Security starts at the front door, and smart locks are a great way to add a big dose of technology to this primary method of keeping your home secure.
Instead of ditching the key entirely, smart locks give users several other ways to control access to their home with a smartphone. The technology can also interface with other smart home devices and systems like Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit.
If you feel overwhelmed by the number of smart lock options, don't worry. We are here to help. Along with a quick introduction to the technology, we have five smart lock recommendations based on your specific needs.
If you're not familiar with smart locks, they're similar to other smart home technologies available, like thermostats and light switches.
Along with the usual deadbolt on the outside, cylinder and other parts on the inside of your door, the smart technology draws power from replaceable or rechargeable batteries.
Some options allow you to keep your existing deadbolt, meaning you won't have to worry about a new key, while others will replace the entire locking mechanism.
Once set up, smart locks offer a number of benefits. In addition to being able to lock and unlock a door from across the room, or even across the world, you can quickly and easily share access with friends, family, and many others.
Many smart locks allow you to provide a digital key that expires after a specific time set by the user. That's perfect for allowing a maid, handyman, or others one-time access to a home. And it's definitely a lot safer than putting a spare key under a rock on your front porch.
Other benefits of smart locks include smartphone notifications and the ability to see exactly when the door has been locked and unlocked.
And as with any technology, there are also some downsides to be aware of, including smart lock security. Everything you need to know before installing a smart lock. Everything you need to know before installing a smart lock. Smart locks are becoming more and more popular, but there are still many valid concerns about their security. These are the facts you should know before making a purchase! More information and the risk of the technology becoming obsolete.
August Smart Lock Pro + Connect, 3rd Generation Technology - Dark Grey, Works with Alexa August Smart Lock Pro + Connect, 3rd Generation Technology - Dark Grey, Works with Alexa Buy Now On Amazon $225.88
If you're looking for the best smart lock available on the market, it's hard to go wrong with the August Smart Lock Pro + August Connect combination.
Unlock many other smart locks, August option only replaces interior door hardware. That makes it much easier to install, and you won't have to change keys. With just a Phillips screwdriver, you should be able to install the smart lock in just 10 minutes.
Once this is done, you will have more than a few ways to access and control the lock. With the app, users can view a 24/7 feed of the lock and door. It's also quick and easy to give lock access to other users.
A unique feature is the special DoorSense technology. The built-in sensor will tell users that their deadbolt is properly engaged and the door is truly closed. That feature allows the lock to activate instantly when the door is closed.
Thanks to the August Connect module that plugs into an open electrical outlet, the lock can be operated from a home network. It even allows the lock to integrate with Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa smart home protocols.
As well as making control easy on your existing smart home setup, you can create a number of different automations with other devices.
The Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt with Camelot Satin Nickel (BE479 CAM 619), works with Alexa. The Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt with Camelot Satin Nickel (BE479 CAM 619), works with Alexa. Buy Now On Amazon $167.95
If HomeKit compatibility is your top priority for integrating a smart lock with other devices, the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt offers a number of great features.
While you'll have to replace all of the locking hardware, it offers a great addition for non-technical users. Thanks to the 10-digit touch screen on the outside, you can program up to 30 different codes that can be arranged with the companion iOS app.
With an Apple Home Hub, which can be a stay-at-home HomePod, Apple TV, or iPad, you can operate the lock from anywhere. The four AA batteries can provide a year of power in normal use.
Friday Labs FLSS Lock Steel Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Steel Finish Cover, Steel Finish Door Adapter Plate, Apple Starter Kit, Die-Cast Metal/Zinc Friday Labs FLSS Lock Steel Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, steel finish cover, steel finish door adapter plate, Apple Homekit, Die Cast / Zinc Buy Now on Amazon
Adding smart home technology, especially a smart lock, when living in an apartment or renting a house can definitely be problematic. But the Friday Labs Smart Lock hopes to offer a worthy option in those situations, as well as for homeowners.
Claiming to be the smallest overhaul lock on the market, it uses a rechargeable battery for power that lasts between three and six months with normal use. To help better match your décor, there are a variety of different interior shell colors to select from.
You can control the HomeKit-compatible lock with Siri or the Home app on an iPhone or iPad. There is also a companion app for iOS or Android devices.
Amazon Key Home Kit:Amazon Cloud Cam Indoor Security Camera (Key Edition) and Compatible Smart Lock Amazon Key Home Kit:Amazon Cloud Cam Indoor Security Camera (Key Edition) and Compatible Smart Lock Buy Now on Amazon
For anyone who can't get enough shopping on Amazon and all of its powerful services, Amazon Key may be for you.
Only available to Amazon Prime members (the many benefits of Prime) in select areas, the Amazon Key Kit includes an Amazon Cloud Cam and a compatible smart lock from Kwikset or Yale. If you make the purchase, Amazon will also have a professional install the system for free in your home.
One of the main advantages of the system, as you might guess, is the distribution of Amazon packages. When a delivery is scheduled, you will receive a notification in the morning, just before and just after. The Amazon employee will receive one-time access to place your package inside. The high-definition camera records a clip of the delivery to view live or to view later.
While there are some privacy implications with the service, it could be useful if package theft is an issue in your neighborhood.
All compatible smart locks can be controlled with a companion app and can be locked or unlocked from anywhere.
If price is your number one concern when looking for a smart lock, the Lockitron deadbolt is one of the best smart locks you can buy.
The app, which only replaces the interior hardware, allows users to lock and unlock the door, receive notifications and share access with the companion smartphone app for iOS or Android.
Using Bluetooth technology, users can customize the Bolt to automatically unlock when they return home and are within a certain distance of the lock. Another option, tap to unlock, will wake up your smartphone when you return home. Three taps on the screen will unlock the door.
If you want to add Wi-Fi functionality later to access the lock from anywhere, you can also purchase an optional bridge.
Like other smart home technology, smart locks are a familiar part of everyday life and make it easier and faster to use.
As you can see, there is a smart lock available for almost any situation. And as smart home technology goes mainstream, 5 smart home products are worth every penny 5 smart home products are worth every penny While some smart home products are just gimmicks, these are awesome and worth the worth every penny. More information:more users should be able to take advantage of what a smart lock has to offer.
