Smart locks offer convenient, key-free access to your home, whether by code, by app, by proximity or by the touch of your finger. There are keyless options, Bluetooth options, locks that fit on your deadbolt and complete replacement locks. That’s all well and good, but it also makes for a connected lock landscape that’s a bit tricky to navigate if you’re new to smart-home tech. Here’s a quick look at CNET’s picks for the best smart locks available today.
———
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: $183.50 to $229.30
The bottom line: This is a very solid smart lock that offers a true convenience upgrade for your front door.
———
August Smart Lock Pro
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/august-smart-lock-pro/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: Your August Smart Lock Pro purchase includes a DIY smart lock, a Connect Wi-Fi module and a DoorSense open/close sensor — all for $279. The Pro also supports Z-Wave (hub not included) and works with Amazon Alexa speakers, the Google Home, Apple HomeKit and Nest.
The bad: You can’t buy the Pro as a standalone lock in stores; Z-Wave customers/anyone not interested in the Connect accessory must go through August’s list of professional dealers.
The cost: $259.99 to $279.99
The bottom line: August’s bundled Smart Lock Pro is a great option if you want tons of integrations at your disposal, but anyone craving a simpler lock should look elsewhere.
———
Kwikset Premis HomeKit-enabled Smart Lock
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/kwikset-premis/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
The good: Kwikset’s HomeKit-compatible smart lock puts Apple’s connected home controls to good use, including Siri voice controls. It also does an outstanding job with user management, letting you create user-specific, time-sensitive entry codes without ever charging you a fee.
The bad: You can’t control the lock from beyond the range of its Bluetooth radio unless you have a third-gen or better Apple TV in your home. The touchscreen is also slightly sluggish.
The cost: $136.32 to $153.05
The bottom line: The Kwikset Premis works well and gets user management absolutely right, making it a solid choice for anyone with an interest in Apple HomeKit.
———
Schlage Sense Bluetooth Deadbolt (Apple HomeKit-enabled)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/schlage-sense-bluetooth-deadbolt/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
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: $199.99 to $211.00
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.
———
The following CNET staff contributed to this story: Senior Associate Editor Ry Crist, Associate Editor Molly Price, Senior Associate Editor Megan Wollerton and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
