentially weak) deadbolt and cylinder, which limits security. A full replacement deadbolt replaces the entire mechanism and gives you stronger strike plates and longer screws, which is what locksmiths and police recommend for front doors.
For most homeowners, a full replacement like the Schlage Encode or ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the right call. For renters, the Sifely with a separate Wi-Fi Gateway works without modifying the door.
Access Methods: Keypad, Fingerprint, Apple Home Key, Voice
Every lock I tested supports at least two access methods, but the combination matters. Keypad entry is the most universal because kids, grandparents, and guests can all use it. Fingerprint adds speed but fails for some users with worn fingers or small hands. Apple Home Key is the most convenient for iPhone owners, but only the Aqara U100 supports it well.
For a family with mixed ages, look for a lock that supports at least three methods. The eufy C220 with fingerprint, keypad, app, key, Apple Watch, and voice is the most flexible of the eight I tested.
Smart Home Compatibility: Matter, Thread, Z-Wave, Zigbee
If you already have a smart home, match the protocol to your hub. Matter is the new standard and works across Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings with a single hub. Thread is the low-power mesh network that pairs with Matter. Z-Wave and Zigbee are older protocols still used by SmartThings and Hubitat. Wi-Fi locks connect directly to your home network and don’t need a hub, but they use more battery.
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the best Matter/Thread option I tested. The Aqara U100 requires Zigbee. The Schlage Encode, eufy C220, and TEEHO TE001 work over Wi-Fi without a hub (TEEHO is offline-only).
Security and ANSI/BHMA Ratings Explained
ANSI/BHMA is the independent body that grades residential locks. Grade 1 is commercial-grade and the strongest, Grade 2 is mid-range residential, and Grade 3 is basic residential. BHMA AAA is the highest tier within Grade 2 for residential use. The Schlage Encode holds the BHMA highest residential rating, which is why I trust it on my front door.
If you are installing on a front door, look for at least Grade 2 or BHMA AAA. For a side door or garage, Grade 3 is acceptable.
Battery Life and Emergency Power
Battery life ranged from 2 months to 18 months across the locks I tested. Real-world battery life is shorter than manufacturer claims, especially in cold weather or with heavy Wi-Fi use. The Schlage Camelot’s 9V battery lasts up to 2 years because it has no motor and no Wi-Fi, which is the longest of any lock I tested.
Every smart lock should have a backup plan for dead batteries: either a 9V terminal (Schlage Encode, Camelot), a physical key (most models), or a USB-C emergency port (Aqara U100). If you live in a cold climate, replace them every 6 months rather than waiting for the low-battery warning.
What Police and Locksmiths Actually Recommend
I called two local locksmiths and read through FBI burglary data to answer this directly. Police and locksmiths consistently recommend:
Grade 1 or BHMA AAA certified deadbolts (Schlage Encode, Schlage Encode Plus)
Long screws (3 inches) that anchor the strike plate into the door frame stud
Reinforcement plates for the door frame
Backup physical key in case of electronic failure
Smart locks with anti-pick, anti-bump cylinders (Kwikset SmartKey, Schlage SecureKey)
The locksmith I spoke with was blunt: a strong deadbolt and a reinforced frame matter more than the smart features. Pick a lock with the right certifications first, then add the smart features you want.
How to Avoid Getting Locked Out (Troubleshooting Workflow)
Every smart lock will eventually fail, whether from a dead battery, a Wi-Fi dropout, or a software bug. Here is the workflow I developed after locking myself out twice during testing:
Try the keypad first, even if you think the batteries are dead. Many locks retain enough charge for several unlock cycles after the low-battery warning.
If the keypad fails, try the physical key backup that came with the lock. Almost every lock on this list includes one.
If you do not have the physical key, look for the 9V emergency terminal on the bottom of the lock exterior. Hold a fresh 9V battery against the terminals to power the lock temporarily. Schlage Encode and Camelot both support this.
If the lock has a USB-C emergency port (Aqara U100), connect any USB-C cable and power bank to power the lock long enough to enter your code.
If all else fails, call a licensed locksmith. A lockout fee is cheaper than damaging the door.
The single best prevention is to keep a spare physical key in a combination lockbox near (but not on) the door, or to give a copy to a trusted neighbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top rated smart lock for keyless entry?
Based on our hands-on testing and review volume, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is the top rated smart lock for keyless entry. It carries the BHMA highest residential security rating, has built-in Wi-Fi with no hub required, and supports up to 100 user codes through an intuitive app.
Which brand of smart lock is the most reliable?
Schlage, Yale, and August are the most reliable smart lock brands based on long-term Reddit community feedback and our own testing. Schlage consistently earns praise for mechanical durability, Yale for app reliability, and August for retrofit design. Avoid brands with unresolved security incidents when possible.
What locks do police recommend for doors?
Police and locksmiths recommend ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or BHMA AAA certified deadbolts installed with 3-inch screws that anchor into the door frame stud. The Schlage Encode holds the BHMA highest residential rating and is one of the most commonly recommended options for front doors.
What happens if the battery dies in a smart lock?
Most smart locks give a low-battery warning weeks before they die. If you ignore the warning, the lock will fail closed. Almost every smart lock includes a backup: a 9V emergency terminal on the exterior (Schlage Encode, Camelot), a physical key (most models), or a USB-C emergency charging port (Aqara U100).
How do I unlock a smart lock with a dead battery?
Hold a fresh 9V battery against the emergency terminals on the bottom of the lock exterior (Schlage Encode, Schlage Camelot), or connect a USB-C cable and power bank to the emergency port (Aqara U100). If your lock includes a physical key backup, use that instead. If all else fails, call a licensed locksmith.
Are smart locks safer than traditional deadbolts?
Smart locks are not inherently safer than traditional deadbolts, but the best models offer features that traditional locks cannot: tamper alarms, activity logs, auto-lock on door close, and remote locking. For maximum security, choose a Grade 1 or BHMA AAA certified smart lock and pair it with a reinforced strike plate and 3-inch screws.
Final Verdict
The best smart lock for keyless entry in 2026 is the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt for most people, the TEEHO TE001 if you want a budget keypad, and the Aqara U100 if you live in the Apple ecosystem. After six weeks of testing eight locks across three different doors, these three earned their spots by combining strong security certifications with reliable everyday performance.
Whatever you choose, install it with 3-inch screws and a reinforced strike plate, keep a spare physical key in a lockbox, and replace the batteries on a calendar reminder. A smart lock is only as good as the door frame it sits in, and a locked-out evening is a reminder that backups matter as much as features. For more on upgrading your smart home setup, see our guide to the best smart doorbells without a subscription and our picks for the best smart energy monitors for Home Assistant.