Top 5 BEST Smart Locks in 2025

Top 5 BEST Smart Locks in 2025


A smarter way to secure your home.

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The finest smart locks offer keyless convenience without sacrificing security. You can use yours to automatically open up while you’re carrying items to the door, to allow access to loved ones who continually forget their keys, or to make a secure digital key for tradespeople or family who need in when you’re out.

That’s really helpful, and a lot of these smart locks can be used to activate Philips Hue lightbulbs or interface with smart home systems like Google Home and Amazon Alexa.You can see who is at the door and decide whether to let them in or keep them out if you combine one of these smart locks with one of the top home security cameras. This is quite useful if you’re working on a project around the house and don’t want to just let anyone in.

We’ve used our vast experience to find the ideal models for you, and there are many possibilities for various types of homes and budgets. Along with our top pick overall, we’ve also highlighted a fantastic low-cost solution and state-of-the-art technology for situations when money is no object.

Table of Contents
THE QUICK LIST

APPLE HOMEKIT

1. Lockly Visage Zeno Series Deadbolt Smart Lock

GOOGLE HOME

2. Google Nest x Yale Smart Lock

AMAZON ALEXA

3. August Smart Lock Pro

MATTER CAPATIBLE

4. Ultion Nuki Plus Smart Lock

RETROFIT SMART LOCK

5. SwitchBot Smart Lock



(Image Credit: TechRadar)

1. Lockly Visage Zeno Series Deadbolt Smart Lock

The Visage Zeno Series is a significant improvement over the earlier Lockly smart locks we evaluated because it is quieter, smaller, and easier to use. Because it doesn’t need a separate Wi-Fi hub to function, it is initially less expensive and consumes a lot less power than the majority of the other locks we’ve examined.

One of the few smart locks on the market right now is compatible with Apple Home Key, which lets you use your iPhone or Apple Watch to open your door even while it’s turned off. We found it to be quite convenient during testing, but other security techniques, such as facial recognition, are equally effective and don’t require you to commit a PIN to memory. Although installing this lock isn’t the simplest (we found it to be simple because we were replacing an earlier Lockly device), once it’s installed, it’s a really practical solution to keep your house safe.

Because the Lockly Visage Zeno Series is compatible with Apple Home Key, you can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock it even while it is turned off. It ‘simply worked’ during testing, and we were quite impressed. It was also lot quieter and simpler than other Lockly devices we’ve tried. We also liked that once the HomeKit is configured, it can function without Wi-Fi, extending its battery life.


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2. Google Nest x Yale Smart Lock

If you have a Google Home setup, the Nest x Yale lock is among the best smart locks we’ve tested. It can be operated with voice commands and the Nest or Google Home app on your phone.

Christian, our reviewer, said it was easy to set up and operate, particularly since it had an external keypad that allowed you to enter your home without putting in a key. If your keys are stuffed in your pockets or handbag, this is fantastic. The one-touch locking feature, which enabled him to secure the door by simply pushing the Yale emblem, also pleased him. Christian also thought the app was easy to use and clear.

If you use a different smart home ecosystem, you’ll have to either be fine with the lock not working with your other products, or opt for something else. The Lockly Visage Zeno Series above is a particularly good choice that works with all the big names in smart home tech.

This lock works smoothly with your Google Home setup, and can be managed using either the Google Home or Nest app. We particularly loved its one-touch locking, which our reviewer claimed “worked like a dream”, and its sleek appearance that seems far more discreet than many other smart locks we’ve tested. Nest Connect, which allows you to control it remotely via Wi-Fi, is worth considering for a small additional cost.


(Image Credit: CNET)

3. August Smart Lock Pro

With its contemporary (although bulky) design and compatibility with all the main smart home ecosystems, the August Smart Lock Pro is not your average smart lock. It is simple to operate with a phone or smart speaker.

Although you may still use your current keys if you’d like, we found it convenient that the lock would automatically unlock when we were 20 to 30 feet from the front door during testing. He really appreciated how responsive and incredibly user-friendly the app is, in addition to how well it functions and looks.

To fully utilize the August Smart Lock Pro, you will want a Wi-Fi bridge; however, the August Connect bridge is included in the lock’s purchase. Although it’s one of the priciest locks in this guide, we believe it’s worth the money. It’s also bigger than we would have liked, and we think more smart home integration would be helpful.

The August Smart Lock Pro is a great choice if you want a smart lock but don’t want to replace your deadbolt. When purchased with the extra Connect adapter, it integrates with all of the main smart home ecosystems, including Alexa, and we found it to be quite easy to use and install.


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4. Ultion Nuki Plus Smart Lock

We liked the original Nuki smart lock, but it had some issues. The newer Plus model fixes those issues and adds some much-needed improvements. The main one is that you can connect your smart lock to your home network without purchasing and installing a Nuki Bridge because it has built-in Wi-Fi and a rechargeable battery pack that you can even charge with a power bank.

The Nuki app lets you set up a 100-meter geofence around your lock, and when it detects your phone within that range, it will get ready to open — but it won’t actually unlock until you’re within its 10m Bluetooth range, so it won’t open when you’re a street away.When it recognizes that you have left the geofence area, it will automatically lock.

Without a question, this is among the priciest options, particularly when you start include optional extras like the fingerprint keypad. However, it is also adaptable; keypads are useful for secure entry in general and for rental houses like AirBnBs.

All of the major smart home platforms, such as Apple’s HomeKit, the more popular Google Home, and Amazon Alexa, are compatible with the Nuki Plus. Matter compatibility, which is intended to make smart locks future-proof, was added in November 2023, but it wasn’t included when it was first released.

