There are many other elements to home security that you should consider besides installing a security system. Have you considered how to protect your family from items like carbon monoxide and fires? What about securing your home when you leave for vacation? Or how about how you can deter a burglar from targeting your home?
These (and more) are all important aspects of securing your home that we can help you with. Our home security experts have spent countless hours researching, calling companies, and personally testing gear to bring you the latest accurate information and data on home security products and services.
Do you need help finding the best home security system but are overwhelmed with your options? Our team of experts has over 75 years of combined experience researching, testing, and using home security systems. We’ve reviewed the top professionally monitored security companies to help you choose the most reliable system at the best price.
Is the new Amazon Key delivery method a more secure way to get your packages? Or, as Amazon seems to increasingly permeate our lives, has this mega-company overstepped its bounds? Read on to learn if this is the secure delivery solution you’ve been looking for.
Best KeypadBest Non-KeypadBest Existing DeadboltSchlage Sense Smart DeadboltKwikset Kevo 2nd GenAugust Smart Lock 4th GenView on AmazonView on AmazonView on AmazonRead ReviewRead ReviewRead Review
Now you no longer have to worry about those duplicate keys you gave to your sitter or house cleaner. You can say goodbye to leaving a key under the mat for guests. Smart locks are growing in popularity, thanks to the convenience and added security they give you. But what are the various features available, and what’s the best one for your home (or business)? Let’s unlock the findings in our best smart locks review!
3 Components Of A Smart Lock
What is a smart lock exactly, and how do they work?
A smart lock consists of three components:
Deadbolt lock – Locks the door using a key or motor.
Motor – The motor operates the deadbolt (instead of a standard key).
Transceiver – Connects to a smartphone app or home automation system and sends and receives a remote signal to the motor to open or close the deadbolt.
Our reviews focus on Bluetooth-enabled smart locks, meaning you can lock and unlock your front deadbolt using your smartphone. All of the locks in our reviews also have features where you can connect your lock to become a remote WiFi deadbolt — i.e., you can lock or unlock your door no matter where you are. The WiFi mechanism differs with each smart lock.
What’s The Best Smart Lock?
Instead of giving our top picks ranked, we have a winner for three categories: keypad, sans keypad, and works with your existing lock. We then share a couple of other notable locks that are worth considering for their lower price points (but not as superior in safety or features).
Best Keypad: Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Review
View on Amazon
Unlike other smart locks, Schlage detects when someone unlocks the door with a key or via the keypad, rather than merely tracking when someone uses the app to unlock the door.
Hands-free voice control requires Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter and Alexa device (sold individually)
Free iOS and Android smartphone app lets you manage codes, set schedules and view usage history
Lock and unlock from anywhere by pairing with the Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter (sold separately)
Pair with Apple HomeKit devices to use with iOS and Siri voice control only.
This lock also has a built-in siren that activates when someone tries to force your door open, which gives you peace of mind during the nighttime or when not at home. Although Schlage doesn’t have an auto-unlock feature, we don’t see that as a negative (other than inconvenience). Rather, it’s an added security measure in our book.
ProsConsANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certified deadbolt (highest level)No key fob availableBuilt-in alarmRemote access only available via Apple TVEasy installation
App tells you who enters and when (via smartphone and keypad/keys)
Comes in 3 styles
Unlimited free e-keys
Assign up to 30 keypad codes for guest access via App (easy to disable or delete when necessary)
Compatible with Apple TV and Apple Homekit
3-year electronic warranty (best of all reviewed)
Pricing & Tech Specs
$259.994 AA batteries included
Dimensions: Exterior 3″ x 5”; Interior 2″ x 3″ x 8”
Best Non-Keypad: Kwikset Kevo 2nd Gen Review
View on Amazon
The Kwikset 2nd Gen Bluetooth deadbolt’s best feature is its unique touch mechanism, where you don’t have to open the app to lock or unlock your door — you simply touch your smartphone to the lock. It’s a good option for those who want the functionality of keyless entry without a physical key but don’t have to use a code to get in.
You can easily customize your e-key settings for family, friends, and others who need access to your home, but additional e-keys are an added charge. Unlike Schlage, you can add on a key fob. Kwikset’s deadbolt lock is Grade 2 level security — a high level, but not as high as our number one pick.
