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The Best 5Reviewed by Mike Hun·April 29, 2026

Best Smart Locks

Top 5 smart locks reviewed and ranked.

Quick answer

Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt is our top pick for smart locks — an averaged 4.3/5 across 6 published reviews at about $319. Runner-up: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi (~$199).

Read the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt review →$319 · Check Price on Amazon

At a glance

Tap any product for the full review
1Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi DeadboltTop Score
(6 sources)
$319Best for: Homeowners seeking broad ecosystem compatibility and Apple Home Key without a bridge
$319 · Check Price on Amazon
2Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
(4 sources)
$199Best for: Users needing maximum unlock options like fingerprint scanning without a bridge
$199 · Check Price on Amazon
3August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
(7 sources)
$200Best for: Apple HomeKit users prioritizing easy installation over keypad access
$200 · Check Price on Amazon
4Level Lock+
(4 sources)
$349Best for: Apple-centric users valuing a hidden motor and seamless Home Key over remote access
$349 · Check Price on Amazon
5Yale Assure Lock 2
(6 sources)
$229Best for: Buyers needing a built-in keypad and Thread support despite potential connectivity hiccups
$229 · Check Price on Amazon
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Reviews aggregated from
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The full ranking

How we rank →
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
#1 · Top Score
Best for: Homeowners seeking broad ecosystem compatibility and Apple Home Key without a bridge
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
from 6 sources$319as of Apr 22

The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt offers exceptional compatibility with major smart home ecosystems, including Apple Home Key, while eliminating the need for a bridge via built-in Wi-Fi. Although the physical installation is straightforward and the device includes a physical key backup, users must download the Schlage Home app to manage it through Google or Alexa, and the unit is noted for being somewhat bulky. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing broad platform support and remote monitoring, despite the higher price point and lack of biometric sensors.

Strengths
  • — Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit including Apple Home Key NFC technology
  • — Integrated Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate bridge or hub
Watch-outs
  • — Google Home and Alexa apps require the Schlage Home app to function properly
  • — Construction is relatively bulky compared to some other smart locks
$319 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →vs. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi →
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
#2
Best for: Users needing maximum unlock options like fingerprint scanning without a bridge
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
from 4 sources$199as of Apr 22

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi offers exceptional versatility with six unlock methods and built-in Wi-Fi, making it a top choice for keyless entry. However, its utility is slightly hampered by the lack of Apple HomeKit support, reliance on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, and mediocre battery performance. Despite these limitations, its compact design and robust fingerprint sensor make it a strong asset for most smart homes.

Strengths
  • — Supports six unlock methods including fingerprint, keypad, key, app, geofence, and Bluetooth
  • — Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity eliminates the need for a separate bridge or hub
Watch-outs
  • — Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only and does not support dual-band networks
  • — Battery life is described as so-so, requiring 4 AA batteries
$199 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →vs. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt →
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
#3
Best for: Apple HomeKit users prioritizing easy installation over keypad access
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
from 7 sources$200as of Apr 22

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) offers a remarkably easy installation process and reliable smart home integration, making it a solid choice for automating door security. However, its utility is limited by the lack of 5GHz Wi-Fi support and the absence of a built-in keypad, which can be problematic if a user is locked out without their phone. While the auto-lock features work well, the device's high standard retail price and bulky design may deter some buyers unless purchased on sale.

Strengths
  • — Super-simple setup that can be completed in minutes using a screwdriver
  • — Seamless integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit
Watch-outs
  • — Does not support 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
  • — Lacks an alternate unlock method if both keys and phone are left inside
$200 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →vs. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt →
Level Lock+
#4
Best for: Apple-centric users valuing a hidden motor and seamless Home Key over remote access
Level Lock+
from 4 sources$349as of Apr 22

The Level Lock+ is widely considered the best smart lock for Apple users due to its seamless HomeKit integration, Home Key support, and discreet design that hides the motor inside the door. However, it requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote control and currently has limited compatibility with non-Apple ecosystems like Google Assistant. While installation is straightforward, the included security cylinder is a weak point that may require upgrading by a locksmith for maximum protection.

Strengths
  • — Understated industrial design that hides the smart mechanism inside the door frame
  • — Supremely easy to install and set up using only a Phillips screwdriver
Watch-outs
  • — Limited to local operation without purchasing a separate Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge for remote access
  • — Essentially incompatible with Google Assistant until the Thread radio is activated
$349 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →vs. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt →
Yale Assure Lock 2
#5
Best for: Buyers needing a built-in keypad and Thread support despite potential connectivity hiccups
Yale Assure Lock 2
from 6 sources$229as of Apr 22

The Yale Assure Lock 2 offers versatile smart home integration with support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread, making it a flexible choice for modern homes. However, users report inconsistent Wi-Fi performance and shorter battery life when connected wirelessly, which may require frequent maintenance.

Strengths
  • — Supports multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread for flexible smart home integration
  • — Features a sleek, modern keypad design with a backlit interface for easy nighttime entry
Watch-outs
  • — Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent and sometimes requires a separate bridge or hub for stable connection
  • — Battery life is shorter than expected when using Wi-Fi features, requiring frequent replacements
$229 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →vs. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt →

Spec comparison

5 products
SpecSchlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi DeadboltUltraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFiAugust Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)Level Lock+Yale Assure Lock 2
ConnectivityIntegrated Wi-Fi2.4GHz Wi-Fi, BluetoothWi-FiBluetooth, Thread, Wi-Fi (via bridge)Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread
Smart Home SupportAlexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKitAlexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, SmartThingsAlexa, Google Assistant, HomeKitHomeKit, Home Key, Siri supportApple Home, Google Home, Alexa
Unlock MethodsPhysical key includedFingerprint, Keypad, Key, App, Geofence, BluetoothApp, Auto-unlock, KeyNFC (iPhone/Watch), App, Physical Key, Keypad (optional)Backlit Touchscreen
Power Source4 AA batteries4 AA batteriesTwo 3V CR123 lithium batteries4 AA batteries4 AA Batteries
Fingerprint CapacityNoneUp to 100 fingerprints (2 per user)None——
Door CompatibilityStandard deadbolt doors2-3/8" (60mm) or 2-3/4" (70mm)Standard deadboltsStandard deadbolts1-3/8" to 1-3/4"

Frequently asked questions

What is the best smart lock?
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt is our top pick for smart locks, with an averaged rating of 4.3/5 from 6 published reviews. The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt offers exceptional compatibility with major smart home ecosystems, including Apple Home Key, while eliminating the need for a bridge via built-in Wi-Fi. Although the physical installation is straightforward and the device includes a physical key backup, users must download the Schlage Home app to manage it through Google or Alexa, and the unit is noted for being somewhat bulky. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing broad platform support and remote monitoring, despite the higher price point and lack of biometric sensors.
Is there a cheaper alternative worth considering?
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi (around $199) rates 4.3/5 in our analysis. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi offers exceptional versatility with six unlock methods and built-in Wi-Fi, making it a top choice for keyless entry. However, its utility is slightly hampered by the lack of Apple HomeKit support, reliance on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, and mediocre battery performance. Despite these limitations, its compact design and robust fingerprint sensor make it a strong asset for most smart homes.
How does Verdict rank these products?
Every rating on Verdict is the numerical average of scores published by independent review sites, YouTube reviewers, and Reddit buyer reports. No editor adjusts the order — the ranking is whatever the source data produces. See our methodology page for the full process.
When was this guide last updated?
This guide was last re-checked in April 2026. We re-run our research pipeline for each category on a rolling basis so prices and rankings reflect current market reality.

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