The only significant drawback, aside from cost, is that the Nuki is large in comparison to certain competitors; it does have a tendency to overpower any door into which it is fitted. However, the Nuki Plus is unquestionably worth taking into consideration if you’re searching for one of the most adaptable and future-proof smart locks.

The Nuki Smart Lock Plus is compatible with all of the main smart home platforms, including Matter, and features built-in Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a bridge. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re searching for a smart lock that is unique to the UK because it is adaptable and future-proof. It was surprisingly simple to operate, and since everything is integrated, there’s no need to purchase a separate Wi-Fi hub or bridge.


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5. SwitchBot Lock

You’re in luck if you’re on a tight budget, rent a home, or think it would be too much work to replace your entire door lock. The SwitchBot Lock follows a far easier path to success. The Switchbot locks and unlocks your door by just turning the thumb turn of your current door lock, eliminating the need for intricate internal mechanisms. Additionally, a magnet is included to detect when it is left open.

Although the SwitchBot isn’t as well-made as some of the other locks featured, it’s not targeting the same market. It’s marketed as an affordable, temporary, and efficient solution, so it’s suitable for those of us who rent rather than own our homes:When in place, it works well enough, but if you want to go somewhere else, it’s simple to take off. Additionally, it complies with all major smart home standards.

There are several drawbacks. Adding everyone to your home, even if they are only coming for a single visit, is necessary, and the software does not allow you to make one-time codes for other people to enter. However, the SwitchBot Lock’s ease of use as a retrofitting device is great if you’re a renter or are just getting started with smart homes.

The SwitchBot just turns the thumb-turn of your current lock to unlock the door, which is ideal if you’re on a tight budget, are renting your house, or don’t want to install a completely new lock. Although it lacks elegance, our tests showed that it is both affordable and efficient. It was really easy to set up and required very few tools. Although the lock functions effectively for its low cost, the app isn’t the most visually pleasing one we’ve tested.

How to choose a smart lock

Prior to selecting the best model for you, there are a number of factors to take into account when choosing a smart lock.

Interconnection Certain smart locks use Bluetooth to connect to your smartphone, so you can only lock the door if you’re nearby. But let’s say you’re the type of person that forgets things easily and finds it difficult to remember to lock the door. If so, a design that incorporates Wi-Fi or that connects to the internet via a bridge and relays commands from the cloud will guarantee that it can be locked or unlocked even while you’re not on the property.

Fashion
There are many options available, ranging from futuristic designs with keypads and touchscreens to more conventional-looking gadgets that conceal their intelligence. It is also important to consider the smart lock’s style and if it will go in with your existing decor.

Compatibility
If you currently use a voice assistant, make sure the smart lock type is compatible with it. You should also check if it will work with other smart home devices you own, such the finest home security cameras, video doorbells, and smart lights.

Things to think about
The majority of smart locks are available as either a deadbolt replacement or a deadbolt adapter that attaches to an existing deadbolt.
Trigger options: this is how your smart lock gets unlocked. Choose control by geofencing, a code, an app, or a fingerprint.

All smart locks will have an app, but with HomeKit, Google Assistant, Philips Hue, and Amazon Alexa, you can control the lock and other devices from a single app.
Installation: To install the smart lock, you’ll need a screwdriver. To download the app that controls the smart lock, you’ll need a smartphone.

How we test smart locks

We evaluate the ease of installation and control of the top smart locks in order to compare them. When we’re at home and not nearby, we also assess how fast they react to requests like locking and unlocking the door. Additionally, we examine whether they work with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri, as well as how well the voice assistant in question reacts to requests to operate the smart lock.

We also evaluate each model’s durability, compatibility with various door lock styles, and optional accessories like hubs for the smart lock. We also look at features that allow you to give friends and family temporary access, if you can use it with a key in case of a Wi-Fi network, and whether you need to read a lengthy instruction manual before using it.

Smart lock FAQs

How do smart locks operate?

Smart locks are keyless locks that can be accessed with a smartphone and are connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network. In order to unlock it, some also have a keypad where you can enter a code. Additionally, you can access most smart locks with your voice thanks to their compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alex

While some smart locks just fit over your current lock and require far less do-it-yourself work, others replace your old lock entirely, so if you want to install them yourself, you’ll need to be comfortable with do-it-yourself projects.

Home automation may be achieved by combining the best smart locks with smart home hubs, such the best smart speakers and smart screens. For instance, you can arm your home security cameras and lock your smart lock with a single command or at a specific moment while you’re leaving the house or maybe going to bed. If you already have a smart home, make sure a gadget is compatible before making a purchase because not all smart locks will function with all voice assistants and smart home hubs.

What kinds of smart locks are there?

It’s helpful to consider your alternatives before choose which smart lock to install in your house.

The two primary categories of security devices are multipoint locks and deadbolt locks. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but as you can see from our list, the former is more well-liked and accessible. Although they have been borrowed from the world of traditional door locks, both words are applicable here.

The most basic of the two types of locks are deadbolts, which secure the door from the inside using a bolt that is managed by your smart lock system.Multi-point (or “lever”) locks, on the other hand, have multiple bolts and provide a bit additional security. These are typically found on more recent doors or ones that have a handle that needs to be pulled up in order to lock the door.

In general, deadbolts provide you more options and are simpler to replace with a clever substitute.

Is it possible to hack smart locks?

As with any gadget connected to the internet, smart locks are vulnerable to hacking. Nonetheless, the risk can be reduced with the aid of certain sound security procedures. If the smart lock has a default password, always change it and use a different one. Never use the same password for more than one account, and use a combination of capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Personal information such as a child’s name, birthdate, or vehicle number plate should never be included in a password. Verify that the firmware for your smart lock is current and that your home Wi-Fi has a strong, secure password.



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