ProsConsANSI/BHMA Grade 2 certified deadboltNo built-in sirenCompatible with iOS and select Android devicesOnly monitors when someone unlocks your door using the app (no key use or tamper monitoring)Easy to install and configure with standard keys (2 included)No keypad availableKey fob (additional charge)WiFi adapter for remote access is an additional fee24-hour guest e-key access and customized e-key access for pet sitters, housekeepers, etc.Additional e-keys are extra changeCompatible with Nest, Honeywell, Ring, and Skybell smart doorbellsOnly available in black
1-year electronic warranty
Pricing & Tech Specs
$189.994 AA batteries included
Dimensions: 5.75″ x 2.75″ x 2″
Best Existing Deadbolt: August Smart Lock 4th Gen Review
View on Amazon
Unlike our top two winners, the August Smart Lock Pro doesn’t replace your existing deadbolt, just the thumb turn inside the door. That way, you can upgrade the smart functionality and keep the exterior of your door hardware the same. What’s the safety factor here? This keyless door lock relies on the safety quality of your existing deadbolt, so make sure you have a premiere deadbolt already in place.
The app makes granting access a breeze with fully customizable settings, but it doesn’t track when someone uses a key to unlock your door or if someone tries to tamper with your lock. Still, the August Smart Lock has a robust set of features, including auto-unlock and voice assistant, syncing with more smart home platforms (Z-Wave, Apple HomeKit, etc.) than some of the companies in our other smart lock reviews.
ProsConsCompatible with iOS and Android devices as well as Alexa, Siri and Google HomeNot compatible with some deadbolt typesEasy DIY retrofit installation (you only replace the interior of your deadbolt)No built-in sirenApp tells you who enters and whenDoesn’t monitor when someone unlocks your door with a key or tampers with your lock or doorSend unlimited free e-keys to family, sitters, and guests and control their accessNo key fob is availableKeypad add-on (additional fee)August Connect WiFi Bridge adapter for remote access is an added feeCompatible with August doorbell cam, Z-Wave, Apple Homekit, Apple watch, Nest Secure, Honeywell and XFINITY Home app
1-year electronics warranty
Pricing & Tech Specs
Smart Lock Pro: $299.98
Smart Lock Pro + WiFi Connect Bridge:
4 AA batteries included
Dimensions: 3.3″ x 3.3″ x 2.2”
Read Our Full August Smart Lock Review
Smart Lock Comparison Table
Schlage SensesKwikset Kevo 2nd GenAugust Smart Lock 4th GenDanalock v3SimpliSafe Smart LockPricing$259.99$200.45$299.98$273.60$99.00ANSI/BHMA Certified LockGrade 1Grade 2N/AN/AN/AInstallation TypeReplaces deadboltReplaces deadboltRetrofits existing deadboltRetrofits existing deadboltRetrofits existing deadboltBuilt-in SirenKeypadAdd-onAdd-onKey FobAdd-onAdd-onAdd-onAuto LockAuto UnlockE-keysUnlimited2 freeUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedWiFi Remote AccessApple TVAdd-onAdd-onZ-Wave & AppAppCompatible PlatformsApple TV, Apple HomekitNest, HoneywellApple Homekit, Nest, Honeywell, XFINITYZ-Wave, ZigbeeAlexa, Google HomeCompatible Doorbell CamsRing, SkybellAugust Doorbell CamZ-Wave compatibleSimpliSafe Doorbell ProWarranty3 years1 year1 year1 year3 years
What About Danalock & SimpliSafe Smart Lock?
Below are some other smart locks for you to consider. Although they didn’t make our top picks, one may be the right fit for your particular needs.
Danalock V3 Bluetooth Smart Lock Review
View on Amazon
Similar to August, Danalock works with your existing deadbolt. Danalock’s 3rd generation Bluetooth smart lock is an improvement from previous models, but not all bugs have been resolved. In the end, this smart lock isn’t as popular as others listed in this review, so we’d probably suggest you consider one of those over Danalock.
