If keeping your home secure but also adding some 21st century functionality while cutting down the number of keys on your keychain are all important to you, maybe it’s time to check out a smart lock. These four home security systems will keep things locked up tight and allow you to control who gets in for not much more than a standard lock. These are four that CNET rated highest.
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August Smart Lock (HomeKit-enabled)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/august-smart-lock-homekit-enabled-review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: From its improved design and easy install, to its simple software interface and top-notch performance, the $229 second-generation August Smart Lock does everything a little bit better. Oh, and it integrates with Siri via Apple’s HomeKit software, as well as the Works with Nest platform.
The bad: The lock isn’t compatible with every deadbolt, HomeKit can be challenging to get up and running, and the Siri integration won’t matter to August’s non-Apple users.
The cost: $205.99 to $229.99
The bottom line: August’s HomeKit-enabled Smart Lock 2.0 improves on an already awesome product and is worth strong consideration — even if you don’t have an iPhone.
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Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Deadbolt
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/kwikset-kevo-2nd-gen-bluetooth-smart-lock/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The Kwikset Kevo is a uniquely convenient smart lock that can let you in with a single touch. The second-gen model is designed better than before, with a smaller interior footprint, easier installation and resistance against brute-force attacks. All “eKeys,” including time-restricted ones, are now free and unlimited.
The bad: The second-gen Kevo no longer includes the helpful key fob accessory, but it still costs more than generation one.
The cost: $217.15
The bottom line: This is a very solid smart lock that offers a true convenience upgrade for your front door.
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Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/yale-real-living-touchscreen-z-wave-deadbolt/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt features a sophisticated design, speaks three languages, and boasts easy-to-use controls. For basic lock automation, it does the job nicely, and works with a wide number of systems.
The bad: Like a lot of smart deadbolts, this Yale lock is pretty bulky, requiring a good deal of real estate on the inside of your door. Also, you won’t be able to schedule temporary access codes unless you use the right type of home control device.
The cost: $160.04 to $197.99
The bottom line: If you’re looking for a higher level of convenience from your lock, but you don’t want to pay monthly fees, then you’ll want to give this deadbolt your consideration.
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Schlage Sense Bluetooth Deadbolt (Apple HomeKit-enabled)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/schlage-sense-bluetooth-deadbolt/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: Schlage’s HomeKit deadbolt works very well within Apple’s smart-home framework, and offers a simple, intuitive app that makes it easy to manage user codes. Voice-activated Siri controls worked like a charm when we tested them out.
The bad: You won’t be able to access the lock from beyond the range of its Bluetooth radio unless you’ve got an Apple TV hooked up in your home, and the app doesn’t dive as deep into HomeKit’s standardized controls as others we’ve seen. The interior of the lock is also bulkier than we’d like.
The cost: $178.00 to $222.13
The bottom line: If you’ve committed to HomeKit for your smart-home setup (and if you own an Apple TV), then this is an easy lock to recommend, but keep in mind that other locks like it are compatible with more products and platforms.
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The following CNET staff contributed to this story: Senior Associate Editor Ry Crist, Senior Associate Editor Megan Wollerton and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
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