ProsConsCompatible with iOS and AndroidMay not work with some types of deadboltsKeypad add-onRetrofit installation, but not as easy as our other reviewed smart locksRemote WiFi access available via home automation sync or app on an in-house smartphone/tabletNo built-in alarmCompatible with Z-Wave, Nest, Apple WatchDoesn’t log when someone uses a key or tries to force the lock (unless synced with home automation platform)1-year electronics warranty
Pricing & Tech Specs
$273.604 CR123A batteries
Dimensions: 2.5″ x 2.5″ x 2.83″
SimpliSafe Smart Lock Review
Visit Website
SimpliSafe’s Smart Lock will keep track of anyone who locks or unlocks your door, so you’ll know when the kids get home from school or when the cleaner finishes up for the day (monitoring plan required).
SimpliSafe Smart Lock notifies you if the wrong PIN is entered 5 times. After 15 attempts, it will remain locked for 30 minutes, and if you have a monitoring plan, SimpliSafe will call you. You can lock and unlock it using the PIN pad, key fob, or your smartphone. You can also create unique access codes for the dog walker, family members, contractors, etc.
ProsConsCompatible with iOS and AndroidMust have a single-cylinder deadbolt to workAffordable equipment priceNo built-in sirenNo drilling needed, just a screwdriverRequires a monthly monitoring fee to monitor the lock through an appSecurity system add-onsNo bypass key for backup if battery fails60-day money back guaranteeDeadbolt won’t extend until the door is shut, so it won’t damage your door frame mid close
Pricing
$99.00
Monitoring Options
Important to know…You can purchase a SimpliSafe Smart Lock without adding on a monitoring plan. However, you won’t be able to monitor it yourself or be notified if the lock is unlocked unless you pay a monthly monitoring fee.
StandardInteractivePrice Per Month$17.99$27.9924/7 Professional MonitoringCellular ConnectionEnvironmental MonitoringMobile AppUnlimited Camera RecordingHome Automation
Read Our Full SimpliSafe Review
Smart Locks vs Traditional Deadbolt Locks (Video)
Smart home products are of all the hype these days, and for good reason. Not only do they add convenience to your life, but find out how they actually increase your security over a traditional deadbolt lock too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5gqOwQROTg
Upgrade Your Home Security Beyond Smart Locks
Smart locks have come a long way over the last few years. But if you really want to protect your household, you should consider going beyond just a smart lock. There are many easy, DIY home security options. In fact, some of our best smart locks sync with our top-rated smart doorbell cameras.
Brinks is known for its armored car transportation services, but did you know it now offers a home security system? Can a company that specializes in transporting valuables also be successful at securing homes?
Many DIY self-monitored companies find ways to introduce monthly fees, whether it’s to use the app, access cloud storage or to monitor the system yourself. But which ones really provide full home security functionality without a contract or monthly fee?
ADT is one of the oldest and possibly the most well-known home security company. With more than 140 years of experience, ADT is a household name. But does being around so long also mean it’s the best at securing your home? We lift the hood and find out in our comprehensive review.
Indoor motion sensors are the biggest concern for pet owners looking for a pet-friendly security system. If you don’t want to sacrifice this important home security feature, you still have some great options. We’ve spent a lot of time researching equipment offered by all the top companies and have narrowed down the best systems for pet owners.
Indoor motion sensors are the biggest concern for pet owners looking for a pet-friendly security system. If you don’t want to sacrifice this important home security feature, you still have some great options. We’ve spent a lot of time researching equipment offered by all the top companies and have narrowed down the best systems for pet owners.
Frontpoint has security and automation equipment to help protect your home. The service and equipment are top-notch, and the DIY setup is a breeze. And now, it offers month to month agreements which makes it convenient for both homeowners and renters. But the home security space is crowded, there are tons of options. Are you really getting the best value with Frontpoint?
Frontpoint security is a home security system that provides monitored alarm systems and home automation services. The company has been in business since 2007 and is currently one of the largest and most respected home security providers in the United States. Although canceling your Frontpoint security service is not an easy process, it can be …
When you call 911, you expect law enforcement to be there immediately. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Average police response times vary widely based on many factors, including where you live and the severity of the crime.
Vivint is known for its home automation features and has a great app to go along with it. But is it worth the equipment prices, potential financing needed and extra long contract lengths?
